Just like on earth, seals and sealant-related products are used in outer space. In fact, due to the dangers that come with space travel, it’s likely even more important to have reliable mechanical systems due to the potential volatility and hostility of the environment. When a spacecraft is launched off of earth and into space it requires a wide variety of features, specifications, and equipment to keep the crew safe, keep the spacecraft intact, and maintain communication systems. You may wonder what kind of seals are used in space to ensure all of this happens as it is a much different environment than planet earth. Below you will find more information on seals and how they effectively operate in space.
Space Malfunctions
The importance of sealants in space is clear as destruction can occur without them. In fact, several major, life-altering issues have arisen due to equipment malfunctions. A 1995 electrical issue could have taken out the Columbia space shuttle. Just five seconds after liftoff an electrical short circuit caused the controllers in the main engines to malfunction. Even worse, in 1972, an electrical malfunction happened on a NASA jet which caused the loss of instrumentation during a bout of bad weather. This resulted in the astronaut ejecting himself from the aircraft.
While technology has advanced since the 1970s and 1990s, there is still a lot of room for error. This is why having proper safety equipment, seals, and functioning is vital both on earth and in space. NASA is well-versed in space-related sealants in order to ensure safety protocols are met.
What Kind of Seals Are Used in Space?
In order to meet the electronic requirements necessary to fully function in space, manufacturers have created special connectors that have been made specifically for the elements in space. The special connectors are much different as compared to those on earth as both environments are vastly different. With that, the connectors in space are a reduced weight and size. This is to account for the environmental differences.
The connects are referred to as hermetically-sealed connectors. They have unique flex pin gold-plated contacts that are both polarized and coated with liquid crystal polymer insulators. The housing alignment system and pin-to-socket durability is what differentiates these in terms of their ability to be used effectively in space. The connectors can be surface-mounted, through-hold varieties, and even flex tails are available for flex circuit use. NASA has specific instructions on the evaluation and qualification of parts for use in the space programs. Space-grade connectors, such as the hermetically-sealed connectors, are similar to military-grade connectors. With the space program becoming more and more sophisticated as technology advances, adjustments have been made to ensure that these are as close to fail-proof as possible.
Specialty Seals
Seals are integral to the successful function of mechanical equipment and other important electrical systems in space. So it’s crucial to have the proper seal for the job that needs to be done. The pros at Real Seal are skilled in mechanical seals and determining what’s best for your unique needs. Real Seal is a manufacturer and distributor of seal products, mechanical component goods, and specialty seals.
Established in 1970, the company has had decades of experience in the industry with excellent consumer satisfaction. They offer a wide variety of performance-oriented plastic and rubber solutions for sealing and mechanical applications. As one of the most technologically advanced companies in the industry, Real Seal maintains a fully equipped laboratory with a full-time chemist and technical staff. Contact the top seal manufacturer today with any questions you have related to your sealing needs.
