Crack stoppers and ARALL laminates

Abstract Tests were carried out on fatigue crack growth in 2024-T3 Alclad sheet specimens reinforced with strips. Strip materials were 2024-T3, 7075-T6, Ti-6Al-4V and ARALL. Adhesive bonded and riveted strips were used. Integral strips were tested for 2024-T3 only. Several observations were made on crack growth retardation caused by the strips. Adhesive bonding gives better results than riveting. The best strip materials were ARALL and the Ti-alloy. ARALL with advanced glass fibers are the most effective solution for crack stopper bands in a pressurized fuselage. Moreover they offer less production problems.