How Airport Runways Are Numbered

If you’ve ever looked out the window while waiting at an airport, you may recall seeing numbers on the runways. Each runway is assigned a unique number. While some people assume these numbers are random, there’s actually a methodical system … Read More

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Using Washers

Washers play an important role in many everyday products and assemblies. With their disc-like shape, they are able to distribute the load of threaded fasteners. You can drive a screw or bolt through the center of a washer. The head … Read More

Pros and Cons of Reverse-Flow Turboprop Engines

Turboprops are one of the most common types of aircraft engines. Research shows they power about half of all short-range airplanes. Conventional jet engines like turbofans still dominate the long-range market, but many short-range airplanes use turboprops. Turboprops are gas … Read More

What Is a Thread-Cutting Tap and How Does It Work?

When using machine screws in hard materials like metal, you’ll typically need to tap the threads. Doing so allows for tight tolerances between the screw and the material. The screw’s external threads will closely match and align with the material’s … Read More

How Anti-Seize Lube Works for Airplane Spark Plugs

Ever wonder how anti-seize lube works for airplane spark plugs? It’s not uncommon for airplane spark plugs to feature a thin layer of anti-seize lube. Spark plugs, of course, aren’t limited to automobiles. Nearly all airplanes with reciprocating engines use … Read More

The Beginner’s Guide to Snap Rings

If you regularly use quarter-turn fasteners, you may want to invest in snap rings. Also known as jump rings, they prevent quarter-turn fasteners from falling out. Without a snap ring, quarter-turn fasteners may fall out when turned 90 degrees counterclockwise … Read More

Why Do Jet Engines Sound Different During Takeoffs and Landings?

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

Thread-Cutting vs Thread-Rolling Screws: What’s the Difference?

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

What Is an Engine Build Up (EBU) in Aviation?

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