Rockledge, FL - Matrix Composites Inc. recently achieved First Article Approval for the manufacture of Insulated Covers used to protect the attachment of the Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB) to the Space Shuttle.

EMF (Engravers Metal Fabricators of Merritt Island, FL) in conjunction with United Space Alliance and NASA, awarded the primary supplier contract to Matrix Composites, Inc for all the insulated covers for the Space Shuttle program. The vulcanized EPDM rubber cover is a key component that protects the strut holding the SRB to the external tank. The cover protects the attachment hardware for the first 6 minutes of flight, preventing critical components from burning, premature failure and excessive heat damage.

EMF, United Space Alliance and NASA re-evaluated previous production experiences with these components in an effort to improve materials, processes and suppliers of the insulated EPDM Covers. Matrix Composites, Inc. was chosen as the supplier, demonstrating extensive experience and manufacturing capabilities in laminating precision composite components for the aerospace and defense industries.

Matrix supports a variety of composite manufacturing processes including resin transfer molding, autoclave and oven curing. Matrix’s 27,000 square foot building provides the necessary space to be the complete composite manufacturing and testing facility. The company is staffed with seasoned materials engineers capable of providing the best solution to the most complex composite problems.