Composite fuselages have become increasingly common in the aerospace industry. Some of the world’s first airplanes were designed with wood frames. Shortly thereafter, all-metal frames became the standard. While some airplanes today still use an all-metal frame, such as an aluminum frame, many of them now use a composite frame. What are the benefits of composite fuselages exactly?
#1) Fuel Efficiency
Composite fuselages promote fuel efficiency. They weigh less than their all-metal counterparts. Some reports show that a typical composite fuselage weighs 20% less than a similar-sized aluminum fuselage. The reduced weight of composite fuselages translates into fuel efficiency. Airlines can save money on fuel costs by choosing airplanes with a composite fuselage.
#2) Longer Range
Airplanes manufactured with a composite fuselage have a longer range than those manufactured with an all-metal fuselage. This is due to the fact that composite materials weigh less than metals like aluminum. With a composite fuselage, airplanes can fly longer distances. Therefore, composite fuselage airplanes are typically used for long-distance flights, such as transcontinental and overseas flights.
#3) Accommodates More Passengers
Another benefit of composite fuselages is the ability to support more passengers. The Boeing 787, for instance, features a composite fuselage. As shown in the photo above, it’s a wide-body jet developed by the aerospace manufacturer of its namesake. The Boeing 787 comes in several variants. The 787-8 Dreamliner can accommodate up to 248 passengers, whereas the 787-9 Dreamliner can accommodate up to 296 passengers. Regardless, the composite fuselage allows the Boeing 787 to carry more passengers than other, non-composite airplanes.
#4) Corrosion Resistance
We can’t talk about the benefits of composite fuselages without mentioning corrosion resistance. Airplanes are naturally exposed to the weather. The combination of heat, humidity, rain and wind can take a toll on their fuselages — especially if they are made of the wrong material. Fortunately, corrosion fuselages offer a high level of protection against corrosion. They can withstand environmental conditions without succumbing to corrosion.
#5) Strong and Durable
Don’t let its lightweight properties fool you into thinking that composite is weak. Composite is both strong and durable. It has excellent tensile strength. Composite fuselages are often reinforced with carbon fiber, further increasing their strength.
What About the Downsides?
Composite fuselages typically cost more than all-metal fuselages, which may deter some aerospace manufacturers from using them. But the benefits of composite fuselages typically outweigh the downsides. They are fuel efficient, offer longer ranges, accommodate more passengers, protect against corrosion, and they are strong and durable.
