Aircraft External Surface Covering

Aircraft External Surface Covering refers to the materials used to cover the exterior surfaces of an aircraft. These coverings are part of the Airframe Structural Components supply class, which includes various components that contribute to the structural integrity and functionality of an aircraft.

The Airframe Structural Components supply class falls under the larger supply group Aerospace Craft And Structural Components, which encompasses a wide range of components used in the construction and maintenance of aerospace craft.

Aircraft External Surface Coverings are designed to protect the underlying structure of the aircraft from environmental factors such as weather, corrosion, and aerodynamic forces. They also contribute to the overall aesthetics and branding of the aircraft.

Common materials used for aircraft external surface coverings include:

1. Aluminum: Aluminum sheets are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and commonly used for covering large areas of the aircraft, such as the fuselage and wings.

2. Composite Materials: Composite materials, such as carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP), are increasingly used in modern aircraft due to their high strength-to-weight ratio. These materials offer excellent durability and resistance to fatigue.

3. Fiberglass: Fiberglass is a lightweight and cost-effective material used for covering smaller areas of the aircraft, such as fairings and control surfaces.

4. Fabric: Some older aircraft, particularly those with fabric-covered wings, use materials like Dacron or polyester fabric. These fabrics are treated with special coatings to provide protection against weather and UV radiation.

It's important to note that the specific type of external surface covering used on an aircraft can vary depending on factors such as the aircraft's design, intended use, and regulatory requirements.