Materials scientists test C-5A component integrity to evaluate long-term maintenance procedures.

AFRL materials integrity experts are collaborating with the Aeronautical Systems Center’s C-5 Systems Group, Warner Robins Air Logistics Center (WR-ALC), and Air Mobility Command (AMC) in an effort to disassemble and analyze components of an out-of-service C-5A aircraft. Members of the 653rd Combat Logistics Support Squadron at WR-ALC extracted the major components from the aircraft and shipped them to participating laboratories for analysis (see Figure 1). This study is the first of its kind performed on the C-5A, the US Air Force’s (AF) largest cargo aircraft. General John W. Handy (USAF, Retired), former AMC commander, requested the study in order to determine if the C-5A’s structure and components are fulfilling original design predictions and to evaluate the aircraft’s long-term maintenance requirements.

AMC and the C-5 Systems Group are relying on AFRL’s expertise to provide the data needed for determining the capabilities of the aircraft in its current state, identifying improvements, and eliminating future C-5A concerns. AFRL has a legacy of providing quick, responsive support relative to a variety of important material evaluation areas, including failure analysis of metallic, composite, and electronic components, as well as nondestructive evaluation of both structural and nonstructural aircraft components. The program’s threefold purpose involves (1) analysis of integral aircraft components to assist AMC planners in identifying the magnitude of future fleet component repairs and replacements, (2) identification of unexpected structural integrity concerns, and (3) validation of both the Aircraft Structural Integrity Program process and the fleet structural maintenance plan.