PPG Aerospace formed-in-place FIP Strip sealant on Premier IA jet

An aerospace polysulfide formed-in-place sealant tape by PPG Aerospace – PRC-DeSoto has been approved for use by Hawker Beechcraft Corp. for its Beechcraft Premier IA light jets.

PRC FIP Strip sealant tape was specified by Hawker Beechcraft for the wing fairings because it cures faster and is easier to apply, with easier cleanup and reduced waste, than traditional wet-applied sealants, according to Bill Keller, PPG Aerospace global segment manager for sealants.

Uncured sealant is premixed and frozen in one-foot preformed strips that are thawed prior to application. The strips thaw in five minutes to puttylike consistency and cure in four hours to a highly fuel-resistant elastomer. Launched on a U.S. fighter for aircraft access doors, PRC FIP Strips are available in the electrically nonconductive as well as electrically conductive versions in standard sizes and shapes as well as custom configurations.

"The preformed strips can be used to seal gaps, joints, access panels or any other areas where conventional wet sealants are used," Keller said.

"The U.S. Air Force tested PRC FIP Strips in a simulated fuel tank 'puffer box' at the Air Force Research Laboratories at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base at Dayton, Ohio. The dynamic testing regime subjected the sealant to cyclic long-term fuel immersion, pressure and sloshing conditions. With the successful completion of these tests, the U.S. Air Force is now working in conjunction with the Society of Automotive Engineers to prepare an AMS specification for the product."