TFP and AGC have collaborated in the joint development of electrostatic and lightning compatible composite pipes suitable for use in aircraft fuel systems. The shared technology enables the surface resistivity of the glass based composite pipe to be precisely controlled, therefore the structure is electrically isolating to resist lightning strike propagation but sufficiently conductive to dissipate the static electricity resulting from fluid movement.

 

The development is the first of its kind and presents the opportunity to save weight in aircraft fuel systems by replacing the heavier metallic equivalents, as well as enabling further weight and cost savings by a reduction in the palliative isolating/bonding techniques currently used. It is estimated that a weight saving of up to 200 kg per aircraft could be achieved, potentially equating to an estimated fuel saving of up to 26,000 kg per aircraft per annum.

 

About Technical Fibre Products 

Technical Fibre Products (TFP) is a leading nonwoven manufacturer, offering a broad choice of high quality, technically advanced nonwovens for an array of challenging applications across industries ranging from aerospace and defence to automotive, energy, industrial, construction and healthcare. TFP is part of James Cropper plc and continues the group's 169 year tradition of building highly effective collaborative relationships with customers, enabling the development of custom material solutions to meet unique performance, process and aesthetic requirements.

 

About AGC AeroComposites 

AGC AeroComposites provides the aerospace & defense industry with composite and metallic aerostructures and components that meet demanding and complex requirements. The company’s growing global footprint is currently comprised of six strategic sites providing local and immediate support to customers. AGC AeroComposites is a trusted lifecycle partner providing integrated solutions from early stage design, rate production, to full term sustainment. AGC AeroComposites has sites in Monterey, Calif., Seattle, Wash. and Hayden, Idaho in the US in the U.K. in Yeovil, Portland and Derby, as well as. AGC AeroComposites is an AGC Aerospace & Defense Company.

 

About AGC Aerospace & Defense 

AGC Aerospace & Defense, the unifying brand of private equity group Acorn Growth Companies, is a global supplier of technologies, systems and services supporting commercial and military programs. Capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications. AGC Aerospace & Defense is organized into four operating groups: AeroComposites, Finance, Integrated Defense, and Services.