Introduction
The materials used for aerospace engineering have evolved in extreme ways, from the very first structures made of wood and metal, to advanced materials that can withstand the toughest environment in space. A key component to constructing efficient and lightweight aerospace structures is the selection of materials. This includes materials such as aluminium alloys, titanium, plastics and composites, which all play a vital role in modern aerospace engineering. This essay will explore the various properties related to aerospace materials, the various types of aerospace materials in use today, and explain their importance in aerospace engineering.
Properties of Aerospace Materials
When considering the range of materials used in the aerospace industry, it is important to recognize the various properties associated with them. Several properties are considered when selecting the most appropriate material, such as strength and stiffness, ability to endure various conditions, weight, electrical conductivity and resilience to corrosion.
Strength and stiffness are fundamental properties in any material used in aerospace engineering. They are, in essence, the ability of the material to withstand loads applied when in use. For example, an aircraft must be able to withstand the high lift forces it experiences during takeoff and landing. The material must be strong and stiff enough to frame this requirement.
Ability to endure extreme conditions is another factor which is carefully taken into account when selecting materials for aerospace engineering applications. Some materials require high-temperatures and exposure to extreme pressures, such as those experienced in re-entry of spacecrafts. Other materials must be able to withstand the very low temperatures present in outer space. As such, materials must be resistant to a range of conditions if they are to perform satisfactorily in aerospace applications.
Weight is another consideration when deciding upon materials. Many aerospace materials are lightweight, which makes them easier to transport and maneuver. Lightweight materials are also preferred since they reduce fuel consumption and the overall weight of the craft.
Electrical conductivity is important in terms of communication and control systems on the vehicles, and hence the choice of materials must ensure they can effectively direct and support such systems.
The resistance to corrosion of the material is essential in order to maintain the structure and integrity of the vehicle. This is of particular importance for aircrafts which operate in moist and humid environments where corrosion is more likely to occur.
Types of Aerospace Materials
There are several types of aerospace materials in use today. Aluminium alloys are amongst the most widely used materials for aircraft construction and have seen continuing growth over the past several decades. Aluminium alloys are lightweight, strong materials which are highly resistant to corrosion and have good strength-to-weight ratios. They can also be machined, welded and joined which makes them ideal for aircraft structure.
Titanium is another main component of modern aircraft structure. Titanium is a strong and lightweight material which is also highly resistant to corrosion. Titanium alloys are significantly more expensive than aluminium alloys, however they offer superior strength and stiffness which can make them more efficient over a certain weight range.
Plastics and composites have also become increasingly popular in modern aerospace applications. Plastics are lightweight and easy to work with, and as such are used for a wide variety of applications such as cabin components and insulation materials. Composites consist of combinations of resin and fibres and offer higher strength-to-weight ratios than metals, meaning they are often the preferred material for components such as airframes and propulsion systems.
Importance of Aerospace Materials
The selection of the right materials for aerospace applications is essential in order to meet the various design requirements and performance goals. Materials play a key role in the construction of any aircraft or spacecraft, and hence must be chosen carefully. The various properties of the materials must be taken into account, as well as their ability to withstand the high temperatures, pressures and other environmental conditions encountered during flight.
In conclusion, aerospace materials are essential components of modern aerospace engineering. A wide variety of materials are used in this application, ranging from metals like aluminium and titanium to plastics and composites. Materials must be carefully selected in order to meet the necessary design requirements and performance goals for the given application. Therefore, the importance of choosing the correct materials for aerospace engineering cannot be understated.
