How to Choose the Right Spring Pins

Are you looking to buy spring pins? Spring pins offer a quick and easy way to secure parts. Also known as tension pins, they are cylindrical-shaped fasteners. Spring pins are designed specifically for use in holes with a smaller diameter. … Read More

Wing Flaps: How They Affect Takeoffs and Landings

Ever notice hinge-like surfaces on the edges of an airplane’s wings? Known as wing flaps, they can affect flight forces like lift and drag. Most wing flaps are found on the trailing edge of an airplane’s wings. Pilots can activate … Read More

Butt Splice Connectors vs Ring Terminals: What’s the Difference?

Butt splice connectors and ring terminals are commonly used in aircraft electrical systems. They are small accessories that attach to wires. Butt splice connectors and ring terminals, however, are used for different purposes. What Are Butt Splice Connectors? Butt splice … Read More

What Are Capped Nutplates?

When shopping for nutplates, you may come across capped nutplates. Also known as anchor plates, nutplates serve as anchor points for threaded fasteners. You can rivet or otherwise secure a nutplate in place, after which you can connect the end … Read More

Why Some Airplanes Still Use Leaded Fuel

Contrary to popular belief, leaded fuel is still around. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) phased it out in the mid-1990s — but it allowed for certain exceptions. New cars, trucks and other automobiles are now prohibited from using leaded … Read More

5 Facts About Ram Air Turbines (RATs)

Airplanes today are designed with many different failsafe systems, one of which is a Ram Air Turbine (RAT). RATs are auxiliary power systems. If an airplane loses power, the RAT will kick in. It will provide emergency power to keep … Read More

What Is Silicone Rubber Sealant?

Sealants offer quick and easy leaks. You can seal gaps, holes and open spaces by applying a sealant. In the aerospace industry, silicone rubber sealant is a popular choice. It’s used for the same sealing-related applications as other types of … Read More

What Are Airframes Made Of?

The airframe is an important part of an airplane. Encompassing the fuselage, wings, tail assembly and undercarriage, it’s the main mechanical structure. All airplanes have an aiframe. When designing airplanes, aerospace manufacturers must choose the right materials for the airframe. … Read More

6 Things to Consider When Choosing Turnbuckle Barrels

Turnbuckle barrels are commonly used with aircraft cables. As shown in the adjacent photo, they feature a threaded barrel. You can run an aircraft cable through a turnbuckle barrel. After adjusting the cable to the appropriate tension, you can lock … Read More