11.2 Lightning Strike Protection

Question 1

What can the external structure protect on the aircraft

Answer 1

Internal areas, electrical systems and wiring from EM interference

Question 2

What two types of damage occur when lightning strikes

Answer 2

Direct damage and indirect damage

Question 3

Where are the most common areas for lightning strikes to occur

Answer 3

Fuselage nose area, trailing edges and extremities of wings and stabilisers

Question 4

What is direct damage ?

Answer 4

When the surface is damaged shown by burns, punctures or distortion

Question 5

What is indirect damage ?

Answer 5

Damage to electrical systems caused by large electrical transients induced on the wiring

Question 6

If a lightning strike occurs, what is the main giveaway?

Answer 6

Lightning strikes usually leave holes or scorches approximately 3mm in diameter or >6 mm if it is a high intensity strike

Question 7

How are composite aircraft protected from lightning strikes?

Answer 7

Metallic paint, conductive mesh or coating as part of its design. All metallic parts must be correctly bonded