The integrity of aircraft surfaces, joints, and assemblies are determined by design, as well as the protective or sealing measures used. Therefore, choosing appropriate industrial-grade gaskets is a key consideration for aircraft manufacturers, service organizations, and overhaul shops. In situations where inadequate sealants are used, corrosion and surface damage will occur. These factors negatively affect the structural integrity of an airplane and could lead to critical safety issues.
If the user requires a diverse range of gaskets to meet specific application needs, Av-DEC is the one-stop shop. Av-DEC flexible, pre-cured, and conductive polyurethane gaskets have been used by the majority of aerospace manufacturers, air carriers, and maintainers.
Av-DEC versatile gasket systems have been successfully applied in the aviation industry for two decades. The reasons for their successful application by stakeholders are due to:
The Av-DEC inventory of gaskets consists of products that will satisfy your specific requirements. The gasket equipped with system features handles majority of gasket applications in aviation. These features are due to the use of polyurethane and the implementation of industry-specific standards when developing Av-DEC gasket systems. Av-DEC high-performing systems include:
Polyurethane serves as the base material for Av-DEC gasket systems due to its inherent properties. The flexibility of polyurethane makes it easy to install Av-DEC gasket systems, which can be installed on metallic surfaces such as aluminum and steel alloys. The benefits gained from using an Av-DEC gasket made from polyurethane sealant include:
A conductive gasket must be used when maintaining the electrical conductivity of user assemblies which is critical for optimal function. Electrically conductive gaskets ensure excellent electrical continuity in aviation systems. The benefits of an electrically conductive gasket include:
Pre-cured gaskets eliminate the messiness that comes with using cure-in-place sealants. Av-DEC pre-cured gaskets make use of compression when sealing a surface or the area of application. Some of the benefits of pre-cured gaskets include:
The deciding factor to consider when choosing between both options is the application. The surface or assembly the gasket is intended to protect plays an important role in the decision. Pre-cured gaskets are generally used when structural integrity and ease of use are the primary considerations. This is usually the case in the aviation industry.
Av-DEC conductive gasket systems are pre-cured, polyurethane gaskets that are electrically conductive. Depending on the user's application needs, one can choose the HI-TAK Polyurethane Conductive Antenna Gasket, the HI-TAK Conductive Specialty Gasket, or the HI-TAK Fuel Access Panel Gasket.
The pre-cured polyurethane conductive antenna gasket is designed to be used as an environmental sealant. This means it is durable and highly resistant to heat and other environmental factors. The gasket is flexible and easy to install. It is equipped with an aluminum carrier which supports conductivity and electrical bonding. Its flexible nature means users can easily apply the gasket system during regular inspection and maintenance activities.
You can also take advantage of the durability of the conductive specialty gasket for other aerospace applications. These applications include sealing connectors, boxes, and static wicks. This gasket system is designed for use as an environmental seal because of its impervious build. It is highly resistant to external environmental factors and easy to install. If interested in electrically conductive gaskets, note that specialty gaskets are also equipped with aluminum carriers. With this system, users get excellent surface cohesion and the ease of using a pre-cured solution.
If aircraft protection in the event of lightning strike is a key consideration, then the fuel access panel gasket system may be a part of the answer. The polyurethane gasket system is designed with an aluminum mesh that provides electrical conductivity which aids in damage resistance. The gasket is also resistant to solvents, fuel, and environmental-based corrosive agents. The gasket system is easy to install, access, and remove when needed.
Although unlikely, if Av-DEC gasket systems do not address immediate needs, a customer can choose to go the customization route. Over the past 20 years, we have helped global aviation firms develop custom gaskets, die cut to meet industry-specific requirements. User can choose to leverage Av-DEC experience in designing fail-proof gasket systems for long-term use.
You can request a quote or learn more about how we can help by giving us a call. You can also go through our application case studies to see if your questions have been answered before.
Av-DEC gasket systems provide long-lasting seals for industrial applications. Every gasket in Av-DEC inventory has been subjected to durability and industry-grade tests to ensure you get nothing but the best sealing system. With every Av-DEC gasket system, you get:
Av-DEC gasket systems have been successfully applied to deliver long-term protection for years. This is why, to date, users can still find Av-DEC gasket systems applied a decade ago, still providing excellent sealing services in the aviation industry today.