Which methods are commonly used for repairing aluminum aircraft structures?

The correct answer involves methods such as patching, splice repairs, and replacement of damaged sections, which are essential for addressing structural integrity in aluminum aircraft.

Patching is used to cover small areas of damage in the aircraft's aluminum skin without requiring extensive repairs. This is often achieved by applying a new piece of aluminum material over the damaged area, effectively restoring strength.

Splice repairs are utilized when there is a need to join two sections of aluminum that may have been damaged or weakened. This involves overlapping two pieces of aluminum with appropriate fasteners or bonding agents to ensure that the structural integrity of the airframe is maintained.

Replacement of damaged sections is necessary when the extent of the damage is too severe for patching or splicing to be effective. This requires carefully removing the damaged section of aluminum and replacing it with a new piece that is securely attached, ensuring that the aircraft structure can safely withstand operational stresses.

These methods focus on maintaining or restoring the strength and durability of aluminum structures, which is crucial for the safety and performance of the aircraft. In contrast, the other options either describe processes that are not primarily focused on structural repair or are not standard methods used in aircraft repair—thus making them less relevant to the question.