Defense

Tag Archive: Defense

1. Motion Control Solutions for Defense Projects

   March 20, 2024 10:04 pm Leave a Comment

   Motorized and autonomous military and defense equipment relies on accurate motion control systems and components that can operate without fail under a wide variety of conditions. To ensure safety as well as compatibility with other devices and parts, motion control solutions like actuators must also comply with stringent MIL-SPEC and quality control standards. 

   High-performance components within these systems, such as electromagnetic clutches and brakes, allow motion control systems to perform effectively and reliably. Learn more about motion control systems, their parts and applications, the factors that go into their design, and innovations in these markets.

    

   Fundamentals of Motion Control Systems

   Motion control systems convert energy into synchronized mechanical movement. Such systems are made up of interworking components like servo motors, controllers, drives, and feedback mechanisms like sensors. Using high-quality parts in motion control systems helps the military and defense industry achieve reliable, accurate movement and optimize equipment function and efficiency.

   An actuator, one example of a motion control system, utilizes vital subcomponents like electromagnetic clutches and brakes. Using electromagnetic force to maintain the placement of a load, clutches and brakes enhance system maneuverability and hold equipment positioning with precision.

    

   Specific Applications of Motion Control Solutions in Military & Defense Projects

   A diverse range of industries rely on motion control components like clutches and brakes, and the military and defense sector is no exception. Specific applications for these systems include:

   • • Robotic systems and unmanned vehicles. Equipment like robots, drones, and unmanned vehicles or watercraft benefit from efficient motion control systems to safely and accurately navigate, even when functioning autonomously. Bomb response robots that incorporate electromagnetic brakes achieve precision movement and load control, and power-off brakes can hold the positioning of robotic arms.
     • Weapon system platforms and components. Weapon systems require high-quality positioning and motion control capabilities to target, reposition, and discharge platform-mounted weapons accurately and safely. Electromagnetic brakes hold the positioning of such systems, and can also guide components like missile fins per an operator’s instructions for accurate weaponry guidance.
     • Weapon bay door drives. Power-off brakes in motion control systems like utility-type actuators can hold the positioning of weapon bay door drives and related defense components.

   • Stability augmentation systems. Another motion control solution in actuators, electromagnetic clutches, helps generate high levels of torque with low backlash. Such systems have applications in autopilot or emergency situations.

   • Primary and secondary flight control systems. Actuators are responsible for motion control in defense aircraft’s flight control systems. Electromagnetic clutches and brakes facilitate accurate positioning in applications like rudders, elevators, spoilers, and flaps while increasing a system’s maneuverability.
   • Cameras. Optics devices like cameras rely on motion control systems for stabilization and positioning. Electromagnetic brakes help steady the equipment to capture quality images without blurring.

    

   Key Considerations for Engineering Defense Motion Control Systems

   Compared to products for other markets, motion control systems and components for military applications face more extreme and variable environments. Manufacturers also have to factor in lethality and survivability, other considerations that are unique to this sector. 

   Products should be rugged, reliable, efficient, and safe. To that end, manufacturers for the military and defense industries have to keep numerous factors in mind when developing designs and choosing materials. 

   For example, clutches and brakes involved in motion control systems for aerospace applications must be able to withstand fluctuating temperatures of extreme hot and cold, as well as changing pressures. In general, military and defense components have to be capable of resisting corrosion through special coatings; withstanding vibrations, shock, and debris impact; and maintaining system integrity to continue operations under a range of current and voltage conditions. 

   Along with the need for robust designs, military motion control solutions are subject to the requirements of rigorous manufacturing and quality standards. These industries demand precision parts that will be incorporated seamlessly into existing systems. 

   The military’s MIL-SPEC requirements and defense regulations are only some of the safety, quality control (QC), and redundancy mechanisms in place to ensure proper performance and interoperability in the field. A reputable manufacturer, like SEPAC, Inc., will make nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) available, upon request.

    

   Advancing the Field of Military & Defense: The Latest Innovations in Motion Control

   Technology for military and defense applications is always evolving. Recent technological advancements in motion control for these sectors include:

   • Energy-efficiency enhancements for better system efficiency and operational range while reducing power consumption
   • Lightweight, compact designs to increase high-tech system portability
   • Autonomous control opportunities in optionally piloted vehicles (OPVs) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)

    

   Building Motion Control Systems for Extreme Environments & Life-Saving Applications

   At SEPAC, Inc., our expert team can help you select the optimal motion control engineering solutions for defense and military applications. Backed by decades of industry experience, SEPAC can meet even the most stringent ground, air, and sea motion control needs for clients in these sectors with high-performance clutches and brakes.

   Our AS9100D-certified company specializes in serving government entities, complying with their contract requirements as well as MIL-SPEC standards. We also work closely with motion control system manufacturers like Moog, an industry leader in providing solutions for military, defense, and other critical industries. 

   Our expert team designs and engineers each of our clutch and brake solutions to maximize performance; minimize weight, size, and current draw; and allow for reliable, precision operation in harsh environments. For optimal quality control, we utilize equipment ranging from coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and optical measurement devices to temperature chambers and dynamometers. The latter options enable our electrical and dynamic testing abilities, which evaluate for:

   • Temperature rise
   • Response time
   • Insulation resistance
   • Dielectric strength
   • Electrical bonding

    

   Motion Control Solutions From SEPAC

   Turn to SEPAC for high-performance motion control solutions applicable in ground, air, and subsea environments, manned and unmanned. Since 1984, our team has designed and manufactured high-quality electromagnetic clutch and brakes to meet the motion control needs of diverse industries. 

   Contact us today to learn more about our military and defense industry solutions. You can also fill out our application data form or request a quote to start your project.

2. Electromagnetic Clutches and Brakes in UAVs and OPVs

   February 28, 2024 7:43 pm Leave a Comment

   Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and optionally piloted vehicles (OPVs) are designed with autonomous and remote control features. To function properly and safely, they must be made with the most reliable, precise components. 

   Electromagnetic clutches and brakes can simplify design, reduce wear and maintenance, and improve reliability compared to traditional mechanical clutches and brakes. With better precision, torque transfer, and safety mechanisms, electromagnetic clutches and brakes can meet the stringent performance demands required to manufacture defense UAVs and OPVs.

   Read on to learn more about these innovative motion control components and how they serve the military UAV and OPV markets. 

    

   Electromagnetic Clutches in UAVs and OPVs

   In February 2022, an autonomous, uninhabited Black Hawk helicopter flew for the first time. The project, led by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and Lockheed Martin, represents a significant milestone in the military UAV and OPV space and the components that power these systems. 

   Clutch systems control the transfer of torque or power from the engine. Traditional clutches are activated by mechanical means, such as levers. With electromagnetic clutches, an electrical current creates a magnetic field to engage or disengage the clutch mechanism. A clutch is considered engaged when the armature makes contact with the rotor whether by a magnetic force or a spring force. Torque is transmitted once teeth or friction discs engage. When the rotor and armature separate, the clutch is disengaged. 

   Many types of vehicles, including automated UAVs and OPVs, rely on electromagnetic clutches to control and halt movement. In onboard flight control systems of OPVs, pilots can disengage the clutch or brake to take over operations in case of system failure. Electromagnetic clutches offer a high degree of automation in manned and unmanned aircraft systems, with the potential to take on additional autonomous duties. These components are beneficial in:

   • Launching and landing mechanisms
   • Propulsion systems
   • Payload deployment systems

    

   Electromagnetic Brakes in UAVs and OPVs

   Electromagnetic brakes function similarly to electromagnetic clutches and rely on either a magnetic force or a spring force to engage and disengage the brake in order to slow, stop, or hold a load stationary. Power-off brakes act as a failsafe, automatically engaging the brake when power is intentionally or accidentally interrupted. Power-on brakes engage the brake when electric power is applied.

   In UAVs and OPVs, these fast-acting, reliable brakes can improve safety, minimize the risk of human error, and enhance performance in hazardous or challenging conditions. Because of these characteristics and the ease with which a human pilot can take over control, they are frequently used for UAV and OPV applications such as:

   • Emergency braking systems
   • Landing gear systems
   • Stabilization systems

    

   Advantages of Electromagnetic Clutches and Brakes in Autonomous Control Systems

   Benefits of using electromagnetic clutches and brakes include:

   • Precision control
   • Smooth, consistent operation
   • Reduced wear on parts 
   • Minimized maintenance requirements
   • Quiet operation
   • High torque transmission
   • Rapid engagement and disengagement

    

   Considerations for Brake & Clutch Engineering

   Our customers often approach us with demanding application requirements, so we work closely with them to develop a customized solution. From prototyping to calibration to full production, SEPAC delivers innovative engineering solutions for even the most complex projects.

    Several of the key factors we consider for every brake or clutch application include the following:

   • Torque, shaft speed, horsepower, type of load
   • Environmental factors like dust, moisture, vibration, shock, corrosion, and altitude
   • Heat dissipation, ambient temperatures, heat sink
   • Other conditions, such as required service life, space available, and over-run speed

    

   SEPAC Electromagnetic Clutches & Brakes in Action

   At SEPAC, we provide a comprehensive selection of electromagnetic clutches and brakes, with the design and engineering capabilities to manufacture a custom product to meet your requirements. Our products are key to the success of many mission-critical operations, saving lives and protecting aerospace and defense equipment.

   Here is an overview of our electromagnetic clutches and brakes in various real-life situations:

   • Missile fin operation: Accurate missile guidance has no room for error. Our electromagnetic brakes hold missile fins in position according to instructions from operators.
   • Gimbal deployment: Our electromagnetic power-off brakes hold the gimbal actuator in place or release as needed.
   • Weapons bay door actuation: Our power-off brakes can also hold various utility-type actuators in place, including weapons bay door drives.
   • Flight control actuation: SEPAC’s power-off brakes can hold flight control actuators in position. These actuators include primary and secondary flight control, and high-lift, leading-edge control systems.
   • Autopilot control and stability augmentation systems: Our electromagnetic clutches are used in these systems to produce high torque and low backlash. They take over in case of pilot incapacitation and other emergency scenarios.

   Other applications for our electromagnetic clutches and brakes include:

   • Latch, separation, and umbilical systems
   • Cargo bay actuators
   • Flap actuators
   • Horizontal stabilizer trim actuation
   • Thrust reverser actuation
   • Thrust vector control actuation
   • Throttle control actuation
   • Cocking system electromechanical actuation

    

   Choose SEPAC for Your Electromagnetic Clutches and Brakes

   At SEPAC, our innovative electromagnetic clutches and brakes are designed to meet or exceed the rigorous demands of military UAVs and OPVs. As this field continues to grow and develop, it will require advanced components with rapid engagement and disengagement, precise control, high torque transmission, and enhanced safety mechanisms that electromagnetic clutches and brakes provide. 

   When you work with us, we bring superior customer service, our AS9100 and ISO 9001 certifications, and an extensive history of designing our products to meet  MIL-SPEC and other demanding standard requirements.

   Contact us today to learn more about our full capabilities. Submit an application data form or request a quote for your project.

3. Brakes and Clutches with Life Saving Capabilites

   February 8, 2024 9:45 pm Leave a Comment

   Brakes and clutches with lifesaving capabilities and motion control systems are critical aircraft elements. They not only help pilots navigate smoothly during challenging weather conditions, but they also play a lifesaving role during mid-air emergencies. SEPAC products are developed with reliability at the forefront of design and, through a partnership with Genesys Aerosystems, have helped to make helicopter flight safer.

   Mid-Air Mayday: Air Evac Lifeteam Helicopter Crew Survives Pilot Medical Emergency

   Pilot incapacitation is one of the worst-case scenarios for any flight. When it happens in light helicopters flown by a single pilot, however, it usually means catastrophe. In 2018, there was no form of autopilot or stability augmentation system (SAS) in Air Evac Lifeteam LongRanger helicopters. If the pilot stopped actively controlling the helicopter, control would be lost within seconds. 

   Luckily, this was not the case for one crew in Kinder, Louisiana. While transporting an elderly woman to a nearby hospital, the pilot experienced a medical emergency. With the aircraft about 800 feet above the ground, the pilot became incapacitated. Luckily, this helicopter had recently been updated with Genesys Heli-SAS stability augmentation systems and autopilot.  

   Flight nurse, Tara Coupel, made a mayday call to Air Evac’s headquarters where communications specialist, Tim Cinotta, quickly realized that Heli-SAS was the crew’s best chance at survival. Cinotta assumed that the Heli-SAS was working since, “had the autopilot or SAS not been engaged, they probably never would have called,” he explained in an interview with Vertical Magazine. 

   Then, suddenly, the pilot looked at a nearby open field and said, “There.” His flight crew encouraged him to land the helicopter in that location. Coupel knew the autopilot would disengage as they approached the ground and expected a rough landing. However, the smooth control continued until the aircraft reached the ground. Coupel called it “the most controlled, gentlest landing” she’s ever experienced. 

   Heli-SAS® Autopilot and Stability Augmentation System with SEPAC Motion Control

   Heli-SAS technology equipped with SEPAC motion control products is essential for reliably responding to urgent situations. SEPAC clutches are used in throttle control actuators and autopilot control actuation to deliver high levels of torque and low backlash. In these applications, actuator performance is directly related to a pilot’s ability to control the helicopter.

   The Heli-SAS Autopilot and Stability Augmentation System (SAS) is a simple autopilot that will take aircraft close to the ground in controlled runaway environments. This system is a crucial component of flight safety measures and disaster preparedness. Reliability for these components is crucial since total failure means an inability to control the aircraft. SEPAC’s commitment to quality helps ensure these control systems perform without failure.

   Preparing for the Unexpected with Motion Control Technology

   SEPAC’s Motion Control technology features custom-designed products that have been optimized to deliver the highest possible level of reliability. Electromagnetic systems offer enhanced dependability compared to hydraulic actuator systems, which can be challenging to control and require higher maintenance demands, leading to more frequent downtime. Electromagnetic systems offer a much higher degree of control and greater security.

   There have been many helicopter crashes relating to failed hydraulic actuator systems. The 2009 A-Star AS350B air ambulance crash in Doyle, California, is one of numerous unfortunate tragedies that are suspected to have been caused by failed hydraulic actuator systems. The Aviation Law Monitor states that in this particular crash, the pilot was unable to attempt an emergency landing after losing control of the aircraft due to a suspected hydraulic actuator system failure. “A problem with the hydraulic system can make the helicopter difficult to control,” they report. 

   Reliable Clutch and Brake Systems from SEPAC

   SEPAC is committed to quality and reliability in clutch and brake systems. Our products help flight crews prepare for the unexpected and better navigate emergencies. In addition to our standard product offerings, we also specialize in prototype development and design engineering. Our design engineering department is equipped with the most advanced technology and top engineering experts, allowing SEPAC, Inc. to develop clutch and brake solutions that meet even the highest performance requirements. 

   Our custom products are made with the highest quality materials and designed to endure the harshest environments. You can learn more about our custom design capabilities on our website or by contacting our team with any questions. If you’re interested in a quote for a specific project and would like to fast-track the process, you can fill out our RFQ application data form. 

4. Aircraft Actuation Systems and Electromagnetic Actuators

   December 8, 2023 4:50 pm Leave a Comment

   In the past, pneumatic and hydraulic systems have been the most common actuator types for aircraft due to their high power density and cost-effectiveness. However, in recent years, attention has been focused on the limitations of these systems, including their level of performance, weight, high maintenance requirements, and more. 

   Recent advances in electromagnetic actuator technology have included more robust and efficient designs that offer increased power density and superior performance. This has resulted in a gradual shift towards the use of electromagnetic actuators in the aerospace and defense industries. 

   At SEPAC, we’re a leading design expert in aircraft actuation components used to control everything from engine components to landing gear, cargo bay doors, and more. Our experience in the aerospace industry allows us to deliver quality electromagnetic brakes and clutches to meet your critical motion control requirements.

    

   Overview of Aircraft Actuation Systems

   Aircraft actuators work to convert electrical signals from the flight control system into mechanical movement. By facilitating precise and rapid adjustments, aircraft actuation systems help to ensure a safe and controlled flight. 

   Actuators can be found in the primary and secondary flight control systems, as well as other areas in the aircraft.

   • Primary flight control systems. Primary flight control systems include elevators, rudders, and ailerons, which are necessary for controlling altitude and direction. Actuators are used to move primary flight control parts, and they have a large bearing on flight performance and reliability.
   • Secondary flight control systems. Actuators are used to control the movement of secondary flight control systems such as flaps, slats, and spoilers. These components further stabilize the aircraft, leading to greater maneuverability and performance.
   • Other actuation systems in aircraft. Actuators also provide safe and reliable operation of landing gear, thrust reversers, and other devices essential to safe takeoff, landing, and ground operations.

    

   Traditional Aircraft Actuation Systems

   Actuators are mechanical devices used to convert energy into motion. Before the introduction of electromagnetic actuators, aircraft relied on hydraulic or pneumatic actuation systems to control the movement of parts.

   • Hydraulic actuators. These systems rely on hydraulic fluid to transmit motion and force, providing robust actuation capabilities. However, they suffer from drawbacks such as potential leaks, complex and bulky infrastructure, and high maintenance costs.
   • Pneumatic actuators. Pneumatic actuator systems depend on compressed air or gas rather than fluid to transmit motion. While they eliminate the risk of fluid leaks, they come with other disadvantages, including their heavy weight and reduced efficiency.

   While some aerospace applications continue to use hydraulic and pneumatic actuators, their drawbacks as well as recent technological advances have led to a shift toward electromagnetic aircraft actuation.

    

   The Industry Shift to Electromagnetic Aircraft Actuation Systems

   The limitations of hydraulic and pneumatic actuators, such as their larger footprint, high maintenance and operational costs, reliance on hydraulic/pneumatic power sources, and more, have resulted in a growing demand for electromagnetic actuation systems in aircraft. Electromagnetic actuators address the pain points of hydraulic and pneumatic systems by providing:

   • Increased reliability and safety. Electromagnetic actuators eliminate the risk of pneumatic and hydraulic fluid-related issues such as leaks and contamination. In addition, they offer enhanced fault detection and redundancy capabilities, as well as the reduced risk of system failure and improved safety margins.
   • Enhanced precision and control. Electromagnetic actuation systems provide high accuracy and repeatability of actuation, improved responsiveness and agility, and fine-tuned control for optimized aircraft performance.
   • Reduced weight and size. Compared to bulky hydraulic and pneumatic actuators, electromagnetic actuators are more compact for a more streamlined aircraft design. Additionally, they are more lightweight, resulting in improved fuel efficiency.

   Important elements of any aircraft actuation system are brakes and clutches. At SEPAC, we are experts in delivering quality electromagnetic brakes and clutches for the aerospace industry. Our products are custom-designed for actuator system integration for applications such as thrust reversers, flap actuation, engine inlet control, and more.

    

   Challenges and Considerations in Implementing Electromagnetic Actuators

   When implementing electromagnetic actuators into aircraft, there are many key factors to consider, including:

   • Environmental factors (e.g., temperature, humidity, electromagnetic interference)
   • Power supply and energy management
   • Redundancy requirements for critical applications
   • Certification and regulatory requirements

    

   Learn More about Electromagnetic Actuators

   At SEPAC, we’ve been a leading provider of custom electromagnetic brakes and clutches since 1984. Our years of aerospace industry experience give us the necessary skills and knowledge to design quality electromechanical solutions that hold up under even the most demanding environments. 

   For more information about the shift from traditional actuators to electromagnetic actuators, download our free Switching Hydraulic to Electromechanical Actuation eBook today. You can also contact us or request a quote to learn more about SEPAC’s latest electromagnetic actuator technologies for the aerospace industry.

5. Reliable Motion Control for Aerospace & Defense

   August 10, 2023 7:46 pm Leave a Comment

   Motion control systems are vital to the proper function of aerospace and defense machinery and devices. These systems can control the velocity or position of a machine utilizing a range of movement technology, including servo motors, electric motors, and linear actuators. The aerospace and defense sectors rely on electromagnetic brakes and clutches for a variety of actuation applications, and these technologies require quality brakes and clutches to ensure optimal safety, precision, and performance.

   At SEPAC, we deliver electro magnetic clutches and brakes to some of the top aerospace and defense leaders. Our extensive capabilities and expertise have allowed us to work on critical projects for high-profile companies, such as NASA and SpaceX, that are revolutionizing the aerospace and defense industries with innovative technological advancements.

    

   SEPAC’s Motion Control Systems Partnerships: Top Tier Trust

   SEPAC is trusted by the best-of-the-best in the defense and aerospace industry for motion control systems. Some of our clients include:

   • BAE Systems
   • Boeing
   • Curtiss-Wright
   • Eaton
   • Honeywell
   • Lockheed Martin
   • Marotta
   • Moog
   • Northrop Grumman
   • Raytheon
   • UTC

   At SEPAC, our highly experienced team of engineers, designers, and manufacturers create solutions tailored to our clients’ specifications. With this expertise, we develop advanced motion control solutions for critical industries and applications. Our proven track record ensures we deliver quality products within our client’s budget and timeline. 

   We work with a wide range of materials, including composites and specialized alloys, to deliver products that meet specific performance requirements. We can also work with our customers to help in selecting the best friction material, whether dry or submerged in oil. In addition, SEPAC has extensive experience in testing and validating motion control solutions to ensure their safety and reliability. We maintain strong relationships with leading partners and suppliers, enabling us to source quality components and materials, and our commitment to innovation and continuous improvement allows us to stay ahead of the latest technologies and trends.

    

   Motion Control Products Supplied by SEPAC

   SEPAC has gained a reputation for delivering motion control solutions that meet the aerospace and defense industry’s strict quality requirements. This experience allows our team to produce industry trusted clutches and brakes for a range of applications. Some of these applications of motion control systems include: 

   Motion Control Components for Space Applications

   SEPAC designs and manufactures electromagnetic clutches and brakes for space applications that are depended on for critical and challenging applications, including the following:

   • Flight Actuation Systems such as thrust vector control actuators.
   • Robotic Arms for automation tasks like solar panel positioning.
   • Space Electromechanical Actuation Systems such as docking and latching systems.

   Aircraft & Defense Motion Control Components

   SEPAC can provide various motion control components including spring-set brakes, power-off brakes, and more for aircraft and defense systems. Common applications include:

   • Aircraft Landing Gear rely on our electromagnetic brakes and clutches.
   • Throttle Control Actuators in aircraft engines and other systems.
   • Autopilot Actuators for automatic flight control.
   • Heli-SAS® Autopilot and Stability Augmentation System for rotorcraft flight control.
   • Winch Systems for cargo handling and similar needs.

    

   Why SEPAC’s Motion Control Solutions Are Trusted

   SEPAC is a trusted partner in clutch and brake manufacturing for aerospace and defense industry leaders. Our clients choose us primarily because of our quality customer service and capability to deliver custom solutions. We are committed to continuous improvement and innovation and offer high levels of technical expertise and proven reliability. As an ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100 D certified electromagnetic brake and clutch manufacturer, we can consistently exceed our clients’ expectations.

   For more information about our motion control solutions, or to discuss your particular needs with one of our experts, contact us or request a quote today.

    

6. Brake Locks and Successful Fin Operation

   December 16, 2022 9:17 pm Leave a Comment

   Click to Expand

   

   Control fins on the bodies of missiles adjust their flight path and help ensure missiles hit their intended targets. The main component used to position these fins is a missile fin actuator, which maneuvers the fins according to a missile’s onboard processor instructions. As there can be no room for error when guiding a missile, it’s vital to implement powerful and accurate fin control systems. 

   What Is a Missile Fin Actuator?

   Actuator control systems help determine the positioning of missile fins both prior to and after firing them. The actuator in a control system receives remote instructions, or positional closed-loop feedback, from a flight computer to navigate and direct the path of the missile. Typically, aerospace actuators for missile applications are electromechanical. The ideal actuator solution will offer a customizable, flight-tested, and cost-effective design.

   How Do Electromechanical Missile Fin Actuators Work?

   Electromechanical (EM) actuators function by changing electricity into mechanical energy. These missile fin actuators provide navigational steering control that positions missile fins on interceptors, tactical missiles, and more.

   It is common for these control systems to contain three or four actuators along with brakes and additional control technology. The closed-loop and sensor feedback in missile fin control actuation systems (FCAS) is typically transferred to the actuator utilizing a digital communication interface.

   Actuators must have the ability to reliably function under varying and harsh conditions, be it high or low temperatures, shock loads, velocities, or altitudes.

   Applications for Missile Actuation Systems

   Some applications that rely on actuation systems include:

   •     Surface-to-air missiles. These missile systems commonly use fin actuators for short-range and fast-paced maneuverability to combat inbound missiles.
   •     Air-to-air missiles. Missiles with radar-homing capabilities and other air-to-air missile systems often depend on actuation systems to enable striking distances outside sight range.
   •     Shipborne missiles. Most naval ships have anti-aircraft missiles onboard for defense. In addition to the actuators on the missiles themselves, there are often very complex and fast-responding actuation systems for the launching of the missiles as well.
   •     Interceptors. Missile launcher platforms and seeker heads need actuators for sufficient control to intercept anti-ship missiles. 

   SEPAC, Inc. Brakes for Missile Fin Actuation Systems

   Brakes for missiles help hold missile fins in position based on operator or on-board commands. By includingmotion-control products from SEPAC in your  missile fin actuation system, you’ll benefit from products that meets some of the highest industry standards. At SEPAC, we are A9100 and ISO 9001 certified, and we design and manufacture high-quality, customizable brakes for a variety of actuation systems for the military, defense, and aerospace industries. Our client list includes Boeing, Honeywell, Lockheed Martin, Moog, Northrop Grumman, and Raytheon. 

   Our mil-speccompliant  products are customizable for military and defense applications in missile platforms, armored vehicles, remote weapon stations, helicopters, fighter jets, UAVs, submarines, and more. We can meet your size, torque, backlash, and environmental requirements. SEPAC has the expertise and resources needed to develop zero-failure equipment for all your motion control needs.

   For more information about our systems and capabilities, contact us today to speak with an application specialist, or request more information to discuss your specific needs.

7. Types of Aerospace Actuation Systems and Applications

   October 7, 2020 3:34 pm Leave a Comment

   Aerospace technology is in a constant state of evolution. From engines and fueling systems to electronics, navigational instruments, and exterior designs, aerospace manufacturers and operators are always working to make aerospace equipment more streamlined, efficient, and cost-effective. Advances in aerospace actuation systems have been a key player in making aircraft faster, more maneuverable, and more economical.

   Aerospace actuators are used to transmit and redirect motion energy from mechanical sources to create usable linear or rotary motion. Initially, aerospace actuators operated mechanically through the use of cables, gears, and rods. These systems later gave way to hydraulic and pneumatic systems with levers, control columns, hydraulic cylinders, and compressed air. As electrical technology continued to advance, control levers and columns were slowly replaced with computerized electronics. Although hydraulics and pneumatics continue to be used in a variety of aerospace applications, electromechanical actuators are becoming increasingly common for their size and streamlined design.

   Interest in energy-efficient, sustainable technology in recent decades has encouraged this shift from traditional hydraulic systems to electromechanical actuators. Aerospace actuator manufacturers are motivated by a desire to reduce fuel consumption and emissions while enhancing aircraft performance and efficiency. Due to their simpler design and computerized control systems, aerospace electromechanical actuators help to improve fuel efficiency and sustainability and offer the added benefit of enhanced control and reliability.

   Advantages of Aerospace Electromechanical Actuators

   SEPAC’s design expertise has led to component integration for aerospace actuation systems which are used to operate everything from landing gear to cargo bay doors, flight control surfaces, and engine components. It is important that actuators be dependable, lightweight, and compact, and these characteristics make electromechanical actuators particularly useful for aerospace technology. A key component in each actuator design is the brake which SEPAC is an expert in providing with many years of experience across hundreds of platforms. In general electromechanical actuation systems are more:

   • Compact: Electromechanical actuators are more compact than their hydraulic and pneumatic counterparts, so they require less space while producing the same amount of thrust.
   • Lightweight: With fewer components and lighter parts, electromechanical actuators are lighter than other actuator designs, which reduces the load on the aircraft and improves fuel efficiency.
   • Precise: Electromechanical aerospace actuation systems operate with a higher degree of precision and can be more easily controlled by operators for more reliable performance.
   • Energy-efficient: Electromechanical actuators use less energy than hydraulic and pneumatic actuators.
   • Low-maintenance: Since electromechanical actuation does not require compressed air or fluid, there are fewer components to operate and maintain. The design simplicity makes them easier and less expensive to maintain over the course of the system’s service life.

   Common Aerospace Applications

   Aerospace actuation systems are integral to many critical aircraft functions. This is why leaders in the aerospace industry depend on SEPAC’s aerospace experience for their critical motion control needs. We are pleased to offer custom-designed brakes for actuator system integration for everything from thrust reversers and engine inlets to control surfaces and bay doors. Common applications that benefit from SEPAC’s superior brake systems include:

   • Thrust reversers
   • Horizontal stabilizer trim
   • Flaps
   • Throttle control
   • Autopilot control
   • Cargo bay doors and lifts
   • Winch and gimbal systems
   • Doors and elevators

   Clutch & Brake Integration for Aerospace Actuation Systems by SEPAC

   Since 1984, SEPAC has been a leading provider of precision-manufactured electromagnetic clutches and brakes for customers around the world. An American company, SEPAC is AS9100- and ISO 9001:2015-certified, and our products are designed, engineered, manufactured, and assembled in accordance with the highest industry standards.

   For more information on our quality aerospace actuation systems, contact our experts today.