FREE Airframe Mechanic Aircraft Structures & Repairs Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following is the primary purpose of stringers and longerons in semi-monocoque aircraft construction?

Accepted Answer

To provide longitudinal stiffness and transfer bending loads to the frames and skin.

Answer

To resist torsional loads and maintain the airfoil shape of the wing.

Answer

To serve as attachment points for control surfaces and landing gear.

Answer

To distribute compressive loads evenly across the fuselage skin panels.

Question 2

A technician is inspecting a fatigue crack on an aluminum aircraft skin panel. The crack is 0.5 inches long and located in a non-critical, low-stress area. According to standard repair practices, what is the most appropriate immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Stop-drill the ends of the crack and monitor for propagation.

Answer

Immediately replace the entire skin panel, regardless of location.

Answer

Apply a temporary patch using speed tape and schedule for a major repair.

Answer

Grind out the crack and fill it with an epoxy filler compound.

Question 3

When performing a flush repair on a stressed skin panel, why is it crucial to ensure that the doubler plate is slightly thinner than the original skin material?

Accepted Answer

To prevent an increase in the local stiffness that could cause stress concentrations at the repair edges.

Answer

To facilitate easier riveting and reduce the possibility of rivet head pull-through.

Answer

To reduce the overall weight of the aircraft after the repair is completed.

Answer

To allow for thermal expansion differences between the doubler and the original skin.

Question 4

What is the primary function of a gusset plate in aircraft structural design?

Accepted Answer

To reinforce and provide rigidity at joints where structural members meet at an angle.

Answer

To carry primary tension loads across large open areas of the fuselage.

Answer

To serve as a firewall, preventing the spread of engine fires.

Answer

To create a smooth aerodynamic surface over external fasteners.

Question 5

During an inspection, corrosion is found on a steel landing gear component. The corrosion appears as a reddish-brown, powdery deposit. What type of corrosion is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Uniform surface corrosion (rust).

Answer

Pitting corrosion.

Answer

Intergranular corrosion.

Answer

Exfoliation corrosion.

Question 6

A composite repair requires the application of a wet layup patch. What is the critical factor to consider regarding the resin system's pot life?

Accepted Answer

The amount of time available to mix, apply, and position the patch before the resin begins to cure significantly.

Answer

The maximum temperature the resin can withstand without degrading once fully cured.

Answer

The shelf life of the unmixed resin and hardener components before they expire.

Answer

The time it takes for the resin to fully harden and achieve its ultimate strength.