Actuators are common devices found within a number of systems, serving to convert a control signal into manageable mechanical energy. As a form of energy converter, actuators produce motion that is rotary and linear, enabling basic machine functionality for countless apparatuses. Actuators often vary in their design and capabilities, and a major way to classify such devices is through the principle that enables their energy conversion capabilities. Hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal, electrostatic, and electromechanical types are all options that one may use, each differing in their performance and applications. In this blog, we will be discussing the electromagnetic actuator in particular, allowing you to better understand its design and uses.

Cables and wires often account for 3% of the total weight of an aircraft. The figure 3% looks small when you consider it as a percentage, but the consideration changes when you convert the value into kilos. In recent decades, many have been trying to improve fleet fuel efficiency since the aviation industry spends one-third of its annual income on fuel. To comply with increasing rules and regulations concerning noise and fuel emission, it has become increasingly necessary for aircraft to be lighter and more energy-efficient.

While many commercial and transportation aircraft have standard sets of processes for undertaking an emergency landing, military aircraft pilots may not always be afforded the chance or ability to safely land their vehicle when something goes wrong. To ensure the safety of a fighter jet pilot, defense-oriented aircraft are often designed with what is known as a plane ejection seat. With aircraft ejection seats, pilots can be expelled from the cockpit of an aircraft quickly and easily.

As aircrafts are subjected to a wide range of operational environments, they endure countless stressors that can affect their service lives. That being said, aircraft inspections are key to their optimal performance. Without inspections, aircraft can pose a danger to aircrew and passengers if wear and tear is overlooked. Beyond regular maintenance procedures, there are a few special inspections that determine their airworthiness.

Aircraft are replete with instruments that ensure their optimal functionality. Gyroscopic devices are just one example which are used for measuring or maintaining orientation and angular velocity. One of the three fundamental gyroscopic devices aircraft are equipped with is a heading indicator. A heading indicator is accompanied by a magnetic compass, allowing pilots to traverse the sky with ease.

Since the advent of aviation, aircraft and their engines have faced significant advancements with the rise of the jet engine and the current push towards electric flight. Rotary engines, in particular, are an older type of powerplant having long served aircraft prior to World War I. Despite their long history, rotary aircraft engines can still be found on some models, as well as on various early motorcycles and automobiles. As one of the first engine options for piston-powered aircraft, it can be beneficial to have an understanding of the functionality and design of the rotary aircraft engine.

A resistor is an electronic part type that is found in many circuit assemblies, tasked with implementing electrical resistance. Coming in a variety of forms, resistors can be used for adjusting signal levels, dividing voltages, terminating transmission lines, biasing active elements, and much more. There are also two major groups of resistors, those being fixed resistor and variable resistor types. While fixed resistor components exhibit a set resistance level that remains constant over time, variable resistors are able to have their resistances changed so that they can adjust circuit elements or act as a sensing device. In this blog, we will discuss the common types of resistors that feature adjustable resistance, allowing you to better understand how such components are used within the realm of electronics.

As aircraft continue to advance in terms of efficiency, aerodynamics, and performance, so too do the various internal equipment and furnishings within them. Aircraft seats are a constant evolving feature, airliners consistently finding new ways to improve the balance between weight and comfort. Regardless of whether a flight is short distance or international, customers will often remember an uncomfortable seat, possibly damaging the reputation of the airline. As reduced weight and integrity is paramount for fuel-efficiency, it is incumbent on the airliner to find a solution that can benefit the company while appeasing customers. To strike this perfect balance, many have been experimenting with various materials.

A majority of aircraft rely on the combustion of fuel-air mixtures to create the propulsion necessary for flight, and the process of ignition is very controlled and regulated to ensure proper performance and operations. Many aircraft ignition systems take advantage of spark plugs for combustion, often coming in pairs for each cylinder unlike the standard one spark plug configuration found in automobiles. The presence of dual spark plugs is extremely important, however, ensuring reliability, power, and even combustion.

Gas powered turbine engines have been a common powerplant option for aerospace applications since the early 20th century, powering countless aircraft for the means of flight. Since their initial debut for powered flight, there have been a number of developments to such technologies. As of the present, there are four main types of turbine engines, each of which presents its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this blog, we will provide a brief overview of each, allowing you to better understand their unique designs and functionalities.