Aviation, Electrical Blogs - Stacked NSN

Accurate classification of parts is vital for efficient procurement and operational readiness across both the U.S. government and private sectors. To streamline this process, Federal Supply Classes (FSCs) were established to group related components under specific categories. One such classification, FSC 6116, plays a vital role in settings that depend on fuel cell power units and their associated components, which we will explore further in this blog.

High-density interface printed circuit boards (HDI PCBs) are an incredible innovation in modern electronics, enabling the development of countless compact, high-performance devices across industries. However, HDI PCBs present unique challenges in terms of design and manufacturing, making it essential to adopt specialized processing solutions to facilitate optimal performance. In this blog, we will explore what high-density interface PCBs are, their benefits, challenges involved in their production, and some effective methods that are used to overcome such hurdles.

Shear pins are mechanical fail-safe components that are engineered to fracture when a system is subjected to excessive force or torque. By fracturing under these controlled conditions, they help prevent damage to surrounding equipment, especially benefiting assemblies that involve rotation or high mechanical loading. In this blog, we will explore types of systems that use shear pins, conditions that typically lead to their failure, and how operators can identify when a fracture has occurred.

In the complex world of aviation, where every component plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient flight, the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) stands as a vital system in modern aircraft. An APU is a self-contained generator used to provide power to an aircraft when its main engines are not running. While it might seem like a minor asset compared to the massive jet engines often propelling an aircraft forward, the APU serves several critical functions that contribute to the overall operation and safety of an aircraft.

In the vast realm of aviation, where precision and reliability are paramount, resistors play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of various systems. These practical devices are electronic components that regulate the flow of electric current in a circuit by either resisting or impeding its flow. To better understand resistors, we will explore some of the common types used in aviation, including adjustable power resistors and carbon film resistors, as well as shed light on their functionality and applications.

Spring pins, also commonly known as split or tension pins, are a common form of fastener that can be used to secure two or more parts together in an assembly. Spring pins are constructed from coiled spring steel or other similar materials, and their design permits them to compress and expand to fit snugly within a hole, creating a secure and highly reliable connection. As spring pins often vary in terms of their exact specifications and design, it can be beneficial to have a basic understanding of how to choose the right spring pin for your needs.

Despite being an essential component of an aircraft, engine mounts are frequently underappreciated and underrated. While overlooked, engine mounts are actually a sophisticated part of achieving proper aircraft operation. That being said, we will provide a brief overview of why these seemingly fragile mechanical components are important.

Jaw couplings are flexible connectors that use an elastomeric insert to transmit torque while accommodating minor shaft misalignment. To support these functions, they are typically built with a modular structure that enables fail-safe performance and dampens mechanical vibration. In this blog, we will explore how jaw couplings are constructed, where they are commonly applied, and how they should be handled during installation and maintenance.

A micrometer is an instrument used for making very fine measurements of dimensions such as length and diameter. Micrometers typically consist of a C-shaped frame with a moveable jaw that is operated by an integral screw. Metric micrometers in particular, generally measure in 0.01mm increments and imperial versions in 0.001 inches. Due to their size and design, micrometers can provide much more accurate measurements than other devices, such as dial or vernier calipers but this is highly dependent on the user’s care.

Used in a diverse range of environments from workbenches in garages to landing gear on aircraft, caster wheels are versatile rolling devices that may be used to effectively support a load. Typically, casters contain a single wheel that is housed within a frame and are often used on the bottom of furniture and heavy machinery to allow them to roll smoothly across the floor. This allows for heavier objects to be moved with ease when they are too heavy to lift, or could otherwise cause undue strain on the person carrying them. They may be made of metal, plastic, wood, or other materials for varying capability and resistance to environmental factors. With an array of uses, there are many different types of caster wheels available, the most common of which are described below.

Plate Casters: As the most common type, plate casters are characterized by their flat, square-shaped mounting surface. Often, they will have four holes, one on each corner of the mounting device, that are used to secure the plate caster to an object. To install, bolts or screws can be used for a permanent hold. Aside from providing easy installation, the square shape of these casters has excellent weight distribution so they are often preferred for larger loads.