What is the role of a splice in aircraft sheet metal construction?

The role of a splice in aircraft sheet metal construction is primarily to connect two sections of metal. This connection is crucial for distributing loads effectively across a structure, ensuring that forces are managed uniformly rather than concentrated in one area. By maintaining this load distribution, splices help preserve the structural integrity of the aircraft, which is vital for safety and performance during flight.

In sheet metal construction, splices are engineered to carry both tension and compression loads, allowing the joined sections to work together seamlessly. This helps to minimize potential points of failure and enhances the overall durability of the aircraft structure. A well-designed splice reduces the risk of structural deformation and maintains the alignment of the aircraft components during operation, which is essential for ensuring the aircraft's operational efficiency and safety.

Other options like smoothing edges, providing thermal insulation, or decorative purposes do not align with the fundamental engineering requirements of an aircraft structure. These functions are not the primary focus of splices, which are specifically intended to ensure strong and reliable connections between metal sections.