Fastening Composite Structures With Huck Fasteners — Part 2

Abstract

D. Electrical Continuity and Lightening Strike Protection In metallic structure aircraft, much of the structure is often interconnected electrically via special grounding straps. One would think the grounding would be accomplished automatically via the aluminum rivets or titanium fasteners in the structure. Aluminum rivets, however, are anodized for corrosion protection and titanium fasteners are often coated with an aluminized paint as a barrier protection against galvanic corrosion of the structure. Both of these coatings are non‐conductive and other means such as periodic cadmium plated stainless steel fasteners or grounding straps are used. But why all the concern about electrical continuity? The reason is to avoid large differentials in electric potential between components when lightening strikes an airplane. If there is a large difference because there is no conductive flow path, the electricity will arc to the lower potential member and cause damage in the process. If this occurs within a fuel tank it could be catastrophic. Once the structure all has the same charge it proceeds to dissipate the charge back into the atmosphere.

Citation

Phillips, J.L. (1986), "Fastening Composite Structures With Huck Fasteners — Part 2", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 58 No. 12, pp. 10-15. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb036370