Structurally-Integrated Thermal Management Coating System for Aluminum Decks

The high-temperatures associated with next-generation vertical-takeoff (V/STOL) aircrafts present severe requirements on the underlying US Navy’s aluminum flight deck structure, causing deck buckling and distortion. ReliaCoat Technologies is proposing the development of a structurally-integrated multilayer thermal management coating system that can be integrated or installed on the aluminum flight deck. The proposed thermal management system provides three integral roles of (1) thermal/heat barrier to minimize heat transfer into the aluminum deck and substructure, (2) heat distribution layer to laterally spread the heat and to minimize hot spots, (3) heat dissipation layer to remove heat. The proposed solutions range from low-cost/low-tech option to versatile and effective thermal management architecture to increase the adaptability and rapid technology transition. The proposed integrated solution is passive and requires no moving parts, additional components, or other support materials. There are many benefits to this approach, including preserving the existing aluminum flight deck design and geometry; ease of field repair, minimal weight, scalability, and full compatibility with the Navy’s approved metallic nonskid coating. The proposed innovation includes several fixturing options to secure onto the aluminum deck.