What Are Spring-Loaded Jack Locks?

Depending on your job, you may want to invest in a set of spring-loaded jack locks. They are used extensively in the workplace. As workolding solutions, spring-loaded jack locks make it easy to secure workpieces. So, what are spring-loaded jack … Continue reading

Bolts vs Rivets: What’s the Difference?

Fasteners are an essential part of all airplanes. Commercial jets, for instance, contain an average of 1.5 to 3 million fasteners. Fasteners are used to hold components together. Two of the most common types of fasteners used in the construction … Continue reading

5 Facts About Leading Edge Cuffs on Airplanes

Leading edge cuffs are commonly found on airplanes. Also known as drooped leading edges (DLEs), it’s an adjustable surface on the leading edge of an airplane’s wing. It’s a form airfoil modification. Leading edge cuffs modify an airplane’s wings by … Continue reading

5 Things to Consider When Choosing Tinnerman Nuts

Not all nuts feature a hexagonal shape. Nuts are available in a variety of shapes and styles. Tinnerman nuts, for instance, feature a flat square or rectangular shape. Also known as speed nuts, they can be clipped onto sheet metal … Continue reading

What Is Trailing-Arm Landing Gear?

Airplanes rely on landing gear for takeoffs and landings. It typically consists of a set of hydraulic-powered wheels. When landing, pilots will lower the airplane’s landing gear out of the undercarriage. While most landing gear systems feature hydraulic-powered wheels, though, … Continue reading

How Do Aerospace Drain Valves Work?

Aerospace drain valves are found on most airplanes. From commercial airliners to private and commuter airliners, most airplanes have multiple aerospace drain valves. Drain Valves Defined A drain valve is a fitting that’s designed to drain fluid from a given … Continue reading

What Are Push-On Retainers?

Threaded fasteners don’t always stay in assemblies. They can fall or otherwise work their way out of assemblies. A simple solution is to use push-on retainers. Push-on retainers are retaining rings that slide over the shaft of a threaded fastener. … Continue reading

5 Common Types of Trim Devices on Airplanes

Many airplanes feature trim devices. A trim device is an adjustable flight control surface that allows pilots to change the aerodynamic forces to which the airplane is exposed. With trim devices, pilots won’t have to constantly apply pressure to control … Continue reading

An Introduction to Fuel Breakway Valves

Fuel breakaway valves are commonly used on airplanes. With the exception of electric airplanes, all airplanes must be refueled. Refueling typically occurs at airports. At some airports, a tanker may pull up to airplanes to refuel them. At other airports, … Continue reading