Development of a Low Cost Graphite Reinforced Composite Secondary Structural Component.
Abstract
The object of this program was to demonstrate the use of graphite-reinforced thermoplastic material to produce low-cost secondary aircraft structure. The Model 200 Navy V/STOL Fighter Attack was the aircraft from which was selected a secondary structural component for this study. The main landing gear door was picked, as it met the requirements of being secondary structure, was of convenient size, and was of sufficient complexity to be a challenging application. The autoclave process was used to consolidate A-S/polysulfone prepreg material. Skins were formed with ceramic tools, and liners were formed with a matched set of metal tools. The bulkheads were formed using aluminum tools with vacuum bagging and autoclave pressure. The door latch and hinges were machined from aluminum by conventional methods. Adhesive bonding was used to join the skin doubler to the skin, the bulkheads to skin and skin liner, and skin liner to the skin. The door latch and hinges were attached with conventional fasteners. Two rivets were used between each bulkhead and the door skin. Results of a cost comparison showed that the costs for the composite door were slightly higher (14%) than the similar metal door. All cost elements, except material cost, for the composite door were less than the comparable elements for the metal door. It is therefore concluded that the primary effort reducing thermoplastic composite cost should be directed at the cost of the raw material.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA088103
Entities
People
- R. C. Goad
- W. F. Wennhold
Organizations
- General Dynamics