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Aircraft transponders are communication devices used by pilots and air traffic control (ATC) personnel to keep in contact during flight. While the skies may not seem that busy compared to roads, air traffic must be closely monitored and controlled to avoid collisions. Communication also functions to warn pilots of dangerous flying conditions and emergencies. As such, pilots rely on guidance from ground control’s observations and measurements to follow the ideal path to their destination. For this reason, transponders are employed to make sure this vital aspect of flight is possible.

In electronics, rectifiers are electrical devices which are made up of one or more diodes that convert alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC). In fact, even cell phone chargers utilize rectifiers to convert the AC from the outlets in our homes to DC. With countless electronics, rectifiers are available in different types.

Blind flange valves, or blind valves, are devices that restrict flow in pipes in order to carry out adjustments and maintenance on machinery, systems, and other various apparatuses. More than that, they provide a visual indication of their position, providing visibility to operators. They are also called 8 blind flanges as they have a rotating 8 shape, where one loop is a hollow disk and the other is a solid loop.

Whether an aircraft is a single-engine trainer or a large commercial airliner, all utilize a variety of systems to direct and manage the flow of fluids throughout internal assemblies. Fluid systems serve many important roles in aircraft, often being used to transport fuel for combustion, oil for lubrication and cooling, hydraulic fluids for power transfer, and much more. All of these unique systems consist of fluid lines, hoses, fittings, and connectors, all of which work together to ensure proper fluid transportation. In this blog, we will provide a brief overview of aircraft fluid lines and fittings, allowing you to better understand their functionality and common types.

During the starting process for a reciprocating engine, the overall output of the magneto may be low as a result of slow engine cranking speed. The cranking speed is often affected by the voltage induced to the magneto circuit, that of which can be bolstered with a stronger magnet or by having an increased rate of relative motion between the conductor and ignition magneto. As these two factors are unchangeable in a finalized magneto ignition system, the only way to raise induced voltage is to increase the speed at which the magnet itself rotates. In order to generate the speed necessary for a magnet to successfully create a jumping spark for ignition, the magneto is attached to an auxiliary ignition unit.

Attenuators are two-port electronic devices, consisting of a series of resistors that reduce the strength of a radio or audio signal. Attenuators are considered passive circuits as they work without the need for a power supply. They are available as either fixed attenuators with a fixed attenuation level or as a continuously changing attenuator.

For the reciprocating engine of an aircraft to optimally transfer power generated by the internal combustion engine to the propeller assembly, an apparatus known as the crankshaft is used. As an essential element of the power transmission system, crankshafts and their connecting rod convert the linear movement of a firing piston into rotational motion that is used to drive the propeller assembly. In this blog, we will discuss the design and functionality of the crankshaft, allowing you to better understand its use and importance in the realm of aviation.

A pressure switch is a common mechanical or electronic device found in various fluid applications, capable of activating when the pressure of a process fluid surpasses a setpoint or threshold. In order to determine that such values have been reached, a pressure switch may rely on various elements such as bourdon tubes, pistons, membranes, or diaphragms that exhibit changes when pressure is exerted. These elements are then attached to the contacts of the switch, allowing for the device to open or close based on its configuration and design. Finding use in gas systems, HVAC equipment, instrumentation, piping, and other settings, it can be highly beneficial to have an understanding of their working principle and parts.

Often used in conjunction with a bolt and nut, locking washers are extremely useful for securing components together. With the use of a locking washer, a bolt can take on heavier loads with a more even distribution of weight and maintain superior vibration resistance. As there are several types of locking washers that can be used for a variety of applications, it is essential to have a solid understanding of different options before choosing one.

Hydraulic power units, also known as hydraulic power packs, are systems that may create rotary motion, linear motion, or force through the use of enclosed and pressurized fluids. Hydraulic power units are self-contained, such systems comprising a motor, pump, and fluid reservoir. With the use of their assembly and fluids, pressure may be generated for driving parts.