AMT Airframe Systems & Components 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary function of an aircraft's hydraulic system?
- Provide cabin pressurization
- Fuel engine combustion
- Power flight control systems (Correct answer)
- Control airspeed
Correct answer: Power flight control systems
The primary function of an aircraft's hydraulic system is to provide the necessary power to operate various critical components, most notably the flight control surfaces like ailerons, elevators, and rudders. It also powers landing gear retraction/extension, brakes, and nose wheel steering. Hydraulic pressure allows pilots to manipulate these systems with relative ease, ensuring precise control of the aircraft.
Question 2: What component prevents nosewheel shimmy during taxiing and landing?
- Torque link
- Trunnion
- Shimmy damper (Correct answer)
- Actuator cylinder
Correct answer: Shimmy damper
The shimmy damper is a crucial component in an aircraft's landing gear system specifically designed to prevent nosewheel shimmy. This undesirable oscillation, often occurring during taxiing, takeoff, or landing, can be caused by various factors. The damper works by resisting rapid movement of the nosewheel, absorbing vibrations and ensuring stable ground handling.
Question 3: Which type of brake system uses a rotating disc and stationary caliper?
- Drum brake
- Boosted brake
- Disc brake (Correct answer)
- Air brake
Correct answer: Disc brake
A disc brake system, commonly used in aircraft, operates by clamping a rotating disc (rotor) between two stationary pads housed within a caliper. When the brakes are applied, hydraulic pressure forces the pads against the disc, creating friction that slows or stops the wheel. This design offers excellent stopping power and heat dissipation compared to drum brakes.
Question 4: What is the purpose of an anti-skid system in aircraft?
- Prevent engine surge
- Provide cabin ventilation
- Prevent wheel lock-up (Correct answer)
- Lubricate landing gear
Correct answer: Prevent wheel lock-up
The primary purpose of an anti-skid system in aircraft is to prevent the wheels from locking up during braking, especially on wet or icy runways. By modulating brake pressure to individual wheels, it maximizes braking efficiency while maintaining directional control and preventing tire damage. This system is crucial for safe landings and taxiing in adverse conditions.
Question 5: What flight control surface is primarily responsible for pitch control?
- Aileron
- Elevator (Correct answer)
- Rudder
- Flap
Correct answer: Elevator
The elevator is the primary flight control surface responsible for controlling an aircraft's pitch, which is its movement around the lateral axis (nose up or down). Located on the horizontal stabilizer, moving the elevator up or down changes the angle of attack of the wing, causing the aircraft's nose to rise or fall. This allows the pilot to control altitude and climb/descent rates.
Question 6: Which material is most commonly used in modern aircraft skin construction?
- Stainless steel
- Carbon fiber
- Aluminum alloy (Correct answer)
- Titanium
Correct answer: Aluminum alloy
Aluminum alloy remains the most commonly used material for modern aircraft skin construction due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and relatively low cost. While composite materials like carbon fiber are increasingly used, especially in newer designs, aluminum alloys still form the backbone of the vast majority of aircraft structures. Its workability and repairability are also significant advantages.
AMT Airframe Systems & Components 1
What is the primary function of an aircraft's hydraulic system?