| 摘要 |
A joint, e.g. in an aircraft fuel tank, comprises a fastener 230 such as a nut 234 and bolt 232 passing through a panel 210. The effect of lightning, or other abnormal current such as a short circuit, on the joint is assessed by providing a sealed containment member 10, placed over the end of the joint, to capture plasma, gases and/or particulates emitted by the fastener when high current is applied. One or more sensors, such as fibre optic sensors, are associated with the containment member and/or joint and measure parameters of the plasma, gas or particles. The sensors may be temperature, pressure or light sensors. The properties of the plasma, gas, or particles may be used to design joints that produce lower likelihood of fuel ignition under simulated lightning strike conditions. Changes in the properties over time after applying the simulated lightning strike may also be measured. |
