Fiber Optic Cables and Connectors

"Burn-through of the cables used in the Integrated Defense Electronics Countermeasures (IDECM) ALE-55 Fiber Optic Towed Decoy (FOTD) system as installed on the F/A-18E/F precludes successful operation of the FOTD. The currently used organic fibers do notretain their strength when exposed to the extremely high temperatures of the aircraft exhaust. Fiber Materials, Inc. proposes an innovative solution to the burn-through problem by utilizing a high strength, commmercially available fiber with a highermaximum use temperature. FMI will also utilize ablative materials to keep the temperature of the cable below its failure temperature. In Phase I, FMI will perform elevated temperature tensile strength testing (up to 1000¿C in air) of the proposedtowlines. The benefit of this SBIR project will be candidate material systems for high temperature, high strength towlines for Fiber Optic Towed Decoys (FOTD). The successful conclusion of this research will allow reliable deployment and use of the FOTDsystem to protect US military aircraft from enemy missiles. Approximately 20,000 disposable towline units are planned for the F/A18, F-15, and various other platforms. Industrial applications that will benefit from this research include space tethers,high temperature seals, and high temperature cables for the geothermal and mining industries."