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Old 15th August 2009 | 13:07
  #14 (permalink)  
Walnut
 
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 270
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From: Cyprus
My posting was not taking sides but merely pointing out that the ex head of the AAIB was not happy that enough testing had been done on composites, which he agreed were stronger weight for weight, but could have problems with electrical discharges flowing through them. It is possible that electrical bonding is superior in Boeings. Also until the B 787 flies then I dont believe that much structual composite material has been used on Boeings.
The Bristow helecopter which crashed in 1996 had its rotor blades (tail & main) retrofitted with composite blades viz metal. They were proved to be stronger BUT, the AAIB found in certain circumstances they could fail. So if for example the A 330 has a composite fin attached with a mixture of metal and composite attachments, then is it not possible in certain cases for similar delamination to take place. I do believe the CAA should consider running an investigation.
I consider the Airbus range to be a fine product, but to bury your head in the sand is not good airmanship.
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