Drain valves are commonly used to remove fluid from storage tanks and systems in airplanes. Like all valves, they regulate the flow of fluid. Drain valves, however, are used specifically for draining fluid. While they are all used for the … 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
To protect nuts and bolts from loosening, you may want to use lock washers. Washers, of course, are designed to distribute the load of a threaded fastener. You can place a washer around a threaded fastener, such as a bolt, … 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
