Boeing Discovers More Uncoated Nutplates
Boeing Discovers More Uncoated Nutplates
Jason Sandefur
Boeing’s fastener problems continue to spread. Boeing confirmed it is working to replace more uncoated nutplates on its widebody jets — the 747s, 767s and 777s, according to the Associated Press.
The report comes two weeks after Boeing said it was forced to delay deliveries of new 737s and may have to repair nearly 400 planes because of a potential corrosion problem with nutplates. The defective fasteners lack a cadmium coating.
The latest setback signals further delays on a return to full production following a 57-day machinists’ strike.
About 30% of the nutplates, which are used to attach wiring and other parts to the fusalage, were uncoated and now need to be replaced on nearly four hundred 737s delivered after August 2007.
The nutplates — reportedly made by one of three Boeing-approved suppliers to Witchita, KS-based Sprit Aerosystems — lack a cadmium coating that would help prevent corrosion on adjoining aluminum parts, according to Boeing spokeswoman Vicki Ray. Each 737 contains 3,000 to 4,000 nutplates.
“We’re replacing them as we find them,” said Ray. “Also to be addressed is the in-service fleet, and we’re still working on a plan for that.”
Boeing said the issue does not pose an immediate flight safety risk. Web: boeing.com �2008 FastenerNews.com
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