jrf@hp-pcd.UUCP (07/07/83)
#N:hp-pcd:2600001:000:143 hp-pcd!jrf Jul 6 11:39:00 1983 Why are aircraft usually light colors? White or silver(aluminum) Seems they would be more difficult to detect (and avoid a collision) jrf
Gobbel.PA@PARC-MAXC.ARPA (07/11/83)
I'm not sure why (or if) it's important for metal aircraft, but fiberglass that's expected to be out in the sun for extended periods has to be painted in light colors or it can get hot enough to liquefy the epoxy it's largely composed of. I would assume that temperature is also the reason for painting other aircraft in light colors - you do occasionally see dark-colored airplanes. -Randy
seifert@ihuxl.UUCP (07/15/83)
It sounds strange that fiberglass would melt in sunlight if painted a dark color (colour for you British types). I know I have seen Corvettes painted dark colors, although I suspect that the fiberglass used in airplanes is probably different than that used in plastic roller skates. ( A mechanic friend of mine says that 'vette fiberglass is actually VERY heavy, it takes at least six people to lift the body off the car. Obviously this would be unacceptable in an aircraft ...or a serious car.) ;-) Anyone know if there are different types of fiberglass? Dave Seifert ihnp4!ihuxl!seifert