ASAP Fasteners Blog

When we gaze up at the sky and see an airplane soaring overhead, it is easy to marvel at the sheer wonder of human ingenuity that allows such massive machines to take flight. However, behind the elegance of their flight lies a complex interplay of various components working in tandem. In this blog post, we will delve into the key elements that make up an airplane: the fuselage, engine, cockpit, wings, and flaps.

In the aviation industry, safety is paramount, and every component of an aircraft–from the colossal wings to the tiniest screws–plays a crucial role in ensuring that passengers and crew reach their destination easily. Aircraft fasteners are components of vast importance, serving to hold these flying marvels together. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the fascinating realm of aircraft fasteners, exploring their significance, common types, and how they contribute to aviation safety and reliability.

In 1933, the famous eyepatch-wearing Wiley Post touched down in New York after completing the first around-the-world solo flight in seven days, 18 hours, and 49 minutes. This being his second famous flight, Post had completed an around-the-world trip just two years earlier with navigator Harold Gatty onboard to keep him on course and alert. So how was he able to complete a similar flight with no partner on board? The answer, of course, was autopilot, which kept him flying in the right direction while resting. This was not the first time autopilot was employed, nor would it be the last, as autopilot has now become a common feature on aircraft that uses many of the same basic principles as were utilized on Post’s flight more than a century ago.

How Does Autopilot Work On Aircraft?

The Boeing Company, an American multinational corporation, was awarded two government contracts valuing a total of over $54 Billion in February 2014.In mid-February, 2014, the U.S Air Force awarded Boeing with a 10+ yearlong contract with a total value of approximately $52 Billion. The contract calls for Boeing to produce a newly designed Tanker called the KC-46 which will costs $250 - $300 million each. These new tankers are to replace Boeing’s old military spec KC-135 tankers. The KC-46 is larger than the old KC-135, has a higher transfer fuel load, and the passenger seating has been increased from 37 to 114 seats. Performance has also been made better as well as the KC-46 has a cruising range of about 5-times that of the KC-135 which will allow better service over longer distances.

Just this year in 2014, Meggitt PLC, a British aerospace business, was awarded a contract to supply their newest advanced braking and monitoring system for the Gulfstream G500 and G600, the staple of the Gulfstream aircraft portfolio. The multi-million dollar contract for the business jets stipulates that Meggitt provide advanced wheels and compact carbon brakes. This new technology features carbon composite heatsink material and anti-oxidant coating that will optimize the weight and reliability of the brakes. Both the G500 and G600, which boast a range of 5,000 to 6,200 nautical miles and a max operating speed of Mach 0.925, can attribute their performance to Meggitt, which is supplying brake-by-wire control systems and high performance braking for both aircraft as opposed to conventional pedal braking.

Founded in 1927 and headquartered in Vero Beach Florida, Piper Aircraft, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of general aviation aircraft. Piper Aircraft is the only general aviation manufacturer to offer a complete line of aircraft worldwide. They offer modern, efficient, reliable, and time-tested aircraft from single-engines up to six-place turboprop aircraft. Piper Aircraft is owned by Brunei Ministry of France and is a member of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association. Piper Aircraft aviators are single and twin engine aircraft. The models that Piper offers include M-Class, Twin Class, and Trainer Class. The single-engine M-Class series such as the Meridian, Mirage and Matrix offers individuals and businesses elegant performance and value.

In February of 2014, Enstrom Helicopter unveiled its newest product on opening day of the Heli-Expo 2014. The TH-180, which is a low-cost scaled-down version of the company’s currently widely-used FX-280 three-seater, will launch with an approximate price tag of $365,000. This two-seat, piston-powered training aircraft is powered by a 210-hp Lycoming HIO-390 engine and is expected to incure costs of only $175 per hour to operate while burning less than 12 gph of fuel.The aircraft will also feature a Lycoming engine governor as well as an electric clutch switch. Compared with the larger and more expensive FX-280 model, the TH-180 boasts more versatile landing gear and a frame that is 500 pounds lighter, amounting to about $2,250 total pounds in gross weight.