When most people think of spoilers, they envision the wing-like structures found on the back of sports cars. Spoilers such as these are common. They are aerodynamic devices that disrupt or “spoil” the airflow, resulting in better performance. But spoilers … Read More

Do you know how sheet metal screws are measured? Sheet metal screws are threaded fasteners designed for use with sheet metal. They feature a pointed tip, a fully threaded shank and a head. Using them, you can fasten sheet metal … Read More

Do you know what a heavy jet is? There are different ways to classify airplanes. Commercial airliners, for instance, are often classified according to the number of aisles they have. Narrow-body airliners have a single aisle of seats, whereas wide-body … Read More

Ever wonder how high turboprop airplanes fly? Commercial airliners have an average cruising altitude of 32,000 to 42,000 feet, meaning they fly about six or seven miles above sea or ground level. Commercial airliners, however, are typically powered by jet … Read More

Have you heard of electrical contact cleaners? Electrical connectivity issues can often be traced back to a broken circuit. Circuits are pathways for electricity. They are found in automobiles, airplanes, homes, buildings and various devices. If electricity can no longer … Read More

The turbofan has become the most common type of jet engine used in airplanes. Whether it’s a civilian, commercial or military jet, it may feature one or more turbofans. Also known as a fanjet, a turbofan is a type of … Read More

Ever wonder why airplanes don’t use copper rivets? Rivets are permanent fasteners that join two or more structural components. They offer a stronger and longer-lasting joint type than welding. While some airplanes use aluminum or steel rivets, though, you typically … Read More

Not all aircraft paint is made equal. There are many different types of aircraft paint, some of which are designed for specific parts. Propeller coating paint, for instance, is designed for propellers. If you’re building or planning to build a … Read More

When shopping for aerospace fasteners, you may come across clipnuts. They are commonly used in airplanes and other types of aircraft. Like traditional nuts, clipnuts feature a threaded hole that supports a bolt. Clipnuts, however, feature a unique design that … Read More