The Surface Protected Flexible Insulation (SPFI) has been developed on company funding and under ESA contract in previous years as new windward-side Thermal Protection System (TPS) using oxide ceramic composite (CMC). The concept is based on the former developed leeward-side Flexible External Insulation (FEI). The advantages like flexibility, easy to maintain and to integrate and low cost of the FEI are kept hereby to a maximum extent. Now developments have been performed to increase the maturity of this TPS on assembly level. This paper deals with the description of such developments and the ground and flight qualification which has been already performed or is planned for the next future. Besides, the paper addresses technology issues and the capabilities of this new TPS.

The SPFI windward-side thermal protection system (TPS) using oxide ceramic composite (CMC) has undergone ground and flight qualification, demonstrating its flexibility, easy integration, and low cost.

Ground and Flight Qualification of an Oxide Ceramic windward-side TPS

Key Takeaway: The SPFI windward-side thermal protection system (TPS) using oxide ceramic composite (CMC) has undergone ground and flight qualification, demonstrating its flexibility, easy integration, and low cost.