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Prism Membrane OBIGGS

Problem:

Do you need nitrogen-enriched air (NEA) on demand to meet the 2008 FAA ruling “Reduction of Fuel Tank Flammability in Transport Category Airplanes?”


Solution:

Air Products has been supplying membrane separators for many years for use in aircraft fuel tank inerting. Partnering with several leaders in the aerospace industry, such as Parker, Cobham and Boeing, Air Products has qualified numerous membrane separators that meet the low-weight, high-temperature operating requirements specified by the aerospace industry. The reliability of the PRISM membrane is unsurpassed. Air Products is AS9100 certified, and has been recognized by its partners for its membrane simplicity, high level of product quality, and on-time delivery.

Contracts:

Air Products’ PRISM membranes are installed in the following Boeing aircraft:

  • C-17
  • 787
  • 777
  • 767
  • 757
  • 747
  • 737 Classic

Benefits:

  • Demonstrated shock and vibration performance.
  • Demonstrated membrane lifetime in excess of 27,000 hours
  • Good resistance to water and oil vapor contamination.
  • Lightweight

Frequently Asked Questions:

Will PRISM membranes be damaged by liquid water and oil?

PRISM membranes will not be permanently damaged by liquid water. The membrane performance can be restored by flowing warm, dry air through the membrane until all the liquid water is removed. The membranes will not be affected by oil vapor in the feed stream; however, the membranes will be permanently damaged by liquid oil entering or condensing in the membrane.

Can I replace the fiber if the device becomes damaged?

The fiber is not repairable or replaceable. The membranes have undergone extensive qualification testing as defined by the aerospace industry to ensure the membrane lifetime will exceed the established target.

What does a PRISM membrane OBIGGS weigh?

The weight is strongly dependent upon the system performance required. Separators weighing 5 to 20 pounds have been considered for various OBIGGS applications. Air Products can select from several materials to design and build membrane separators. These materials can save weight while meeting temperature and pressure requirements. In addition, we have developed manufacturing processes and designed custom components to keep the membrane separator weight to a minimum.


Membrane Separators and Systems

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