Aircraft indication instruments serve a critical role in flight operations by providing crews with real-time information about aircraft system performance and configuration. These devices are integrated into cockpit displays to support operational awareness, provide early fault detection, and ensure proper response across all phases of flight. In this blog, we will explore several common types of indication instruments used in aircraft systems and the essential roles they serve during flight, so read on to learn more.
Learn MoreWhile piloting an aircraft, it is very important that one is well aware of the starting process for their engine, ensuring that it starts and runs smoothly without issue. With turboprop and turbofan engines, the process of starting operations may differ from smaller, lightweight trainers. As such, it can be highly beneficial to become familiar with such starting processes in the chance that you will one day pilot such an aircraft.
Learn MoreWhen a pilot is conducting a flight, it is paramount that they have ample data on various flight conditions ranging from altitude to heading. Airspeed in particular is very beneficial for safety, efficiency, and flight planning, and such values are measured through the use of the pitot-static system. Also supporting altitude and vertical speed indicators, the pitot-static systems garners readings of outside air pressure to create measurements that are computed by air data computers and transponders. To help you better understand how airspeed values are measured, we will provide a brief overview of the pitot-static system and how it creates readings for the airspeed indicator.
Learn MoreVacuum pumps are devices that generate low-pressure spaces by drawing gas molecules out of a sealed chamber. A vacuum can be defined as a state in which a chamber has a lower pressure than the ambient atmosphere or adjacent systems. To acquire a better understanding of vacuum systems, we will provide a brief overview of common types and their applications.
Learn MoreUnless you are an electrical engineer or hardware specialist, defining the differences between oscillators and crystals is difficult. Utilized in processors and similar electrical devices, oscillators and crystals can be found in the Central Processing Unit (CPU) of desktop computers, laptops, and other electronic gadgets. Their ultimate goal is allowing a processor to work.
Learn MoreWhile lift is an aerodynamic force that is paramount for an aircraft to maintain flight, there are times in which the generation of lift needs to be disrupted for certain flight maneuvers. Used in flight and while on the ground, spoilers are devices present on a wing that are able to reduce the amount of lift that is created during movement. Oftentimes, such devices are relied on for reducing speed during flight, and ground spoilers are highly beneficial when landing on a runway.
Learn MoreRadio frequency (RF) cables are essential components to countless RF systems, ranging from basic transceiver devices to communication systems present in aviation applications. RF cables known as test cables are important for the optimal transfer of power signals between two equipment pieces, devices, or to a transmitting antenna. To ensure that such devices function as intended, it is important to choose the right type of cable with specifications that are compatible with certain applications and systems.
Learn MoreNavigation aids and instruments are highly beneficial for pilots, allowing them to optimize flight procedures through varying means. Radio magnetic indicators (RMI) and Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) are both commonly found on airliners, each of which aids pilots during flight operations.
Learn MoreReciprocating engines rely on piston assemblies to convert the force of combustion into mechanical motion that drives the crankshaft. These assemblies are composed of multiple interdependent parts, each engineered to endure high temperatures, pressures, and mechanical stress while maintaining precise linear motion. In this blog, we will explore several key components that make up a typical reciprocating engine piston assembly and explain the role each part plays in overall engine performance.
Learn MoreFiber optic communication systems are revolutionizing our ability to transmit data, far surpassing conventional copper wiring and other transfer mediums in a number of ways. Utilizing lightwave technology to transmit data in the form of light, fiber optics are used to transmit voice, video, telemetry, and data over local area networks and long distances.
Learn MoreWhen an aircraft is parked at a terminal and is awaiting its next flight operation, it is crucial that servicing can quickly be conducted to ensure rapid turn-around times for maintaining tight airline scheduling. With the use of ground support equipment (GSE), various operations may be carried out while the aircraft is on the runway. Ground support equipment can serve many needs, including ground power operations, loading operations for passengers and cargo, aircraft mobility, and much more.
Learn MoreGears are machine components that mesh with toothed parts to transmit torque, and they serve as a crucial part type for countless machinery equipment, vehicles, appliances, and more. Bevel gears in particular are a specific gear type that are used in applications where there is a need for changing the axis of rotation for a shaft. A bevel gear system can feature various bevel gear variations, though most are cone-shaped gears which transmit their power between two intersecting axes. Bevel gears are used in many powered tools and automotive assemblies, thus being aware of their common types and how they are used can be very beneficial.
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