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Across the exterior and interior of a typical aircraft, a variety of lighting systems will be used to ensure optimal safety, navigation, and communication during flight operations. Out of every type of light fixture that is found on a plane, navigation lights in particular are very important for maintaining flight safety during low-visibility and adverse weather conditions. To help you better understand how these specific systems serve pilots and operations, read on as we discuss their design, functionality, types, and best maintenance practices.
Learn MoreThe flight data recorder (FDR), also known as the "black box," is an essential component in modern aviation. Its primary function is to record information about operational parameters and cockpit communications, providing invaluable information during investigations following an aviation incident or accident. In this blog, we will delve into the functionality of the flight data recorder, its relation to the cockpit voice recorder (CVR), and the significance of the data they both collect.
Learn MoreGas turbine engines have revolutionized the transportation and power generation industries with their incredible efficiency and versatility. From aircraft gas turbine engines to turboshaft engines used in helicopters, these powerhouses of engineering have made a profound impact on modern technology. In this blog, we will delve into what a gas turbine engine is, its fundamental components, and the myriad of benefits it offers.
Learn MoreFlight control surfaces are one of the most important parts of a typical aircraft, allowing for pilots to have more control over the aerodynamic forces acting upon surfaces. While many areas that generate lift are fixed, flight control surfaces are adjustable areas that are managed by the pilot through controls present in the cockpit. Coming in numerous forms, flight control surfaces permit a pilot to govern the speed or trajectory of the aircraft as they adjust each surface.
Learn MoreAs piston aircraft engines operate through the combustion of fuel-and-air mixtures, a great amount of heat is generated over time which can pose hazards to surrounding components if left alone. While many piston aircraft utilize the flow of air to cool down many internal components, the general assembly of such aircraft engines will often deter equal cooling to all cylinders. In order to achieve more uniform cooling to mitigate the formation of hotspots, most air-cooled piston engines utilize structures known as cowling and baffles.
Learn MoreA gasket is a sealing material placed between connecting flanges to create a static seal within a pipe. This seal will ensure the pipe remains leak-proof in all operating conditions. Different types of gaskets are used to achieve varying leak-proof seals between pipe flanges. Regardless of type, the primary function of gaskets is to seal the irregularities of each face of a flange such that there will be no leakage of the service fluid from the flange joint. In piping, there are three types of gaskets used: non-metallic, metallic, and composite. In this blog, we will discuss all three in detail.
Learn MoreTurbine engines are one of the most important systems for many aircraft, providing for the combustion of fuel to generate propulsion and flight. To begin the combustion process, the engine depends on the ignition system to generate a spark that can kickstart the combustion process with fuel ignition. Because of this critical role that turbine ignition systems play, it is important that they can be relied on to always operate and start the engine. An engine that cannot start could cause lengthy downtime, causing both maintenance expenditures and delays in flight schedules. Having the turbine engine igniters and other turbine engine parts inspected regularly can help ensure that such issues do not come about. In this blog, we will discuss turbine engine ignition system troubleshooting and maintenance.
Learn MoreThough it seems inherent to include human factors in cockpit design, this notion has changed considerably since--. Today’s pilot is familiar with the presence of adjustable seats, reach envelopes, control locations, and other crucial amenities within a cockpit. This was not, however, always the case. From the U.S. Air Force to commercial jets, aircraft design was not always based on human safety and comfort.
Learn MoreAs the winter season begins, it’s important to know how to preheat your plane. But first, you might ask, when should one preheat their airplane? Most experts say when the temperature hits below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, it's usually a good idea to preheat. But, if the temperature drops below 15 degrees Fahrenheit, you should definitely preheat. Preheating is essential to maintaining your aircraft, especially considering the parts for aircraft are very expensive— it is best to prevent unnecessary damage and fatigue. Airplane maintenance professionals say starting up a cold aircraft engine without preheating can cause up to 500 hours of wear on the piston.
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