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Old 18th Jul 2020, 13:23
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PassTheMarmalade
 
Join Date: Sep 2016
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Originally Posted by [email protected]
Dagenham - I think the 'tap-test' is more about identifying any voids in the structure - areas where the fibres and resin are not homogenous and weakness could be present.

The Lynx Composite Main Rotor Blades (CMRBs) were checked regularly in the hangar using a 2 pence piece which was tapped along the blade whilst listening for any change in tone.
I remember hearing that the a tap-test procedure for Sea King blades uses a halfcrown. Whilst in-service non-destructive testing for current platforms includes far more advanced techniques (such as ultrasonics), Westland inspectors will still carry a halfcrown in their kit for the Sea King...
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