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Abstract— Since the Aloha accident the multiple site damage (MSD) problem of riveted lap joints in aircraft fuselages has drawn much attention. The failure scenarios for a lead crack and more small MSD cracks as discussed by Broek and Swift are summarized, including recent results of a relevant test series by Broek. It shows that small MSD cracks can significantly reduce the load for unstable crack extension. Prevention of catastrophic consequences requires crack arresting capability of the structure. Related aspects of the problem are discussed with reference to failure criteria for ligament failure, the MSD problem for existing and new aircraft, and different options for crack stopper bands.
J. Schijve (1995) studied this question.