Structures Technician – Aircraft Exterior – A Guide to Aircraft Structures
The outer shell of an aircraft, known as the aircraft skin, plays a role in ensuring the aircrafts performance and safety. It is the responsibility of aircraft structures technicians to maintain and repair this component.
What materials are commonly used for aircraft skin?
Aluminum is the material most used for aircraft skin although newer models may incorporate composite materials like carbon fiber. The thickness of the skin varies depending on its location and purpose. For instance, wing skins tend to be thicker compared to those on the fuselage.
What tasks do aircraft structures technicians perform?
Aircraft structures technicians carry out a range of tasks related to the maintenance of the aircrafts skin. These include:
- Inspection: Conducting examinations to identify cracks, dents, corrosion, or other forms of damage on the skin.
- Repair: Employing techniques such as riveting, patching, and bonding to fix minor damages on the skin.
- Replacement: Removing damaged skin panels and installing new ones in their place.
- Modification: Adapting the aircrafts skin to accommodate new equipment or systems.
What skills are necessary, for someone pursuing a career as an aircraft structures technician?
Becoming an aircraft structures technician requires an understanding of both aircraft structures and materials used in their construction. They also should have the ability to:
- Examine and understand blueprints and technical manuals
- Utilize tools and equipment such as rivet guns, drills and sanders
- Safely operate in a high-pressure environment
- Pay meticulous attention to detail
Challenges and Benefits of Being an Aircraft Structures Technician-
Being an aircraft structures technician can present its fair share of challenges, but it is also a highly rewarding profession. Technicians play a role, in ensuring the safety of both aircraft and their passengers. Additionally, they have the opportunity to work on some of the advanced and sophisticated machines in existence.