Innovative Manufacturing Process Improvements

It is common knowledge that both value-added and non value-added costs exist in the production of all entities. And that in a manufacturing environment, the reduction of non-value added expenses may ultimately reduce the acquisition cost of that entity given all burdens remain consistent. Likewise, the reduction in value-added processes and their associated costs should yield consistent results. Mentis Sciences, Inc. has been engaged in an effort to produce an inorganic composite laminate suitable for high temperature radome applications. Recent advances in fibers, resins, and composite fabrication techniques allow the planning and initiation of programs to develop advanced RF seeker protection, i.e. radomes which can result in significant missile system cost and weight reduction, as well as critically required improvements in performance. The materials selected for these radomes are fabricated using high purity quartz fibers developed and marketed by JPS Glass Fabrics and Cytec Fiberite's S826A silicone based resin systems. The advantages of high specific strength composite structures are well documented, however previously their application has been limited due to the high acquisition costs associated with producing these laminates. And although the projected cost of MSI's prototype PAC3 radome is significantly less than that of the present solution, the technology and opportunities exist to reduce the acquisition costs of this (MSI's) radome even further.