Sectioning Guidelines
General sectioning guidelines:
- Always adhere to General Practices unless explicitly directed differently in the specific repair procedure.
- Section panels only when the specific repair procedure indicates that sectioning the panel is allowed.
- If a section repair requires the removal or installation of additional panels or assemblies, perform the necessary procedures using the specific repair procedure for each panel or assembly.
- Do not cut underlying panels when performing a section cut.
- Do not cut within 25 mm. of the center of a bolt hole.
- If specified in the procedure, create and install a backing plate or reinforcement plate.
- A backing plate may be installed at a butt joint between sections (as described in create and install backing plates).
- Only GMA weld section butt joints
where explicitly outlined in the procedure.
If a butt joint includes a flange, do not weld on the flange (flanges are secured using only structural adhesive).
- Gaps between panels of butt joints should be as small as possible to maximize joint strength.
- Sections do not require fasteners at butt joints unless specifically indicated.
- Fill all gaps with structural adhesive.
- Seal all open seams after welding.