Nondestructive testing of sandwich composites in aircraft structures

11 ABSTRACT Master of Science Thesis NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING of SANDWICH COMPOSITES in AIRCRAFT STRUCTURES HAŞİM KAFALI Anadolu University Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences Civil Aviation Program Supervisor: Asst. Prof. Dr. A. Akile TANATMIŞ 2004, 97 pages This thesis, investigates major nondestructive testing methods applying on sandwich composites, which are preferred due to their light-weight and high- strength advantages in aircraft structures. First, a brief insight about sandwich composites and their use in aircraft is given and their advantages-disadvantages are discussed. In the study, the following nondestructive testing methods have been investigated: Radiography, acoustic emission, thermography and liquid penetrant inspection. In their use, advantageous and disadvantageous points of these methods are analyzed in detail, and examples regarding their use in aviation applications are given. Working principles and application procedures of each technique are described with figures. In conclusion, the importance of nondestructive testing methods in sandwich composites is emphasized. Advantages and disadvantages of these four methods are described. Based on this analysis, it is shown that which method can be used in determination of discontinuities occurring in sandwich composites. Keywords: Aircraft, Aircraft Maintenance, Sandwich Composites, Honeycomp Structure, Nondestructive Testing