PARMA, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GrafTech International’s Engineered Solutions segment continues to grow its contracts with the aerospace & defense industry.
GrafTech recently won another contract to provide advanced material components for NASA’s Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle Launch Abort System (LAS), which allows Orion’s crew to safely escape in an emergency during launch or ascent. Orion will carry up to four astronauts beyond low Earth orbit on long-duration missions to destinations such as an asteroid and eventually Mars.
The advanced composite material and propulsion components for this project were developed and manufactured by a subsidiary of GrafTech’s Engineered Solutions segment based in Biddeford, Maine. These high-performance thermo-structural composite components provide the ability to continuously control the vehicle during a launch abort—a new function that enables unprecedented crew safety.
In developing the components for this specific application, GrafTech engineers adjusted designs, processes and material properties to meet the LAS’ thermal and structural requirements. GrafTech’s advanced material system is able to withstand 3500○ F gas temperatures in a dynamic flow environment.
Lockheed Martin is the prime contractor to NASA for the Orion spacecraft. The first test flight, called Exploration Flight Test - 1 (EFT-1), is scheduled for September 2014.
GrafTech Chairman & CEO Craig Shular commented, “We continue to leverage GrafTech’s core competency of providing innovative graphite material science solutions into high-tech industries. We value the partnerships we have with industry leaders, NASA and Lockheed Martin, and the opportunities we’ve had to support their missions.”
About GrafTech
GrafTech International is a global company that has been redefining limits for more than 125 years. We offer innovative graphite material solutions for our customers in a wide range of industries and end markets, including steel manufacturing, advanced energy and latest generation electronics. GrafTech operates 20 principal manufacturing facilities on four continents and sells products in over 70 countries. Headquartered in Parma, Ohio, GrafTech employs 3,000 people. For more information, call 216.676.2000 or visit www.graftech.com.
NOTE ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release are forward-looking statements relating to our business. Forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations as of the date hereof. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. We have no obligation to update any of the information contained or referenced in this press release.
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