Rotorcraft Fuel Bladder Weight and Total Ownership Cost Reduction

Response Technologies will attempt to build H-60 fuel cell prototypes and qualify to a portion of MIL-DTL-27422F’s Phase II performance testing criteria [Class B – Semi rigid or self-supporting fuel construction, Type I – Self-sealing, and Protection Level C – Full self-sealing against 50 caliber and partial self-sealing against 14.5 mm] . Response Technologies uses an additive manufacturing process that initially creates a textile reinforced structure that uses advanced industrial yarns that RT has uniquely developed for its AM process. Through additive manufacturing, RT can add strength and reinforcement at the fiber level, while approaching theoretical minimum weight. The textile is then formed using a non-destructive molding process(es) to get the shape and the interior fuel resistant chemistry on. Fittings are integrated into the structure and the entire unit is then coated with: self-sealing, abrasion resistant, responsive, and durable coatings.