Press

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Soar to New Heights with Surface Modification

Tri-Star’s Surface Modification Division (SMD) is proud to partner with leading defense contractors to improve the wing bond and aerodynamics of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) used in military reconnaissance.

The Challenge

UAVs, or unpiloted aircraft, are increasingly deployed in today’s battlefields, including Iraq and Afghanistan. The sleek craft are used in reconnaissance missions deemed too dangerous for manned aircraft, and they often carry cameras, sensors, communications equipment or other payloads used in enemy intelligence gathering. UAVs have become a critical component of the war on terror, and must maintain a controlled, sustained, and level flight pattern. They can be remote controlled, or can fly autonomously from a pre-programmed flight plan.

Our clients sought a better way to adhere the wing edges to promote better resistance to aerodynamic forces.

The Result

Built of high-load/high-strength carbon composites, UAVs are an ideal candidate for our plasma process. A “green” treatment, plasma is very reactive and can prime any surface for adhesion, painting, coating or printing. Plasma can be used to treat fabrics, foam, fibers and resins to enhance bond strength, and can also increase the hydrophobicity of materials. By treating both the carbon fiber and resin of the wing edge, we have dramatically improved the reliability of the bond so it can better withstand the full force of wind during flight.

Our Surface Modification Division can provide:

• Surface treatments 
• Contract review
• Analytical assistance
• Surface modification equipment