Topic

Elements of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Unit IV –AEROSPACE STRUCTURES

Prepared by
Program : B. Tech Aerospace Engineering R. Karthikeyan
Course Code : U20AE0T01 Assistant Professor,
Department of Aeronautical, BIHER
Course Name :Elements of Aeronautics and Astronautics karthikeyan.aero@bharathuniv.ac.in
 BHARATH INSTITUTE OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND RESEARCH
(Declared as DEEMED-TO-BE UNIVERSITY Under section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956)

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

VISION
Department of Aeronautical Engineering will endeavour to accomplish worldwide recognition with a
focal point of Excellence in the field of Aeronautics by providing quality Education through world class
facilities, enabling graduates turning out to be Professional Experts with specific knowledge in Aeronautical
& Aerospace engineering.
MISSION
• To be the state of art Teaching and Learning centre with excellent infrastructure and empowered Faculties
in Aeronautical & Aerospace Engineering.
• To foster a culture of innovation among students in the field of Aeronautics and Aerospace with updated
professional skills to enhance research potential for sponsored research and innovative projects.
• To Nurture young individuals to be knowledgeable, skilful, and ethical professionals in their pursuit of
Aeronautical Engineering.
 BHARATH INSTITUTE OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND RESEARCH
(Declared as DEEMED-TO-BE UNIVERSITY Under section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956)

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)
Graduates of Aeronautical Engineering program will,
PEO -1
Possess a strong foundation in Mathematical, Scientific, and Engineering fundamentals necessary to solve engineering
problems in the field of Aeronautics.
PEO -2
Engage in designing, simulating, manufacturing, testing, and analyzing in the field of Aeronautical and allied
Engineering Industries.
PEO -3
Acquire enhanced skill to involve in research and development activities in emerging areas and pursue higher
education.
PEO -4
Work effectively as individuals and as team members in multidisciplinary projects.
PEO -5
Involve in lifelong learning, career development and adopt to social needs.
 Program Outcomes (POs) PO6- The engineer and society: Apply reasoning informed by the contextual
knowledge to assess societal, health, safety, legal, and cultural issues and the
PO1- Engineering knowledge: Apply the knowledge of mathematics,
consequent responsibilities relevant to the professional engineering practice.
science, engineering fundamentals, and Engg. Specialization to the
solution of complex engineering problems. PO7- Environment and sustainability: Understand the impact of the professional
engineering solutions in societal and environmental contexts, and demonstrate the
PO2- Problem analysis: Identify, formulate, research literature, and
knowledge of, and need for sustainable development.
analyze engineering problems to arrive at substantiated conclusions
using first principles of mathematics, natural, and engineering sciences. PO8- Ethics: Apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics and
responsibilities and norms of the engineering practice.
PO3- Design/development of solutions: Design solutions for complex PO9- Individual and teamwork: Function effectively as an individual, and as a member
engineering problems and design system components, processes to or leader in teams, and in multidisciplinary settings.
meet the specifications with consideration for the public health and
PO10- Communication: Communicate effectively with the engineering community and
safety, and the cultural, societal, and environmental considerations.
with society at large. Be able to comprehend and write effective reports
documentation. Make effective presentations and give and receive clear instructions.
PO4- Conduct investigations of complex problems: Use research-based
knowledge including design of experiments, analysis and interpretation
of data, and synthesis of the information to provide valid conclusions. PO11- Project management and finance: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding
of engineering and management principles and apply these to one’s own work, as a
member and leader in a team. Manage projects in multidisciplinary environments.
PO5- Modern tool usage: Create, select, and apply appropriate
techniques, resources, and modern engineering and IT tools including PO12- Life-long learning: Recognize the need for and have the preparation and ability
prediction and modeling to complex engineering activities with an to engage in independent and life-long learning in the broadest context of
understanding of the limitations. technological change.

Program Specific Outcomes (PSOs)

PSO1: Design, analyze and developing satellite systems & subsystems

PSO2: Apply their skills in the field of aerodynamics, space propulsion, aerospace
structures and materials to nurture launch vehicle systems.
 MODULE 4:
AEROSPACE STRUCTURES
Loads on aircrafts and space vehicles; Structural components of an airplane-
monocoque and semi monocoque structure; introduction to thin-walled structures;
materials for aerospace structural components; composite materials and their
significance in aerospace industry.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

 AILERON
• Longitudinal axis extends lengthwise from the nose through the tail.
Movement about the longitudinal axis is called roll. Roll is controlled by
the ailerons.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

 ELEVATOR
• Lateral axis extends crosswise from wingtip through wingtip. Movement
about the lateral axis is called pitch. Pitch is controlled by the elevator.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

 RUDDER
• Vertical axis passes vertically through the center of gravity (when the
aircraft is in level flight). Movement about the vertical axis is called yaw.
Yaw is controlled by the rudder.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

 PARTS OF AEROPLANE

THE IMPORTANT PARTS OF AN AEROPLANE

• WINGS
• FUSELAGE
• EMPENNAGE
• LANDING GEARS
• CONTROL SURFACE
• ENGINES

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING
PARTS OF AEROPLANE

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING
 Thin wall Structures
• Thin-walled structures are structural components characterized by having a relatively large
length compared to their cross-sectional dimensions.

• In simpler terms, the thickness of the walls is small compared to other dimensions such as
length or diameter.

• A thin wall section refers to a structural component, often found in engineering and construction,
that has a thickness much smaller compared to its other dimensions.

• These sections are commonly encountered in various applications, including beams, columns,
tubes, and containers.

• Thin wall sections offer advantages such as reduced weight, material cost savings, and
sometimes improved thermal or acoustic properties.

• However, they also pose challenges related to stability, buckling, and strength, as their slender
nature can make them susceptible to deformation or failure under certain loads.

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Common Types:

1.Beams: Thin-walled beams are commonly used in construction and mechanical

engineering for load-bearing purposes, such as in bridges and building frames.

2.Columns: Thin-walled columns are prevalent in structural engineering, where they

support vertical loads in buildings and other structures.

3.Shells: Thin-walled shells are curved structural elements used in applications like
pressure vessels, storage tanks, and vehicle bodies.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

Characteristics:

1.Efficiency: Thin-walled structures offer efficient material usage, making them lightweight yet
strong.

2.Flexibility: Due to their thinness, these structures can be flexible and adaptable to various
design requirements.

3. Buckling Sensitivity: Thin-walled structures are more prone to buckling under compressive
loads compared to solid structures, requiring careful design considerations.

4. High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Despite their thinness, these structures can exhibit high
strength-to-weight ratios, making them ideal for weight-sensitive applications.

5. Applications: Thin-walled structures find applications in aerospace, automotive, civil

engineering, consumer electronics, and many other industries due to their versatility and
efficiency.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

Thin-walled structures find numerous applications across various industries due to their lightweight
design, efficient material usage, and specific structural properties. Some common applications include:

1. Aerospace: Thin-walled structures are extensively used in aircraft and spacecraft components to
reduce weight while maintaining structural integrity. Examples include fuselages, wings, and panels.

2. Automotive: Many automotive components utilize thin-walled structures to reduce vehicle weight,
leading to improved fuel efficiency and performance. Examples include chassis components, body
panels, and exhaust systems.

3. Civil Engineering: Thin-walled structures are employed in civil engineering for applications such as
bridges, roof trusses, and architectural elements. They provide strength and stability while minimizing
material usage.

4. Manufacturing: Thin-walled structures are used in various manufacturing processes, including

metal forming, extrusion, and roll forming. They enable the production of complex shapes with minimal
material waste.

5. Consumer Electronics: Thin-walled structures are commonly found in consumer electronics such
as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. They help achieve slim and lightweight designs without
compromising durability.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

6.Packaging: Thin-walled containers, such as plastic bottles, containers, and packaging materials,
are widely used in the food and beverage industry, pharmaceuticals, and other consumer goods
sectors.

7.Medical Devices: Thin-walled structures are utilized in medical devices and equipment,
including catheters, stents, and prosthetics, where lightweight and biocompatible materials are
essential.

8.Energy Sector: Thin-walled structures are employed in the energy sector for applications such
as pipelines, storage tanks, and wind turbine blades. They help optimize energy production and
distribution systems.

9.Sports Equipment: Thin-walled structures are used in the manufacturing of sports equipment
like bicycles, tennis rackets, and golf clubs to improve performance by reducing weight and
increasing stiffness.

10. Marine Industry: Thin-walled structures are utilized in the construction of ships, boats, and
offshore platforms, where lightweight materials are advantageous for fuel efficiency and buoyancy.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

Common Thin-Walled Components in Aircraft:

1.Fuselage: The fuselage of an aircraft often consists of thin-walled cylindrical or oval-shaped

structures, providing the main body enclosure for passengers, cargo, and avionics systems.

2.Wings: Aircraft wings feature thin-walled structures designed to efficiently generate lift while
minimizing drag. Wing skins, ribs, and spars are typically thin-walled components.

3.Empennage: The tail section of an aircraft, including the horizontal and vertical stabilizers,
employs thin-walled structures for stability and control.

4.Control Surfaces: Ailerons, elevators, and rudders are control surfaces that utilize thin-walled
components to provide aerodynamic control and maneuverability.

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DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING
 Materials for aerospace structural components
Aerospace structural components require materials that are lightweight, durable, and capable of
withstanding extreme conditions such as high temperatures, pressure differentials, and mechanical
stresses. Here are some commonly used materials for aerospace structural components:

1.Aluminum Alloys: Aluminum alloys are widely used in aerospace due to their lightweight
properties and good strength-to-weight ratio. They are used in the construction of aircraft fuselages,
wings, and structural components.

2.Titanium Alloys: Titanium alloys offer high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent corrosion resistance,
and good heat resistance, making them suitable for aerospace applications. They are commonly
used in aircraft structures, engine components, and landing gear.

3.Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRP): CFRP composites are lightweight and have high
strength and stiffness properties. They are used in aerospace for structural components such as
aircraft wings, fuselages, and other components where weight reduction is critical.

4.Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymers (GFRP): GFRP composites are similar to CFRP but use glass
fibers instead of carbon fibers. They are used in aerospace for applications where cost is a concern
and weight reduction is still important, such as secondary structural components.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

5. High-Strength Steel Alloys: Certain high-strength steel alloys are used in aerospace applications
where high strength and toughness are required, such as in landing gear components and engine parts.

6. Advanced Ceramic Materials: Ceramics such as silicon carbide and aluminum oxide are used in
aerospace for applications requiring high-temperature resistance, such as in engine components and
thermal protection systems.

7. Nickel-Based Superalloys: Nickel-based super alloys exhibit excellent high-temperature strength

and creep resistance, making them suitable for use in aircraft engines and gas turbine components.

8.Composite Honeycomb Structures: Honeycomb structures made from materials such as aluminum,
Nomex, or fiberglass are used in aerospace for sandwich panels, flooring, and other structural
components where high strength and stiffness are required along with lightweight properties.

9.Foam Core Sandwich Panels: Foam core sandwich panels, with skins made from materials such as
aluminum or composites, are used in aerospace for applications requiring lightweight structures with
high stiffness and strength, such as aircraft interiors and certain structural components.

10. Beryllium: Beryllium is used in aerospace for lightweight structural components and as a material
for mirrors and optical systems due to its high stiffness, low density, and thermal conductivity.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

Composite materials play a significant role in the aerospace industry due to their unique
combination of properties that make them ideal for a wide range of applications. Here are some key
points highlighting the significance of composite materials in aerospace:

1.High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Composite materials, such as carbon fiber reinforced polymers
(CFRP) and glass fiber reinforced polymers (GFRP), offer exceptional strength-to-weight ratios
compared to traditional materials like metals. This allows for the construction of lighter aircraft
structures, reducing fuel consumption and increasing range.

2.Fatigue Resistance: Composites often exhibit superior fatigue resistance compared to metals,
making them suitable for components subjected to cyclic loading, such as aircraft wings and
fuselages. This results in longer service life and reduced maintenance requirements.

3.Corrosion Resistance: Unlike metals, composite materials are not susceptible to corrosion,
which can be a significant issue in aerospace applications, particularly in humid or corrosive
environments. This increases the durability and reliability of composite components.

4.Design Flexibility: Composites offer greater design flexibility compared to metals, allowing
engineers to tailor material properties to specific requirements. This flexibility enables the creation
of complex shapes, optimized structures, and integrated components, leading to improved
aerodynamics and performance.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

5.Reduced Manufacturing Costs: While the initial cost of composite materials may be higher than
metals, they can offer cost savings over the lifecycle of an aircraft due to factors such as reduced fuel
consumption, lower maintenance requirements, and simplified manufacturing processes. Advanced
manufacturing techniques such as automated fiber placement and resin transfer molding further enhance
cost-effectiveness.

6.Thermal Stability: Composite materials often exhibit excellent thermal stability, allowing them to
withstand high temperatures without significant degradation. This makes them suitable for use in hot
sections of aircraft engines, thermal protection systems, and components exposed to aerodynamic
heating.

7.Electrical Properties: Composites can be engineered to possess specific electrical properties, such as
conductivity or insulation, making them suitable for applications ranging from electromagnetic shielding to
lightweight wiring systems in aircraft.

8. Acoustic Performance: Composite materials can be designed to absorb or dampen sound waves,
reducing cabin noise and improving passenger comfort in aircraft.

9.Environmental Benefits: The use of composite materials in aerospace can contribute to

environmental sustainability by reducing fuel consumption and emissions through weight savings and
improved aerodynamics.
DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING
Composite materials are typically classified based on the type of reinforcement and the matrix material
used. The most common types of composites are:

1.Fiber-Reinforced Composites:

1. Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP): Carbon fibers are embedded in a polymer matrix,
such as epoxy resin. CFRP offers exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, stiffness, and corrosion
resistance, making it ideal for aerospace and high-performance applications.

2. Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP): Glass fibers are combined with a polymer matrix,
often epoxy resin or polyester resin. GFRP is cost-effective, has good strength properties, and
is used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and marine.

2.Particulate Composites:

1. Metal Matrix Composites (MMC): Metal matrix composites consist of a metal matrix (e.g.,
aluminum) reinforced with ceramic particles (e.g., silicon carbide). MMCs offer high strength,
stiffness, and thermal conductivity, making them suitable for aerospace and automotive
applications requiring lightweight materials with superior mechanical properties.

2. Polymer Matrix Composites (PMC): Polymer matrix composites consist of a polymer matrix
reinforced with ceramic, metal, or polymer particles. PMCs are lightweight and can be tailored
to specific applications based on the choice of reinforcement and matrix material.
DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING
3.Laminated Composites:

1. Fiber Reinforced Laminates: Laminated composites consist of layers of fiber-reinforced

materials bonded together with a matrix material. These composites offer excellent strength and
stiffness properties in multiple directions, making them suitable for aerospace structures, such
as aircraft wings and fuselages.

4.Structural Sandwich Composites:

1. Honeycomb Core Sandwich Composites: These composites consist of two face sheets (often
made of CFRP or aluminum) bonded to a lightweight, low-density core material (e.g., Nomex or
aluminum honeycomb). Sandwich composites offer high stiffness and strength with minimal
weight, making them ideal for aerospace applications requiring lightweight structures, such as
aircraft panels and flooring.

5.Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC):

1. Ceramic Matrix Composites: Ceramic matrix composites consist of ceramic fibers embedded
in a ceramic matrix, such as silicon carbide (SiC) fibers in a SiC matrix. CMCs offer exceptional
high-temperature resistance, thermal shock resistance, and mechanical properties, making them
suitable for aerospace applications such as turbine components, thermal protection systems,
and rocket nozzles.
DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING
Composite materials have numerous Applications in the aerospace industry due to their
exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and design flexibility. Some of the key
applications of composites in aerospace include:

1.Aircraft Structures:
1. Fuselage: Composites are used in the construction of aircraft fuselages to reduce weight
while maintaining structural integrity. CFRP and GFRP composites are commonly employed
in fuselage sections, providing strength and durability.

2. Wings and Tail Surfaces: Composite materials are used in the fabrication of aircraft wings
and tail surfaces to enhance aerodynamic efficiency and reduce weight. Laminated
composites offer superior stiffness and fatigue resistance, making them ideal for these
critical components.

3. Control Surfaces: Composite materials are used in the construction of control surfaces
such as ailerons, elevators, and rudders to provide precise control and maneuverability
while minimizing weight.

4. Vertical and Horizontal Stabilizers: These structural components are often made from
composite materials to withstand aerodynamic loads and maintain stability during flight.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

2.Engine Components:

1. Fan Blades and Casings: Composite materials, particularly CMCs, are used in the
manufacturing of aircraft engine fan blades and casings to withstand high temperatures and
mechanical stresses while reducing weight.

2. Thrust Reversers: Composites are used in thrust reversers to enhance fuel efficiency and
reduce engine noise during landing.

3. Exhaust Nozzles and Liners: CMCs are utilized in exhaust nozzles and liners to withstand
extreme temperatures and harsh operating conditions in jet engines.

3.Interior Components:

1. Cabin Interiors: Composite materials are used in the fabrication of cabin interiors, including
overhead bins, partitions, and lavatories, to reduce weight and enhance passenger comfort.

2. Seats: Lightweight composite materials are used in the construction of aircraft seats to reduce
overall aircraft weight while ensuring passenger safety and comfort.

3. Galleys and Lavatories: Composites are employed in the manufacturing of galleys and
lavatories to provide durable and lightweight solutions for aircraft interiors.
DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING
1.Auxiliary Structures:

1. Landing Gear Components: Composite materials are used in the construction of landing
gear components such as doors, fairings, and strut components to reduce weight and
improve fuel efficiency.

2. Winglets: Composite materials are often used in the fabrication of winglets to improve
aerodynamic performance and reduce fuel consumption by minimizing drag.

2.Spacecraft and Satellite Components:

1. Payload Fairings: Composite materials are used in the construction of payload fairings for
spacecraft and launch vehicles to protect satellites and payloads during ascent.

2. Solar Arrays: Composite materials are employed in the fabrication of solar arrays for
satellites and spacecraft to provide lightweight and durable power generation solutions in
space.

DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING