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Checking composite conductive path with an ohmmeter

Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice question 20 of 21 on Inspection Concepts and Techniques. ACS element AM.I.K.R4 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONA repair is made to a composite structure that contains an embedded copper mesh for electrical conductivity. After the repair, how does the handbook say the continuity of the conductive path may be checked?

  1. AWith a tap hammer weighing no more than 2 ounces
  2. BWith an ohmmeter, following the manufacturer's instructions
  3. CWith an infrared camera, after heating the repair area with a heat lamp
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. With an ohmmeter, following the manufacturer's instructions

  • A — incorrect Tap testing detects delamination or debonding by acoustic response; it gives no indication of electrical continuity.
  • B — correct The handbook states that electrical conductivity of a repaired composite structure may be checked with an ohmmeter and that specific manufacturer's instructions must be carefully followed.
  • C — incorrect Thermography maps surface temperature to find disbonds and similar defects; it does not measure the continuity of a conductive path.

BACKGROUND

Composite structures are not inherently electrically conductive. Manufacturers of high-speed, high-performance aircraft incorporate aluminum or copper into the structure to make it conductive, with aluminum used with fiberglass and Kevlar and copper used with carbon fiber, embedded within the plies as a thin wire mesh, screen, foil or spray. When damaged sections are repaired, the conductive material must be included in the repair and the continuity of the electrical path from the original conductor to the replacement and back must be maintained. Electrical conductivity may be checked with an ohmmeter, and the specific manufacturer's instructions must be carefully followed.

STUDY TIP

When a composite repair question mentions lightning protection or conductive mesh, think ohmmeter for the continuity check and always defer to the manufacturer's procedure.

KEY POINTS

  • Composites are made conductive by embedded aluminum or copper mesh, foil, screen or spray.
  • A repair must restore the conductive path end to end.
  • Continuity is checked with an ohmmeter per the manufacturer's instructions.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch10 "Electrical Conductivity"
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-30B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – General, 14 CFR part 43 and part 65. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.