Replica Fuel Tank Bladders.

Replica fuel tank bladders, parts of fuel tanks that were built as replicas of the tanks of potential air targets, were designed, manufactured and installed in existing replica fuselage sections. Two bladder geometric configurations were required for each section. A prototype bladder in each geometric configuration was manufactured and subjected to demonstration tests prior to manufacture of the total lot of bladders. Modifications to the replica fuselage sections were also required to accommodate the bladders. The modifications were designed and then evaluated during the demonstration tests. The design and fabrication of the bladders as well as the replica fuselage tank preparation was proven adequate during the demonstration tests. During the demonstration, tank bottoms were identified as a structural element limiting internal overpressure. As a consequence internal overpressure were limited to 2.5 psig during the demonstration tests.