Introduction to the SuCoHS Project

Abstract

Due to their high weight specific mechanical properties, fibre reinforced composite materials are increasingly utilized for high performance primary structures within aircraft wing and fuselage components. Yet, further exploitation is often limited due to rather high material and manufacturing costs including post-processing, concessions and rework. Additionally, very conservative engineering allowable are currently applied in order to account for uncertainties arising from manufacturing as well as operation phase. Further significant weight savings are expected for new structural components that are currently made from metals e.g. by reason of combined high thermal, mechanical or fire loading that cannot be bared with current state of the art composites. In order to maintain the leadership of the European aeronautics, the SuCoHS project was investigating potential weight and cost savings in expanding the use of composite materials in areas of demanding high thermal conditions (temperature and fire). Within this presentation an overview of the project objectives and final results is given.