Service History of the F-111 Wing Pivot Fitting Upper Surface Boron/Epoxy Doublers
Abstract
Several of the boron/epoxy doublers applied to upper surface of RAAF F-111C wing- pivot-fittings (WFFs) have disbonded. Based on RAAF records, a total of seven wings (out of forty to which doublers have been applied) have confirmed disbonds: A15-3, A15-5, A15-10, A15-14, A15-19, A15-20 and A15-284R. Most of the disbonds are forming in the smaller forward doubler (five confirmed) although three aft doublers have also disbonded. This report documents the service history of all doublers applied to RAAF F-111Cs. The current investigation suggests that disbonds in the boron/epoxy doublers on the upper surface of F-111 WFFs are forming within 1000 AFHRS service. However, infrequent inspections of the doublers make a precise determination difficult issues such as the use of external wing tanks on some aircraft (especially RF111C's), disbond initiation sites and below tolerance wing skin thicknesses are investigated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA360610
Entities
People
- Peter Chalkley
- Rowan Geddes
Organizations
- Defence Science and Technology Group