AERO 133 - Airframe Maintenance I

Course Descriptions

  • Prerequisite: "C" in AERO 130 and in 131
  • AERO majors only.

Principles of aircraft sheetmetal structures; identification of aircraft fasteners, aircraft sheetmetal layout and fabrication; install special rivets and fasteners; inspect and repair sheetmetal structures; fabricate tubular structures and other aircraft structural maintenance functions as specified by Federal Aviation Regulation Part 147.

Student Learning Outcomes

To assist students in understanding and preparing to meet the course expectations the list below includes some of the objectives. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • Install and finish a fabric panel
  • Perform proper rib lacing
  • Interpret fabric covering instructions
  • Demonstrate skill in application of trim and lettering
  • Determine correct registration number sizing
  • Understand use of aircraft paint and finish
  • Apply finishes with paint gun and brush to fabric and metal surfaces
  • Prepare and prime aircraft metals
  • Select and install sheet metal special fasteners
  • Select rivets using correct material, size, and type
  • Install and remove rivets without flaws to the rivet or sheet metal
  • Properly layout rivet patterns
  • Hand form and heat treat aluminum structure
  • Perform bend allowance calculations
  • Bend sheet aluminum
  • Repair damage to sheet aluminum using correct material, rivet number and metal treatment
  • Be familiar with magnesium, titanium, aluminum and stainless steel welding procedures
  • Inspect and identify flaws in welded structures
  • Perform simple oxyacetylene procedures and welds
  • Solder aircraft wiring
  • Fabricate a honeycomb composite panel
  • Inspect and identify composite structures

Evaluation

Student knowledge and mechanical skill will be evaluated through oral, written, and practical tests in the following areas: rivet identification, layout, special fasteners, aluminum alloy and heat treatment, composites, fabric, welding, sheet metal repair, paint and finishing; a comprehensive final exam; written assignments; and lab projects. A passing grade of 70% on all tests and projects is required.