Spinoff story

Alloy-Enhanced Fans Maintain Fresh Air in Tunnels

A real-world story of NASA technology finding a life beyond the mission.

About this technology

Overview

Marshall Space Flight Center developed a high-strength aluminum alloy three to four times stronger than conventional aluminum alloys at high temperatures. Twin City Fan Companies Ltd. in Minneapolis, Minnesota, licensed the alloy and is currently employing the technology to make impellers for safety ventilation fans in rail and road tunnels.