5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Set Screw

Set screws are commonly used to secure pulleys and gears to shafts. Also known as grub screws, they are characterized by a headless design. Set screws still have a threaded body like standard bolts. Rather than a traditional flared head, … Read More

What Are Brake Wear Pins and How Do Airplanes Use Them?

Most airplanes feature disc-style brakes similar to those found on automobiles. They are typically found on the main landing gear. Upon touching down, pilots will engage the airplane’s brakes. Heat-resistant discs will then squeeze together to create friction that slows … Read More

6 Big Benefits of Jo-Bolts

Jo-bolts play a critical role in the aerospace industry. Also known as internally threaded three-piece rivets, they are used to create permanent joints. Jo-bolts are mechanical fasteners that, once installed, hold two or more objects together. While there are many … Read More

Annular vs. Forced Exhaust Mixers: What’s the Difference?

Exhaust noise is a concern with jet-powered airplanes. As hot exhaust gases collide with cool ambient air, it creates intense waves of pressurized and turbulent air, which manifests in the form of a loud roar-like noise. Fortunately, advancements in modern … Read More

What Is an In-Line Fuse Holder?

Fuses play an important role in electrical systems. All electrical systems have circuits through which electricity flows. If a circuit experiences a short or becomes overloaded, the connected fuse will “blow” to disrupt the flow of electricity. Rather than installing … Read More

The Beginner’s Guide to Double Shank Cable Rod Ends

Double shank cable rod ends are used extensively in the aviation industry. Many airplanes and other types of aircraft feature control cables. These heavy-duty metal cables link yokes and pedals to adjustable flight surfaces, such as ailerons and elevators. When … Read More

What Is a Fuel Scavenge Pump and How Does It Work?

Fuel pumps play an important role in aviation. With the exception of small, gravity-fed airplanes, most modern airplanes use them to deliver fuel to their engines. Airplanes typically feature an electric boost pump for takeoffs and landings, and they feature … Read More

What Are Nacelle Thrust Reverser Cascades in Aviation?

Many people assume that airplanes rely strictly on brakes to decelerate upon touching down on the runway. Most airplanes do, in fact, have hydraulic disc brakes. Located on the main landing gear wheels, they consist of heavy-duty carbon or metal … Read More

How Flight Paths Are Chosen in Commercial Aviation

Ever wonder how flight paths for commercial airliners are chosen? There are roughly 100,000 to 150,000 commercial flights on any given day. Unlike private flights, they typically follow fixed routes and schedules and are open to the public. Each flight … Read More