CLASSIFICATION AND MATERIALS OF HIGH-PRESSURE COMPOSITE CYLINDERS FOR AVIATION APPLICATIONS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18372/0370-2197.1(110).20930Keywords:
composite materials, strength, reinforcing fibers, liner, cylinder classification, aviation systems, design, mechanical propertiesAbstract
This paper presents an extensive systematic analysis of high-pressure composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs) and the materials used in their fabrication for aviation and aerospace systems. The classification of cylinders of types 1–5 is considered based on the ratio of metallic to composite components, and their structural features, functional purpose, and operational limitations are analyzed. Liner materials are examined with regard to their density, mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and role in ensuring the hermeticity of the vessel. Special attention is given to reinforcing composite materials—carbon fiber, E-glass fiber, aramid fibers—as well as alternative materials (basalt, flax, and recycled carbon fibers). A comparative analysis of their physical and mechanical properties (density, tensile strength, elastic modulus, elongation at break) is conducted, and their influence on mass efficiency, high-pressure performance, and vessel durability is evaluated. It is shown that the use of carbon fiber provides maximum specific strength and allows the structure’s mass to be reduced by 45–70% compared to fully metallic cylinders, whereas glass fiber is economically advantageous for medium-pressure levels. Based on the synthesis of research results, it is determined that for stationary aviation systems, types II and III cylinders are the most rational. Type 2 (metal liner with glass-fiber overwrap) reduces mass by 30–40% while maintaining acceptable cost, whereas type 3 (aluminum liner with full carbon-fiber overwrap) exhibits higher specific strength and the ability to operate at high pressures, making it optimal for critical aviation applications. The potential development of linerless type V constructions is also highlighted as a promising direction for future high-performance solutions. The results of this study can be applied in the design and modernization of gas storage systems in modern aviation technology.
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