Abstract
At present there appears to be a gradual trend toward the use of metal in airplane construction. There are many design problems to be solved by research and experiments. Three basic materials or their alloys are now used in airplane construction. They are steel, aluminum, and magnesium. Extruded sections of duralumin can be formed readily and afford wide possibilities for moldings, trim, and primary structural members.
Internal cantilever wing bracing has developed to a point where it compares favorably in weight with externally braced structures. A smooth surface covering is most efficient, and rounding or filleting of corners and fairing the curves of the structure give high aerodynamic efficiency. The paper gives advantages and disadvantages of metal construction for airplanes.
