Global materials science company W L Gore and Associates has received approval for the use of Gore Skyflex Aerospace Materials products on the F-16 fighter aircraft’s wing access panels.

The approval has been received through an F-16 Maintenance Awareness Message recently issued by the F-16 programme office.

With the approval, the new wing gaskets join other Gore Skyflex Aerospace Materials products that are already in use on the fighter jets.

W L Gore and Associates Gore product specialist Ross Livington said: “These gaskets deliver consistent, reliable sealing in demanding operational environments, providing the same high-performance characteristics of Gore Skyflex Aerospace Gaskets already used on the F-16.

“The Gore Skyflex Aerospace Materials team is aggressively working to develop additional gaskets in its effort to improve aircraft availability.”

The aerospace materials help seal panels and protect against mechanical forces and adverse environments such as vibration, corrosion, high temperatures, aggressive fluids, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and other environmental hazards.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.
“The Gore Skyflex Aerospace Materials team is aggressively working to develop additional gaskets in its effort to improve aircraft availability.”

These hazards tend to break down and weaken traditional materials, while they can cause damage to aircraft structures.

Available in a wide range of form-in-place (FIP) tapes and die-cut gaskets, the Gore Skyflex materials, unlike traditionally used two-component sealants, are lightweight and non-curing and can help accelerate the process by reducing installation steps.

To facilitate the use of gasket on the F-16 wing access panels, the interim approval guidance presented in the Maintenance Awareness Message is sufficient authorisation for procurement and use until the appropriate technical order publications are updated.

The F-16 Fighting Falcon is a fourth-generation multi-role fighter jet that is in operation with 28 customers across the world.