Aviation Distribution Blog

Modern gas turbine engines, whether used for aerospace or power generation applications, are composed of a wide range of components expected to endure varying stressors and temperature conditions. As such, material selection for such powerplants necessitates an understanding of the role that each component plays in the engine’s overall operation. To begin, components must be able to handle high loads and excessive vibration, in addition to being able to resist oil, oxidation, or abrasives entering the engine.

Though turboprops may look dated in comparison to modern private jets, they have remained a strong competitor in the aviation market. Additionally, despite using the same inner system which harnesses combustive power, these two engine types vary by their capabilities and applications. In this article, we will discuss the major differences between turboprops and private jets, alongside exploring some notable advantages which have elevated turbojets for use among private aviation enthusiasts in recent years.

Gas turbine engines are a staple of many modern aircraft, allowing fuel and air to be optimally compressed, mixed, and ignited for the means of generating the propulsive force necessary for forward momentum and lift. While gas turbine engines are quite reliable and advanced, they can still face various problems from time to time which may detract from their overall performance and operability. Whether it is knowing how to fix the issue of plugged filters or dysfunctional fuel nozzles, having a general understanding of basic turbine maintenance for small but common issues is essential for any operator or owner.

Even before the invention of the first working helicopter, the concept for one had been a fascination for engineers and deep thinkers all over the globe. With two or more large turbine engines on the wings or tail, it is easy to see how a fixed-wing aircraft moves forward, but helicopters rely on a different source for their thrust. In this blog, we will be discussing the working mechanics behind how a helicopter is able to create thrust and therefore move forward, to the right and left, and even backwards.

In the realm of aviation, there are a variety of systems that may be used to create the thrust necessary for forward momentum. While most early aircraft depended on pistons and propellers for their propulsion, modern aircraft now often take advantage of the gas turbine, that of which is also used in industrial settings for power generation. Gas turbine engines come in a variety of subtypes, those of which include turbojets, turbofans, turboprops, and turboshafts. While each slightly varies in design and power production, all follow a similar set of operations. In this blog, we will discuss gas turbines in more detail, allowing you to have a better understanding of how they are put together and operate.

For years, transmission and engine rebuilders have focused their sights on determining the cause of crankshaft thrust bearing failure. While diagnosis can be difficult at times, many have observed that failure is more likely to occur with an automatic transmission setup. It is worth noting that this may not be the only reason, and failure can be traced to a single problem or a combination of problems. To better understand why crankshaft thrust bearings fail, we will cover their history, causes of failure, how to pinpoint the problem, and more.

When the Wright brothers took flight in 1903, many wondered how a plane could generate the power necessary to propel a 350 ton Boeing 747 into the air and keep it cruising at more than 640 mph. The extraordinary nature of these powerhouses is fascinating, even for those who get to work with them on a daily basis. As such, this blog will cover jet engines, the incredible apparatuses that make flight possible.

Rotary-wing aircraft, or rotorcraft, is heavier-than-air aircraft with rotary wings or rotor blades that produce lift by rotating around a vertical mast. The most well-known example of such vessels are helicopters, which have become a vital part of naval aviation. The helicopter has many military applications, such as anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and search & rescue functions, as well as minesweeping and amphibious warfare functions.

Aircraft are some of the most advanced and meticulously designed machines in modern engineering. Nothing, from the individual bearings to the large superstructures, is left up to chance when it comes to design and composition. One of the most critical elements in aircraft engineering has always been the material that various components are made from, which has changed many times over the years as material technology has advanced. Known for its reliability and cost-effectiveness, one type of material that has stuck around since the earliest days of aviation is stainless steel. In this blog, we will discuss this longstanding material and describe why it has played such a large part in aviation history. 

Airshows are events where aircraft are exhibited, and aerobatic demonstrations are quite common for entertaining onlookers. As aerobatic demonstrations often include various tricks, maneuvers, dives, and other complex techniques, they require pilots with high skill to successfully and safely carry out shows. While a pilot will need to have ample ability to expertly maneuver their aircraft, they also rely on various instruments that provide them with the necessary information to do so. One of the most important instruments that airshow pilots consistently monitor is the airspeed indicator, allowing them to conduct various tricks and maneuvers without facing a stall.