Materials & Processes
Materials & Processes is a core knowledge area on the AMT — General FAA written exam. This hub collects our 16 in-depth, ACS-aligned materials & processes articles — each written in plain English and grounded in the official FAA handbooks. Work through them below, then drill the topic with practice questions.
Aircraft Wood Species Selection and Defect Identification
Aircraft wood selection requires strict adherence to approved species, grain requirements, and defect limits; understanding these criteria is essential for safe structural repairs and FAA knowledge test success.
Aircraft Fabric Covering Materials and Grades
Aircraft fabric covering systems use specific materials and grades rated for airworthiness; selecting the correct fabric type, thread count, and weight is critical for structural integrity and FAA approval.
Aircraft Dope and Fabric Finishing Processes
Aircraft dope and fabric finishing is a multi-step process that seals, tightens, and protects fabric-covered airframes; AMT candidates must understand dope types, application sequences, and inspection criteria.
Corrosion Types and Identification on Aircraft Structures
Aircraft corrosion comes in several distinct forms, each with unique causes, appearances, and structural risks; AMTs must correctly identify each type to apply the right treatment and prevent catastrophic failure.
Corrosion Prevention and Treatment Methods for Aircraft
Aircraft corrosion is a leading cause of structural degradation; AMTs must recognize corrosion types, understand prevention strategies, and apply correct treatment methods to maintain airworthiness.
Heat Treatment Processes for Aircraft Aluminum Alloys
Aircraft aluminum alloys rely on precise heat treatment sequences—annealing, solution heat treatment, and precipitation hardening—to achieve the strength and corrosion resistance required for airworthy structures.
Aircraft Steel Alloy Designations and Properties
Aircraft steel alloys are identified by a four-digit AISI/SAE numbering system that reveals composition and guides selection for critical structural and engine components.
Ferrous vs Non-Ferrous Metals in Aircraft Construction
Aircraft construction uses both ferrous metals (iron-based alloys like steel) and non-ferrous metals (aluminum, titanium, magnesium) chosen for their unique strength, weight, and corrosion properties.
Composite Material Types Used in Aircraft Structures
Composite materials are increasingly used in modern aircraft structures for their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio; understanding their types, construction, and properties is essential for AMT certification.
Fiberglass and Carbon Fiber Layup and Repair Techniques
Fiberglass and carbon fiber composite layup and repair techniques are essential AMT skills covering wet layup, prepreg, patch geometry, and cure methods critical to structural integrity and airworthiness.
Welding Processes Used in Aircraft Repair (OAW TIG MIG)
Aircraft maintenance technicians must understand oxyfuel, TIG, and MIG welding processes — their equipment, applications, and limitations — as each serves a specific role in certificated aircraft repair.
Rivets Types Selection and Installation Standards
A comprehensive guide to aircraft rivet types, materials, selection criteria, and FAA-approved installation standards every AMT candidate must know for the General knowledge test.
Adhesives Sealants and Chemical Compounds in Aircraft Maintenance
Aircraft maintenance relies on specific adhesives, sealants, and chemical compounds approved for aviation use; selecting and applying the correct product is critical for structural integrity, corrosion prevention, and airworthiness.
Plastics and Transparent Enclosure Materials in Aircraft
Aircraft plastics and transparent enclosures—from acrylic windshields to composite fairings—demand precise handling techniques; understanding their properties and approved repair methods is essential for every AMT.
Aircraft Hardware Identification Threads and Standards
Aircraft hardware threads and standards define the precise dimensions, tolerances, and identification markings that keep fasteners safe and interchangeable on certified aircraft — a critical area for any AMT.
Non-Destructive Testing Methods for Aircraft Materials
Non-destructive testing (NDT) allows aviation maintenance technicians to inspect aircraft materials and structures for hidden defects without removing or damaging the part, ensuring airworthiness while preserving structural integrity.
More AMT — General subjects
Articles are original summaries grounded in the public-domain FAA handbooks and cite their source. ACS-aligned study aids — not a substitute for the official handbooks or regulations.