In the high-stakes industry of space exploration, every component matters. To ensure the peak performance of Solid Rocket Motors (SRMs), meticulous attention to cleanliness is crucial.
The customer approached Brulin’s parts cleaning advisors after being tasked with cleaning various SRM components. The primary contaminants were debris and hydrocarbon oils that accumulated during processing. These contaminants had to be thoroughly removed from the SRM components before bonding could take place.
This was critical because any residual contaminants could compromise the integrity of the bond and, consequently, the performance of the SRMs.
To address this challenge, Brulin was brought in with our proprietary AquaVantage® 1990 GD, a specialized aqueous detergent designed for precision parts cleaning.
The cleaning process was conducted using a Proceco cabinet washer. A 10% concentration of AquaVantage® 1990 GD was heated to 150°F (65.5°C) and applied for a duration of 10-30 minutes, depending on the component. This was followed by a rinse with Deionized (DI) water at the same temperature.
The results were remarkable. The AquaVantage® 1990 GD, combined with the Proceco 14’ Cabinet Washer, achieved a level of cleanliness that surpassed even the high standards set by vapor degreasing. The bonding strength of the SRM components was equal to, if not better than, components cleaned using traditional methods.
The success of this project is a testament to the effectiveness of AquaVantage® 1990 GD in precision cleaning of complex aerospace components. It underscores the importance of cleanliness in the manufacturing and maintenance of solid rocket motors and highlights the role of innovative cleaning chemistries in achieving these high standards.
The successful collaboration set a benchmark for future cleanliness projects in the aerospace industry.