If you’ve ever observed commercial jets at a major airport, you may recall them sounding different during takeoffs and landings. Jet engines aren’t silent. At cruising altitude, they typically generate 80 to 90 decibels (dB) of in-cabin noise, which is … Read More
You don’t always have to tap internal threads when installing machine screws. Some screws are designed to tap their own threads when driven into objects. Known as self-tapping screws, they save time and energy by eliminating the need for tapping. … Read More
Jet engines are the backbone of the commercial aviation industry. Statistics show that they power over nine in 10 commercial airliners. When compared to propeller engines, such as turboprops, jet engines are typically faster, quieter and more efficient at high … Read More
While the exact number varies, research shows that there are over 100,000 commercial flights globally per day. Commercial flights, of course, are operated by businesses known as airlines. Airlines sell flight services for scheduled routes to the general public. There … Read More
Pilots must constantly monitor climb rate. Expressed in feet per minute (FPM), it represents the speed at which an airplane ascends or descends. A positive climb rate indicates the airplane is ascending and gaining altitude. A negative climb rate indicates … Read More
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
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
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
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