What is meant by airplane beam?

Question

Hi,

I would like to know whats meant by beam in an airplane. see the below news,

http://www.dnaindia.com/report.asp?newsid=1149513

it seems tata is going to manufacture beams in boeing planes. so can anyone tell whats a beam? please give links to some pictures.

thanks,

Jayanth.

Answer 1

A beam is a structural member that takes bending load. On an aircraft we have longerons which are beams that run down the fuselage of the aircraft. We also have spars which are beams that run down the wings and other airfoils on the aircraft. these will include flying controls such as elevators and ailerons as these are airfoils as well.

Hope this helps

Answer 2

The floor beams are like most other beams.. structural components used to support the cabin floors.  these just happen to be made from aluminum.  They are fairly simple to make, mostly riveted aluminum shapes....lots of manpower which is why I think they are looking to Asia.

they are mostly box shaped beams and either "C" shapes or "I (eye) shapes.