Structural Adhesive Bonding Report.

An evaluation was accomplished of the structural adhesive bonding technology currently utilized by the aerospace industry and the associated failure modes and causes of failure. Included in the study were the inspection and testing techniques utilized in the acceptance function and detection of bonding anamolies. The fabrication of adhesive bonded structures places stringent requirements on the joining methods used. ADEQUATELY CONTROLLED MANUFACTURING TECHNIQUES ARE ESSENTIAL TO PRECLUDE THE DEVELOPMENT OF VOIDS DURING BONDING. In essence, stringent process control during the fabrication, assembly and bonding operations is mandatory to minimize bonding anomalies. Those anomalies which are not detected could result in eventual deterioration and failure. Accelerated failure rates are caused by moisture seepage into the interior of critical structural assemblies resulting in corrosion damage and structural deterioration. Assurance of process controls and structural integrity can be provided by adequate inspection programs during manufacturing. However, no single nondestructive inspection technique has been established that can accurately detect all types of bonding anomalies. The selected inspection program should stress the use of the optimum inspection methods to accomplish the required task. Selection of methods requires an understanding of comparative capabilities, advantages and limitations of the basic nondestructive test methods. Author