F-15 Fuel Tank Sealant
Abstract
The F-15 wing is a source of constant maintenance because of chronic, recurring leaks from the integral fuel tank. F-15 engineering has evaluated several different concepts, in parallel with this PRAM project, to determine the most effective methods in eliminating this problem. This PRAM project involved applying an Improved Sealing Process (ISP), developed by McDonnell Douglas, to the inside of the integral wing tank. The process applied a sprayable sealant barrier along with the existing channel groove seal. Unlike a bladder, this sealing process covers only potential leak paths such as fasteners and structural joints. The total project cost was $152,300. Other efforts initiated in conjunction with the PRAM project included implementing a similar sealant barrier applied with a brush, specifying an improved channel groove sealant, and completely revising the integral wing fuel tank sealing technical data. The ISP process was prototyped at Warner Robins on four programmed depot maintenance (PDM) wings. The ISP was successfully prototyped, and the wings were placed in service on four separate aircraft. The aircraft were evaluated in the field for approximately 1 year, and the results indicated leaks on all wings. There was no conclusive evidence showing that the ISP was significantly better than conventional sealing methods. With the test results being less than desired, implementation is not recommended due to the limited benefits of the ISP being greatly outweighed by the cost of equipment, facility allocation, environmental concerns, and PDM schedule impact.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 30, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA331724