6 Fun Facts About Crop Dusters

Airplanes aren’t used strictly for transportation. They have other applications, such as spraying crops with herbicides, pesticides and other protection products. Known as crop dusters, these specialized airplanes play an important role in the agriculture industry. Here are six fun … Read More

Understanding the Blade Root on Turboprop Airplanes

Turboprops are one of the most popular types of aircraft engines. Unlike turbofans, they don’t rely on exhaust gases to produce thrust. Instead, turboprops burn a mixture of fuel and air to turn a propeller blade. Propeller blades, however, have … Read More

Why Sheet Metal Screws Have Sharp Threads

When inspecting a standard sheet metal screw, you may notice that it has sharp threads. All screws, of course, have threads. Consisting of helical ridges that extend fully or partially down the shank, they convert rotational force into linear force … Read More

Mitre vs Square Cut Cotter Pin Ends: What’s the Difference?

Do you know the difference between mitre and square cut cotter pin ends? Cotter pins are commonly used in machinery and mechanical assemblies. Also known as split pins, they consist of a U-shaped piece of metal with two prongs of … Read More

What Are Engine Pylons on Airplanes?

Engine pylons play an important role in aviation. All airplanes have engines. Whether it’s a turbofan or turboprop, they are the main thrust-generating devices. Engines produce the forward force needed to overcome drag and move the airplane through the air. … Read More

What Type of Insulation Do Ring Terminals Have?

Ring terminals are used in many electrical systems. You can find them in automotive wiring harnesses, marine equipment, aircraft controls and more. As their name suggests, ring terminals feature a ring-shaped piece conductor that “terminates” the end of a wire. … Read More

What Is a Crossfeed System in Airplanes?

Fuel management is an important part of piloting an airplane. Whether commercial or civilian, practically all airplanes burn fuel for thrust. A typical Boeing 737 burns about a quarter-gallon of jet fuel per second, whereas larger airplanes like the Boeing … Read More

The Beginner’s Guide to Brad Point Drill Bits

Choosing the right drill bit is important. While they are all used to create holes in objects, some of them are better suited for specific materials than others. Cobalt and titanium drill bits, for instance, offer superior cutting power for … Read More

An Introduction to Aircraft Keel Beams

A lot of work goes into assembling modern airplanes. A typical commercial airliner has millions of individual parts. Depending on the size, it can take anywhere from weeks to months to assemble them. While some of these parts are small, … Read More