Mixed Deck — All CCT Topics Flashcards

What is post-cure in composite processing?

Answer: A secondary heat treatment after initial cure to achieve full glass transition temperature and mechanical properties

Post-cure is a free-standing oven heat treatment after demolding that advances the degree of cure to achieve the material's design Tg and full mechanical properties.

How often should compliance procedures be reviewed and updated?

Answer: Regularly, and whenever regulations change or new risks are identified

Compliance procedures should be reviewed regularly and updated whenever regulations change, new risks emerge, or organizational changes occur.

What is the significance of glass transition temperature (Tg) for a cured composite structure?

Answer: It defines the maximum service temperature above which the matrix softens and structural properties degrade

Tg is the temperature at which the polymer matrix transitions from rigid to rubbery, setting the maximum service temperature for structural composite applications.

What is the purpose of sanding in composite finishing?

Answer: To smooth surfaces

Sanding is a crucial step in composite finishing, primarily performed to smooth the surface of a cured composite part. It removes excess resin, high spots, imperfections, and prepares the surface for subsequent steps like painting, bonding, or clear coating. Proper sanding ensures a uniform, aesthetically pleasing, and functionally sound finish.

What is the purpose of a bleeder layer in an autoclave vacuum bag layup?

Answer: To absorb excess resin squeezed out from the laminate during cure

The bleeder layer absorbs excess resin expressed from the laminate during cure, controlling fiber volume fraction and preventing resin-rich areas.

What is the most important competency assessed in Electrical Systems & Wiring for professionals in this field?

Answer: Applied knowledge and practical problem-solving ability

Electrical Systems & Wiring assessment focuses on applied knowledge and practical problem-solving ability, ensuring professionals can effectively perform in real-world situations.

Which testing method uses X-rays to detect defects?

Answer: Radiography

Radiography, which includes X-ray and gamma-ray testing, is a non-destructive testing method that uses penetrating radiation to detect internal defects in composite materials. By passing radiation through the component and capturing the attenuated rays on a detector, technicians can create an image that reveals internal flaws like voids, inclusions, cracks, or delaminations that are not visible on the surface.

Which best describes the scope of Electrical Systems & Wiring in professional practice?

Answer: A comprehensive area covering both theoretical foundations and practical applications

Electrical Systems & Wiring encompasses both theoretical foundations and practical applications that are essential to professional practice in this field.

Which test is used to verify surface cleanliness before bonding composites?

Answer: Water break test

The water break test checks surface cleanliness; clean surfaces cause water to sheet evenly, while contaminated surfaces cause water to bead up.

How does Troubleshooting & Diagnostics contribute to overall professional effectiveness?

Answer: It provides essential knowledge and skills that directly impact quality of work and outcomes

Troubleshooting & Diagnostics directly contributes to professional effectiveness by providing essential knowledge and skills that improve the quality of work and outcomes across all career levels.

Which approach to compliance is considered most effective?

Answer: A proactive approach that integrates compliance into daily operations

A proactive compliance approach that integrates regulatory requirements into daily operations is most effective at preventing violations and maintaining standards.

Which best describes the scope of Mechanical Systems & Maintenance in professional practice?

Answer: A comprehensive area covering both theoretical foundations and practical applications

Mechanical Systems & Maintenance encompasses both theoretical foundations and practical applications that are essential to professional practice in this field.

What is the primary purpose of abrading a composite surface before bonding?

Answer: To increase surface area and remove contaminants for better adhesion

Abrading removes surface contaminants and increases surface area, creating a stronger mechanical bond.

What is the main advantage of end-grain balsa wood core compared to closed-cell foam cores in marine composite applications?

Answer: Excellent compressive strength and stiffness at relatively low cost

End-grain balsa provides high compressive strength and stiffness per unit cost, making it widely used in marine sandwich construction where load distribution is critical.

Which surface treatment is used on aluminum before bonding to create a durable oxide layer that improves adhesion?

Answer: Phosphoric acid anodize (PAA) or chromic acid anodize (CAA)

PAA and CAA create a stable porous oxide layer on aluminum that bonds well with epoxy adhesives and resists environmental degradation.

What is the FIRST step before operating any equipment in CCT practice?

Answer: Conduct a pre-operation inspection and verify safety systems

Pre-operation inspection ensures visible damage is checked and safety systems verified.

Which PPE is necessary during sanding of composite repairs?

Answer: Respirator mask

Sanding composite repairs generates fine dust particles, including glass or carbon fibers and resin particulates, which can be hazardous if inhaled. A respirator mask is essential Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to filter these airborne particles. It protects the worker's respiratory system from irritation, sensitization, and potential long-term health issues, serving as a primary defense against inhalation hazards.

What is the recommended approach to staying current in Mechanical Systems & Maintenance?

Answer: Regular professional development, industry publications, and peer collaboration

Staying current in Mechanical Systems & Maintenance requires ongoing professional development, reading industry publications, and collaborating with peers to share knowledge and best practices.

What is the MOST important reason for maintaining equipment maintenance logs in CCT practice?

Answer: To track maintenance history, predict failures, and demonstrate compliance

Maintenance logs track history, predict failures, and demonstrate regulatory compliance.

What is the term for the failure mode in a sandwich panel where the face sheet buckles locally due to insufficient core support?

Answer: Face sheet wrinkling

Face sheet wrinkling is a local buckling mode caused by inadequate core density or thickness failing to support the compressive face sheet.