A new value proposition in aircraft sub-floor metallic support structure corrosion prevention

Corrosion can arise when the airframe expands and contracts in response to sunlight, heat, and cold, allowing water to penetrate rivet holes, thus deeper into the aircraft. When fluids penetrate unprotected floorboards and cause corrosion, the cost can soar — in addition to the downtime to install floor panels and replace beams.

What some call “thinnovation” in aluminum and alloys has resulted in increased strength and lighter weight, with anti-corrosion properties being down on the list of priorities. This makes the maintenance job that much tougher. Corrosion isn’t always easy to spot either. This is why airlines do regular check-ups and, every 6-plus years, they take the aircraft completely apart and inspect for corrosion and other below-the-surface issues. Even then, corrosion can be missed. A report in Aviation Pros said corrosion is believed to have resulted in engines falling off the wings of two freighters – a China Airlines 747 in 1991 and an EL AL 747 in 1992.³

“Since all aircraft are primarily made of aluminum, they are particularly vulnerable to this form of (aluminum oxide) corrosion,” said Dr. Jean-Pierre Roberge, an expert on corrosion at Canada’s Royal Military College, in Aviation Pros. “Not surprisingly, aluminum oxide has none of the strength and structural properties of uncorroded aluminum. This is why early detection and, where necessary, replacement of overly oxidized aluminum parts is a must.”

Even better than early detection is prevention. That’s where 3M comes in. The 3M™ Corrosion Prevention Sealing Tape 9143FR provides a sealing layer between aircraft floor beams and floorboards. The tape has FAA PMA approval for application to aluminum floor beams and other floor support structures. Lab testing shows that it offers exceptional corrosion resistance. 9143FR helps to protect the metallic support structure from the effects of repeated exposure to fluids such as red wine, cola, and condensation. Its backing and adhesive are resistant to corrosives including salt fog and common acidic fluids.

This tape is conformable and compressible, sealing surfaces and fasteners to prevent moisture intrusion. It’s also flame-retardant (FR rated), which is a must for use in a cabin interior. The sealing tape offers light tack off the roll and adheres under pressure, allowing for repositionability and precise placement.

Plus, our review shows the 9143FR price comes in below commonly reported pricing for competitor tapes and brands. For airlines, that means it provides savings on the front end and the back, because it will also help save on maintenance costs.

All of these features help prevent the effects of corrosion, and the resulting costs of downtime and repair. So, while airlines won’t be sitting back and relaxing anytime soon, with 3M™ Corrosion Prevention Sealing Tape 9143FR they can enjoy a little bit of confidence that corrosion is under control.