MATERIALS SCIENCES LLC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: A09-185

Description

Layflat hoseline is used in Army water and fuel systems to transport bulk fluid over varying distances. Ease of storage, layout, and retrieval are desired characteristics offered by layflat hoses currently in use. In order to meet the Armys need for an improved hoseline with a higher working pressure, new approaches to integrating higher strength fibers and optimizing fiber orientation in the hose jacket are required. The primary technical objective of this Phase is to evaluate the potential performance benefits associated with using non-standard yarn materials and/or a novel architectures to construct layflat hoseline reinforcements (jackets). Work will also be performed to investigate an improved, lighter weight end fitting solution. The design, analyses, manufacturing demonstration, and testing tasks performed to date have demonstrated that an improved, high pressure, layflat hoseline using advanced fiber materials, yarn-level hybridization and/or alternate fiber reinforcement constructions (such as in a quadraxial braided construction) can be developed to meet all of the desired design and performance criteria. Conventional through-the-weave extrusion processes may be used with either a twill weave or quadraxial braid construction. Cost estimates for production of high pressure, layflat hoseline incorporating these advanced material and processing technologies are competitive with current hose production costs.