Space Plate — The Basic Building Block of Space Construction
This story was written with the assistance of an AI writing program.
The term “Space plate” refers to a category of metal plates utilized in space construction.
The most prevalent variant of this space plate measures 1 meter in width, 4 meters in length, and boasts a solid metal thickness of 4 centimeters, which is expertly welded to a 4 centimeter thick, flexible honeycomb ceramic material.
In the assembly of spacecraft or space structures, this solid plate is strategically positioned on the exterior, thereby enduring the demanding conditions of the space environment. Meanwhile, the inner honeycomb component serves the dual purpose of reinforcing the outer plate and providing a measure of cushioning and flexibility.
Standard thickness options for these space plates encompass 2 centimeters, 4 centimeters, 5 centimeters, 7 centimeters, 9 centimeters, 10 centimeters, 12 centimeters, 15 centimeters, 17 centimeters, 19 centimeters, and 20 centimeters.
Generally, thicknesses within the range of 2 to 5 centimeters are typically designated for use in smaller civilian spacecraft or space structures, whereas the 7 to 12 centimeter range is commonly reserved for larger civilian vessels and space structures, regardless of their size.
The four largest thicknesses, on the other hand, are primarily employed in the construction of military starships.
For those instances where specific, non-standard thicknesses are required, it is possible to have space plates rolled to the desired thickness at an additional cost of 10%.
Notably, the width of these plates is highly customizable, with no supplementary charges applied. Although the standard width measures 1 meter, space plates can be manufactured in rolls or sheets that extend up to 5 meters in width or even larger if the need arises.
The material in question is commonly referred to as “Bonded Space Plate.”
While it is possible to order Space Plate without the honeycomb ceramic component, it is worth noting that civil authorities strongly advocate for its inclusion in the construction of all habitable space structures and spacecraft.
In fact, nearly all space construction companies endorse the utilization of bonded space plate in any space-related construction endeavor.
Furthermore, certain space construction firms and shipyards have taken this recommendation to the next level by making it a mandatory requirement. They insist on the use of bonded space plate, refusing to undertake the construction or assembly of any space structure or vessel that does not incorporate this crucial component into its construction process.
During the construction of either a habitable space structure or a space vessel, it is customary to employ two layers of bonded space plate.
The first layer features a solid surface oriented outward, effectively shielding against the harsh conditions of space, while the solid surface of the second layer faces the interior, creating a more aesthetically appealing environment.
In many instances, this inner surface is either welded to bulkheads, painted over, or treated in a manner that enhances its visual presentation, particularly in areas such as living quarters and passageways.
Between these two layers of bonded space plate, a space or gap is typically incorporated, measuring anywhere from a few centimeters to one to two meters in width. This space serves as a conduit for various essential systems, accommodating piping and ductwork.
In cases where the gap is of larger dimensions, it also facilitates the integration of vital components such as fuel tanks, water storage units, water purification facilities, storage for oxygen and gases, as well as airlocks, among other critical systems.
The majority of Space Plate is manufactured using a material known as “trititanium,” an alloy that consists of 12% titanium, combined with various other metals and compounds. These additional components play a crucial role in significantly augmenting the strength and hardness of titanium, surpassing its base properties by over 22 times. Simultaneously, they contribute to a notable reduction in the overall weight of the finished product, cutting it down to a mere one-third of the original weight.
One noteworthy advantage of trititanium is its cost-effectiveness. In comparison to standard titanium, trititanium carries a substantially reduced price tag, amounting to just 30% of the cost of its conventional counterpart.
It is worth noting that a multitude of companies engage in the production of trititanium, and their pricing structures are notably competitive, with prices closely aligned among the various producers in the market.
