What Are Strap Duplicators and How Do They Work?

Fastening two pieces of sheet metal together requires proper alignment. If you’re going to use rivet-based fasteners, for instance, you’ll need to align the rivet holes. Proper alignment will ensure that the holes are created in the same area on … Read More

Airplane Cowlings Explained: What You Should Know

Most airplanes don’t have exposed engines. Rather, their engines are protected in a cowling. From large commercial jets to private turboprops, many airplanes use cowlings. Even if you’re familiar with the different types of airplane engines, though, you may not … Read More

What Are the Different Types of Threaded Inserts?

Threaded inserts are commonly used to create threaded holes. Also known as threaded bushings, you can push them into a smooth hole. Once installed, threaded inserts will provide threading that supports other threaded fasteners. What are the different types of … Read More

What Is a T-Tail Airplane?

Have you heard of T-tail airplanes? Airplanes are often categorized according to their tail configuration. All airplanes have a tail. Also known as the empennage, it provides stability. In addition to V-tail and twin-tail airplanes, however, there are T-tail airplanes. … Read More

5 Things to Consider When Choosing Rod End Bearings

Are you looking to buy rod ends? Also known as heim and rose joints, they are used to create mechanical joints. Rod end bearings feature a threaded rod that’s attached to a bearing. You can use a rod end to … Read More

What Is Airplane Skin?

Airplanes are methodically manufactured so that they can withstand the harsh environment of high-altitude flights. At 30,000 feet, temperatures can range from minus 40 degrees to minus 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Along with these subfreezing temperatures, airplanes are exposed to turbulence, … Read More

The Beginner’s Guide to Locking Wire

When installing fasteners on an airplane, you may want to use locking wire. Airplanes feature thousands of fasteners. Over time, some of these fasteners may loosen. Locking wire can “lock” them in place, however, so that they don’t loosen. What … Read More

What Are Gurney Flaps on Airplanes?

Airplanes are often designed with a variety of wing devices. Gurney flaps are among the smallest wing devices. Located on the trailing edge of an airplane’s wings, they affect air pressure. Not all airplanes have gurney flaps. Since being introduced … Read More

4 Common Types of Hex Nut

Hex nuts are synonymous with threaded fasteners. They are typically used to secure the end of a bolt. After placing a bolt through two or more workpieces or parts, you can install a hex nut on the end of the … Read More