I have a Pitts that set in a hanger in which another vehicle caught on fire and burned. The Pitts was covered with soot but a through inspection revealed no paintscorching, fabric deformation or canopy distortion. Additionally the tire rubber and brake lines were also undamaged.
I have now been told, by the previous insurer, that the structural epoxy and the fabric adhesive were most likely compromised by the "extreme" heat.
My tests show that Aero-Thane blisters at 300F, poly-fiber sags above 400F and plexiglas canopy material deforms some where around 400F.
I have flown the airframe about 100 hrs over the past 10 months and am un able to detect any signs of heat stress on the paint, fabric, orvisible glued structures.
Any experience or ideas in this area.
Jim
I have now been told, by the previous insurer, that the structural epoxy and the fabric adhesive were most likely compromised by the "extreme" heat.
My tests show that Aero-Thane blisters at 300F, poly-fiber sags above 400F and plexiglas canopy material deforms some where around 400F.
I have flown the airframe about 100 hrs over the past 10 months and am un able to detect any signs of heat stress on the paint, fabric, orvisible glued structures.
Any experience or ideas in this area.
Jim
