Structural Adhesive used in New F150
I have heard that Adhesive is used in the new Aluminum F150 Body. Seems that the adhesive is called Dow Betamate structural adhesive. Here is a Link to a post concerning this. I'm wondering ...
Forum Discussion
CWSWine wrote:Tom/Barb wrote:
Grumman American Aircraft were bonded with epoxy, they are still flying after 40 years. When done properly the glue is better than bolts, nuts, and spot welds.
Not True.. I have worked on and around aircraft since 1967 and hold an A&P.. This is a current quote and what is being taught to new students..
"In practice, however, certain federal aviation regulations require substantiation that a bonded joint between any two primary structural components will carry a specified load with a maximum disbond. One solution to this lack of confidence in adhesively bonded joints has been to add metal fasteners. If an adhesively bonded joint fails, a metal fastener would continue holding the joint together.
However, data proving consistency and reliability is unavailable, and current inspection techniques are inadequate to establish confidence in adhesive bonds."
I don't know who this quote is attributed to. But I would consider this similar to using safety wire. I don't see an issue using redundant fasteners when 30k feet in the air where difference is flying or crashing. I have never heard it phrased "I have lack of confidence in that nut so I will safety wire it". More of if plan A fails I have an opportunity for plan B.
