A Technical Survey on the Role of Fuselage Materials in Aerodynamic Performance of Aircraft Systems

Authors

  • Imoh Ime Ekanem * Department of Mechanical Engineering, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, PMB, 1200, Nigeria. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8973-9260
  • Ekemini Nathaniel Sunday Department of Mechanical Engineering, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, PMB, 1200, Nigeria.
  • Aniekan Essienubong Ikpe Department of Mechanical Engineering, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, PMB, 1200, Nigeria. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9069-9676

https://doi.org/10.48314/isti.v2i2.41

Abstract

The selection of fuselage materials in aircraft design is a critical decision that can significantly affect the aerodynamic performance of the aircraft. Different materials have varying properties that can influence the drag, lift, stability, and overall efficiency of the aircraft. To investigate the effects of fuselage materials on aerodynamics performance of aircraft systems, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to gather information on the different types of fuselage materials used in aircraft construction and their impact on aerodynamics performance. Methodology adopted also involved the analysis of aerodynamic data from previous research studies to determine the effects of fuselage materials on aircraft performance. The data which were extracted from industry reports, articles and journals included the impact of fuselage materials on drag, lift, stability, overall efficiency as well as aerodynamic characteristics of aircraft models with different fuselage materials. The results of the study indicated that materials with lower drag coefficients, higher strength-to-weight ratios, and better thermal properties tend to improve the overall efficiency of the aircraft. Additionally, the stability and maneuverability of the aircraft are influenced by the stiffness and flexibility of the fuselage materials. Composite materials, such as carbon fibre reinforced polymers, have shown promising results in can reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency compared to traditional materials like aluminium and steel. Additionally, the use of advanced materials like titanium alloys can enhance the structural integrity of the fuselage, leading to improved aerodynamic performance. The findings suggest that the selection of fuselage materials is a critical factor in optimizing the aerodynamic performance of aircraft systems. Future research should focus on further exploring the effects of different materials on specific aerodynamic parameters and developing advanced materials that can enhance the overall efficiency and performance of aircraft.

Keywords:

Fuselage materials, Aerodynamic characteristics, Aircraft systems, Efficiency, Aircraft performance

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Published

2025-06-22

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Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025): Information Sciences and Technological Innovations (ISTI)

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How to Cite

Ekanem, I. I. ., Sunday, E. N., & Ikpe, A. E. (2025). A Technical Survey on the Role of Fuselage Materials in Aerodynamic Performance of Aircraft Systems. Information Sciences and Technological Innovations, 2(2), 134-154. https://doi.org/10.48314/isti.v2i2.41

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