Development of a scalable and efficient lightning strike protection system for composite aircraft

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Protecting aircraft against lightning strike induced damage is a major challenge. Composite aircraft require the integration of additional protection systems to minimize damage caused by lightning strikes. The additional weight of these protection systems must be minimized in order to reduce the weight and fuel consumption of aircraft mostly made of composite materials. The current solution, involving a surface layer composed of a copper mesh embedded in a resin, adds weight, is prone to corrosion and adds complexity to the repairs performed on the aircraft. In collaboration with Bell Textron Canada, this project will investigate two lightweight and scalable lightning strike protection systems tailored to the needs of the market, more specifically for the ducted fan of the vertical take-off air taxis that Bell Textron Canada is currently developing. During this project, a strong emphasis will be put on the scalability of the solutions in the context of its final application. Although other laboratory scale solutions are being developed worldwide, this project differentiates itself through its aims of producing large test panels and demonstrator assemblies, as well as investigating the effect of finishing layers on the effectiveness of the protection system. The main outcomes of this project will be (1) a scalable lightning strike protection system and (2) an investigation of the effect of finishing layers on the performance of lightning strike protection systems. This project will train highly qualified personnel (HQP) with transferable skills (2 PDF and 2 Masters students) in a multidisciplinary environment and in emerging specialized areas corresponding to the needs of the Canadian aerospace industry. The next step of this project will be for Bell Textron Canada to apply these results to their ducted fan design for their vertical take-off vehicle.