Analisis Material Mecaplex pengganti Glass Canopy Pesawat KT-1B WOONGBEE berbasis Polymethly Methacrylate (PMMA) dengan Metode Uji Tarik

Abstract

The aircraft canopy protects the crew and provides clear visibility during flight. It must have high mechanical strength, optical clarity, and environmental durability. This study examines Polymethly Methacrylate (PMMA) as an alternative canopy material for the KT-1B Woongbee aircraft, compared with  Mecaplex canopies commonly used in trainer and combat aircraft. Tensile test using a Universal Testing Machine (ASTM D638 ) evaluated Ultimate Tensile Strength, Young’s Modulus, and Elongation at Break. Five PMMA Mecaplex specimens showed an average UTS of 70 Mpa, modulus of 3.0 GPa, and elongation of 4% meeting the minimum strengtyh requirements for canopy materials. Although mechanically adequate, PMMA is brittle and prone to UV degradation and surface scratches. Scratch hair formation after two years reduces clarity and may cause microcracks. Applying anti-scratch and anti-UV coating with proper maintenance is recommended. With these treatments, Mecaplex PMMA is suitable for KT-1B canopy use and provides a basis for futher transparent material development in aeronautics.