Composite Material Application to the MK12A RV Midbay Substructure

摘要

The work reported herein represents a feasibility study to reduce weight of the MK12A reentry vehicle midbay structure by replacing the aluminum structure with graphite composite materials. Following conceptual design of the MK12A midbay structure utilizing advanced composite materials, the effort was redirected to the Advanced Ballistic Reentry Vehicle (ABRV). Specimens and subcomponent elements representative of the ABRV configuration were provided for nuclear vulnerability and hardness testing of the Air Force Weapons Laboratory. (Author)