True or False: The layout tape must be smooth and free of bumps to ensure consistent countersink depth and diameter.

The assertion is true because a smooth layout tape is essential for accurate and consistent countersinking. The countersink operation involves creating a conical-shaped recess in a hole, typically to allow the head of a fastener to sit flush with or below the surface of the material. If the tape, which serves as a reference for marking or guiding the countersink, is uneven or has bumps, it can lead to inconsistencies in the depth and diameter of the countersink. This inconsistency can cause issues during assembly, such as improper fitment of fasteners, increased stress concentrations, and potential structural weaknesses in the final assembly.

Having a smooth surface ensures that measurements taken from the layout tape can be reliably reproduced, leading to uniform countersink characteristics across multiple locations or components. This is particularly important in aerospace applications, where precision is crucial for safety and performance, and any deviation from specifications can have significant consequences. Therefore, the integrity of the layout tape directly impacts the quality of the countersink operation and is a vital part of the assembly process.