What is the goal of gap inspection?

The goal of gap inspection primarily focuses on ensuring that the correct shimming is applied in assemblies where precision is critical. This process involves checking the gap between parts to identify which shim, if any, will fit into the gap without sliding through. The ability to determine the appropriate shim ensures that the assembly maintains its structural integrity and meets design specifications.

A proper gap inspection not only establishes the size of the gap but also ensures that the assembly has the right amount of support to distribute loads effectively. Correctly fitted shims can prevent movement or vibration that might cause wear or damage during operation. Thus, emphasizing the aspect of selecting the right shim ties directly to the overarching quality and functionality of mechanical assemblies in aerospace applications.

While measuring the gap accurately and assessing the structure's integrity are essential parts of the assembly process, they do not encapsulate the specific goal of gap inspection in this context as effectively as determining which shim fits properly.