Detecting Defects in Composite Materials

While composites do not suffer the corrosion and cracking problems, associated with metals and also have good fatigue characteristics, they do require regular inspection for the defects to which they are particularly prone.

The areas to be inspected are well-known and they will be detailed in the relevant chapter (51-57 for Airframe topics, 61-61 for Propellers) of the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM). The inspection methods to be used will be found in the Non-destructive Testing Manual (NTM) and the approved repair procedures will be outlined in the Structural Repair Manual (SRM).

Repairs in unexpected areas or damage, which is not covered in the SRM, will necessitate the request of specific repair drawings from the aircraft manufacturer.