Quiz on Composites in Aircraft Construction

What was the last significant aircraft to use timber construction?

• De Havilland Comet

• The Mosquito

• Boeing 737

• Airbus A320

Answer explanation

The Mosquito, a World War II aircraft, was notable for its wooden construction, making it one of the last significant aircraft to utilize timber. In contrast, the De Havilland Comet, Boeing 737, and Airbus A320 are all metal aircraft.

Which material was first integrated by Boeing into their civilian aircraft in 1958?

• Fibreglass

• Carbon Fibre

• Aramid Fibre

• Metal Matrix Composites

Answer explanation

Boeing first integrated fibreglass into their civilian aircraft in 1958, marking a significant advancement in aircraft materials. Fibreglass offered improved strength and reduced weight compared to traditional materials.

What is a key disadvantage of carbon fibre in aircraft?

• High density

• Sudden and catastrophic failure

• Poor corrosion resistance

• Low tensile strength

Answer explanation

A key disadvantage of carbon fibre in aircraft is its tendency for sudden and catastrophic failure. Unlike metals, which may show signs of fatigue, carbon fibre can fail without warning, posing significant safety risks.

Which fibre is better known under the trade name Kevlar?

• Glass Fibre

• Carbon Fibre

• Aramid Fibre

• Boron Fibre

Answer explanation

Aramid Fibre is the correct answer as Kevlar is a well-known brand of this type of synthetic fiber, recognized for its high strength and heat resistance, commonly used in protective gear and aerospace applications.

What is the primary role of the matrix in a composite?

• Provide tensile strength

• Bind the fibres together

• Increase electrical conductivity

• Reduce weight

Answer explanation

The primary role of the matrix in a composite is to bind the fibres together, providing structural integrity and distributing loads among the fibres, which enhances the overall performance of the composite material.

Which of the following is NOT a property of composites?

• Excellent fatigue resistance

• Outstanding corrosion resistance

• High strength

• High density

Answer explanation

Composites are known for their excellent fatigue resistance, outstanding corrosion resistance, and high strength. However, they typically have low density, making 'high density' the property that is NOT characteristic of composites.

What type of composite uses a metal matrix?

• Ceramic Matrix Composites

• Organic Matrix Composites

• Polymer Matrix Composites

• Metal Matrix Composites

Answer explanation

Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs) specifically use a metal as the matrix material, distinguishing them from ceramic and polymer matrix composites. Therefore, the correct answer is Metal Matrix Composites.

What is the main advantage of using hollow fibres in composites?

• Increase compressive strength

• Reduce cost

• Improve electrical properties

• Enhance thermal expansion

Answer explanation

The main advantage of using hollow fibres in composites is that they significantly increase compressive strength. This structural enhancement allows for better load-bearing capabilities in various applications.

What is the purpose of a 'smart patch' in aircraft repair?

• Reduce weight

• Transmit information about serviceability

• Increase tensile strength

• Improve aerodynamics

Answer explanation

A 'smart patch' in aircraft repair is designed to transmit information about serviceability, allowing for real-time monitoring of the aircraft's structural integrity and maintenance needs.

Which material is used in the fan cowls of jet engines for protection?

• Ceramic fibres

• Carbon fibres

• Aramid fibres

• Boron fibres

Answer explanation

Ceramic fibres are used in fan cowls of jet engines due to their high heat resistance and durability, providing effective protection against extreme temperatures and mechanical stress.