Assessment of emerging metallic structures technologies through test and analysis of fuselage structure

In partnership with Arconic and Embraer, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is assessing emerging metallic structures technologies (EMST) using the FAA’s Full-Scale Aircraft Structural Test Evaluation and Research facility. In this collaborative effort, full-scale fuselage panel test data will be obtained to assess the effect of EMST fuselage concepts on damage tolerance performance as compared to the current baseline aluminum fuselage structures located on the crown of a typical single-aisle aircraft forward of the wing. Several technologies will be considered in the scope of the project, including advanced aluminum–lithium alloys, selective reinforcement using fiber metal laminates, and advanced joining processes, such as friction stir welding. Data from this study will be used to verify improved weight and structural safety performance of EMST and to assess the adequacy of existing airworthiness standards and guidance needed for the implementation of arising technologies and their impact on future designs. Results from the first baseline panel test are presented in this paper and will be compared to future tests on advanced panels containing varying EMST to assess the damage-tolerance performance.