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Module 6 - Materials and Hardware S
Module 6 - Materials and Hardware S
Module 6 - Materials and Hardware S
Module 6
Study Questions
6.1 Aircraft Material - Ferrous..................................................................... 215
6.2 Aircraft Material - Non Ferro u s............................................................ 215
6.3 Composite and Non - M etallic...............................................................215
6.4 C o rro s io n .................................................................................................. 215
6.5 F a s te n e rs .................................................................................................. 216
6.6 Pipes and Unions.....................................................................................217
6.8 B e a rin g s .....................................................................................................217
6.9 T ran sm iss io n ............................................................................................218
Plasticity
The property of a m etal w hich allow s it to be reshaped.
Ductility
The property w hich allow s m etal to be draw n into thinner sections w ithout b re ak
ing.
M alleability
T hat ch aracte ristic of m aterial that allow s it to be stretched or shaped by beating
with the ham m er or passing through rollers w ithout breaking.
Figure 1: Materials
Alloying agents in steel and applications of alloy 41xx C hrom e-m olybdenu m steel:
steels M ost a ircraft structural steel is a chrom e-m olybdenum alloy that com bines
toughness and high strength with ease of w elding and m achining.
SAE Classification of Steels SAE 4130 is one of the m ost popular alloys, and it is used extensively for
w elded steel structure such as fuselage fram es, landing gear, and engine
M ost of the steel used in aircraft structure is classified according to the SAE fo u r
m ounts. Engine cylind ers and other highly stressed parts are often m ade of
d igit num bering system that identifies its com position. In this system , the digits
SAE 4130 steel.
have the follow ing m eaning:
First digit: basic alloying elem ent 6xxx C hrom e-vanadium steel:
- Second digit: the percentage of the basic elem ent in the alloy C hrom e-vanadium steels are used e xtensively for w renches and other hand
Third and fourth digits: p ercen ta ge of carbon in the alloy in hundredths of tools w here extrem ely high strength and toughness are essential.
a percent
For exam ple, SAE 1020 steel is low -carbon steel that contains 0.20% carbon. Carbon
Som e of the m ost com m only used SAE steels are: C arbon is the m ost im portant elem ent found in steel, mixing w ith the iron to form
com p ou nd s of iron carbides called cem entite. It is the carbon in the steel that a l
1xxx Carbon steel: lows it to be heat-treated to obtain varying degrees of hardness, strength, and
Steels co ntaining betw een 0.10% and 0.30% carbon (SAE 1010 and 1030) toughness.
are classed as low -carbon steels and are used for m aking safety w ire and c e r
The greater the carbon content, the better the ability to heat treat and therefore the
tain se con da ry structural parts w here strength is not critical. Steels containing
higher the tensile strength and the hardness. How ever, increasing the carbon c o n
betw een 0.30% and 0.50% carbon (SAE 1030 and 1050) are m edium -carbon
tent d ecrea ses the m allea bility and the w eldability of the steel.
steels and are used for m achined and forged parts, especially w here surface
hardening is needed. Steel containing betw een 0.50% and 1.05% carbon A high carbon content, up to about 0.953% , may be used w here extrem e hardness
(SAE 1050 and 1105) are high-carbon steel and are used w here extrem e is needed and m alleability is not of prim ary concern. H igh-carbon steel is used in
hardness is required. Springs are m ade of high-carbon steel. the m anufacture of cutting to ols and springs.
Low -carbon steel that co nta ins about 0.203 carbon is used w here a great deal of
2xxx Nickel steel: form ing or deep draw ing is needed, and w here strength is of m inor concern.
Between 3% and 3.75% nickel m ay be alloyed w ith carbon steel to increase M edium -carbon steel, one having betw een 0.253 and 0.503 carbon, is used for a p
its hardness, te nsile strength, and elastic limit w itho ut appreciably decreasing plications w here both strength and ductility, or form ability, are required.
its ductility. SAE 2330 steel is used for aircraft bolts, cable term inals, keys,
clevises, and pins. Sulphur
3xxx N ickel-chrom ium steel: S ulphur is one of the m ore undesirable co nstitu en ts in steel, and as m uch of it as
possible m ust be rem oved in the refining process.
Nickel gives to ug hn e ss to steel, and chrom ium hardens it. Nickel chrom ium
steels such as SAE 3130 and 3250 are used for forged and m achined parts S ulphur causes steel to be brittle when it is being rolled or forged, as it m ixes with
w here high strength, ductility, toughness, and shock resistance are needed. the iron to form iron sulp hid es w hich are in th e ir liquid state at the tem peratures
required for this type of fabrication.
Using m anganese m ay counteract the effect of any sulphur that is not rem oved C hrom e-m olybdenum steel has the strength, toughness and lightw eight needed to
from the steel. T his converts it into m anganese sulphide, w hich is not d etrim ental m ake it the prim ary steel for aircraft structure and for high-strength engine co m p o
to the steel. nents such as cylinders.
N ickel-chrom e steel is the prim ary alloy used in the m anufacture of aircraft h ard
Manganese w are, and because of its strength and hardness at elevated tem peratures, tu n g
M anganese is alloyed with steel to elim inate som e of the oxides and the sulphur sten-chrom e steel is used fo r high-speed cutting tools.
from the steel, m aking it a clean, tough, and uniform metal. M anganese also im In addition to its im portant function as an alloying elem ent in the m anufacture of
proves the forging characteristics of the steel by m aking it less brittle at the rolling steel, chrom ium m ay be e le ctrolytically deposited on cylinder w alls and bearing
and forging tem peratures. jou rn a ls to provide a hard, w ea r-resista nt surface.
Silicon Molybdenum
W hen this n on-m etallic elem ent is alloyed with steel, it acts as a hardener. W hen O ne of the m ost w idely used alloying elem ents for aircraft structural steel is m o
it is used in sm all quantities, it also im proves the d uctility of the steel. lybdenum . It reduces the grain size of the steel and increases both its im pact
strength and its elastic limit. M olybdenum steels have som e of the best w ear re
Phosphorous sistance and fatigue strength of any of the alloys. This accounts for their popularity
This elem ent raises the yield strength of steel, w hich im proves the resistance of fo r high strength structural m em bers and for engine cylinder barrels.
low -carbon steel to atm ospheric corrosion. No m ore than 0.05% phosphorous is C hrom e-m olybdenum steel responds very well to heat treatm ent, m achines easily,
norm ally used in steel, as more of it will cause the m etal to becom e brittle w hen it and is readily w elded.
is cold.
Vanadium
Nickel
W hen extrem ely high strength is required of steel along with to ug hn e ss and good
N ickel adds strength and hardness to steel and increases its yield strength. And ductility, chrom e-vanadium steel is used. Vanadium used in am ounts up to about
nickel, used as an alloy, slows the critical rate of hardening when the steel is heat- 0.20% im proves the grain structure and increases both the ultim ate tensile
treated. This increases the depth of hardening and produces a finer grain stru c strength and the toughness. M ost w renches are m ade of chrom e-vanadium steel.
ture. Nickel also reduces the te nd en cy of steel to w arp and scale when it is heat-
treated. Nickel is one of the chief ingredients in corrosion resistant, or stainless Tungsten
steel.
T ungsten, which has an extrem ely high m elting point, brings som e of this ch a ra c
Chromium teristic into the steels w ith w hich it is alloyed. T ungsten alloys are used for breaker
contacts in m agnetos and for cutting tools. Tungsten steels retain th eir hardness
This hard high-m elting point elem ent is alloyed with steel to increase its strength even w hen operated red-hot.
and w ear resistance, as well as its resistance to corrosion. It also gives steel a
good m easure of hardness. C hrom ium is usually used in conjunction with other e l Carbon Steel
em ents, such as m olybdenum , nickel, and vanadium , to give steel the special
qualities that are needed in aircraft structure. Pig iron contains m ore than tw o- percent carbon, and when it is refined into steel,
the carbon is burned out and then a controlled am ount of carbon is put back into
C hrom e-vanadium alloy is used w hen extrem ely tough steel is needed for a pp lica the m olten iron.
tions such as w re nch e s and ball bearings.
L ow -carbon steels contain betw een 0.10 and 0.30 percent carbon and are classi
fied as SAE 1010 to SAE 1030 steel. This low carbon steel does not have sufficient
strength for aircraft structural a pplications, and its use is lim ited to secondary
structure w here the loads are not high.
Low carbon steel is easily w elded and m achines readily, but it does not a ccep t
heat treatm ent satisfactorily.
M edium -carbon steels contain betw een 0.30 and 0.50 percent carbon. The in
creased carbon m akes them accept heat treatm ent.
H igh-carbon steels, w hich are used fo r springs, files, and som e cutting tools, c o n
tain betw een 0.50 and 1.05% carbon. These steels can be heat-treated until they
are extrem ely hard.
Corrosion-Resistant (Stainless) Steel S tainless steels are m ore d ifficult to cut and form than m any m aterials.
Stainless steels have a m uch greater expansion coefficient than other steels, and
Since the 1940s the term stainless steel, also designated corrosio n-re sistan t steel
they conduct heat at a low er rate; this m akes w elding m ore difficult.
(C R ES), has becom e a household w ord because of its m any applications in c o n
sum er item s as well as in aircraft a pplications, for exam ple fire walls. M any of the stainless steels lose their corrosion resistance under high te m p e ra
tures.
The deve lo pm e nt of stainless steel has m ade possible m any of the outstanding
advances in aircraft, gas-turbine engines, and rockets. In the use of corrosion resistant steels for aircraft, the technician m ust assure that
the proper type is se le cte d for the part of the aircraft involved.
The m ost im portant characteristics of stainless steels are corrosion resistance,
strength, toughness, and resistance to high tem peratures. S tainless steels can be In m ost cases a d am aged part can be replaced by a fa cto ry-m a de part identified
d ivided into three general groups based on their structures: austenitic, ferritic and by the p art num ber; how ever, there are situations w here it is preferable to repair a
m artensitic. part by patching or w elding. In these cases, the correct type of corrosio n-re sistan t
steel (CRES) m ust be chosen.
T he a ustenitic steels are chrom ium (Cr), nickel (Ni) and chro m iu m -nicke l-m an ga -
nese alloys. They can be hardened only by cold w orking, and heat trea tm en t In w elding CRES, ine rt-g as arc w elding is preferred, because this process causes
serves only to anneal them . They are nonm agnetic in the annealed condition, a l less deform ation due to heat expansion of the metal and it prevents oxidisation.
though som e m ay be slightly m agnetic after cold w orking. The expansion of sta inless steel due to tem perature increases m ay be m ore than
tw ice th a t of ordinary carbon steels.
f A ustenitic B ecause of its toughness, stainless steel is m ore difficult to cut, form , shear, m a
Steels are form ed by heating the steel m ixture above the critical range and holding chine, or drill than o rd in a ry steel. For this reason the technician w ho is to w ork with
to form a structure called austenite. A controlled period of partial cooling is allow ed this m aterial su ccessfu lly m ust be expe rie nce d in the necessary processes or
\ follow ed by a rapid quench just above the critical range. m ust be directed by an experienced technician.I
/ Steels are straight chrom ium alloy that harden intensely if th ey are allow ed to cool 4XX C hrom ium , (hardenable, m artensitic, m agnetic).
' rapidly from high tem peratures. They differ from the tw o preceding groups b e
cause they can be hardened by heat treatm ent. 5XX C hrom ium (low chrom ium , heat resisting).
T he m ost w idely used stainless steels fo r general use are those in the 300 series,
called 18-8 because they contain a pproxim ately 18 percent chrom ium and 8 per-
\ cent nickel. Typical of these types are 301, 302, 321 and 347.
Stainless Steels
Although stainless steels have m any a dvantages, there are certain disadvantages
th a t m ust be faced by the fabricator and designer:
APU CONE
TIP FENCE
Aluminium Alloys in this group is 99% , the m inim um for certain grades is higher than 99% , and the
last tw o digits represent the hundredths of a per cent over 99.
Pure (99.0% ) cast alum inium is unsuitable for aircraft structures because it is to
soft. How ever, because of its light w eight (one-third the w eig ht of steel), it is, w hen T hus, 1030 would indicate 99.30% m inim um alum inium , w itho ut special control on
alloyed w ith other m etals or elem ents, an ideal structural m aterial. individual im purities. T he d esignations 1130, 1230, 1330, etc., indicate the sam e
purity w ith special control on one or m ore im purities. Likewise, 1100 indicates m in
A lloyed alum inium is produced in cast o r w ro ug h t form . C ast alum inium has a grain
im um alum inium co nte nt of 99.00% w ith individual im purity control.
structure that is very coarse; thus the m etal is brittle. C ast alum inium is used in the
construction of a ircraft w heel castings and engine crankcases. 2xxx C opper (Cu)
W hen alum inium is w rought, its grain structure is com pressed and tightened as it W hen copper is m ixed w ith alum inium , the alum inium becom es m ore m alleable
is forced into shapes of plates, rods, extrusions, or skins. W rought alum inium used and ductile.
e xtensively in a ircraft construction, is e ither non-heat-treated or heat-treated. M ost
structural aircraft parts are m ade of heat-treated alum inium alloys. D uctility is the ability o f the m etal to be draw n into wire and bar stock. Pure a lu m in
ium is also m alleable and ductile, but the addition of copper e nhances these p h ys
Alloying is m ixing alum inium w ith other m etals to m ake it stronger. W rought and ical properties. The co pp er also acts to p re ven t stress cracks from form ing w hile
cast alum inium alloys are identified by a fo ur-digit num ber, d esignated by the A lu the m etal is w orked and m akes som e alloys, like 2024-T3, shock resistant. C o p
m inium A ssociation of A m erica (A A -N um ber), the first digit of w hich generally ide n per, w hich m elts at 1083°C , is one of the m ost ductile of all the m etals. It can, h o w
tifies the m ajor alloying elem ent. ever, be m ade harder by cold w orking.
The second d igit indicates alloy m odification. If the second digit is zero, it indicates
the original alloy; dig its 1 through 9, w hich are assigned co nsecutively, indicate a l 3xxx M anganese (M n)
loy m odifications. The last tw o digits have no special significance, serving only to M anganese is a grey-w hite, brittle m etal w itch m elts at 1245°C. W hen m anganese
identify the d ifferen t alloys in the group. is m ixed with alum inium , it provides a surface highly resistant to w ea r and co rro
For casting alloys, the fourth digit is se parated from the first three digits by a d e c sion.
im al point, and indicates the form , that is to say casting or ingot.
4xxx Silicon (Si)
Experimental Alloys Although silicon, w hich m elts at 1392°C, is not m etallic, it has properties w hich, in
alloy, m ake alum inium harder but not brittle.
E xperim ental alloys are d esignated according to the four-digit system , but they are
prefixed by the letter X. The prefix is dropped w hen the alloy becom es standard. 5xxx M agnesium (M g)
D uring developm ent, and before they are d esignated as experim ental, new alloys M agnesium w eighs 2/3 as m uch as alum inium . It is strong enough to use s tru ctu r
are identified by serial num bers assigned by their originators. Use of the serial ally only w hen it is allo yed w ith alum inium , zinc, or m anganese. Also, because
num ber is d iscontinued w hen the X num ber is assigned m agnesium is very co rrosive and burns e asily-especially in ribbon or pow der form
it is seldom used in sh ee t form .
1xxx Series
H ow ever, the alum inium m agnesium 5056 rivet is com m only used to hold the skin
In this group, m inim um alum inium content is 99% , and there is no m ajor alloying
onto m agnesium control surfaces. M agnesium m elts at 650 C.
elem ent. The second d igit indicates m odifications in im purity lim its. If the second
d igit is zero, there is no special control on individual im purities.
Digits 1 through 9, w hich are assigned consecutively as needed, indicate special
control of one or m ore individual im purities. The last tw o digits indicate specific
m inim um alum inium content. A lthough the absolute m inim um alum inium content
M r , ..?a C * <W Y
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Heat Treatment and increased by returning the m etal to the oven and heating it to a tem perature
m uch low er than that used for solution heat treatm ent. It is held at this tem perature
N onferrous M etal Heat Treatm ent for up to 24 hours and then rem oved from the oven and allow ed to cool in still air.
This precipitation hardening, or artificial aging, greatly increases the strength and
H eat trea tm en t of alum inium , m agnesium , and titanium alloys d iffers in som e w ays
hardness of the metal, but it decreases the ductility; the m etal becom es m ore d if
from heat tre a tm e n t of ferrous m etals.
ficult to bend and form . T his procedure has no effect, how ever, on its corrosion re
sistance.
Alum inium and M agnesium Alloys
Several of the alum inium and m agnesium alloys m ay be hardened by solution heat A lum inium alloys co ntaining zinc, m agnesium , silicon, or copper are given a p re
treatm ent. Unlike ferrous m etals, these alloys are not hard w hen they are first re cipitation heat treatm ent after natural heat trea tm en t is com pleted.
m oved from the quenching m edium , rather they gain their full strength and hard
ness by natural aging over a period of a fe w days. To further strengthen these Table 2: Heat Treatment Temperatures
alloys, they m ay be artificially aged by a process called precipitation heat tre a t
ment. Solution Heat Treatment Precipitation Heat Treatment
Solution Heat Treatment (Natural Ageing) Alloy Temp. Quench Temper Temp. Time of Temper
Som e alum inium alloys m ay be hardened by heating them in a furnace until they °C desig. °C aging desig.
have reached a specified tem perature thro ug h ou t and im m ediately quenching
2017 500-510 C old T4 T
them in w ater. T he m etal does not have its full hardness im m ediately after it is
quenched, but it gains hardness and strength over a period o f several days W a te r
through the process of aging.
2117 500-510 C old T4 T
D uring the aging process, precipitation of the soluble co nstituents from the su p e r W a te r
saturated solid solution of the alloy occurs, and as precipitation progresses, the
strength of the m aterial increases. The subm icroscopic particles th a t are p re cip i 2024 490-500 W a te r T4 T
tated provide the keys, or locks, betw een the grains that resist internal slippage
and distortion w hen a load of any type is applied. 6061 515-525 W a te r T4 160-165 18hr T6
In the process of heat treating 2017 and 2024 alum inium alloys, the grain size is 175-180 8hr T6
reduced w hen the m etal is hot, and it grow s as the m etal cools. For m axim um
strength the m etal m ust be quenched im m ediately after it is taken from the oven 7075 465 W a te r 120 24hr T6
so it w ill have the sm allest grain size possible. If there is a d elay betw een the tim e
the m etal is rem oved from the oven and the tim e it is quenched, the grains w ill
grow large enough for the m etal to becom e susceptible to intergranular corrosion
that form s along the grain boundaries w ithin the m etal.
The heat treated alum inium alloys are exten sively used in a ircraft structures. C o m
m only used heat treatable alloys naturally age hardened are 2117, 2017 and 2024.
It has excellent resistance to corrosion, and is w idely used in the chem ical and 2024 A lum inium
food processing industries. It responds w ell to d ecorative finishes, which m akes it
suitable for giftw are and applications w here eye appeal is a factor. It has the high This is one of the best know n high strength alum inium alloys. W ith its high strength
est therm al conductivity of any alum inium alloy, and its electrical conductivity is and fa tigu e resistance, it is used on structures and parts w here a good strength-
second only to the E C (electrical conductor) grade. to -w e ig h t ratio is desired.
It is readily m achined to a high finish. 2024 in the annealed condition is easily
3003 Alum inium form ed and may be su bse qu en tly heat-treated. Arc or gas w elding is generally not
This is the m ost w idely used of ally alum inium alloys. It is essentially com m ercially recom m ended, although this alloy may be spot, seam or flash w elded.
pure alum inium w ith the addition of m anganese, which increases the strength Since corrosion resistance is relatively low, 2024 is com m only used with an ano-
som e 20% o ver 1100. Thus, it has all the excellent characteristics of 1100 with dised finish or in clad form (Alclad), with a thin surface layer of high purity a lu m in
higher strength. It has excellent corrosion resistance and w orkability, and it m ay ium.
be deep drawn or spun, w elded, or brazed. This alloy is non-heat treatable.
6061 A lum inium
5052 Alum inium
This is the m ost versatile o f the heat treatable alum inium alloys. It has m ost of the
This is the highest strength alloy of the m ore com m on non heat treatable grades. good q ualities of alum inium , and it offers a w ide range of m echanical properties
Fatigue strength is higher than m ost alum inium alloys. In addition, this grade has and corrosion resistance. It can be fabricated by m any of the co m m only used te c h
particularly good resistance to m arine atm osphere and salt w ater corrosion. niques.
It has excellent w orkability. It may be draw n or form ed into intricate shapes, and In the annealed condition it has good form ability. In the T4 condition fairly severe
its slightly gre ate r strength in the annealed condition m inim ises tearing that occurs form ing operations m ay be accom plished. T he T6 properties m ay be obtained by
in 1100 or 3003. The resistance w elding characteristics are equal to those of 1100 artificial ageing. It is w elded by all m ethods and it can be furnace brazed.
or 3003. The resistance w elding characte ristics are equal to those of 1100 and
It is available in the clad form (Alclad) with a thin surface layer of high purity a lu
3003. It has excellent finishing characteristics, and anodic coatings are bright and
m inium to im prove both appearance and corrosion resistance.
clear.
6063 A lum inium
2011 Alum inium
This grade is com m only referred to as the architectural alloy. It w as developed as
2011 is the m ost free-m achining of the com m on alum inium alloys. It also has e x
an extrusion alloy with relatively high tensile properties, excellent finishing ch arac
cellent m echanical properties. Thus, it is w idely used for autom atic screw m achine
te ristics and a high deg re e of resistance to corrosion.
products in parts requiring extensive m achining.
6063 alloy is m ost often found in various interior and exterior architectural a pp lica
It m ay be m achined at high speeds with relatively heavy feeds. It may be resist
tions, such as w indow s, d oors, store fronts and assorted trim item s. It is the alloy
ance w elded. Its corrosion resistance is good, and hardness and strength e xce l
best suited for anodising a pp lications - e ither plain or in a variety of colours.
lent.
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(Pure Aluminium)
Material thickness
in Inch
Magnesium high structural strength w hich it retains to a high tem perature. It is used in turbine
engines, and for aircraft skins in areas w here the tem perature is high.
M agnesium a lloys are used frequently in structures in cast, forged, and sheet form .
The greatest a dvantage of m agnesium is that it is one of the lightest m etals for its Titanium m ay be w orked by m ethods sim ilar to those used with sta inless steel, but
strength. it requires som e special techniques, and the tools used m ust be kept very sharp.
It m ay be w elded, but because it reacts with oxygen at high tem peratures, it m ust
The d isa dva ntag es in the use of m agnesium sheet are that it is m ore su bject to
be protected from the air with a blanket of helium or argon gas. For this reason,
corrosion than m any m etals, it is not e asily w orked at room tem peratures, and if it
inert-gas arc w elding is used.
becom es ignited, it is extrem ely d ifficult to extinguish.
W hen m agnesium is used in an airplane structure, it can often be recognised by
the fa ct that it has a yellow ish surface due to the chrom ate tre a tm e n t used to p re
vent corrosion and furnish a su itable p aint base.
W hen te chn icia ns encounter m agnesium in an aircraft, they m ust know that it ca n
not be cut easily b ut is likely to tear, it cannot be bent or otherw ise w orked under
norm al te m p era ture s, it is subject to corrosion and therefore should be treated with
the proper coating, and it presents a certain degree of fire hazard.
W hen standard parts are m ade of m agnesium , this fact w ill usually be stated in the
m anufacture’s o verhaul and service m anuals. Also in the m anuals w ill be d ire c
tions fo r proper treatm ent of such parts.
Because of m agnesium 's tendency to corrode easily, it is incum bent upon the
technician to m ake sure that the correct hardw are items, such as the correct rivets,
bolts and screw s, are used with any m agnesium parts; for exam ple, rivets used
w ith m agnesium should be m ade of 5056-H alum inium alloy. Any m etal part used
with m agnesium should be of a com patible m etal or there should be m etal-to-m etal
contact.
Monel Metai
The value of M onel lies principally in its strength and corrosion resistance. It is a
nickel alloy of approxim ately tw o-thirds nickel and one-third copper. Sm all
am ounts of o the r m etals such as Iron and M anganese m ay also be included.
M onel is nonm agnetic in all conditions. It is easily w orked in a m anner sim ilar to
steel and has com parable strength. K-M onel includes a sm all a m o un t of alum inium
and is heat-treatable to develop m axim um strength. It is particularly useful in m an
ufacturing durable parts that are or m ay be subjected to corrosive conditions.
Titanium
Titanium is a m etal th a t has been deve lo pe d w ithin the past fifty ye ars into an im
portant a ircraft structural m aterial. It is lightw eight and corrosion resistant, and has
Thermosets
Plastics w hich are not softened by heat are known as therm osets. M ost of them
start as liquid resins w hich are hardened by chem ical curing. So how does this
w ork?
If you could look at a polym er resin under a p ow erful enough m icroscope, you
w ould see m illions of very long m olecules. They w ould be tangled up rather like a
plate of spaghetti. This gives the resin its thick, syrupy consistency, but it can be
poured and shaped like any other thick liquid.
During the curing process, chem ical links, called crosslinks, form betw een the p ol
ym er m olecules, and these have the e ffe ct of fixing them in one position.
The polym er beco m e s rigid and stays in the sam e shape. O nce this has hap
pened, it can't be reversed and the p olym e r is fixed in a perm a ne nt shape.
Polyesters are the m ost w idely used therm osets in com posite m ouldings. M ost
boats, cars, w a te r tanks and o the r e veryda y Fibre R einforced Plastics articles are
based on polyesters. This is because they are cheap and very easy to use, but
w hen high p roperties are required, regardless of expense, epoxies, or epoxy res
ins, produce m uch better com posites. This is w hy they are preferred for the a e ro
space industry.
Crosslinks
Thermoplastic
Are Polym ers in w hich the m olecules are held to ge th er by w eak secondary b on d
ing forces soften w hen they are heated and so they are called therm oplastics.
T herm oplastic foils, sheets, plates can be form ed into d ifferen t shapes by applying
tem peratures of a bo ut 100°C to 200°C.
T his can be done o ver and over again.
Glass Fibers
G lass fibers w ere one of the first reinforcing m aterials fo r aircraft com posite co n
struction and th ey are still used fo r m any applications even though they w eigh
m ore and have less strength than m any of the other fibers.
There are tw o typ es of fiberglass cloth for use in aircraft construction: E glass is
the original glass fabric, and S glass, w hich is stronger, tougher, and stiffer, and
w eighs slightly less than E glass.
Fiberglass is availab le in several form s. Fiberglass m at is a collection of fibers
pressed loosely to ge th er w ith just enough polyester resin to hold them in place.
M at is used as a fill when low cost is m ore im portant than strength.
Roving is sim ilar to mat, but the fib ers are form ed into a long loose strand. O O
Bidirectional cloth is woven of glass fibers with the m ajor fiber bundles running in
O Op G 1ass ba 11s
both the length of the fabric (warp threads) and w idth of the fabric (fill threads). U ni
o °o °o
directional cloth has all of the m ajor fiber bundles running in the direction of the
length of the fabric, and they are w oven together with sm all cross fibers that do not Pressured
air spray
carry any of the load.
Discoutinious fibers
Aram id
A ram id is m ost com m only know by th e nam e Kevlar w hich is trade nam e given to
A ram id by the Du Pont C hem ical C om pany of the U.S.A.
Kevlar
K evlar is an aram id fib er that is excep tion ally well adapted for use in aircraft stru c
ture. It has high tensile strength and excellent stiffness, toughness, and resistance
to im pact, and it is lighter than e ither glass or graphite. It is available in both b id i
rectional and u nidirectional cloths.
These are p roduced from threads form ed by tw isting to ge th er glass fibre strands,
just as other fib re s are tw isted w hen they are to be w oven. Like other w oven fa b
rics, a variety of d ifferen t w eaves can be produced from the threads, but in this
case they have im portant differences in properties rather than being m ade for their
appearance.
T he nature of th e w oven cloth produced depends on the n um ber of threads w hich
run along the length of the fabric, called the warp, and the num ber running across
it, called the w eft, as well as the w ay they cross each other.
Plain Weave
In this type of cloth, each w arp and w eft passes over one thread and under the
next. This is a good general purpose cloth.
Warp
mu
o L i
O
£ 3
© o £ 2
o C
© Weft 2 Weft
0 ~j ... —»-
C
0
3
© \ 2
© c 3
o rz 2
o c
1
Unidirectional Weave
In this type of cloth, the w arp threads are straight and parallel. The w eft threads
are occasionally added to keep them in place. This gives very high strength in one
direction, but it is w ea k in the w eft direction.
W hen honeycom b sandw ich structures are dam aged, the effect is usually se pa ra
tion of the honeycom b from the FRP skins. The honeycom b is bonded to the skins
by very fine bond lines along the edges of the honeycom b walls, and these are fa ir
ly easily broken. As the structure relies on the core for support, the w hole co m p o s
ite is w eakened.
If the sandw ich is hit very hard, the core m ay be crushed, but this degree of d a m
age is rare.
Damage Inspection
One of the g re ate st problem s caused by replacing alum inium w ith sandw ich s tru c
tures, is inspection for dam age. U nfortunately, w hen a com posite is hit, m ost of the
dam age takes place at the back, so it is possible for the com ponent to look OK,
but be badly d am aged inside.
This applies to sandw ich structures even m ore because the core is much softer
than the skin, and you cannot see the back of the panels.
D am age of this kind is often referred to as Barely Visible D am age (BVD).
Ultrasonic Inspection
U ltrasonic inspection has becom e the m ost w ide ly used m ethod for detecting in
ternal fla w s in com posite lam inates and honeycom b assem blies. In this m ethod,
high frequency sound e nergy is introduced into the test part, and interpretation of
the returned signals d ete rm ine s the presence o' porosity, voids, delam ination, dis-
bonds, and other ano m a lie s associated with com posite m aterials.
It m ust be born in m ind that certain plastics, even w hen clean, m ay not be w etted
B ro d -p o in t d r ills a re u se d to d r ill K e v la r without le a v in g fuzz inside the hole.
by distilled w ater but will be w etted by the adhesive.
Vacuum Bagging
Vacuum bagging is probably the m ost effective m ethod to apply pressure to a re
pair. It is recom m ended for use w he ne ver possible. If you are w orking in an area
w ith high hum idity, vacuum bagging should be used. High hum idity m ay effect the
cure of the resins and the vacuum bag system evacuates the air and the hum idity.
VACUUM GAUGE
VACUUM BAG FILM VACUUM SOURCE
THERMOCOUPLE
(Optional)
HEATING BLANKET
BREATHER
LAYERS REQUIRED
CAUL PLATE (Optional)
FOR TEMPERATUR
APPLICATION BREATHER
NON PERFORATED
ESSENTIAL FOR PARTING FILM
REPAIR PROCESS BLEEDER
QUALITY
EDGE BREATHER,
or ROPES (2)
VACUUM BAG
SEALANT TAPE
PEEL PLY
PERFORATED
THERMOCOUPLE PARTING FILM
Skin Care
Take special care to keep the chem icals used in com posite construction and repair
from direct contact w ith the skin. If any of them do, w ash them off im m ediately.
W ear latex or butyl gloves w hen w orking w ith these chem icals, and w ear a shop
coat to prevent the ch em ica ls from contam inating your clothing and holding the v a
pors in contact with your skin.
There are protective hand gels that can be used on your hands before w orking with
the resins. These gels leave a thin, invisible, flexible film on your hands that p re
vent the chem icals getting to your skin. The gel is easy to w ash off w hen the w ork
is finished. T ypically this protective gel m ust not be used when w earing gloves.
Eye Care
T ake all p recautions to protect your eyes. It is extrem ely im portant to w ear goggles
that provide com plete eye protection w hen w orking with com posite m aterials. Be
HYPODERMIC NEEDLE sure that the goggles you w ea r protect your eyes from splashed ch em ica ls as well
as from sanding dust and particles that fly w hen you cut or drill the cured m aterials.
If you should get any ch em ica ls in your eyes, rinse them im m ediately with plenty
of fresh w ater and g et m edical assistance at once.
R espiratory Care
Particles of glass and graphite produced by sanding can be extrem ely hazardous
to your lungs, and you should not sand w ithout w earing a respirator that protects
against these particles. W hen w orking with resins such as epoxies in a poorly v e n
tilated area, you should w ear a respirator m ask designed to protect against these
vapors.
High-Pressure Seals
Seals are used th ro ug h ou t hydraulic and pneum atic system s to m inim ize leakage
and the loss o f system pressure. There are tw o types of seals in use, gaskets and
packings. G askets are used when th ere is no relative m otion betw een the parts
th a t are being sealed, and packings are used w here relative m otion does exist be
tw een the parts. Cross section of a chevron seal
Chevron Seals
There are m any d ifferen t kinds of seals used in a ircraft applications. These seals
range all of the w ay from flat paper gaskets up through com plex, m ulticom ponent
packings. V-ring packings, or chevron seals are found in m any h igh-pressure a c
tuators. C hevron seals are single-direction seals with the pressure applied to their
open sides. T hey are usually installed either in pairs, or in larger stacks w ith m etal
backup rings and spreaders used to force the lip of the seal tightly a ga in st the s u r
faces being sealed. The am ount the chevron seal spreads is dete rm ine d by the
tightness of the adjusting nut that holds the seal on the shaft.
Chevron seals
V/ /
V /'/.
Y /Z //////7 //A
A BACKUP RING PREVENTS THE EXTRUSTION OF
THE O-RING.
End view of groove and mating surlace Correct fit of O-ring Incorrecl fit of O-ring
<B>
An O -ring seal of the correct size can w ithstand p ressures of up to about 1,500 psi Figure 19: Backupring Installation
w itho ut distortion, but beyond this, there is a tendency fo r the ring to extrude into
the groove betw een the tw o m ating surfaces. The next Figure show s that as the si
pressure of the fluid increases, the O -ring begins to w edge in tight betw een the sm
w all of the groove and the inside of the cylinder. To prevent this, an anti-extrusion,
THE CORRECT SPIRALING OF THE BACKUP RING
or backup, ring is used. There are tw o types of antiextrusion rings in use. O ne is GIVES THIS PLACEMENT OF THE CHAMFERS.
m ade of leather, and the other is m ade of Teflon. (A)
Leather rings are installed in such a w ay that the hair side of the ring, the sm ooth
side, is against the O -ring. Before installing a leather backup ring, soften it by s o a k
ing it in the fluid the ring will be used w ith.
INCORRECT SPIRALING WILL CAUSE THE RING TO BE
S piraled Teflon backup rings are used fo r pressures higher than 1,500 psi. The DAMAGED WHEN PRESSURE IS APPLIED.
(B)
ends of the Teflon ring are scarfed, and it is possible fo r the ring to spiral in such
a direction that the scarfs w ill be on the w rong side, and the ring will be dam aged.
F igure 19: B ackupring In sta lla tio n ” on p a g e 38 show s im proper and proper in s ta l
lations. A show s the proper spiral, B the im proper installation and C show s the w ay WHEN PRESSURE IS APPLIED, THE CORRECTLY
INSTALLED BACKUP RING WILL PROVIDE A SMOOTH
the ring looks after pressure has been applied and the ring has taken its set. SURFACE ON BOTH SIDES.
(C)
Seal Installation W hen installing an O -ring over a sharp edge, cover the edge w ith paper, a lu m in i
um foil, brass shim stock, or a piece of plastic, as in Figure 2 3: P rocedures fo r
W hen installing O -rings, take extrem e care that the ring is not tw isted, nicked, or
p ro p e r O -R ing in s ta lla tio n " on page 42.
dam aged by either sharp edges of the threads over w hich the ring is installed or
by the installation tool. Figure 2 1: Installation T o o ls” on p a g e 40 show s som e of
the special O-ring installation and rem oval tools that can be used. These to ols are
usually m ade of brass and are polished so that there are no sharp edges that could
nick the seal.
V\
L
0 0
Pull type W edge type Pull type
(external-internai) (external-internal) (heavy duty)
a e ::
Push type Pull type
(external) (external-internal)
Spoon type
(left- and right-hand external)
R e m o va l to o l (h o o k type )
E xtra c to r to o l (p u ll ty p e )
O -ring O -ring
R e m o v a l to o l (h o o k type )
E x tra c to r to o l (w e d g e type )
C om pound R elationship: 1 0 0 /1 0
Chem ical com position (Resin / Accelerator)
PR1422 B 2
Viscosity: C onsistent
C om pound R elationship: 1 0 0 /1 3 .5
(Resin / A ccelerator)
W orking-life: 2 hour
6.4 Corrosion
Chemical Fundamentals
T he re are tw o general classifications of corrosion, chem ical and electro ch em ical;
how ever, both types involve two sim u ltan e ou s changes. The m etal that is attacked
or oxidised suffers an anodic change, and the corrosive agent is reduced and s u f
fers a cathodic change.
C orresponding with JA R 66
Fo r training purp o se s only Cat: A 48
B asic M a in te n a n c e Module 6 Materials and Hardware
T ra in in g M an u al 6.4 Corrosion
Stress
Stress corrosion occurs w hen m etal is subjected to a tensile stress in the presence
of a corrosive environm ent.
The stresses in the m etal can com e from im proper quenching after heat treatm ent,
or from an interference fit of a fastener. Stress corrosion can be tra n sgra nu la r or
inter granular in nature. C racks caused by stress corrosion grow rapidly as the c o r
rosive attack concentrates at the end of the crack rather than along its sides.
Formation of Corrosion
*& sr ..
C orrosion is a very general term and it m aybe caused by a variety of form s, three
form s are listed below. l
G alvanic Action
T his com m on type of corrosion occurs any tim e tw o d issim ila r m etals m ake e le c
trical contact in the presence of an electrolyte.
tsi ■‘ • a
For exam ple, galvan ic corrosion can take place w here d issim ilar m etal skins are
riveted together, or w here alum inium inspection plates are attached to the struc
ture with steel screw s.
£ :■ y ' - v v , .- n s:
Effects of Corrosion Both bare and clad alu m in ium alloys resist corrosion in non-m arine areas. W here
airborne salts and/or industrial pollutants are present, all alum inium alloys require
M ost m etals are su bject to corrosion, but corrosion can be m inim ized by the use protection. The corrosion product of alum inium is a w hite-to-grey pow dery m a te ri
of corrosion resistant m etals and finishes. The principal m aterial used in airfram e al, w hich can be rem oved by m echanical polishing or brushing with m aterials s o ft
structure is high-strength alum inium alloy sheet coated (clad) w ith a pure a lu m in i er than the metal.
um coating (alclad) w hich is highly resista nt to corrosion on attack. G eneral surface atta ck of alum inium p en etra tes slow ly but is accentuated in the
H ow ever, with an a ccum ulation of airborne salts and/or industrial pollutants along p resence of dissolved salts. C onsiderable attack can usually ta ke place before s e
w ith an electrolyte (m oisture) pitting of the alclad will occur. O nce the alclad s u r rious loss of structural strength.
face is broken, rapid deterioration of high-strength alum inium alloy below occurs.
O ther m etals com m only used in airfram e structure, such as non-clad high-strength Factors Which Influence Metal Corrosion
alum inium alloys, steel, and m agnesium alloys, require special preventive m ea s
Som e factors w hich influ en ce m etal corrosion and the rate of corrosion are the:
ures to guard a ga in st corrosion.
- Type of m etal
- A lum inium alloys, fo r exam ple, are usually anodised (a chem ical c o a t
- Presence of a dissim ilar, less co rrod ible metal (galvanic corrosion)
ing), or alum inium applied plating, then prim ed and possibly top coated
w ith paint. - Anode and ca th o d e surface areas (in galvanic corrosion)
Steel (except m ost stainless steels) and other m etals, such as brass and T em perature
bronze, require cadm ium plating, zinc plating, and alum inium coating etc. Heat trea tm en t and grain direction
M agnesium alloys are highly susceptible to corrosion attack, e specially Presence of e le ctrolyte s (hard w ater, salt w ater, battery fluids, etc.)
w here airborne salts and/or industrial pollutants are present and require - A vailability of oxygen
special ch em ica l and electro chem ical treatm ents and paint finishes. - Presence of d iffe re n t concentrations of the sam e electrolyte
- Presence of bio log ica l organism s
Effects of Corrosion on Metals
M echanical stress on the corroding m etal
T he ch aracte ristics of corrosion in co m m on ly used a ircraft m etals are:
- Tim e of e xposure to a corrosive environm ent
Steel:
C orrosion of steel is easily recognised because the corrosion pro du ct is Causes of Corrosion
red rust. W hen iron-base alloys corrode, dark corrosion products usually
form first on the surface of the m etal. These p roducts are protective. C orrosion is an electro ch em ica l reaction of a m etal with its environm ent. The n e c
essary condition for th is reaction is an e lectrical potential differen ce and an e le c
H ow ever, if m oisture is present, this fe rro us oxide coating is converted to hydrated trolyte.
ferric oxide, which is red rust. This m aterial w ill prom ote fu rth e r attack by absorbing
m oisture from the air. The m ost practical m eans of controlling corrosion of steel is C orrosive agents such as:
com plete rem oval o f corrosion products by m echanical m eans and by m aintaining Acids
the protective coating system (usually a plating, often com bined with a paint s y s Alkalis
tem ). Salts
A lum inium : - The atm osphere
A lum inium and its alloys exhibit a w ide range of corrosive attack including
- W ater
uniform surface, galvanic, pitting, intergranular, exfoliation, crevice,
- M icro-organism s give the best co nd itio ns for corrosion to start w hen they
stress, and fretting corrosion.
com e in co nta ct w ith the m etal surface
Alkalis do not usually cause corrosion as much as acids. But aluminium is very Micro-Organism
sensitive to alkaline solutions, which do not contain a corrosion inhibitor.
It is not unusual to get the water in aircraft fuel tanks, this water can contain iron
The list that follows gives you some of the alkaline solutions to which aluminium oxides and mineral salts. This water can also contain micro-organisms, these or
alloys are especially sensitive: ganisms make the water into slime. This slime will increase the rate of corrosion if
Wash Soda corrosion occurs.
Potash
- Lime
Salts
Most salt solutions are good electrolytes and can cause corrosion. On some stain
less steel alloys corrosion does not occur by a salt solution. Aluminium alloys and
steels are very sensitive to some solutions which contain salt.
The Atmosphere
The general atmosphere contains moisture and oxygen, which are the primary
causes of corrosion. Corrosion of ferrous alloys will occur in the general atm os
phere, if they have no protection.
There are other gases and contamination in the atmosphere, which also cause
corrosion, for example, the atmosphere in industrial and marine can give special
problems.
Industrial Atmosphere
The atmosphere in industrial areas will frequently contain oxidised sulphur and ni
trogen compounds. When these compounds mix with moisture they make an acid
which easily causes corrosion.
Electro-Chemical Series for Metal Aluminium is more negative than copper and will act as the anode in the galvanic
action that takes place. Within the metal itself, the forces are such that there will
One of the basic characteristics of metals is their electrode potential. This simply
be no flow of electrons between the two alloying agents until an external path is
means that when two dissimilar metals are placed in an electrolyte, there will exist
provided to form a com plete circuit. This path is provided by the electrolyte, which
between these two metals an electrical potential or voltage. This force will cause
may be a surface film of moisture, which contains such pollutants as acids, salts,
the electrons in the more negative material to flow to the less negative material the
or other industrial contam ination’s. In our illustration we will stick with a little hydro
cathode if a conductive path is provided.
chloric acid in the atmosphere.
Figure 3: Electro-Chemical Series for Metal
The electrode potential difference between the aluminium and the copper grains
causes positive ions to exist within the aluminium. When the electrolyte film covers
O Magnesium the surface, the aluminium ions attract chlorine ions from the hydrochloric acid and
5 Zinc form aluminium chloride, the salt of corrosion.
O 7075-T clad aluminum alloy Hydrogen ions will be attracted to the copper by the electrons from the aluminium.
^ 5056 aluminum alloy These hydrogen ions will become neutralised and form molecules (H2) which
Pure aluminum leave the surface as a free gas. Corrosion has formed on the anodic aluminium but
A 2024 clad aluminum alloy no corrosion products are evident on the copper, the cathode.
Cadmium
This type of electro chemical attack produces pits filled with the salts of corrosion
2024 aluminum alloy
and is usually rather localised. But, if the entire surface is covered with a strong
Steel
Iron electrolyte, there will be so much more corrosion that it will produce a more or less
Lead uniformly damaged area. This type of corrosion is called a direct chemical attack.
Chromium Figure 4: Direct Chemical Attack
Brass and bronze
u Copper
Stainless steel
(j Titanium
q Monel
O Silver
Nickel
< Inconel
<-> Gold
CORROSION PRODUCTS
MOISTURE
TOPCOAT
PRIMER
CORROSION
PRODUCTS
Fatigue Corrosion However, mould, bacteria, or other microbes attack some moisture proofing coat
ings, especially if the surfaces on which they are used are contaminated. Microbial
Fatigue corrosion is caused by the combined effects of cyclic stress and corrosion.
growth occurs at the interface of water and fuel, where the fungus feeds on the-
No metal is immune to some reduction in its resistance to cyclic stressing if the
fuel. Organic acids, alcohol’s, and esters are produced by growth of the fungus.
metal is in a corrosive environment. Damage from fatigue corrosion is greater than
the sum of the damage from both cyclic stresses and corrosion. These by-products provide even better growing conditions for the fungus. The fun
gus typically attaches itself to the bottom of the tank and looks like a brown deposit
Fatigue corrosion occurs in two stages. During the first stage the combined action
on the tank coating when the tank is dry. The fungus growth may start again when
of corrosion and cyclic stress damages the metal by pitting and crack formation to
water and fuel are present.
such a degree that fracture by cyclic stressing will ultimately occur, even if the cor
rosive environment is completely removed. The second stage is essentially a fa The spore form of some micro-organisms can remain for long periods while dry,
tigue stage in which failure proceeds by propagation of the crack (often from a and can become active when moisture is available. When desiccants become sat
corrosion pit or pits) and is controlled primarily by stress concentration effects and urated and unable to absorb moisture passing into the affected area, micro-organ
the physical properties of the metal. isms can begin to grow. Dirt, dust, and other airborne contamination’s are the least
recognised contributors to microbial attack. Unnoticed, small amounts of airborne
Fracture of a metal part, due to Fatigue corrosion, generally occurs at a stress lev
debris may be sufficient to promote fungal growth.
el far below the fatigue limit in laboratory air, even though the amount of corrosion
is relatively small. For this reason, protection of all parts subject to alternating Microbial corrosion can be minimised with a maintenance program which includes
stress is particularly important, even in environment that are only mildly corrosive. frequent sump draining, tank inspection, total removal of microbial growth, and ap
plication of biocide with effected soak periods.
Microbial Corrosion
Figure 10: Microbial Corrosion
Microbial attack includes actions of bacteria, fungi, or moulds. Micro-organisms
occur nearly everywhere. Those organisms causing the greatest corrosion prob
lems are bacteria and fungi. M IC R O ORGANISMS
Crevice Corrosion
Crevice corrosion is a form of concentration cell corrosion. This is corrosion of met
al in a metal-to-metal joint, and corrosion at the edge of a joint. Sealing of joints
and gaps and using of protective coatings in the fraying surface area can reduce
crevice corrosion.
Electrolyte Metal
O xygen
O xygen
Detecting Corrosion
The first step in corrosion control is finding it and determining its extent. In this sec
tion we will consider the most generally used inspection methods.
Visual Inspection
Elaborate inspection equipment is used in aircraft maintenance to make the work
of the technician more efficient, but the well trained and experienced eye is still the
most effective tool for inspection.
Corrosion of aluminium and magnesium appears as a white or gray powder along
the edges of skins, around rivet heads, and in small blisters that show up under
the finish on painted surfaces. Since the salts of corrosion take up more space
than sound metal, bulges along the lap joints of a skin are an indication that corro
sion has formed between the faying surfaces.
We should make use of magnifying glasses, mirrors, borescope, fiber optics, and
other tools that allow us to see inside the structure and around corners so we can
be assured of giving the aircraft a good visual inspection.
Penetrant Inspection
Stress corrosion cracks are sometimes difficult, if not impossible, to detect by a
simple visual inspection. However, these and other cracks may be found by using
dye penetrants which are usable for both ferrous and nonferrous metals. All of the
surface dirt must be removed from the material to be inspected before the pene
trating liquid is sprayed on the surface. This liquid contains a bright red dye, and it
has a very low surface tension, so it will seep deep into any crack that extends to
the surface. After this penetrating liquid has been left on the surface long enough
for it to seep into all cracks, it is wiped off. A developer is then sprayed over all of
the surface. This developer is a white chalky powder that completely covers the
surface and acts as a blotter to draw penetrant out of any cracks in the material
that extend to the surface. Cracks show up as a bright red line on the white back
ground of the developer. Another type of penetrant inspection uses a fluorescent
penetrant, and the part is inspected under an ultraviolet, or “black,” light. This spe
cial light causes the cracks show up as green lines on the surface.
The limitation of dye penetrant inspection is that it will not show up cracks that are
so full of corrosion product that the dye cannot penetrate. Also if the cracks are
tilled with oil or grease, the penetrant cannot get in, and there will be no indication
of a flaw. It is almost impossible to get all of the penetrant off of porous or rough
surfaces, and this type of surface should not be inspected by either of the pene
trant inspection methods.
Major Diameter
The largest diam eter of the thread measured in a plane normal to the axis.
Minor Diameter
The smallest diameter of the thread measured in a plane normal to the axis.
Pitch
The distance from the centre of one crest to the centre of the next crest measured
parallel to the main axis.
According to the thread profile, the threads are named V-threads, ACME threads,
round threads and buttress threads.
V Threads
These are mostly used for attaching parts, e.g. aircraft nuts and bolts.
ACME Threads
These are mostly used for motions of axial drives, e.g. trailing edge flap drive.
V-Threads
Buttress Threads
These are mostly used for motions of axial drives with one-sided load, e.g. trailing
edge flap drive, landing gear systems.
Round Threads
These are mostly used for motions of axial drive and especially for stressed
threads
Round Threads
ACM E Threads
Pitch
FINE
Line SERIES
UNC THREAD MAJOR TAP DRIL.L SIZE 5/16 18 .3125 7.93 F 0.257 6.5
SIZE IN INCH AND DIAMETER IN 3/8 9.52
16 .375 5/16 0.3125 7.9
NUMBER OF
THREADS PER INCH MM DRILL INCH MM 7/16 14 .4375 11.11 U 0.368 9.3
INCH NO
1/2 13 .500 12.70 27/64 0.4219 10.8
1 64 .073 1.85 53 0.0595 1.5
9/16 12 .5625 14.28 31/64 0.4844 12.2
2 56 .086 2.18 50 0.07 1.80
5/8 11 .625 15.87 17/32 0.5312 13.5
3 45 .099 2.51 47 0.08 2.05
3/4 10 .750 19.05 21/32 0.6562 16.5
4 40 .112 2.84 43 0.09 2.30
7/8 9 .850 22.22 49/64 0.7656 19.5
5 40 .125 3.17 38 0.10 2.60
The size 1-64 through 12-24 are machine screws the first number is a code
6 32 .138 3.50 36 0.11 2.75 number and indicates not the screw diameter. The second number indicates
number of threads per inch.
8 32 .164 4.16 29 0.136 3.5
For example: 10-24. 10’ stands for 1.90 inch. 24’ stands for 24 threads per inch.
10 24 .190 4.82 25 0.1495 3.8 The size 1/4-20 through 7/8-9 are aircraft bolts. The fractions indicate the diameter
& the number indicates number of threads per inch.
12 24 .216 5.48 16 0.177 4.5
Thread Fit
The relative tightness between the nut and the bolt is called the fit of the threads.
A class- 1 fit is a loose fit. This is used for coarse-thread stove bolts fitted with
square nuts.
A class-2 fit is a free fit. It is used for some machine screws. ?.
A class-3 fit is a medium fit. It is used for almost all standard aircraft bolts.
A class-4 fit is a close fit, that requires a wrench to turn the nut onto the bolt.
C orresponding with JA R 66
F o r training purp o se s only Cat: A 72
B asic M a in te n a n c e Module 6 Materials and Hardware
T ra in in g M an u al 6.5.1 Screw Threads
Measuring Screw Threads The high addendum gauge is, however, recommended for checking Unified
threads in the numbered sizes. To minimise the effect of pitch errors, NOT Go
Thread Gauges screw gauges embody only 2 or 3 turns of thread.
There are different types of gauges to be used when checking screw threads of
Unified form. Following American practice only one series of gauges is specified
for use during both manufacture and inspection.
Go Gauges
These gauges are designed to ensure that the product does not exceed the max
imum metal condition specified in the appropriate standard for the type and size of
thread.
A GO screw plug gauge will ensure that the major and effective diameters of an
internal thread are not below the minimum size specified; it will not check the minor
diameter however as the gauge thread roots are cleared beyond the minor diam
eter for practical reasons. The minor diameter of the internal thread is checked
with a plain GO plug gauge.
A GO screw ring or calliper gauge will ensure that the effective diameter of an ex
ternal thread is not greater than the maximum size specified and that it will assem
ble with an internal thread of minimum size. It will not ensure that the major
diameter is not too large; this is checked by a plain ring or calliper gauge.
GO gauges are normally made to a length at least equal to the length of engage
ment of the product threads.
No Go Gauges
These gauges are designed to ensure that the product meets the minimum metal
limit specified in the appropriate Standard and are similar in appearance threads
and plain ring or calliper gauges for external threads, made to the minimum metal
limit of the product thread.
NOT GO screw gauges for checking the minimum metal limit on effective diam e
ters are of two types, namely, low addendum or high addendum.
A low addendum gauge only contacts the thread over a short length of flank
whereas the high addendum gauge has a much larger area of contact. The low
addendum gauge is a better method of checking simple effective diameters where
flank angle or other thread malformations are present, and is used widely in ihe
United Kingdom.
Adjustable Gauges
SCREW PLUG GAUGE
To permit their continued use after wear has taken place, ring and calliper gauges
are often manufactured in an adjustable form. To set the size of an adjustable ring
gauge a ‘double-length’ setting plug is used.
The effective diameter of this setting plug remains constant over its whole length,
but while the major diam eter of one half is at the maximum size the other half is
truncated to the minimum size.
On GO gauges it is possible to verify that both the effective diameter and major
SINGLE LENGTH DOUBLE LENGTH diameter are satisfactory. Adjustable calliper gauges are set with a ‘single length’
setting plug, which has a length approximately equal to that of the gauge.
Check Gauges
GO and NOT GO check gauges are required for verifying the size of a new solid
SETTING PLUGS type ring gauge and are similar to the plug gauges used for checking product
threads but are made to finer limits.
NOT GO effective diam eter check gauges are also required to ensure that solid
ring gauges are not kept in use when worn beyond limits. Check gauges are alter
native to direct measurement and are indispensable in sizes below Vi inch diam e
ter.
NOT GO
C orresponding with JA R 66
F o r training purp o se s only Cat: A 74
B asic M a in te n a n c e Module 6 Materials and Hardware
T ra in in g M an u al 6.5.1 Screw Threads
GO NOT GO
(GO OR NOT GO)
LwwJ —v\J
j- A / W V I^ ^ a a /
ADJUSTABLE SCREW
RING GAUGE
SCREW CALIPERS
(The anvils may be of roller type.)
Introduction son for installing bolts in this way is that they are less likely to fall out if the nut
should ever be lost.
People talk about ‘getting down to the nuts and bolts’ when describing something
in minute detail. An apt phrase. It recognises that standard fasteners are the basic International Standards
and fundamental components of assembled metal products.
Before the Federal Aviation Administration issues a Type Certificate for an aircraft,
Despite their uncommon importance to all industry these common place fasteners the manufacturer must demonstrate that the aircraft conforms to all airworthiness
are too seldom viewed as highly engineered items. Frequently they are applied by requirements. These requirements pertain not only to performance, but also to
‘rule of thum b’ rather than by slide of rule. The engineering talent behind them is structural strength and integrity as well.
often overlooked.
To meet these requirements, each individual aircraft produced from a given design
What the Designer wants of a Threaded Fastener System must meet the same standards. To accomplish this, all materials and hardware
must be manufactured to a standard of quality.
Threaded fasteners have proved to be the most efficient and effective way to put
together shapes that would be impractical as one piece structures. Specifications and standards for aircraft hardware are generally identified by the
organisation originating them.
They also simplify or reduce costs, or make practical the disassembly of such
structures for safety inspection, cleaning, repair or rebuilding. When a vehicle or Some of the most common are listed below:
structure or machine is overhauled, if it is worn or corroded parts may be replaced
as a routine maintenance operation. AMS Aeronautical Material Specifications
However threaded fasteners are not generally regarded as things that wear out or
deteriorate. They are expected to be reusable. AN Air Force-Navy
Fasteners must carry loads. They resist various combinations of tension and shear
AND Air Force-Navy Design
loading without permitting any movement of the fastened parts.
Most threaded fasteners are screwed up tight so that they clamp the fastened AS Aeronautical Standard
parts together. It is desirable to maintain this initial clamping force.
Although their primary function is to permit convenient assembly and disassembly, ASA American Standards Association
threaded fasteners are expected to stay in place between those events without fail.
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
Required Characteristics
- Reliability MS Military Standard
Strength
Tightness NAF Naval Aircraft Factory
- Convenience in service
- Economy NAS National Aerospace Standard
Recess
Indentation in the head, used in the identification or to drive the bolts.
Grip
r
)—
I
Im
>-
Head Types Examples of use would be seat belt attachment point, attachment point for cargo
netting.
The Hexagon Head Bolt Figure 2: Bolt Heads
An all purpose structural bolt used in general application involving tension and
shear loads.
They are available in cadmium plated nickel steel, corrosion resistant steel and
2024 aluminium alloy.
bz
The drilled hexagon head bolt is similar to the standard bolt but with a deeper head
Standard head bolt Drilled hex head bolt
which is drilled to receive locking wire.
The standard hex head bolt and the drilled head bolt are inter-changeable for all
practical purposes from the standpoint of shear and tension strength. O
r
The Countersunk Head Bolt Countersink head bolt Internal hex head bolt
A close tolerance bolt used in high performance aircraft where the bolted joint is
subjected to severe load reversals and vibrations.
/ y~
Caution
Aircraft bolts and nuts must not be rethread, as they may loose strength.
BACB30NE 5 D H 8 (X)
X = 1/64" OVERSIZE
Y = 1/32" OVERSIZE
GRIP LENGTH IN /16" = 8/16" - 1/2"
DRILLED HEAD
DRILLED SHANK
a
Non Self Locking Nuts
Aircraft Castle Nut A Castle nut B Shear castle nut
Used with standard bolts and may be used when the bolt is used in either shear or
tension situations.
Self Locking Nuts Another method is to squeeze the end of the nut into an oval shape, as the bolt is
driven through the oval it must reshape it back to round again which provides a
Low Temperature Self Locking Nuts gripping action.
Self locking nuts are used with bolts or machine screws and are prevented from 2 1/2 threads should be shown after the nut has been tightened.
vibrating loose by a fibre or plastic insert which is fitted into the nut.
Figure 7: Self Locking Nut (Hi-Temp)
The insert has a sm aller hole than the thread diameter. The nut will run onto the
bolt easily until the bolt thread enters the insert and then it will be necessary to use
a spanner to advance the nut further.
When the bolt threads enter the insert the insert exerts a strong backward push on
the bolt removing any axial play between the bolt threads and the nut threads. This
creates a high friction between all of the contacting faces and will prevent the nut
from turning under normal vibration.
Self locking nuts remain serviceable as long as it is not possible to turn the nut onto
the bolt fully without the use of a spanner. Self locking nuts should not be used in
I#
locations where the nut or bolt is subject to rotation.
2 1/2 threads should be shown after the nut has been tightened. X /
Figure 6: Self Locking Nuts (Lo-Temp)
Fiber collar
Anchor Nuts
Inspection plates and access doors fastened to an aircraft with screws have an
chor nuts secured to the inside of the structure into which these screws fit.
Most Commonly used anchor nuts are:
- One-lug anchor nut;
- Two-lug anchor nut;
Corner anchor nut.
High Temperature Self Locking Nuts
In applications where temperatures exceed 120°C the insert may deteriorate re Installation of access door with large number of screws, the floating anchor nut is
ducing the locking ability of the nut. In this case it is necessary to use other meth used.
ods of increasing the friction between nut and bolt. These nuts fits loosely into a basket, which is riveted to the skin and the nut floats
One method is to use nuts, which have slots in the end of the nut, the slots are then enough to align itself with the screw.
swaged together reducing the diameter of the hole, when the bolt is driven into this To speed up the production of aircraft, ganged anchor nuts are installed around
portion of the nut the nut threads grip the bolt and raise friction levels. inspection plate openings. These are floating-type anchor nuts, and there are a
number of them in a channel that is riveted to the structure.
Each nut floats in the channel with enough play that screws can move the nut in alignment behind the hole and accepts the screw that holds the instrument in
enough to align it the pan.
Figure 8: Anchor Nuts. If the instrument is rear mounted, the legs of the nut are long enough to pass
through the instrument case, but if the instrument is front mounted, the nut fastens
into the screw hole in the instrument panel.
B Channel nuts
Clip Nuts
Due to ease of installation and removal, substantial cost reductions result where
clip nuts are used in place of riveted anchor or plate nuts.
e
Ideal for secondary structure applications such as fastening aircraft flooring, ac
cess panels, instrument components, electronic cabinet construction wire clips
and tubing harness.
Tinnerman Nuts
Instrument Mounting Nuts
Used in the instrument panel or in the instrument case itself to mount aircraft in
struments in the panel. A non-magnetic phosphoric bronze cage holds a brass nut
Machine screws are generally used in non-structural applications and are thread
ed for their full length.
They normally have a class 2 (free) fit thread and are available in a number of dif
C 1 0 0 ° F la t-h e a d structural
ferent thread forms.
m ach ine screw
Materials and coatings are similar to those used for bolt applications. Head forms
are considerably different to those of bolt heads.
Structural Screws
Structural screws are sim ilar in appearance to machine screws but will be manu
factured from higher strength metals.
Structural screws are manufactured to the same specification as structural bolts
and differ only in the type of head. The normal application for this type of screw is
in shear loading only.
Figure 11: Structural Screws There are four head forms in use:
- Round head;
Truss head which is less proud than the round head;
100° countersink with flat head;
- 100° countersink with oval head.
(A) (B)
Figure 12: Self Tapping Screws
STRUCTURAL SCREWS A -A N 5 2 5
Studs are headless bolts that are threaded for their entire length or at both ends.
The stud is inserted into the main body of the component, (sometimes; into heli-
coils inserts) with the assembly passing over the studs and being clamped into
place by nuts.
Dowels
Dowel pins are used to retain parts in a fixed position or to preserve alignment. A
properly fitted dowel pin is subject to shearing strain only
Introduction
Washers are used to:
provide a bearing surface area for nuts;
act as spacers or shim;
apply a tension between a nut and the surface of the material to prevent
the nut vibrating loose.
Plain Washers
Used to provide a smooth bearing surface between the nut and material being
clamped. To act as a shim in obtaining correct grip length for a bolt and nut assem
bly.
They are used to adjust the position of castellated nuts in respect to drilled cotter
pin holes in bolts.
Aluminium alloy washer may be used under bolt heads and/or nuts on aluminium
alloy or magnesium alloy structures where corrosion due to dissimilar metals is a
factor. _ T
- J
It is also common practice to use a cadmium plated steel washer under a nut bear
ing directly against a structure as this w asher will resist the cutting action of the nut.
Plain washers are made from the following materials:
Cadmium plated steel;
- Brass;
- Corrosion resistant steel;
Aluminium alloy
Spring Washer
Spring washers consist of a single or double coil of square section spring. They
are placed under the nut and are compressed by tightening the nut, thus prevent
ing the nut from slackening off. They may be used again as long as the washer
retains the spring tension.
Shakeproof Washer
Shakeproof washers work on the same principle except that the washer’s teeth are
sharp and bent at an angle. When the nut is tightened the sharp teeth tend to dig
into the face of the nut and the component it is securing, this prevents the bolt from
undoing.
SPLIT WASHER SHAKE PROOF WASHER
Lock washers should never be used under the following conditions:
1. With fasteners to primary or secondary structures.
2. With fasteners on any part of the aircraft where failure might result in damage
or danger to the aircraft or personnel.
3. Where failure would permit the opening of a joint to the airflow.
4. Where the screw is subject to frequent removal.
5. Where the washers are exposed to the airflow.
6. Where the washers are subject to corrosive conditions.
7. Where the washer is against soft material without a plain washer underneath
to prevent gouging the surface
The washer is used to reduce corrosion of magnesium sheet. Figure 4: Self Aligning Washer
SELF-ALIGNING WASHER
C O U N TER SU N K WASHER
0.032 INCH
STANDARD MINIMUM
THIN'
T
FLAT WASHER USED FOR SPACING
(MAXIMUM 3 WASHERS)
FLAT WASHER
1
SOFT MATERIAL
(SEALS,
INSULATION, ETC.)
LOCK WASHER
cm
( 2 K
0 5 2 :
(§>-
LOCK WASHER
I .1 O
STANDARD RADIUS WASHER
Tab Washers
Have two or more tabs projecting from the external diameter. When the washer is
fitted one tab is bent against the component or fitted into a hole provided for that
purpose, whilst the second tab is bent against the flat of the nut, after it has been
correctly tightened down.
=LJ=
AFTER TIGHTENING
C orresponding with JA R 66
F o r training purp o se s only Cat: A 97
B asic M a in te n a n c e Module 6 Materials and Hardware
T rain in g M an u al 6.5.3 Locking Device
Locking Plates
Locking plates are thin metal plate’s places over a nut or bolt installation to provide
positive locking of the nut or bolt.
Their main advantage is that they are quick to assemble and disassemble.
The locking plate will itself be locked by a smaller screw or bolt which may then be
safetied using lock wire or a self locking nut and bolt.
The cotter pins, commonly referred to as split pins, used in general aviation are
made of either:
1. Corrosion Resistant Steel.
2. Cadmium plated, low carbon steel.
Used for safetying bolts, screws, nuts, other pins, and in various applications
where such safetying is necessary.
DIAMETER
- L ±0.010
TYPE A TYPE B
TYPEC R TYPED
(B)
TYPEE TYPE F
Pal-Nuts
Pal-Nuts, commonly known as check nuts or lock nuts, are thin nuts which are
tightened down firmly on top of the primary nut, after the primary nut has been cor
rectly tightened.
This action wedges the threads and prevents the primary nut from slackening off.
The pal-nut must not be over-tightened, as stripping or over-stressing of the thread
may occur.
Before reusing the pal-nuts, ensure the threads are not damaged.
It is the most positive and satisfactory method of ensuring that threaded fasteners
remain secure under all conditions.
It is a method of wiring together any two or more components in such a manner
that any tendency of one to loosen is counteracted by the tightening of the wire.
MS Military specification
A v a ila b le W ire D ia m e te rs
- 20 = 20/1000 inch = 0.5 mm
- 32 = 32/1000 inch = 0.8 mm
41 = 41/1000 inch = 1.0 mm
- 47 = 47/1000 inch = 1.2 mm
Select the proper safety wire material and diameter according to the drawing in
struction or requirements.
Dzus Fasteners
Consists of a stud, grommet, and receptacle. The figure below illustrates an in
stalled Dzus fastener and the various parts.
The grommet is made of aluminium or aluminium alloy material, and acts as a
holding device for the stud. Grommets can be fabricated from 1100 aluminium tub
ing, if none are available from normal sources.
The spring is made of steel, cadmium plated to prevent corrosion. The spring sup
plies the force that locks or secures the stud in place when two assemblies are
joined.
The studs are fabricated from steel and are cadmium plated. They are available in
three head styles: wing, flush, and oval. Body diameter, length, and head type may
be identified or determined by markings found on the head of the stud (see figure
below).
The diameter is always measured in sixteenths of an inch. Stud length is meas
ured in hundredths of an inch and is the distance form head of the stud to the bot
tom of the spring hole.
A quarter of a turn of the stud (clockwise) locks the fastener. The fastener may be
unlocked only by turning the stud counter-clockwise. A Dzus key locks or unlocks
the fastener.
STUD
DETACHABLE
PART
STUD ASSEMBLY
I
GROMMET
SPRING ASSEMBLY
Amal Fairey
Locking: Locking:
1. Insert the fastener through elongated hole in fixed member. Depress locking 1. Insert cotter through elliptical hole in fixed member.
screw to hold cotter clear of back anchor plate. 2. Depress locking plate.
2. While still depressing locking screw turn it through 90°. 3. Turn locking plate and cotter through 90°.
3. Release pressure on locking screw and spring will then return cotter between 4. Release pressure on locking plate.
projection on back anchor plate. Screw up fastener.
Unlocking:
Unlocking:
1. Depress locking plate and turn through 90°
Rotate locking screw two turns in anti-clockwise direction. Depress locking screw
and make a quarter turn anti-clockwise. Panel can be removed. Figure 23: Fairey.
Figure 22: Amal
Introduction
- Transmission Drive Assemblies
- 'V' Belt Drive
This type of belted drive uses friction as a turning force. That is to say that the belt
is VEE in shape and fits on to pulleys of the same corresponding shape.
To ensure that mechanical movement takes place it is important to apply the cor
rect amount of tension to the belt so that it fits neatly into the pulley.
A further example of a belted drive is the serrated toot method. This method uses
teeth built into the belt and pulley, and the two are mated to provide a mechanical
HOLLOW SADDLE KEY WOODRUFF KEY
drive. Similar to a rotating cog wheel.
Tension must still be applied to the belt to ensure that the belt and pulley teeth re
main in mesh.
We have discussed two methods of applying a drive using belts and in both meth
ods pulleys are utilised as part of the drive mechanism. Flat Saddle Key
However, we must have some method of attaching the pulleys to the rotating A flat saddle key is square or rectangle in section and fits into a key way.
shafts to enable the drive element to take place. This can be achieved by using a In the pulley and rides on a flat machined on the shaft.
key or key way as means of attaching the pulley to the shaft.
Figure 25: Flat Saddle Key
The following pages will illustrate some examples of keys and key ways.
Woodruff Key
The W oodruff Key is made in the form of a segment of a parallel-sided disc.
It fits into a cavity in the shaft, which conforms to the rounded portion of the key.
The top of the key fits into a key way in the pulley.
Can be used on parallel or tapered shafts.
Introduction formed previously by the manufacturer.The metal pieces to joined have holes of
the proper size drilled through them.
The structure of modern civil transport aircraft is generally made of all metal com The shank of the rivet is inserted through one of these holes. The size and shape
ponents. To keep the aircraft weight as low as possible, the selection and the uti of the rivet is inserted through the holes in the metal, a bucked head is formed on
lisation of the materials used is most important. the end opposite the manufactured head.
The materials must be selected with consideration to the special purpose of the With rivets it is possible to transfer two different kinds of load from one sheet of
various structural members. Light metal alloys are used mainly in the structure of metal to another sheet of metal. Most structure is designed for the primary load to
the fuselage, wings and empennage. be carried in ‘shear’.
Rivets are necessary for fastening two or more pieces of metal together. A rivet is
a metal pin or bar with a cylindrical shank and one end of the rivet has a head
C orresponding w ith JA R 66
F o r training p urp o se s only Cat: A 116
B asic M a in te n a n c e Module 6 Materials and Hardware
T ra in in g M an u al 6.5.4 Aircraft Rivets
Standardisation of Rivets
Rivets used in American transport aircraft are normally specified by American
standardisation. The diameter of a rivet is standardised in 1/32”. The rivet lengths
are graduated by 1/16” increments.
Cherrylock Rivets
The friction Cherrylock rivet is an older special blind fastener, which is still used by
many sheet metal mechanics. Friction is the only thing that holds the stem of this
fastener in place.
In locations where vibrations occur, the stem can work loose and fall out. For this
reason, whenever the Cherrylock friction rivet is used to replace a solid shank riv
et, it must be 1/32 inch larger in diameter.
The friction Cherrylock rivet is available in three diameters: 1/8, 5/32, and 3/16
inch.
The friction Cherrylock rivet is constructed of two parts: the rivet, with either a uni
versal or a countersunk head, and a mandrel or pulling stem that runs through the
centre of the hollow rivet for installation purposes.
The pulling stem is designed with an expanding section which causes the shank
to fill the hole when it is being drawn up. On the bottom of the puller is a part called
the header, which forms the bucktail on the blind side.
The upper portion of the pulling stem has a break point which lets go when the rivet
is pulled to its maximum. When the break point snaps, the m anufacturer’s head
and has to be clipped and filed down flush
r t
1. As the stem is pulled into the rivet sleeve, a bulb forms on the rivet’s blind side
that begins to clamp the two pieces of metal together and fill the hole.
2. Once the pieces are clamped tightly together, the bulb continues to form until
the shear ring shears and allows the stem to pull further into the rivet.
3. With the shear ring gone, the stem is pulled upward until the pulling head au
tomatically stops at the stem break notch and the locking collar is ready to be
inserted.
4. When completely installed, the collar is inserted and the stem is fractured
flush with the rivet head.
£, JL_j1..
Read Read
ments of 1/32 inch and the grip length is measured in 1/16 inch increments.
To determine the correct grip length a special grip gage is used. In this example
A i ?_ lJ )
the gage indicates a -4 grip length, which is usable for material thickness between
3/16 and1/4 inch.
Rivet grip
number to
be used: -4
Max. „ Min.
grip grip
Figure 8: Rivnuts
C orresponding with JA R 66
F o r training purposes only Cat: A 123
B asic M a in te n a n c e Module 6 Materials and Hardware
T ra in in g M an u al 6.5.4 Aircraft Rivets
Introduction
All aircraft, from the smallest trainers to the largest transports, have systems to di
rect the flow of fluids from their source to the units requiring them. These systems
consist of hoses, tubing, fittings, and connectors and are often referred to as an
aircraft’s “plum bing”.
Even though aircraft fluid lines and related hardware are very reliable and require
little maintenance, they cannot be overlooked. For example, because of the variety
of fluids used in aircraft, the requirements for fluid lines differ greatly.
Therefore, it is very important that you, as a maintenance technician, understand
the different types of fluid lines used, their applications, and the inspection and
maintenance requirements of each. For example replacement lines must be of the
same size and material as the original line, and the correct fittings must be select
ed and properly installed.
An error in the selection or installation of a component could result in damage to a
unit, loss of fluid, or complete system failure. Regular inspection and tim e-speci
fied replacements ensure continuous and safe operation.
Used to transfer:
Hydraulic fluid
- Oil
- Fuel
Water
Air:
• Bleed air
• Conditioned air
• Static instrument air
• Pitot instrument air
Made from:
- Aluminium Alloy
- Stainless Steel
Newer types are also available in composite material.
Pipes are repeatedly exposed to negative influences.
Vibration, bending, stress, pre-load, incorrect support twisting condition and im
proper installation etc. will lead sooner or later to pipe damage. Pipes are also ex
posed to corrosion by negative environmental conditions.
To facilitate both installation and maintenance many break points are required. A
variety of connection and fitting types are in use depending on aircraft m anufac
tures engineering specifications.
For hydraulic systems the high-pressure (HP) hydraulic pipes are made from stain
less steel.
Suction and return pipes are made from aluminium alloy except in the fire zones
on the landing gears and in the wing section and wheel well of the landing gears.
Rigid Fluid Lines These colour bands are no more than 4 inches wide and are painted on the tube’s
ends and mid section. When a bank consists for two colours, one-half the width is
A single aircraft typically contains several different types of rigid fluid lines. Each used for each colour.
type of line has a specific application. However, as a rule, rigid tubing is used in
stationary applications and where long, relatively straight runs are possible. Sys Table 1: ALUMINIUM ALLOY TUBING
tems that typically utilise rigid tubing include fuel, oil, oxygen, and instrument.
Aluminium Alloy Number Colour of Band
Materials
Many fluid lines used in early aircraft were made of copper tubing. Copper tubing 1100 White
however proved troublesome because it became hard and brittle from the vibration
3003 Green
encountered during flight, and eventually failed.
To help prevent failures and extend the life of copper tubing, it must be periodically 2014 Grey
annealed to restore it to a soft condition. Annealing is accomplished by heating the
tube until it is red-hot and then quenching in cold water. When working on an air 2024 Red
craft that has copper tubing, the tubing should be annealed each time it is re
moved. Furthermore, copper lines must be regularly inspected for cracks, 5052 Purple
hardness, and general condition.
6053 Black
Today, aluminium-alloy and corrosion-resistant steel lines have replaced copper
in most applications. 6061 Blue and Yellow
Size Designations
The size of rigid tubing is determined by its outside diameter in increments of 1/16
inch. Therefore, a - 4 “B” nut tubing is 4/16 or 1/4 inch in diameter. A tube diameter
is typically printed on all rigid tubing.
Another important size designation is wall thickness, since this determines a tube’s
strength. Like the outside diameter, wall thickness is generally printed on the tube
in thousandths of an inch.
One dimension that is not printed on rigid tubing is the inside diameter. However,
since the outside diameter and wall thickness are indicated, the inside diameter is
determined by subtracting twice the wall thickness from the outside diameter. For
example, if you have a piece of - 8 tubing with a wall thickness of 0.072 inches, you
know the inside diameter is .356 inches, 0.5 - (2 x .072) = 0.356.
4 1/4
6 3/8
8 1/2
10 5/8
12 3/4
16 1
It is important that metal tubing be cut with a square end that is free of burrs. A fine-
tooth hacksaw blade can be used, but it is much better if a special tubing cutter
such as the one seen in “Figure 2" is used. Place the tubing in the cutter and turn
the knob on the handle to bring the cutting wheel up snugly against the tubing at
the location the tubing is to be cut. Rotate the cutter around the tubing and then
turn the knob to move the cutting wheel in. Continue to rotate the cutter around the
tubing, advancing the cutter in with each rotation until the tubing is cut. Be careful
not to screw the cutting wheel in too tightly, as it will deform the tubing or cause an
excessive burr to form inside.
After the tubing is cut, carefully use a knife or the deburring blade on the cutter to
remove any burrs or raised metal resulting from the cutting operation. If the tubing
is to be flared, the cut end should be polished with fine abrasive paper to remove
any sharp edges that could cause the tubing to crack.
bend
Figure 4: Hand operated Tubing Bender Tubing up to 3/4 inch in diameter may be bent with hand benders (see “Figure 4:
Hand operated Tubing B ender" on page 132). Choose the proper size bender and
raise the slide bar upward. Place the tubing in the radius block with the location of
the beginning of the bend at the 0” mark, and drop the clip over the tubing to hold
it securely while the bend is being made. Rotate the slide bar down over the tubing,
Incidence and the incidence mark on the bar will coincide with the 0” on the radius block.
mark Force the tubing around the radius block with the slide bar until the incidence mark
aligns with the degree mark on the radius block for the desired degrees of bend.
Thin-wall tubing installed in aircraft fluid systems must not be bent with a bend ra
dius smaller than shown (see “Table 3: Minimum Bend R adiuss” on page 132).
The bend radius shown in this table is that measured to the center line of the tub
ing.
1/8 3/8
1 3 3 1/2
above steps
All fluid or gas lines and ducts, (except as outline below) are marked to identify sys
tems on which installed. Marking is either by a code marker as shown in the figure,
or with colour band corresponding to colour of code marker. Location of coding will
>
o 4*
2 foil
o >N
0) >
vary according to length of assembly. Coding location is readily visible. ‘D
O $
0) O
<0
cc 0 o j (Jo 00 1
o
GO
Hose assemblies in pylon and pod areas are not colour coded. > a5
Heating and ventilation flexible air ducts are identified by part number only and are
not coded. F u e l Hydraulic Air conditioning
Lines and ducts which are subject to temperatures exceeding 260°C (500°F) are
identified by part number only and are not coded. u
Orange
5
"D >N
Skydrol resistant hose assemblies are identified during manufacturing and do not o
I___j
<D WOw
C
u 1 cr o
<0> )
marker of white acetate tape imprinted with function. Acetate marker tape is cov Lubrication Compressed gas Rocket fuel
ered with overlay of transparent Mylar to prevent deterioration of marker.
□□□□[
Hydraulic lines have additional marking to identify function and direction of fluid c I
Green
flow within each line. 0) <D >s
co
Q)
CO O
Note:
1. Filler and vent lines are identified with same markings as system.
0
j
Coolant Breathing oxygen Rocket oxidizer
2. No identification is required on lines installed in integral fuel tanks.
A
> . A c
a>
A
Gray
T3
CD
*o
©
o a>
15
A a
t r 0 r r
>
o %
o
Orange
Brown
c
o
s
o
1
Fire protection Electrical conduit Warning symbol
Sections of rigid tubing can be joined to another tube or to a fitting by several meth
ods. These include single and double-flare connectors, flareless connectors, or a
hose and clamps over a beaded tube.
The most common ones will be made of steel or aluminium alloy.
The type of fittings used is determined by the pressure range, the routing, and the
material being used for the lines. W henever you must replace a fitting, make sure
you select a fitting made of the same material as the original.
Precautions must be taken when selecting fittings to prevent dissimilar metal cor
rosion from forming.
Tubing Flaring
Most of the metal tubing used in modern aircraft is connected to other tubing or to
components by flaring its ends and using flare-type fittings. When flaring tubing for
installation in aircraft, be sure to use the correct flaring tool. Fluid lines in autom o
biles have a 45” flare angle, but those used with AN or AC fittings in aircraft must
be flared with a 37” angle.
Double Flare
Tubing made of 5 0 5 2-0 and 6061 -T aluminium alloy in sizes from 1/8 to 3/8 inch
OD should be flared with a double flare, (see “Figure 6: Flared Tubing” on
page 134) Double flares are smoother than single flares and are more concentric.
Also, the extra metal makes the flare resistant to the shearing effect when the fit
tings are torqued.
Single Flare The minimum outside diameter of a properly made flare should be at least as large
as the inside diameter of the toe of the sleeve. The maximum outside diameter
Single flares are produced on the end of a piece of tubing with either an impact-
should be no larger than the outside diam eter of the sleeve, (see “Figure 9: Flare
type flaring tool (see “Figure 8: Single Flaring Tool” on page 136) or a tool in which
Dimensions" on page 136)
the flaring cone is forced into the end of the tubing with hand-operated screw.
When using the impact-type flaring tool, follow these steps: Figure 9: Flare Dimensions
1. Slip the nut and sleeve on the tube.
2. Place the tube in the proper size hole in the flaring block.
Min.
3. Center the plunger, or flaring pin, over the tube. k ------------------------
4. Project the end of the tube slightly from the tip of the flaring tool, about the
thickness of a dime.
5. Tighten the set screw securely to prevent slippage.
6. Strike the plunger several light blows with a lightweight hammer or mallet, and
turn the plunger one-half turn after each blow.
Max.
PI
A ssem bled
AN 818 Nut A N 819 Sleeve AN 818 - 819 Fitting
MS Flareless Fittings
The fluid lines used in some of the high-pressure hydraulic and pneumatic systems
are so hard they are difficult to flare without cracking, so a system of flareless fit
tings has been developed. These fittings, (see “Figure 11: MS Flareless Fitting”
on page 1 3 7 ), consist of a body or a fitting, a sleeve, and a nut. The inside of the
fitting has a smooth counterbore into which the end of the tube fits. The taper at
the mouth of the fitting provides the seal between the fitting and the sleeve, and
the seal between the sleeve and the tube is provided by the bite of the sleeve into
the tube.
MS flareless fittings are attached to the end of the metal tubing by presetting the
sleeve on the tube. Presetting puts enough pressure on the fitting to deform the
sleeve and cause it to cut into the outside of the tube.
j \ .
Tube Restricted
Sw aged Aircraft
fitting tubing
pressure
connection
The size of fittings used with fluid lines is indicated by the dash numbers following
the AN number of the fitting. These dash numbers are in 1/16-inch increments for
the outside diam eter of the rigid tube the fitting matches. For example, a -6 fitting
is for a 3/8-inch tube.
The size of pipe fittings relates to the inside diameter of an iron pipe that has these
threads on its outside.
Many of the fittings that connect a fluid line to a component such as a pump or
valve have tapered pipe threads on the end that screw into the component.
AN816 nipple (see "Figure 18: Pipe Fittings” on page 141). One end has tapered
pipe threads and the other end has the standard flare cone and threads that fit an
AN818 nut.
When installing a fitting having pipe threads, start the fitting into the hole for about
one turn, and then put a small amount of thread lubricant on the second thread
from the end. Screw the fitting into the hole and tighten it snugly. If the fitting is be
ing screwed into an aluminium casting, it is possible that over tightening can cause
the tapered threads to crack the casting.
Figure 19: Metal Seal Fitting Figure 20: AN and AC Flared Type Fittings
AN
Figure 21: AN Flared Tube Fittings Many of the airplanes built during World War II used AC fittings which are similar
to the AN fitting. However, there is enough difference that they are not inter
changeable. AN fittings have a short shoulder between the end of the flare cone
and the beginning of the threads. The older AC fittings do not have this recess.
Steel AN fittings are colored black, and aluminium alloy AN fittings are colored
blue. AC fittings are colored either gray or yellow.
-------------------- v j l; ------------- —
AN 821 AN 822
Quick-Disconnect Fittings
It is often necessary to actuate a hydraulic system without running the aircraft en
gine. This is usually done with pressure supplied by a ground-power unit also
called a CPU, or hydraulic “mule.” The inlet and outlet lines are disconnected from
the engine-driven pump and connected to the pump in the mule. To prevent loss
of fluid when making this change, the lines to the pump are fitted with quick-dis-
connect fittings such as the ones shown, (see “Figure 22: Quick - Disconnect Fit
tings” on page 144)
When the lines are disconnected the springs inside both halves of the fitting pull
the poppet valves tightly into their seats and seal off the lines. When the lines are
connected, plungers in each fitting meet and force the poppets off of their seats
allowing fluid to flow freely through the fittings.
W hen fittings are disconnected, the springs hold poppet valves tightly on
their seats
When a fuel or hydraulic line is routed through a compartment parallel with an elec Tubing OD (inches) Distance Between Supports (inches)
trical wire bundle, the fluid line should be installed below the wire bundle to prevent
a leak wetting the wires. Aluminium Alloy Steel
Fluid lines must be installed in such a way that they are supported and protected
from physical damage. They should be installed in such a way that they cannot be 3/4 24 27 1/2
used as a hand hold or a step.
1 26 1/2 30
Each section of rigid tubing should have at least one bend in it to absorb vibration
and the dimensional changes that occur when the tubing is pressurized, and the
tubing should fit squarely against the fitting before the nut is started. Pulling a tube Figure 23: Installation of Fluid Lines
to the fitting with the nut will deform the flare and can cause a flare to fail.
Metal fluid lines are installed in an aircraft with bonded cushion clamps. These Tubing securely
supported
clamps have a strip of metal inside the cushion that electrically connects the tubing
to the aircraft structure. When installing a bonded clamp, remove all of the paint
and the anodized oxide film from the location to which the clamp is fastened. This
will provide a good electrical connection between the tubing and the aircraft struc
ture. The maximum distance between supports for rigid tubing installed in an air
craft. (see “Table 4: Max. Distance between Supports" on page 145)
N o interface betw een Liner properly
Table 4: Max. Distance between Supports m ating surfaces of positioned
clam p strap
Tubing OD (inches) Distance Between Supports (inches) Correct
3/16 12 14
1/4 13 1/2 16
Repair of Rigid Fluid Lines Swaged fittings may also be used to make a permanent repair on a damaged fluid
line. "A" shows the way a pinhole leak or circumferential crack can be repaired with
Scratches and nicks that are no deeper than 10% of the wall thickness of a piece a single swaged fitting; "B" shows how more extensive damage is repaired by
of metal tubing can be repaired by burnishing, provided the damage is not in the splicing in a new section of tubing.
heel of a bend. Tubing containing damage in the heel of a bend must be replaced.
Figure 25: Approved Repairs
Dents that are less than 20% of the tube diameter are not objectionable unless
they are in the heel of the bend. Dents can be removed by pulling a bullet-shaped
forming tool of the correct diameter through the tube. This can be done by using a
length of cable.
Damage in a section of tubing may be repaired by cutting out the damaged area.
Then, insert a new piece of tubing and join the ends with the proper nuts and un
ions. (see "Figure 24: Approved R epairs” on page 146)
Swaged fitting Aircraft tubing
Figure 24: Approved Repairs
i::: ■ ■
repaired tubing
-4 7/32 3,000
-6 11/32 3,000
-8 7/16 3,000
-10 9/16 3,000
-12 11/16 3,000
-16 7/8 3,000
Figure 31: Teflon Hose er of the hose that goes into the socket, and twist the socket onto the hose, twisting
in a counterclockwise direction.
Place the nipple in the nut and screw the nut onto a fitting and tighten it securely.
Lubricate the inside of the hose and the threads on the nipple, using mineral-base
hydraulic fluid for hoses that will be used with this fluid, or with vegetable soap for
hoses that will be used with Skydrol fluid. Screw the nipple into the socket until it
bottoms, and then back it off until there is a clearance of between 0.005 and 0.031
inch between the nut and the socket. Remove the fitting from the nut and be sure
the nut turns freely on the nipple.
When the fittings are installed, the hose must be installed on a hydraulic test stand
and pressurized to 200% of the operating pressure of the hose. Hold this pressure
Medium-pressure Teflon hose is covered with one layer o f stainless steel braid. for at least 30 seconds, but not more than five minutes. There should be no leaks
at the fittings while the pressure is being. After the test is completed, drain the hose
and seal the ends with the proper plugs until the hose is installed on the aircraft.
Nut Socket
High-pressure Teflon hose is covered with two layers o f stainless steel braid. i r
rt
fv V ^ ^
Twist off
cover with
pliers
Installation of Flexible Hoses In "B", we see an example of using the correct type of elbow fittings to prevent fluid
lines from making sharp bends. In "C", we see the correct way to connect a m ov
The right and wrong way of installing flexible hose in an aircraft fluid system.
able actuator into the aircraft hydraulic system. The hose must be of sufficient
In "A", Flexible hoses should be approximately 5% to 8% longer than the distance length, and installed in such a way that it is not crimped in any position of the ac
between the fittings. This slack allows for contraction as the line expands its diam tuator.
eter and shortens its length when it is pressurized, (see “Figure 34: Right and
Wrong Way o f Installation” on page 152)
Wrong
8 & =
Right
Fuel Lines
Fuel lines are made from stainless steel, where hoses are required hose must be
made out of fire resistant material.
As a common rule self locking line connections are used inside the fuel tanks.
Wire locked connections are used in fuel lines outside the fuel tanks.
However, for safety requirements consult the applicable maintenance manual.
Flexible Couplings
Two types of flexible couplings are illustrated.
Sketch (A) shows a coupling which has provision for a certain amount of misalign
ment, as well as both angular and axial movement of the pipes. The pipe ends are
beaded, and the surfaces within the joint are smooth and polished, so that the
seals may slide freely over the pipes.
A split retainer encloses the beads. When the coupling nut is tightened on the
body, the O-rings are squeezed between the gland washers and the split retainer,
and expand to form a seal between the body and the pipes.
Sketch (B) shows a coupling which is less flexible, but which has provision for a
limited amount of misalignment and movement.
When the inner and outer sleeves are screwed together pressure is applied to the
split collars, and the rubber seal is squeezed out to form a seal between the inner
sleeve and pipe beads.
( A) ( 8)
I
B asic M a in te n a n c e Module 6 Materials and Hardware
T ra in in g M an u al 6.6 Pipes and Unions
Gamah Coupling
Are mainly used for fuel line connections.
Installation Directives
1. Position fuel line to obtain gap between lines as applicable.
2. Tighten fuel line support clamps.
3. Slide sleeve over flange until sleeve contacts entire circumference of packing.
CAUTION:
Make certain that O-ring is entirely within its cavity.
Excessive cocking o f sleeves undue forcing or twisting could cause O-ring dam
age.
4. With slight rocking motion slide sleeve over O-ring.
5. Move the sleeve (4) on the second packing (3).
6. Move the nuts (1) along the flange until they fully touch the sleeve (4).
7. Turn the coupling nuts (1) on the sleeve threads.
NOTE.
A fter the initial turn, the coupling nut moves on to a locking insert.
8. Continue to turn the coupling nuts (1) until it moves tightly against the sleeve
shoulder.
9. Ensure that couplings are properly tightened before safetying and that safety
holes are exposed.
10. Do not loosen or over torque parts beyond specific values in order to improve
the location of safety hole.
5, FLANGE
6. FUEL UNE
CLAMP STRAP
LOCKING THANG SHOWN
V-CLAMP
JANITROL CLAMP
CHECK CLEARANCE AT "A" (BOTH SIDE)
MAXIMUM CLEARANCE
"A" 0.015 IN
DUCT FLANGE
DUCT FLANGE
O-RING
CORRUJOINT SEAL
6.8 Bearings
To quote the dictionary "a bearing is a means of support of moving part of a ma
chine". In our case bearings support moving parts of aircraft, either in aircraft en
gines, wheels that rotate at high speeds or in control systems that have relatively
small angular movements.
I }
Types of Bearings
f I
There are many variants of bearings, but the main types are as follows:
- Ball Bearing
Roller Bearing
Plain or shell type Bearings
Ball and roller bearings are used where a high degree of reliability and precision is
required.
The advantages are:
Low frictional loss
Wide range of loads may be accepted
- Simple lubrication requirements
The service live of a bearing depends of the RPM. Ball and Roller bearings are
sensitive against shock loads and vibrations.
Loads on Bearings
Bearings used on the aircraft that provide sliding contact between mating surfaces
are designed to operate under two main loads:
Thrust loads
Radial loads
In addition to this, nearly all aircraft bearings are subjected to shock loads.
Races
The races are made of high carbon steel with case hardened raceways or special
corrosion resistant steel alloys or tool steel, (eg.100 Cr 6)
Balls
Hardened high carbon steel or special corrosion resistant steel alloys.
Cages or Separators
Brass or glass fibre reinforced polyamide.
6.9 Transmission
Backlash Internal
This is the lost motion between the gear teeth, and is the distance the gear teeth
must travel form drive in the forward direction to drive in the reverse direction. Helical Gear
Backlash must exist between gears, as it is essential to allow for thermal expan This is a smoother, less noisy running gear than the spur gear, the teeth are cut
sion and lubrication. on a curve or helix, which produces a sliding engagement of the teeth, and more
than one tooth is in engagem ent at any one time.
Types of Gears A disadvantage of this gear for is that it produces a heavy axial load. This disad
vantage can be eliminated by using double helical gears, with the teeth being cut
Spur Gear in an opposite helix.
This is the most common type of gear tooth shape, and would be fitted in the ac An advantage of this type of gear is that it can accept and transmit a higher loading
cessory gearbox of an engine. than a spur gear of the same size.
The gear can be formed either internally or externally. An internal gear would be Helical gears might be fitted in the reduction gearbox of a turbo prop engine.
used where a change in speed is required without changing the axis of drive. Ex Figure 2: Helical gears
ternal spur gears are used where a change in speed is required but the shafts lie
parallel to each other.
Spur gears may be noisy owing to the impact of the teeth upon each other as they
rotate.
Single Double
Planetary Gear like cage that holds the planetary gears. These planetary gears rotate around a
fixed central sun ear.
Planetary gear systems are typically used to reduce the propeller shaft speed on
more powerful aircraft engines. This allows the engine to turn at a higher rpm and In some planetary gear systems, the sun gear is the drive gear and the ring gear
develop more power. In a planetary gear system, the propeller mounts on a spider is fixed in the nose section of the engine. In this situation, the planetary gears act
as simple idler gears in the system.
(a) Spur planelary with fixed outer gear (b) Spur planetary with fixed inner gear
Control cables are used to operate flight and engine controls from the cockpit.
Control cables provide a strong, light and flexible method of control.
These cables only operate in tension, and can only be used in a ‘pull’ direction.
However, cables are normally arranged in pairs. That is, making a continuous
loop, providing a pull in both directions.
The flexible control cable system is the most widely used because deflection of the
structure to which it is attached does not effect its operation.
Cable Construction
To form a cable, a number of wires are wound together to form a strand, and a
number of strands are wound together to form a cable. The straight strand running
through the centre of the cable is known as the heart strand.
Cables are made of galvanised carbon steel alloy or corrosion resistant steel.
Aircraft control cables are preformed, which means that the wires were shaped in
their spiral form before the cable was wound. This gives them the following advan
tages:
1. Cable will resist unstranding
2. Resist kinking
3. Are more easily spliced
4. If a wire breaks it will tend to lie flat
CABLE
Non-Flexible Cable
In areas where a linkage does not pass over any pulleys nonflexible cable can be
used. It is available in either a 1 x 7 or 1 x 19 configuration. The 1 x 7 cable is made
up of one strand comprised of seven individual wires, whereas the 1 x 19 consists
of one strand made up of 19 individual wires. Nonflexible cable is available in both
galvanised carbon steel and stainless steel.
Flexible Cable
Flexible steel cable made up of seven strands of seven wires each is called 7 x 7
or flexible cable, and is available in 1/16 and 3/32 inch sizes in both galvanised A 1 x 7 Nonflexible B 1 x 19 Nonflexible
carbon steel and stainless steel. Both types are preformed, which means that
when the cable is manufactured each strand is formed into a spiral shape. This control cable control cable
process keeps strands together when the cable is wound and also helps prevent
the cable from spreading out when cut. Furthermore, preforming gives cable great
er flexibility and relieves bending stresses when the strands are woven into the ca
ble.
Extra-Flexible Cables
The most widely used cable, 7 x 19, is available in sizes from 1/8 inch up. It is extra
flexible and is made of 133 individual wires wound in seven strands, each strand
having 19 wires. These cables are preformed and are available in both galvanised
and stainless steel. Galvanised cable is more resistant to fatigue than stainless
steel, but in applications where corrosion is a factor, stainless steel is used.
Lockclad
Used on some large aircraft for all long straight runs. It consists of the conventional D 7 x 19 Extra
7 x 7 Flexible
flexible cable with aluminium tubing swaged to it to lock the cable inside the tubing.
This construction has certain advantages: changes in tension due to temperature control cable f lexible control
changes are less; also the amount of stretch for a given load is less. cable
Nylon Coated Cables
Used in high corrosion environments.
End Fittings
Cable terminals are the various fittings that are attached to the end of a cable to
strengthen it where it is attached to another component.
The cable fittings used most in large aircraft manufacture are MS-type swaged ca
ble terminals. To install these terminals, cut the cable and insert it into the end of
a terminal. Then, use either a hand or power-swaging tool to force the metal of the
terminal down into the cable. This forms a joint that is at least as strong as the ca
ble itself.
To ensure that a terminal is properly swaged, a measurement is made of the
swaged terminal with a go / no-go gauge. The swaging process must decrease the
term inal’s diameter to the extent that the go end of a go / no-go gauge passes over
the swaged terminal, but the no-go end does not.
As an inspection aid to ensure the cable does not pull out of the terminal, a small
mark of paint is placed over the terminal end and onto the cable. A broken paint
mark indicates the cable has slipped inside the terminal.
Measure shank
after swagging
ir
1/16 cable 3.'32 Measure shank
sleeves before swagging
o
Measure ball
before swagging
Sleeve
num ber is
stamped here
Turnbuckles/ Turnbarrels When the cable tension is properly adjusted, safety the turnbuckle with the meth
ods shown.
Used in cable control systems to adjust cable tension.
Figure 6: Safetying Methods
It is threaded with left-hand thread at one end and a right hand thread at the other.
When adjusting the cable tension the cable terminals are screwed into either end Four turns minimum
This applies to all turnbuckle wrapping,
of the barrel an equal distance by turning the barrel.
y
After the turnbarrel is adjusted it must be safetied.
When installing cable in aircraft the terminal threads shall be visually inspected for
defects or burrs that might damage the turnbarrel threads during rigging.
Double-wrap spiral
Any burrs shall be removed.
Both terminals shall be screwed an equal number of turns into the barrel so that
no more than three threads are exposed and shall not be buried beyond the spec
ified distance.
Double-wrap
Terminals must be screwed into barrel until the desired right load has been
achieved.
Observe thread adjustment limitation as per applicable specifications.
Control cable tension is adjusted by using turnbuckles. The bronze barrel has
right-hand threads in one end and lefthand threads in the other end. The cable ter Single-wrap spiral
minal ends are screwed into the barrel and as it is turned, it pulls the ends into it.
To be sure that the terminals are screwed into the barrel enough to produce full
strength, there must be no more than three threads exposed on either end of the
barrel.
Pin eye
Barrel
Some tumbuckles are made for special locking devices. The cable tension is ad
justed with the turnbuckle, and it is safetied by inserting the long end of the
MS21256 wire locking clip into the groove cut into the inside of the barrel and the
terminal ends. The clip is locked in place by passing its end into the hole in the side
of the barrel. Notice that there is a groove around one end of the turnbuckle barrel.
This groove identifies the end of the barrel that has the left-hand threads.
Compensation Devices results in lower and nearer constant cable system friction and operating forces.
Lower cable tension also reduces cable and pulley wear. Since the cable tension
Cable operated flying control systems in larger aircraft need to be fitted with a de is nearly constant, the frequency of vibration (resonance) of the cables can be con
vice which will maintain the correct cable tension at all times. This is necessary for trolled within close limits away from any critical aircraft resonances.
a number of reasons.
Figure 8: Cable Tension Regulator
Aircraft structure and control cables are made of different materials and expand
and contract by different amounts when the temperature changes.
As the aircraft reaches cruising speed at altitude the fuselage outer structure may
get very cold, or hot depending on the speed. The cable system inside will be at a
temperature determined by the air conditioning system or perhaps heated by ad
Scale indicator
jacent engines, thermal anti-icing or cabin heating ducts. Even if there is no heat
ing or cooling inside, there is insulating air between the control system and the
structure causing the cables and structure to be at different temperatures.
An additional thermal factor becomes important when the aircraft is left standing
in the sun before take off with the control cables at a lower temperature in the air
conditioned cabin. This causes the tension in the cables of unregulated control
systems to become unusually high just before take-off at a time when it is usually
necessary to fly the aircraft manually for a considerable length of time.
Cable tension regulators maintain the correct cable tension under all conditions.
Control system cables are quite often not located on the neutral bending and tor
sional axes of the aircraft fuselage or wing.
Deflection of the structure then results in the cables becoming slack or over ten-
sioned. For example the nose of a large aircraft may move 6 inches (152.4 mm)
or so with respect to the central part of the aircraft. If the cables are located near
the side of the fuselage, they must expand and contract as fuselage deflection oc
curs. An aircraft on the ground may have the wings deflected downwards, while in
the air the wings will deflect upwards. If the cables are not located on the neutral
bending axis of the wing, relative length changes between cable and structure will
again occur.
Pressurisation of the aircraft cabin can also result in changes in structure length
relative to cable length.
W ithout cable tension regulators, high initial cable tensions must be used to pre
vent the cables from becoming slack in one extreme thermal or structural condi
tion. In the other extreme condition, the cable tension would increase to a still
higher value. Cable pulley friction varies in proportion to the cable tension, there
fore the cable system friction will vary widely. Cable tension regulators maintain a
nearly constant tension thus allowing the use of lower initial cable tensions. This
Pulleys Metallic pulleys are used where high tension, high temperature and hazardous en
vironment conditions are present.
Pulleys are used to guide cables and also to change the direction of cable m ove
ment. Cable Guards
They are also used to support straight ‘runs’ of cables where they travel over a Cables passing pulleys are kept in place by guards. Guards are close fitting to pre
large distance. vent jamming or to prevent cables from slipping out when cables slakes due to
tem perature variations, or when cable tension being relived for maintenance pur
When adjusting a control cable it is important that the cable end fittings do not foul
poses.
the pulley, otherwise cable movement will be restricted.
Different types of guards are in use:
Pulley bearings are sealed and need no further lubrication other than the lubrica
tion done at the factory or overhaul shop. Pins
Clips
Types of Pulleys Fittings
Metallic; For proper type installations see requested type specifications.
- Non Metallic.
Fairleads
Used to guide cables in a straight line through or between structural members of
the aircraft.
Maximum deviations from straight-line 3° or consult applicable specification.
Fairleads may be made from non-metallic materials such as phenolic micarta or a
metallic material such as soft aluminium.
The fairlead completely encircles the cable where it passes through bulkheads or
other structural parts.
Split fairlead
*
Fairlead for cable passing
Solid fairlead Plastic rub strip through pressurized bulkhead
Pressure Seals
Installed where cables route from a pressurised area to a non-pressurised area.
Seals are moulded of synthetic or silicon rubber.
Silicone rubber seals are less susceptible to damage caused by bushing popout,
cleaning abuse and ageing.
When replacement is necessary the damaged seal should be replaced according
to applicable maintenance directives.
TYPICAL BELLCRANK TYPICAL WALKING BEAM A PUSH PULL ROD CONNECTED TO A BELLCRANK
LEVER
BEA M A N D C L E V IS RO D END
C O N T R O L S Y S T E M BELL C R A N K
Aircraft Flexible Control Systems One disadvantage of a cable system for control movement relates to thermal con
traction. As an aircraft climbs to a high altitude, its temperature drops and its struc
While a number of different systems are used to actuate flight and engine controls ture contracts.
from the cockpit, flexible control cables are by far the most commonly used meth Furthermore, the aluminium structure contracts much more than the small mass of
od. Multiple-strand control cables are simple, strong, and reliable. steel in a control cable, and as a result, cables lose their tension. Large aircraft
Cable has several advantages over other types of linkages. It is strong and light in have a rather complex automatic tensioning system to keep control cable tension
weight, and its flexibility makes it easy to route. In addition to primary flight con relatively constant as the aircraft contracts and expands. However, small aircraft
trols, cable is used on engine controls, emergency landing gear extension con must have their cable tension adjusted as a compromise so they are not too tight
trols, trim tab system, and various other applications. when the aeroplane is hot nor too loose when it is cold.
All control cables are tensioned to a specific load according to the applicable main
tenance manual.
Introduction
The aircraft electrical installation is of the single-wire type, this means only one
wire is used to support the supply of electric current to the user, and the return path
is via the metallic structure of the aircraft.
Below are listed some of the groups responsible for the design specifications for
aircraft electrical installations,
Boeing Aircraft Company (BAC),
- McDonnell - Douglas Corp. (MDC),
Aeronautical Radio Inc. (ARINC),
- Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR),
British Civil Aviation Regulations (BCAR),
- Military Wiring Specs. (MIL-W),
International Standards Organisation (ISO).
Cable Types A cable will be understood to be larger stranded conductors or multiple conductors
in one outer sheath.
A variety of cable types has been developed for aircraft use.
Current handling capacity is also an important consideration, the current rating be
The choice of cable for a particular function will be governed by its ing defined as, the amount of current a cable will carry without sustaining a tem
purpose and location for use. perature rise sufficient to cause the value of insulation resistance to deteriorate to
an unacceptable level or without exceeding a specified voltage drop.
Great care must be exercised during the manufacture of aircraft cables and strin
gent tests are applied to ensure maximum reliability. Table 1: Wire Sizes
A large modern aircraft may require many miles of electrical wiring and even a
small reduction in size and weight may result in considerable savings in space and Stranded Wires
economy.
Size "AWG" Code No. Size mm2 Piece Stranded
Characteristics
Aircraft cables must possess the following properties, AN-24 002 0.25 19
Voltage resistant up to 600 volts, AN-22 004 0.4 19
AN-20 006 0.6 19
Resistant to all fluids, AN-18 010 1 19
Highly flexible, AN-16 012 1.2 19
Highly strengthened, AN-14 020 2 37
AN-12 030 3 37
Light in weight. AN-10 050 5 37
For use in different environmental zones where temperature will be high, special AN-8 090 9 117
insulation is required, AN-6 140 14 127
AN-4 220 22 182
Up to 100\150° C (norm temperature type),
AN-2 340 34 201
Up to 250°C (high temperature type), AN-0 530 53 322
Up to 400° C (fire resistant type). AN-00 680 68 416
AN-000 850 85 513
Construction AN-0000 1070 107 660
Copper and Aluminium conductors are used. Copper may be tinned for general
service wire and nickel plated for use in high temperature areas.
Aluminium being about 2/3rds the weight of copper is only used for large loads,
such as galleys as larger diameter wire is needed to compensate for its higher re
sistance.
All wires are manufactured to Military Specification standards.
Throughout this manual: -
A wire will be understood to be a single wire strand or small stranded conductors.
Aircraft Environmental Zones Figure 1: High Vibration and High Tem erature Areas on M D11
Aircraft electrical cables will be required for many uses in many different locations
throughout the structure of the aircraft.
Location is a major factor in the type of cable to be used.
It should be obvious a cable chosen for use in the cabin would not be chosen for
use in the wheel wells or on the engines.
Listed below is an indication of the various environmental zones.
Engine Engine
Wing
Construction:
A = copper conductor
B = primary insulation
B D F
C = secondary insulation
D = PVC insulation Insulator PVC Polyamide
E = tinned copper shield
F = shield insulation
G = cable Isolation
Thermocouple Cables
These cables are used for the connection of cylinder head temperature indicators
and turbine engine exhaust gas temperature indicators, to their respective therm o
couple sensing elements.
The conducting metal conductors are normally the same as those materials used
in the thermocouple sensing elements.
Copper and Constantan: - cylinder head temperature.
Chromel and Alumel: - exhaust gas temperature.
For EGT measurement, the thermocouple sensing elements are arranged radially
in a harness in the gas stream from the engine.
The insulating material of the harness cables is either silicone rubber or PTFE im
pregnated fibreglass.
THERMOCOUPLE
HARNESS
Kapton Insulation Hybrid cable types use s o n e combinations of Kapton, PTFE, FEP, and Fibreglass
to give improved performance.
Insulation material is applied to conductors by one of two basic methods; extrusion
and wrapping.
Table 3: Kapton Isolation
The most com m cnly used wrapping insulation is Kapton, which is the registered
trade name of an aromatic polyimide produced by DuPont. Maximum Materials
Kapton is an advanced electrical insulation material which: Temperature
- maintains its mechanical stability at very high and very low temperatures, 150°C Kapton
-269°C to +400°C.
resists high mechanical stress during installation / assembly operations, 200°C Kapton / FEP
is thin and lightweight and has excellent electrical insulation and thermal
properties. 200°C Kapton / PTFE
has significant resistance to most chemicals, solvents, lubricants and fu 200°C PTFE / FEP / Kapton
els or hydrocarbons.
- allows space and weight savings. 200°C PTFE / FEP / Kapton / FEP
has excellent formable and bondable characteristics,
260°C PTFE / Kapton / PTFE
allows significant potential for increasing the energy-to-size ratio of mo
tors and transformers (power-to-weight ratio). 260°C Kapton / Glass / PTFE
Kapton is used as the insulation on magnet wire used in transformers, motors and
alternators and as wire and cable insulation. It is used by Airbus as a slot liner for
the stator in the alternator, which functions as a back-up to the generator windings
in case of a major electrical failure. It is also used as the primary winding insulation
of the transformer rectifier, which provides main DC current to the onboard com
puters and flight instruments.
Kapton Wire
Many aircraft cable manufacturers use Kapton, either singly or in combination with
other materials to give a so called 'Hybrid' construction.
Single or double tapes are spirally wound over the conductor to a defined over-lap
to give the required tape thickness at any one point.
The process of wrapping insulation provides good control of overall insulation wall
thickness. Some general wiring cable types employ only four layers of Kapton, giv
ing a total wall thickness of approximately 0.06 inches (0.15mm).
Kapton is naturally copper coloured. A top coat provides a coloured surface which
gives added protection to the cable and will also accept print.
( * ) Make
DU P O N T DE NE MO URS
7
j © COMPLETELY REVISE
Cure; - n ic <e u- pL at ed copper for size s 22 to 10 |di sper sion, ( FEP or PTF£)
** ni ck e l - p l a t e d copper alloy for sizes 24 to 26 j(0,01 m m mini.) mar ka ble
as per spe ci fi ca ti on AECMA EN2083
A p p ro v e d Title Cl assi fi cati on
A IR B U S I N D U S T R IE CAB LE CF - O N E - W I R E , N O N - S C R E E N E D , STANDARDS M A N U A L
K A P T O N - I N S U L A T E D , 200°C MAX.
ASNE0261
Issue: 0 2 / 8 3 R evisio n:® 1 1 /84 Page Q1 of 03
High Temperature Fire Warning Wires The normal temperature range is up to 400°C, but on the other side resistant for 5
min. against a temperature of 1093 C (flame).
For this use only a high temperature resistant wire shall be used. This wire shall
agree with MIL-W-25038. The outside insulation colour is mainly red, but sometimes also white.
Note
A single core with dual braided conductors is called Triaxial, used in ADF systems.
The remaining conductors are in the form of tubes, usually of fine wire braid. The
insulation is usually of polyethylene of Teflon.
\ _ OUTER
Outer coverings or jackets serve to weatherproof the cables and provide protec CONDUCTOR
tion from fluids and mechanical and electrical damage. PVC is normally used.
JACKET
Coaxial cables are grounded at both ends.
For certain applications their length is critical and must not be altered.
Wire Identification
To facilitate installation and maintenance, all wiring shall be indelibly marked for
identification.
The wire identification number shall consist of a combination of numbers and let
ters.
The identification number shall contain:
- System it belongs too.
Wire size.
Wire number.
Other information to relate the wire to the wiring diagram.
The wire will be stamped using the wire-stamping machine.
The spacing of the identification number shall be at intervals of from
12 to 15 inches, wires less than 3 inches long need not be stamped.
If the outer covering or wire insulation will not stamp easily, or cannot be stamped
without causing insulation damage, a stamped sleeve will be used around the ca
ble.
The following wires should not be stamped:
Shielded wire.
- Thermocouple wire.
- Multi-conductor wire.
- High temperature wire (with insulation difficult to mark).
Note
Boeing, MDC Corp., and Airbus all use a different method of identifying wires.
M Miscellaneous
A cable numbered 2L88A18RD
N Unassigned (Neutral)
2 system # 2
P DC Power
L lighting
Q Fuel and Oil
88 number 88 wire
R Radio (Navigation and
A section A
Communication)
18 wire size 18 (AWG) RA Instrument Landing
RD colour red RF Liaison (VHF Comm)
RN Navigation Systems
A Auto Pilot
RP Radio Power
C Surface Controls
RT Teleprinter System
D Instruments (other than
Flight or Engine Instru RV VHF Comm System
ments
RX Recorder
E Engine Instruments
RZ Audio Interphone
F Flight Instruments
S Radar
G Landing Gear
SA Radio Altimeter
H Heating, Ventilating and
de-icing SN Radar Navigation
J Ignition SX ATC
TN INS BL Blue,
X AC Power B Phase B,
z Spares C Phase C,
N Neutral, Ground.
■T"1
m
■J^ v_ VoVy
<©>* Terminal tip Cross crimp for
=?! A < Q /.\
U fi >\\\ V
'iv *
\\ w
//// \\\', '\\'
(U! \i>
X T
- y ---
At one time it was common practice to splice wires by wrapping the ends of the
wires together and soldering them, but now almost all wire splicing is done with the
proper size pre-insulated solderless splices. To install the terminals, strip the insu
lation off the ends of the wires, slip the ends of the two wires into the splice, and
Pre-insulated splice
crimp the splice, using the proper crimping tool.
Wire ends
There should not be more than one splice in any wire segment between any two
connections or other disconnect points. When several wires in a bundle are to be
spliced, the wires should be cut so that the splices are staggered along the bundle.
Pins and Sockets (Contacts) Pins and contacts may be of the soldered type, but more commonly are of the
crimped type, to attach them to individual wires. Contacts are normally round in
To facilitate maintenance where frequent disconnection of wires is required, con
shape.
nectors are used.
Contacts are normally colour coded to identify the following:
Connectors in construction can be broken into two parts, Plugs and Receptacles.
- The wire size its wire barrel can accommodate.
Each wire in a connector is terminated in a contact. A contact may be a Pin or a
- The contact size it will mate with.
Socket.
Contacts are inserted and extracted from their terminating device, by special in
sertion and extraction tools.
h;n -
/
J ]:
■> V , V .
•/a k s t
The normal contact arrangement for plugs and receptacles, is that sockets are fit
ted to wires in a receptacle (hot connector- powered side), and pins are fitted to
wires in a plug.
Connectors are normally made from:
Aluminium Alloy (general purpose use).
Stainless steel with Cadmium plating (high temperature areas).
STRAIGHT PLUG
MS3108
ANCW F m u o
Military S tandard
Type number R E C E P TA C LE
Class G R O M M E T N U T ...
(usually used
Size
without cable clam
Insert arrangem ent num ber
Insert rotation
Contact style
s h e ll —
insulator
m o u n t i n y
h u lb t -
Class Application Shell j c k e t:s m a l r ‘ lJ 1 0 D V r i
P a r t nuinbe
C O U P L I N G RING
pit