Huntsman shows qualified aircraft repair system

Focusing on the benefits of Epocast® 52 A/B, said to be the first repair system to achieve qualification in accordance with the Commercial Aircraft Composite Repair Committee's (CACRC) AMS 2980 standard for the structural repair of carbon epoxy airframe components. The CACRC aims to develop methods and procedures for the repair of composite structures on civil aircraft structures. The organization involves members from airframe manufacturers, airline users, material manufacturers and aviation authorities. CACRC and the OEMs are responsible for the qualification of repair materials. Following an extensive testing procedure, which was witnessed by Airbus, Boeing and the FAA, the CACRC qualified Epocast® 52 A/B as a structural repair material for carbon-epoxy components to be processed by Wet-Lay up (vacuum bagging). Wet-Lay up is often the preferred process for repair due to the simplicity of storage offered and the use of two component resin and dry fibres. Epocast® 52 A/B combines low temperature vacuum bag curing with excellent hot/wet performance (service temperature up to 177°C). This system is also qualified to BMS 8-301, Class 1, Grade 2; AIMS 08-01-002-01 and AIMS 08-02-002-01. Footnote: If you are involved in the design or production of aerospace or defence machinery or equipment in the UK and get involved in fastening and bonding make a date to visit the FAST Exhibition at the RAF Museum Cosford on 18th April this year. Huntsman distributor and technical resource Sil-Mid are exhibiting there. See www.fastenerexhibition.com for more information.