| Popis: |
Composite patches used to reinforce aircraft structures is on the increase as their advantages over that of rivet fastened metal patches are identified in application. This work further illustrates the superiority of bonding the cracked portion of an aluminum honeycomb panel with carbon or boron fiber reinforced composite patches. Three (3) different aluminum thicknesses were investigated; they are 2.5 mm, 4.1 mm and 6.4 mm. The fatigue life increased three (3) times over that of riveting metal patches to the same honeycomb. Moreover, repair can be administered to thicker structural components. Satisfactory results are obtained by honeycomb panels of 4.1 mm and 6.4 mm thick when patched, respectively, by adhesive bonding at room and higher temperature. Influence of the curing temperature on bonded strength is also discussed. |
