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Gas turbine engines are large and robust assemblies, and they utilize high amounts of fuel and advanced components to achieve the propulsive force needed for aircraft flight. In order to initiate the operations of such engines, a system known as an air turbine starter is used. While being a small and lightweight source of energy, air turbine starters can create a large amount of torque that can drive an engine until self-sustaining operations are reached. As a typical air turbine starter is capable of achieving the same starting efficiency and power as an electric starter two to four times its weight, such systems can be a very beneficial addition to your aircraft.
Learn MoreLift, a mechanical aerodynamic force produced by the motion of an aircraft moving through the air, is the force that directly opposes the weight of an aircraft and holds the aircraft in the air. Lift is generated by all parts of the aircraft, but the majority of lift is generated by the wings. Despite this, there are additional components, known as auxiliary lift devices, that create additional lift. The most common auxiliary lift devices are the wing flaps, spoilers/speed brakes, slats/leading edge flaps, and slots.
Learn MoreA power supply is an electrical device that is capable of transforming provided power from a power source into energy that is usable by connected components and systems. Coming in various forms, power supplies may utilize generators, solar power, batteries, or other forms of energy for their functionality as a power converter and supplier. As power supplies will regularly differ in their ability to supply specific voltages, frequencies, and current, it can be highly beneficial to familiarize oneself with the common types of power supplies on the market in order to find the correct fit for a given application.
Learn MoreWelding is the process of joining metal parts through melting of the surface of the connection points on each piece using a blow torch or flame. This is then followed by hammering or pressing to bind the two parts together. This method of welding has been in use since the 19th century, but modern advancements like the discovery of acetylene have improved the process significantly. This technological revolution benefited the manufacturing of commercial aircraft greatly and would later prove to be a gateway to the engineering and design of lightweight aircraft made from materials such as aluminum, titanium, and magnesium.
Learn MoreWhen operating an aircraft in colder conditions and locations, it is always important to be well aware of the hazards that icing can present. As atmospheric temperatures reach freezing levels, ice coatings and deposits may form on various parts of the aircraft, possibly blocking ports, affecting the performance of instruments, or even obstructing views. Depending on the location of ice formation and its severity, icing can potentially create dangerous conditions that can make flying an aircraft unsafe until such deposits are removed. In this blog, we will discuss some of the main types of aircraft icing and where they occur, allowing you to best protect your aircraft and ensure the safety of flight operations.
Learn MoreAircraft nuts are critical components used to secure bolted joints throughout airframes, propulsion systems, and control surfaces in a wide range of platforms. These fasteners are often engineered to maintain preload and resist loosening under varying loads, environmental conditions, and vibration levels to maintain reliable security. In this blog, we will examine several common aircraft nut designs and discuss how their structural functions and material properties influence selection across different aerospace applications.
Learn MoreThe combination of thrust produced by the engines and lift produced by the wings is what allows an aircraft to fly. However, just as important in an aircraft’s operation is the intricate electrical system within it. The main components of an aircraft electrical system are the alternator/generator, battery, master/battery/alternator switch, bus bar, fuses, circuit breakers, voltage regulator, ammeter, and the associated wiring. In this blog, we will discuss each part in detail.
Learn MoreSince the advent of aviation and aircraft, a number of developments have increased the ability to manipulate the aerodynamic forces that aircraft are subject to during flight. Whether for lifting off, turning, or slowing down, flight surfaces ease the ability of control for pilots, enabling more safe and efficient flight operations for a multitude of applications. When travelling at lower airspeeds, having increased lift can greatly affect the performance of aircraft. To achieve such lift, many designers utilize leading edge flaps and slats that are placed on wings.
Learn MoreWith a multitude of commercial flights being conducted worldwide every day of the year, aircraft often fly through a number of rainstorms and wet weather. To maintain visuals during flight and protect the windshield, aircraft must remove rain and wetness for safety. From basic wipers to chemical rain repellents, there are a variety of methods and rain repellent parts that airplane manufacturers employ to remove liquids from the windshield.
Learn MoreAn air ring gauge, commonly known as a ring gauge, is a cylindrical ring of thermally stable material such as steel whose inner diameter is finished to gauge tolerance. Air ring gauges are used to check the external diameter of a cylindrical object. More simply put, an air ring gauge is a device used to measure air pressure. Air ring gauges fit over the external measurement of a diameter. They are typically made from ground hardened steel. When the ring gauge is placed over a workpiece, the resulting pressure is displayed as the diameter of the part.
Learn MoreA gas turbine engine is an internal-combustion engine that uses gas as the working fluid to turn a turbine. Their efficiency and operational supremacy make them a very popular option for jet aircraft. There are two types of gas turbine engines, classified by two factors: the type of compressor they use, and how the power is utilized. This blog will explain both types of gas turbine engines and their basic operation.
Learn MoreAutomatic Dependant Surveillance-Broadcast equipment (ADS-B) refers to specific devices that permit air traffic controllers and aircraft operators to communicate and transfer flight pertinent information such as locations, flight paths, and more. With this exchange of information, operators are able to conduct much safer flights, also resulting in more direct routes and increased cost efficiency. The ADS-B also serves as a critical facet of the Federal Aviation Administration’s goal of Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) implementation, slowly replacing the radar-based air traffic control systems that have been utilized since 1960.
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