AltaSim Technologies awarded Phase 2 SBIR by USAF

US Air Force Research Laboratory  awards AltaSim Technologies funding to develop new design tools for Ceramic Matrix Composites AltaSim Technologies will assist the Air Force in its quest to obtain new jet engine parts capable of operating at higher temperatures. Ceramics and ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) can withstand temperatures over 2000°F without cooling and have been identified as candidate materials for use in future engines. The high cost of manufacturing CMCs with the required structural durability and the high temperature capabilities, however, has precluded their extensive use.

According to Kyle Koppenhoefer, Principal - AltaSim Technologies, “The key to bringing manufacturing costs of CMC parts down, is reducing the extensive experimental development necessary for each component. Creating design tools that predict the processing behavior will reduce the need for experimentation to optimize manufacturing techniques.” This project will focus on the development of simulation-based design tools for the reactive melt-infiltration process (RMI) to increase production of void free CMC parts. Application of these tools will reduce cycle time, increase part yield and better define the process window for CMC manufacturing.

The fundamental technology embedded in the computational analysis design tool is applicable to a range of material systems. “Extension to other systems will expand the market opportunities for use of the design tool and facilitate the deployment of CMCs for critical military and civilian applications”, says Jeff Crompton, Principal – AltaSim Technologies. Future applications might include hypersonic engines and thermal shields for space vehicles as well as brake systems for automotive applications.

Long recognized as a leader in the development and application of innovative engineering technology in a wide range of industries, AltaSim Technologies leverages its core competence in advanced computational and multi-physics analysis to help its customers develop new products, processes and technology.

This work is supported by the USAF under contract # FA8650-10-C-5231.

For more information on AltaSim Technologies visit our web site

AltaSim Technologies

130 East Wilson Bridge Road, Suite 140

Columbus, Ohio 43085                                  

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