Why Are Insulation Blankets Mandatory on Aircraft?
Temperatures at typical commercial cruising altitude can reach far below freezing in the winter months and generally stay below 60 degrees Fahrenheit on average, even in the summer. As such, in combination with pressurization, aircraft insulation materials are used to help keep the cabin warm. Located in the space between the interior walk and aircraft fuselage, insulation blankets help trap in heat for greater efficiency and comfort. In this article, we discuss why these materials are a mandatory part of commercial aviation.
Firstly, the purpose of aircraft insulation blankets is to protect the passengers and crew from engine noise and frigid temperatures at high altitudes. While the blankets do not produce any heat themselves, they help trap heat created by the pressurization system and other thermal components. Additionally, it helps muffle sounds from the engine which could be distracting or uncomfortable for those seated close-by. Further, the insulation blankets also help stop the formation of condensation, protecting electronics components from moisture in the air, and providing insulation between the fuselage and electrical wires.
As part of the requirement for insulation blankets, the materials used must be fire retardant, as the ignition system and many of the electrical wires on-board can pose a fire risk to the surrounding material. Like silver-lined household insulation, aircraft insulation blankets are often backed with a transparent film that helps hold them together. In all, the blankets typically consist of a layered construction that includes an aerogel, composite layer, and backing layer. The composite layer contains a resin matrix material reinforced with a fiber material.
Insulation blankets are installed in many different places along the fuselage walls. Depending on their location, the blankets may be of different density and thickness. Among other areas, insulation blankets are commonly placed in the crown area of the airplane, below flight deck and circuit breaker panels, and in cargo compartment areas. They are also used behind sidewalls, lavatories, closets, and galleys, as well as in areas attached to the underside of floor panels. The engine has its own specialized form of insulation blanket which has low thermal conductivity and the capability to handle extremely high temperatures.
As a safe and effective way to trap in heat and block sound, insulation blankets have found use all over modern aircraft. In order to ensure the proper use of these materials, they should be monitored and replaced when needed. If you are on the look for high quality components for your aircraft, such as aircraft insulation blankets, NSN 360 has you covered. With an inventory of over 2 billion new, used, obsolete, and hard-to-find parts, customers are guaranteed to find the products they need with time and cost savings. More than that, as an AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accredited enterprise, we expect strict quality standards from the manufacturers we work with, along with our storage and shipping facilities. Begin the purchasing process with us today to see all that NSN 360 can do as your strategic sourcing partner!
Share
