One of the most important aspects of building an engine is the verification and adjustment of bearing clearance. Doing this helps establish a solid and reliable rotating assembly foundation. Unfortunately, there is no quick and easy shortcut to checking bearing clearances, but this blog will cover the basics of how to measure bearing clearance while informing you of how to avoid some common mistakes. Read more >>

Most people know the difference between plugs and receptacles. In short, a plug is the “male” counterpart that functions as an electrical connection. This part is then attached to the “female” counterpart, which is called the receptacle. They can be placed anywhere where there is an electrical conductivity in the household or in the workspace. In the United States, the receptacle and plug are made up of three plugs that must be fitted into three holes. However in other countries, the plug and receptacle take different forms, which can range from two plugs to just one plug. For more information on common connector plugs and receptacles, read this handy guide below. Read more >>

With the debut and advancements of the instrument landing system (ILS), aviation navigation was revolutionized. With such guidance, aircraft are able to utilize instrument-based techniques to safely guide aircraft of all types through the approach and landing procedures, ensuring a secure and cautious touchdown during even some of the most challenging environmental conditions. In this blog, we will discuss how aircraft utilize radio technology, glide slope indicators, and other instrument approach system methods to safely perform instrument landings. Read more >>

While welding has a long rooted history dating back to the Bronze Age, it was not until the 19th century in which modern welding procedures were invented. With many new welding techniques, industrial manufacturing was revolutionized and multiple structures and components began to rely on such methods. World War I saw many new uses of welding, including some of the first instances of welding being used to construct aircraft. While many aircraft primarily rely on a variety of fasteners and methods to maintain a rigid structure, welding still plays a major role in the construction of multiple aircraft parts. Read more >>

When flying in a plane as either a passenger or employee, it is no surprise to say that aircraft are very loud during their operation. When leaving an aircraft, many may be familiar with feeling ear barotrauma which comes in the form of a “clogged” sensation. This is due to a number of noises that are caused both by the aircraft, as well as from outside forces acting upon the plane. To mitigate the effects of soundproofing and protect passengers and employees from hearing damage, thorough aircraft soundproofing is implemented. In this blog, we will discuss the sources of sound that affect hearing on aircraft, as well as the types of soundproofing that are used to dampen their adverse effects. Read more >>

The piston engine, also referred to as a reciprocating engine, is an engine that utilizes pistons to transform pressure into rotational motion. As an internal combustion engine, the piston engine performs similar to those that are present within cars, though they have certain modifications that make them more viable for use in aerospace applications. There are various piston aircraft engine types, and these include those such as inline, rotary, and radial engines. In this blog, we will discuss how piston engines function, as well as some common types. Read more >>

Read more >>

The Vertical Speed Indicator (VSI), one of the simplest yet most important instruments at a pilot’s disposal, is a tool used to indicate the rate of climb or descent of an aircraft. The VSI uses the common pitot-static system to determine vertical speed and displays the result via a needle and circular scale instrument. In this blog, we will take a look at VSIs, what components they are made of, and how they work. Read more >>

Aircraft turbine jet engines are a very complex and powerful machine, enabling humans to achieve the rapid worldwide flight that we had only dreamed of for most of our history. While the first aircraft was made in 1903, it was not until the 1930’s and 1940’s that countries like the United States, England, and Germany were able to design, manufacture, and implement the jet engine. In this blog, we will discuss how jet engines are developed and manufactured in the modern day. Read more >>

Since the first flight of the Wright brothers in 1903, aircraft technology and capabilities have come a long way. The speed, power, and maneuverability of aircraft has redefined how we fly, but has also created a demand and need for accurate flight readings for safety. Conventional mechanical instruments did not always have accurate indications, and they often faced various problems and risk of failure the more they were pushed. Luckily, the solution to these problems came in the air data computer which revolutionized aircraft readings. Read more >>