Advanced Valve Technology for COIL (AVTCOIL)

The (Airborne Laser) ABL Chemical Oxygen Iodine Laser (COIL) creates a lasing medium by utilizing Chlorine to produce Singlet Delta Oxygen (SDO) which in-turn dissociates a separately supplied Iodine molecule and then excites the resulting Iodine atom for lasing. Both Chlorine and Iodine are extremely caustic substances and require great care when handling. Of particular importance is the lifetime of high performance valves used to meter these substances as well as all other ABL fluid products (Helium, Nitrogen, ammonia and Hydrogen Peroxide). Since the valves must operate on an aircraft, overall contribution to ABL system weight is an important consideration. Midé proposes an innovative design that incorporates corrosion resistant materials in the valve body, seat materials that are compatible will all the fluids to be used, and an actuating mechanism that can meet the desired opening and closing times. The actuation system will be pneumatically operated while materials with unique properties will be included in the actuating mechanism. Midé’s experience with the design, development and flight qualification of custom valves and materials expertise creates the required combination for the development of a successful valve for use on ABL.