Inspect Wood Structures

Question 1

Which species of wood is considered to be the standard when comparing other woods for use in aircraft structure?

Answer 1

Sitka spruce

Question 2

Why must abrupt changes in the cross-sectional area of a wooden structural member be avoided?

Answer 2

Abrupt changes in the cross sectional area of a structural member concentrate stresses and can cause failure

Question 3

What is the basic difference between laminated wood and plywood?

Answer 3

In laminated wood all of the grain runs in the same direction, in plywood the grain in layers cross the others at a 90 or 45 angle

Question 4

What effect does moisture have on a wood aircraft structure?

Answer 4

Moisture causes the wood to swell and crack as it dries out. It allows fungus to develop in the wood and causes it to decay

Question 5

Can northern white pine be used as a substitute for spruce?

Answer 5

Yes, but it must be increased in size to compensate for its lower strength

Question 6

Which wood is more inclined to warp, flat grain or vertical grain?

Answer 6

Flat grain