Wind Probe LLC

Applications

Wind-Probe LLC was established in 2008 with the mission to develop unique solutions for air flow applications. We specialize in building reliable air flow sensors without moving parts for harsh environments such as curing ovens, and our staff offers quality and reliable products you can count on. 

Baking Carbon Composite Honeycomb Materials in Oven

Carbon composite honeycomb materials are used in various applications such as airplane construction due to the strength and lightweight characteristics of the material.  The honeycomb material is used in various aspects of airplane construction that include the seating area, Isle area, Gallery, and wing components.  The figure below shows some of the areas where carbon composite is used in airplanes.

The carbon composite material is produced with honeycomb material that is dipped in resin and cured in a high temperature oven under a controlled air flow.  The strength requirements shown in the figure correspond to the number of dips required to meet the requirements. Each dip typically requires 2 hours of oven curing time under a specific air flow requirement.

This is where Wind Probe’s Model 100 Intrinsically Safe Airflow System can be employed.  The Model 100 is designed for high temperature air flow measurement and can monitor the air flow in the curing oven to ensure that the honeycomb is coated appropriately with the resin.  The Model 100 was designed by Wind Probe LLC for and has been approved by FM Approvals for intrinsically safe operation.  Below is a picture (on the left) of typical honeycomb material prior to being coated with resin and a picture (on the right) of a typical curing oven in which the probe portion of the Model 100 would be installed.  Up to 8 probes per system can be installed in strategic locations in the oven to provide the best monitoring results.