From: Klusmanp@aol.com
Message-ID: <8f.c40d0c0.28655924@aol.com>
Date: Fri, 22 Jun 2001 22:29:56 EDT
Subject: Re: lightning strikes 
To: lancair.list@olsusa.com
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Reply-To: lancair.list@olsusa.com

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In a message dated 6/21/01 11:14:55 AM EST, marvkaye@olsusa.com writes:

<< If my memory serves, to pass testing, a layer of 
 metal screen cloth had to be bonded to the wing skins and wicked. >>

Paint thickness is also a very big factor for lightning strike on composite 
aircraft with metal mesh. The thinner paint will allow the lightning to 
penetrate to the underlying conductive pathways easier. If the paint is 
thicker, the lightning energy cannot dissapate as easily so it dwells in one 
spot and does more damage before it reaches the conductive mesh.

I can't say what would happen for a straight carbon structure, but I would 
guess the paint thickness would have an effect as well since the carbon is 
somewhat conductive itself.

If there is enough interest in lightning strike protection, Lancair customers 
might get the factory to offer an airframe with improved lightning 
protection. There are carbon prepreg materials available that have interwoven 
aluminum wires just for the purpose of lightning protection. Don't know how 
much more expensive these would be, though.

Paul Klusman
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LML website:   http://www.olsusa.com/mkaye/maillist.html
LML Builders' Bookstore:   http://www.buildersbooks.com/lancair

Please send your photos and drawings to marvkaye@olsusa.com.
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