Application of a titanium-carbon fiber metal laminate in an in-flight opening fighter door loaded in acoustic fatigue. Part 1: Design and Analysis

Abstract

This paper discusses the results of a design project with the goal to research and promote the use of Fiber Metal Laminates (FML) in other applications than currently under exploration. In vieuw of one of the strong points of Glare (an FML of glass fiber reinforced epoxy prepreg between aluminum sheets), superior fatigue properties compared to solid aluminum, an in-flight opening door of a fighter aircraft was selected to be designed in a new FML. This fighter door is subject to a high acoustic loading and operated at high temperature. This paper deals with the design and analysis of the component in an FML of titanium and a carbon fiber reinforced polymer. Also tests on material and component level are discussed.