Aerospace Materials Quiz

Why are fiber metal laminates (FMLs) used in aerospace structures?

• They are easier to manufacture than composites.

• They are heavier than pure metals.

• They offer high impact resistance and superior fatigue performance.

• They are cheaper than pure metals.

Answer explanation

Fiber metal laminates (FMLs) are used in aerospace structures because they offer high impact resistance and superior fatigue performance, making them ideal for demanding applications where durability is crucial.

How does GLARE differ from traditional aluminum alloys?

• GLARE combines glass fibers with aluminum for enhanced properties.

• GLARE is heavier than aluminum alloys.

• GLARE is used only in military aircraft.

• GLARE is less corrosion-resistant than aluminum alloys.

Answer explanation

GLARE differs from traditional aluminum alloys by incorporating glass fibers, which enhance its properties such as strength and durability, making it suitable for various applications beyond just military use.

What is the advantage of titanium over aluminum in aerospace applications?

• Titanium is easier to repair than aluminum.

• Titanium is more cost-effective than aluminum.

• Titanium has higher strength and heat resistance.

• Titanium is more lightweight than aluminum.

Answer explanation

Titanium's higher strength and heat resistance make it superior to aluminum in aerospace applications, allowing for better performance under extreme conditions and reducing the risk of structural failure.

Why is weight reduction critical in aircraft design?

• It increases the aircraft's color options.

• It reduces the need for maintenance.

• It improves fuel efficiency, range, and payload capacity.

• It allows for more luxurious interiors.

Answer explanation

Weight reduction is critical in aircraft design because it directly improves fuel efficiency, extends the range of the aircraft, and increases payload capacity, making the aircraft more economical and effective.

How do FMLs improve impact and fatigue resistance compared to pure composites?

• FMLs are cheaper to produce than pure composites.

• FMLs combine metal layers with fiber-reinforced composites for enhanced properties.

• FMLs are more flexible than pure composites.

• FMLs have a higher density than pure composites.

Answer explanation

FMLs, or Fiber Metal Laminates, enhance impact and fatigue resistance by combining metal layers with fiber-reinforced composites, resulting in improved mechanical properties compared to pure composites.

Which material is most commonly used in aerospace for fuselages and wings?

• Aluminum alloys

• Titanium alloys

• Metal Matrix Composites

• Carbon/Carbon composites

Answer explanation

Aluminum alloys are the most commonly used materials in aerospace for fuselages and wings due to their favorable strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and ease of fabrication, making them ideal for aircraft structures.

What is a challenge associated with composite materials in aerospace?

• They have low fatigue resistance.

• They are too lightweight.

• They are difficult to repair.

• They are not corrosion-resistant.

Answer explanation

Composite materials are challenging to repair due to their complex structure and the need for specialized techniques, making maintenance difficult compared to traditional materials.

What is the primary use of carbon/carbon composites in aerospace?

• Fuselages

• Cargo floors

• Rocket nozzles and thermal protection systems

• Landing gear

Answer explanation

Carbon/carbon composites are primarily used in rocket nozzles and thermal protection systems due to their high heat resistance and lightweight properties, making them ideal for extreme conditions in aerospace applications.

Which of the following is a type of fiber metal laminate (FML)?

• GLARE

• Kevlar

• Carbon Fiber

• Titanium Alloy

Answer explanation

GLARE is a type of fiber metal laminate (FML) made from layers of aluminum and fiberglass. Unlike Kevlar, carbon fiber, and titanium alloy, which are not classified as FMLs, GLARE specifically fits the definition.

What is a future material trend in aerospace for high-temperature performance?

• Fiber Metal Laminates (FMLs)

• Ultra-high-strength steel

• Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs)

• Aluminum alloys

Answer explanation

Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) are ideal for high-temperature applications in aerospace due to their excellent thermal resistance and lightweight properties, making them a key material trend for future aerospace designs.