Launch tube and a method for making a launch tube

Abstract

A launch tube made using fiberglass reinforced polymer (FRP) includes a FRP tube having an inside wall, where the inside wall has a groove near a lower end of the tube. A bottom made of FRP is molded for engagement with the tube at the groove. After forming the tube with the groove, a mold is placed inside the tube adjacent to the groove, and resin-coated fiberglass matting is laid on the mold. A fibrous material is placed over the fiberglass matting and a nonporous bag seals the fiberglass matting. A vacuum is drawn in the bag, and atmospheric air pressure compresses the fiberglass matting, forcing it into the groove. A counter-mold can be used instead of vacuum setting to compress the fiberglass matting. A compound, such as Sheet Molding Compound (SMC), Bulk Molding Compound (BMC) or Low Pressure Molding Compound (LPMC) is applied between the mold and counter-mold presses. Pressure and temperature are applied to the mold and counter-mold to position the bottom with the tube. The bottom has a convex surface, and the convex surface and the inside wall of the tube define a chamber for receiving explosive propellants.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.