What materials are the outer layers of an insulation blanket typically made of?

The outer layers of an insulation blanket in turbine engines are typically made of aluminum foil. This choice is correct because aluminum foil serves multiple important purposes in the context of insulation blankets.

Firstly, aluminum has excellent thermal reflective properties, allowing it to effectively reflect radiant heat away from critical components of the engine. This reflective capability is crucial in maintaining the desired operating temperatures within the engine and protecting other components from excessive heat exposure.

Secondly, aluminum is relatively lightweight, which is an essential factor in aircraft design where minimizing weight can lead to improved fuel efficiency and performance.

Additionally, the use of aluminum foil as an outer layer provides a level of durability and resistance to various environmental factors, such as moisture and chemical exposure, which are commonly encountered in aerospace applications.

In contrast, the other materials mentioned—copper, fiberglass, and carbon fiber—serve different functions or may not provide the same benefits in this specific application. Copper is more commonly used for electrical conductivity rather than insulation, fiberglass is typically used for the insulation core rather than the outer layer, and carbon fiber, while strong and lightweight, is not used for thermal reflection in the same manner as aluminum foil. Overall, the selection of aluminum foil for the outer layer of insulation blankets reflects a well-cons