Aerospace Engineering

Turbofans are commonly used in commercial airliners. Also known as fanjets, they are jet engines that burn fuel and air. Like the internal combustion engines in cars and trucks, turbofans have a combustion chamber. They such air and fuel into … Read More

Airplanes may not have bones, but they do have ribs. Ribs play an important role in the structure of an airplane. From large commercial jets to small commuter airplanes, they serve as the structural foundation of an airplane. What are … Read More

Ever wonder if airplanes have radiators? If you’re familiar with the mechanics of automobiles, you probably know the importance of a radiator. Radiators are devices that work in conjunction with a liquid medium, coolant, to regulate engine temperatures. Coolant will … Read More

Have you heard of avionics? Whether you work in the aviation industry, or if you’re a recreational pilot, you may come across this term. The term “avionics” was originally coined by Phillip Klass during the mid-1900s. Since then, it has … Read More

Are you familiar with the mechanics of electrical switches? From computers and TVs to flight instruments and interactive touchscreens, nearly all types of electronics contain switches. These integrated devices are responsible for controlling the flow of electricity. Here are five … Read More

Ever wonder why the cabin air inside of a typical commercial jet is so dry? Some commercial jets have a relative humidity level of 20%, whereas others have a relative humidity level of just 5%. To put those numbers into … Read More

Ever wonder how the fuel system works on an airplane? Most airplanes run on fuel. They use a specific type of kerosene with a lower freezing point and a higher flash point than that of traditional gasoline. Airplane fuel systems, … Read More

Are you familiar with the different types of airspeed? While cars, trucks and other vehicles on the road typically have a single speed metric, airplanes have several speed metrics. They include indicated airspeed (AIS), true airspeed (TAS) and ground speed … Read More

Stabilizers are an important part of most airplanes. Located on the tail assembly, they live up to their namesake by providing stability. Stabilizers are essentially aerodynamic surfaces that stabilize the airplanes with which they are used. Here are six facts … Read More