What Are Split Lock Washers?

When shopping for washers, you may come across split lock washers. They are used to distribute the load of a threaded fastener — just like all washers. With their split design, however, split lock washers also protect the threaded fasteners … Read More

5 Facts About Airplane Wing Spoilers

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

How Are Sheet Metal Screws Are Measured?

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

What Is a Heavy Jet? Get the Facts

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

How High Do Turboprop Airplanes Fly?

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

Electrical Contact Cleaners: Everything You Need to Know

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

Low vs High Bypass Turbofan Engines: What’s the Difference?

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

Why Copper Rivets Aren’t Used in Airplanes

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

The Benefits of Propeller Coating Paint

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