CCT Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CCT facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the correct terminology for the tapered transition at the edge of a sandwich panel where the core thickness is gradually reduced to zero? → Core runout or core ramp
2. What type of failure mode indicates that the adhesive was stronger than the surface preparation? → Adhesive failure at the bondline interface
3. What is critical when using power tools for composite work? → Proper maintenance and PPE
4. Which process is used to form flat honeycomb core into a curved shape without cutting and re-bonding? → Flex-core expansion or OML machining
5. What type of defect can occur if curing is incomplete? → Soft or tacky surfaces
6. Which best describes the scope of Troubleshooting & Diagnostics in professional practice? → A comprehensive area covering both theoretical foundations and practical applications
7. What is the primary purpose of surface preparation before bonding composite parts? → To improve adhesion by removing contaminants and creating surface energy
8. Which inspection method uses visible light to detect surface defects? → Visual inspection
9. What common challenge do professionals face when applying Rigging & Material Handling principles? → Balancing theoretical best practices with practical constraints and real-world conditions
10. What is the maximum allowable time between surface preparation and adhesive application according to most aerospace bonding specifications? → 4 to 8 hours
11. What is the most important PPE to protect against inhalation of composite dust? → Respirator mask
12. What is the recommended approach to staying current in Troubleshooting & Diagnostics? → Regular professional development, industry publications, and peer collaboration
13. What is the role of thermocouples during an autoclave cure cycle? → To monitor part and tooling temperatures and verify the cure cycle is achieved
14. What is the purpose of 'potting compound' used around inserts in composite sandwich panels? → To locally fill and solidify the core to distribute insert loads and prevent crushing
15. Which defect is caused by air pockets within the composite? → Voids
16. What adhesive form is most often used for structural composite bonding in aerospace applications? → Film adhesive (e.g., Redux or EA9696)
17. What is a common defect found during composite inspection? → Delamination
18. How often should compliance procedures be reviewed and updated? → Regularly, and whenever regulations change or new risks are identified
19. Which non-destructive testing (NDT) method is most commonly used to detect disbonds between the face sheet and core in a sandwich structure? → Coin tap testing or ultrasonic through-transmission
20. Why is ventilation critical in composite manufacturing? → Removes harmful fumes
21. What is the typical autoclave pressure used for curing carbon fiber/epoxy aerospace composites? → 85 to 100 psi (approximately 6 bar)
22. What does dye penetrant testing detect? → Surface cracks
23. What does peel ply leave behind when removed from a cured composite surface? → A textured, chemically active surface ready for bonding
24. Which best describes the scope of Blueprint Reading & Technical Drawings in professional practice? → A comprehensive area covering both theoretical foundations and practical applications
25. What is the primary purpose of an autoclave in composite manufacturing? → To apply simultaneous heat and pressure for curing composite laminates
26. What is the role of documentation in regulatory compliance? → It provides verifiable evidence that standards are being met
27. What foam core type offers the best performance in applications exposed to elevated temperatures above 250°F (121°C)? → PMI (polymethacrylimide) foam such as Rohacell
28. Which best describes the scope of Mechanical Systems & Maintenance in professional practice? → A comprehensive area covering both theoretical foundations and practical applications
29. What is the recommended approach to staying current in Blueprint Reading & Technical Drawings? → Regular professional development, industry publications, and peer collaboration
30. Which document provides guidance on chemical hazards? → Safety Data Sheets (SDS)