Response Technologies, LLC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: DLA152-001

Description

The DoD uses flexible fuel bladders in multiple air, ground, and sea vehicles because: 1) they easily fit into almost any space, 2) they are corrosion proof, and can often be self-sealing and explosion proof, 3) they allow for customized placement of fittings and connection points, 4) they collapse as they empty, thereby eliminating the need for venting and minimizing fuel sloshing and its associated noise. Despite these advantages over their rigid counterparts, flexible fuel bladders are not without their flaws. Specifically, by the very nature of how they are designed and constructed, flexible vessels are: 1) prone to seam failures, 2) have limited longevity, 3) are stiffer and heavier than required, and 5) are limited in the range of fuels any one product can safely contain. Response Technologies (RT) is attempting to determine, insofar as possible, the scientific, technical, and commercial feasibility of creating flexible fuel bladders without seams, that would be 50% less weight and cost. Through novel additive manufacturing processes, RT expects to achieve higher functionality at lower cost, at significantly reduced lead times, and with reduced minimum quantities. If successful, this project will permit the further displacement of rigid tanks, resulting in improved soldier safety.