Advanced Composites Textbook Now Available From Avotek

Oct. 25, 2017
Advanced Composites addresses the different types of aircraft composites, including how they are used, produced, repaired and maintained on aircraft. It provides substantial information on safety, specialized equipment, and troubleshooting procedures.
Oct. 25:  Advanced Composites by Cindy Foreman is now back in print and offered exclusively by Avotek. This textbook is recognized as one of the most effective books for training technicians to properly maintain and repair integral composite components. It is available for purchase online at www.avotek.com or by calling (540) 234-9090.Advanced Composites addresses the different types of aircraft composites, including how they are used, produced, repaired and maintained on aircraft. It provides substantial information on safety, specialized equipment, and troubleshooting procedures. This book was written for the technician doing hands-on maintenance and repair work. It bridges the gap between design engineering and aircraft-specific maintenance manuals.Topics include:·Introduction to Composite StructuresoHistory of composites and their uses in aviation, past and present.·Reinforcing FibersoCommon types of fibers used on aircraft, their advantages and disadvantages, and where they are used.oTheory of fiber science, fiber orientation and common weaves.·Matrix MaterialsoMatrix systems, thermoplastic, thermosets, working with resins and catalysts (hardeners), pre-impregnated materials, adhesives, fillers and metal matrix composites.·Core MaterialsoMaterials used as the core and how they affect the performance of the composite structure.oHoneycomb, foam and wood cores.·ManufacturingoManufacturing basics: heat and pressure, manufacturing methods, molds or tooling, lightning protection, electrical bonding and painting.·SafetyoMSDS, safety when working with chemicals and matrices, solvents, handling, application techniques, materials storage and while machining.·Applying PressureoWhy pressure is used, different ways to apply it, and vacuum bagging materials and techniques.·Methods of CuringoRoom-temperature curing, heat curing, specialized equipment and methods and techniques to apply heat.·Machining CompositesoCutting uncured fabrics, machining, drilling, sanding and grinding cured composites.oSpecial composite fasteners.·Setting Up ShopoFacilities requirements and layouts, considering the aircraft, materials and personnel safety.oCost considerations, tools, equipment and training.·Assessment and RepairoAssessing damage and planning repairs.oUsing the SRM, damage classifications and types, inspection methodology, repair planning and execution, lightning protection and repair documentation.·Types of RepairoCauses of repair failures, typical repair procedures, delamination causes, assessment and repair.oRepairs to laminates, sandwich structures, propellers, homebuilt aircraft and bolt-ons.About AvotekLocated in Weyers Cave, VA, Avotek develops and manufactures modern, fully functional aviation maintenance training systems. We create and publish a full line of high quality, up-to-date classroom textbooks that complement our training systems for aviation maintenance training schools and classes, and for individuals interested in learning more about their aircraft.

Avotek has earned an industry reputation for quality and excellence. Our team of authors includes mechanics, inspectors, aviation experts, and instructors. They are actively involved in aviation maintenance training, or working in the aviation maintenance field. They bring their expertise to Avotek from colleges, universities, and current hands-on experience.