Date of Award

9-1991

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Cost Analysis

First Advisor

Mr. Jeffery C. Daneman

Abstract

This study provides a guide to cost analysts who must consider the impact of composite materials on airframe costs. A literature review was conducted to determine the availability of cost models which incorporate the effect of composites on cost. A number of models are available, but no individual model was found that is applicable for every situation. In order to provide a baseline upon which analysts can compare model results as well as provide guidance in selecting cost drivers, a Delphi survey was conducted. Questionnaire results indicate that composite weight (as a percentage of total weight), composite part complexity, percentage of composites in load-bearing role, composite part size, fabrication technique, and percentage of composites in a low observable role are all potentially significant cost drivers. Delphi results also indicate that engineering and quality assurance labor hours are quite sensitive to composite weight, while manufacturing and tooling hours are more sensitive to composite part complexity. Finally, the Delphi results indicate that, although there are some differences in composite labor hour impacts across aircraft type, there are no discernable patterns to the differences.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GCA-LSQ-91S-3

DTIC Accession Number

ADA243928

Comments

The author's Vita page is omitted

Presented to the Faculty of the School of Systems and Logistics of the Air Force Institute of Technology, Air University, in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Science

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