A systematic and optimized approach to aircraft inspection leads to improved safety and economic outcomes. In addition to familiarity with the FAA-mandated inspection list, operators may also benefit from implementing regular process improvement strategies. Whether the improvements involve checklist optimization, work order tracking, or the generation of customizable reports, it is critical to approach each with cost and efficiency in mind. In this blog, we will discuss the principles of aircraft inspection while also describing some strategies that may enhance operations.

While traversing the sky, aircraft rely on the shape of their wings and fuselage to achieve ample lift through the manipulation of airflow as they move forward. When traveling in colder climates where temperatures are below freezing, there is often the risk of moisture present on various surfaces turning into ice, creating deposits that have the chance of disrupting air flow, blocking ports, inhibiting flight surface movement, and much more. This can both detract from performance as well as present potential hazards if instruments and systems lose functionality. As ice can even form on the front windshield and block the view of pilots, it is crucial that there are resources in place to prevent ice formation. Luckily, most modern aircraft feature de-icing and anti-icing systems, those of which work to prevent the formation of ice and remove any existing deposits.

Aircraft bearings are an essential part of countless systems and devices that are crucial for flight. They are used to keep the moving assemblies of aircraft in good working order and are in many different aircraft parts. Aircraft bearings are usually made from steel or other solid materials and are available in many different sizes. The most common aircraft bearing installation location is within a socket, allowing for flight control surfaces to be connected to the aircraft's frame. Aircraft bearings can also be installed through the staking method, that of which is used to secure aircraft parts to the aircraft's structure. Aircraft bearings are an essential part of aircraft maintenance and keep aircraft in good working order.

Automotive relays are electromechanical relays found in automobiles such as cars, trucks, cans, and trailers, and they may be used for numerous applications to control circuits. As a wide variety of options exist to tackle different needs, it can be very important for one working with such components to have a basic understanding of each and what they do. In this piece, we will provide a brief overview of the most common types of automotive relays, their design, and applications.

The buildup of ice on the wings of aircraft and other surfaces can be highly detrimental to flight, detracting from the aerodynamics of structures which can lead to losses in performance and various hazards. To avoid such issues, aircraft utilize various methods to remove ice as it forms, and such solutions are known as de-icing equipment. As there are various types of aircraft de-icing systems that can be used, each varying in its advantages and drawbacks, it can be useful to have a basic understanding of the most common forms.

As technology continues to advance over the years and more processes are automated, there is a growing worry that many positions may become obsolete as human employees are replaced by robots. Within aircraft maintenance sectors, it is a desire of many companies to ease the workload of technicians through automation, but this is not an immediate call for concern. Rather, the human component of the technician workforce is something that is not foreseen to be automated anytime soon, nor may it ever. As such, it begs the question of how technician processes can be assisted by automation for increased efficiency and accuracy.

Operating any vehicle safely, whether it be an automobile, ship, or aircraft, requires the constant monitoring of fuel levels. Airplanes, in particular, demand the most narrow tolerances with regard to operating conditions. How then can pilots have the most up-to-date information on current fuel levels? In this article, we will discuss the various fuel system indicators set in place today and how they help commercial and private aircraft operate safely.

Relays are electric switches that use electromagnetism to convert small, electrical stimuli into larger currents. The conversion is executed by activating electromagnets in an electrical input to form or break existing currents. Often found in circuits, relays are used to reduce the current that flows through the primary control switch. A relatively high capacity relay can be turned on and off by using a lower amperage switch, timer, or sensor.

Bearings are components found in countless moving assemblies, facilitating and constraining motion while mitigating friction between moving surfaces. Bearings also come in numerous types, including variations such as the cylindrical bearing, rolling bearing, plain bearing, and more. When one procures and implements bearings within an assembly, it is important that they are handled and mounted correctly for the means of protecting the bearing and ensuring that it will perform optimally. If bearings are not cared for prior to and during the mounting process, they can face excess wear and tear, presenting the possibility of part failure which can lead to assembly damage—or worse. In this blog, we will briefly discuss bearing mounting, ensuring that your bearings are implemented correctly for their optimal functionality.

Ground support equipment (GSE) refers to the various equipment at an airport that is used for servicing aircraft between flights. This equipment can range in type, many being used for ground power operations, aircraft mobility, or cargo & passenger loading procedures. Due to the roles that such equipment serve, it is important that they are well maintained and properly used to avoid breakdowns or hazardous situations. In this blog, we will discuss the basics of GSE maintenance, ensuring that you understand how to properly care for your various investments.