Our member, Ensinger, is launching a new high-performance plastic named TECASINT 8591 for tribological applications in the space industry. Using PTFE and adding special lubricants and fillers, the newly developed product will also demonstrate outstanding self-lubrication properties under the conditions found in space.
As part of a cooperation with the European Space Agency (ESA) and the contractual partner Aerospace & Advanced Composites (AAC), Ensinger Sintimid took part in the project “Self-Lubricating Polymer Matrix Composites” (SLPMC2). The aim was to develop an inherently lubricating material that exhibits a low coefficient of friction throughout the entire service life of the bearing. In addition, the European partners wanted to reduce dependence on overseas material suppliers.
Weather, communication and earth observation satellites circle in low Earth orbit (LEO). The sensors, antennas, and reflectors unfold as soon as the satellites reach their orbit. It must be ensured throughout their service life that the systems retain long-term functionality under the tough conditions encountered in space.
The mechanisms for unfolding these systems are equipped with appropriate ball or linear bearings. Friction, along with wear and tear, places high demands on these components. A particular challenge is, first and foremost, maintaining a constant ball-bearing torque over the course of at least 20 million bearing revolutions. Research findings show that TECASINT 8591 features a lower ball-bearing torque compared with the competitor product PGM-HT. Undesired stick-slip effects do not occur. Alongside its tribological properties, the material complies with the outgassing limits stipulated by ECSS Q70-02 and exhibits low levels of post-shrinkage.
During the project phase, the company AAC examined all relevant properties of the new material and, together with industry partners, tested the initial applications. Even at cryogenic temperatures and under a vacuum, the material demonstrated excellent friction properties. Following analysis of the results, TECASINT 8591 was approved by ESA as an alternative to the current single-source material PGM-HT. The first customers are already testing the material for bearing cages in unfolding antennas and reflectors.
Want to know more? Check ensingerplastics.com