Michael C Borders

US Patent:

44288670, Jan 31, 1984

Filed:

Nov 2, 1981

Appl. No.:

6/317020

Inventors:

Michael G. Billias - Decatur GA
Michael E. Borders - Marietta GA

Assignee:

Lockheed Corporation - Burbank CA

International Classification:

H01B 102

US Classification:

252512

Abstract:

An adhesive is provided which comprises a thixotropic binder (24) containing metallic particles (23) of discrete size and specific density concentration. When used to bond faying surfaces (13 and 21/10 and 21) this adhesive is capable of conducting electrical currents on the order of 200,000 amps while withstanding structural loads on the order of 5000 psi. It has particular application in a highly volatile environment such as the skin panel (10) of an aircraft component housing an integral fuel tank (12). Lightning strike currents are thereby conducted in a controlled path (P) adjacent the exterior surfaces (S) of the component as defined by the parts (10, 13, 17 and 21) and arcing inside the fuel tank (12) is avoided.