When are mineral streaks acceptable in aircraft wood?

Mineral streaks are considered acceptable in aircraft wood primarily when there is no decay present. This is because mineral streaks can indicate areas where minerals from the soil have been absorbed by the tree, which does not inherently weaken the wood or compromise its structural integrity. However, the presence of decay signals that the wood is deteriorating and may not be suitable for use in aviation applications, where strength and reliability are paramount.

In aviation, the quality of materials is crucial to ensuring safety and performance. While there are other factors to consider, such as the appearance of the streaks or the straightness of the grain, the fundamental concern remains the wood’s integrity. Thus, ensuring that there is no decay is essential for maintaining the necessary standards in aviation wood materials.