fly aiprt said ' If it had not failed, it could have been used for other tests, couldn't it ?
Also they were meaning it was destroyed ?"
even with the failure as described, other smaller tests on certain parts may be done. Other uses can also include minor changes in part configuration found as part of fatigue tests. For but one very old example. The 767 static test failed a bit below the 1.5 mark due to a stringer problem near the tail. So it was removed and parked outside. A year or so later, when some data analysis showed a stress problem with a few fasteners near the aft side of the wing box, the solution was to simply remove the fasteners and cut a " flange" part about 2 inches shorter.By that time a half dozen or more planes had been assembled. In order to determine what special tool might be needed, I simply got permission from engineering to take a mechanic out to the plane, cut off a few collars on the fasteners, and use a small cutoff saw to trim as needed. Then simply write up the process, location, tools needed such that the shop could follow thru on planes that were past that point in assembly. Just but one example of possible use of a failed static test unit.
I'm sure there are many other examples of ' use' of failed static test parts/planes
Last edited by Grebe; 29th Nov 2019 at 02:40.
Reason: fat fingers