Nickel-free material for F-35 systems developed

Through a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract with the Air Force, Triton Systems, Inc., located in Massachusetts, developed a nickel-free material technology that is positioned for transition to several F-35 Joint Strike Fighter applications. Transition of this technology is anticipated to save $550 million across the aircraft’s lifecycle.

Nickel-based materials are used in several components of today’s fighter aircraft; however, working with these materials can be dangerous for installers and requires special handling procedures.

The nickel-free conductive filler material was developed in close collaboration with F-35 equipment manufacturers. Triton has used its manufacturing process and pilot manufacturing scale equipment to demonstrate several relevant product forms. It has also demonstrated fully formulated resin systems that meet the specific technical requirements for the F-35 program.

Source and image: US Air Force