Effects of Lightning Attachment Phenomena on Aircraft Design

A working knowledge of swept lightning strikes has become a necessity for the aircraft designer involved in lightning protection of aircraft incorporating new structural concepts that depart from the conventional riveted aluminum airframe. Swept strokes have been simulated in the laboratory to determine realistic protection criteria for components. Measurements of the maximum swept stroke dwell time on titanium and aluminum sheet are reported, as well as an anaylsis of various techniques to improve the resistance of fuel tank skin panels to swept stroke effects.