fatigue of landing gear using composite components as principle structural elements.

The information discussed herein includes the development and evaluation of design data considering: the potential for imbedded manufacturing defects, manufacturing process variations, the component operating environment, potential damage threats in service, rework and overhaul, and inspection processes.

This AIR mainly discusses the use of thick composites for landing gear structural components. Considerations and recommendations provided in this AIR may therefore differ greatly from considerations and recommendations found in widely accepted composite design references such as CMH-17 and Advisory Circulars such as AC 20-107(B).

The purpose of this AIR is to provide general guidance in the qualification of composite components for landing gears. Compliance with this report is not considered approval for installation on any category aircraft or helicopter. The Certifying Authority for the platform for which the equipment is intended should be consulted for concurrence with the approaches proposed herein as an acceptable qualification demonstration for composite landing gear components.