Aircraft Structural Materials

Question 1

How do you work harden a piece of metal?

Answer 1

By cold working the metal.

Question 2

Describe the primary difference between a thermosetting and a thermoplastic resin.

Answer 2

A thermosetting resin doesn’t soften when heated and chars or burns rather than melting.

Thermoplastic resins become soft and pliable when heated and harden when cooled.

Question 3

Explain how thermoplastic and thermosetting resins are commonly used in modern aircraft.

Answer 3

Thermoplastic resins, such as plexiglass, are commonly used for windshields and windows.

Thermosetting resins are most often used as the matrix material and composite structures.

Question 4

Name one of the types of resins commonly used as a matrix material for aircraft composite laminates.

Answer 4

Polyester resin.
Epoxy resin.

Question 5

What are some of the materials that are commonly used as the reinforcing compound in a composite structure?

Answer 5

Fiberglass.
Kevlar.
Graphite/carbon fiber.
Linen.
Paper.

Question 6

What are the reasons that alloy steel that is responsive to heat treatment is usually less suitable for welding?

Answer 6

It may become brittle and lose its ductility in the area of the weld.

Question 7

Give one advantage of pre-preg materials, other than saving time in the construction or repair of composite components.

Answer 7

Pre-preg fabrics contain the correct amount of matrix.

The matrix material evenly and completely permeates the reinforcing fibers.

The matrix has the resin and hardener in the correct proportions.