Straighten the plate

TM 5-5420-279-23

(f)

Witness the temperature in following step and confirm that temperature has

not exceeded 470oC (878oF).

(g)

Using an oxy-propane torch, apply heat evenly on both sides of the plate

along the centerline through the distorted area without dwelling in one position. Make

sufficient passes along both sides to achieve a temperature, measured between the

witness lines, of 400oC-450oC (842-878oF). Make frequent temperature checks using

a suitable measuring device (Section 4 Table 4-1, Item , 14).

(h)

Allow the plate to cool naturally.

(2)

Straighten the plate.

CAUTION

The aluminum component must be straightened within twelve hours of completion

of the heat treatment operation.

(a)

Straighten the plate using standard workshop panel beating practices.

WARNING

ENSURE SOLVENT IS DRY BEFORE WELDING.

CAUTION

Aluminum and aluminum alloys should not be cleaned with caustic soda or strong

cleaner with a pH above 10. The aluminum or aluminum alloy will react chemically

with these types of cleaners. Other non-ferrous metals and alloys should be

investigated prior to using these cleaners to determine their reactivity.

(b)

Clean along cut on both sides of plate with solvent (Section 4 Table 4-1, Item ,

7).

(c)

Wire brush along cut on both sides of plate.

WARNING

PRIOR TO ANY WELDING ON THE LAUNCH VEHICLE PROCEDURE 6-39 GENERAL

WELDING MAINTENANCE FROM TM 9-2320-364-34-2 CHAPTER 2 MUST BE

PERFORMED ALONG WITH THE DISCONNECTION OF ALL EXTERNAL MIL

CONNECTORS FROM BOTH THE LAUNCHER CABINET AND THE OPERATOR

CABINET. BOTH THE CHEST PACK AND THE TAIL LIFT PENDANT MUST ALSO BE

REMOVED.

(d)

If the cut runs to the edge of the plate, tack end of the cut.

(e)

Weld the cut (fig.2-2 (e) and para. 2) in accordance with the parameters laid

down in the weld procedures in Section 6.

(f)

Dress welds flush (fig.2-2 (f)).

(3)

Inspect welds (Section 3 b).

Appendix K Page 9