Coupon and Birdstrike Testing of F-111 ADBIRT Windshields Which Have Been Subjected to Simulated Pressure/Thermal Service Life
Abstract
This program consisted of birdstrike testing, crack analysis, and coupon testing of F-111 ADBIRT windshield transparencies which had been subjected to pressure/thermal testing in the WPAFB Building 68 Transparency Durability Facility. Three pairs of F-111 ADBIRT windshield transparencies (left and right hand) were used in this program, one pair each from Sierracin/Sylmar Corp., Swedlow, Inc., and PPG Industries, Inc. The edges and bolt holes of all of the transparencies were examined for edge cracking. The three right-hand windshields were birdstrike tested, and the three left hand windshields were used for coupon testing. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), tensile, and edge attachment testing were conducted. Simulated service life in the durability facility did not produce as much structural degradation in terms of birdstrike resistance as in-service aging. A significant number of cracks were found in the windshields in the vicinity of the edge attachments, similar to cracking from in-service aged windshields. Coupon testing revealed no bulk polycarbonate degradation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA251767
Entities
People
- Daniel R. Bowman
Organizations
- University of Dayton