20 Questions
During World War I, most airplanes were constructed using wood frames with fabric coverings. What was the material of choice for aircraft construction into the 1930s?
Wood
Which company designed and developed the bomber named the Mosquito, which was made of spruce, birch plywood, and balsa wood?
De Havilland
What was the reason for wood being among the first materials used to construct aircraft?
Availability
Which material did Howard Hughes use to construct the Spruce Goose?
Wood
When did Howard Hughes pilot the Spruce Goose for over a mile at an altitude of 70 feet?
November 2nd, 1947
What was the maximum takeoff weight of the Spruce Goose?
400,000 pounds
Which type of wood is typically used for construction and graded based on strength, load carrying ability, and safety?
Softwood
What is the maximum acceptable diameter for a hard knot in wood used for aircraft repair?
3/8 inch
Which of the following defects is not permitted in wood used for aircraft repair?
Mineral streaks
According to the text, what is the purpose of the AC mentioned in the first paragraph?
To specify acceptable methods for inspecting and repairing non-pressurized areas of civil aircraft
According to the text, what is required for a certificated mechanic to perform work for which they are rated?
Supervision by a certificated mechanic with previous experience in the same operation
According to the text, what should be done to properly inspect an aircraft with wood components?
All of the above
Which type of cracks extend in general across the annual rings?
Checks
Which type of cracks are usually between two annual rings?
Shakes
Which type of cracks are caused by artificially induced stress?
Splits
Which type of wood is characterized by high specific gravity and has the appearance of an excessive growth of summer wood?
Compression
If in doubt, what should you do with the material or subject?
Reject it
Which of the following is a sign of deterioration in wooden aircraft structures?
Wood decay and dry rot
What should be done when investigating splits in the fabric covering on plywood surfaces?
Assess the condition of the plywood underneath
What is the purpose of inspecting glued joints in wooden aircraft structures?
To examine glue failure and wood deterioration
Study Notes
Inspection and Repair of Wooden Aircraft Structures
- Contours and alignment of leading and trailing edges are important for assessing the condition of wooden aircraft structures.
- Deviation or distortion in the plywood and spruce structures indicates deterioration and requires detailed internal inspection.
- Splits in the fabric covering on plywood surfaces should be investigated to determine the condition of the plywood underneath.
- Moisture can cause deterioration in wooden structures, even without external indications.
- Glue failure and wood deterioration are closely related, and glued joints should be inspected along with the adjacent wood structure.
- Glue deterioration can occur even without the presence of water.
- Glue joint inspection in wooden aircraft structures is challenging and requires relieving pressure before assessment.
- Glued joints are designed to take sheer loads, and tension loads are secured with bolts or screws.
- Wood decay and dry rot are easily detectable through discoloration and softening of the wood.
- Water damage and corrosion are common issues in wooden aircraft, especially in control system openings and metal fittings.
- The condition of the fabric covering provides an indication of the wood condition underneath.
- Inspection methods include removing protective coatings, probing glue lines, and checking for compression failures and cracks in structural members.
Test your knowledge on the inspection and repair of wooden aircraft structures with this quiz. Learn about important aspects such as contour alignment, plywood inspection, glue joint assessment, and detecting wood decay and moisture damage. Challenge yourself to identify common issues and understand the various inspection methods used in maintaining these structures.
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