First, do NOT run the conduit at the bottom of the rib as the factory
recommends doing for the pitot and static lines - this is a region of
maximum stress in the ribs. Best practice is to make any necessary holes in
the ribs at the vertical center of the rib, which in engineering terms is at
the "neutral axis" (that point that is neither stressed in tension or
compression).
Secondly, reinforcement is needed so a few plies of glass-epoxy around each
hole is required. Use the method described in the manual for Access Panels
as a guide.
Grommets would contribute nothing to strength so a better means of
protecting the tube from abrasion would be to overlap some of the
reinforcing onto the tube at tech side of the rib.
Best regards,
Rob Housman
Europa XS Tri-Gear A070
Airframe complete
Irvine, CA
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com]On Behalf Of Ronald J.
Parigoris
Subject: Europa-List: Ideas on Rib Mutilation
<rparigor@suffolk.lib.ny.us>
Would appreciate input on Rib Mutilation.
Have some thin wall, bout 1 inch OD Irrigation tube that I want to run in
wing to plumb wires to tip and run static/airspeed hose through and stall
warning indicator hoses/wires..
I can cut a 1 inch hole and just let the plastic tube lay on the ribs.
Or can put a few dabs of silicone at the joint.
Also have some perfect fitting grommets, but that would require cutting a
larger hole by probably 1/8 inch.
Would it be recommended to reinforce rib, lets say with a BID Patch prior to
cutting hole, especial if using grommets?
Thx.
Ron Parigoris
A-265 monowheel
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