6 Benefits of Push-to-Open Drain Valves

Push-to-open drain valves are used extensively in the aviation industry. As the name suggests, they are used to drain fluid — typically fuel or oil — via a pushing action. Most airplanes, particularly piston-engine airplanes, have one or more drain … Read More

What Are Fuel Vents in Airplanes?

Fuel vents play an important role in modern aviation. They are found in nearly all airplanes. Regardless of size or engine type, most airplanes have fuel vents. Without them, an airplane’s fuel tanks could collapse as it burns fuel. What … Read More

Common Cross-Sectional Shapes for Washers

Are you familiar with the different cross-sectional shapes in which washers are made? All washers have a cross-sectional shape. It represents the shape of a washer if you cut it straight through the middle and view it from the side. … Read More

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