The Purchasing Hub Blogs

Aircraft auxiliary power units (APUs) are self-contained power systems meant to provide supplemental electrical and pneumatic energy for everything from cabin lighting to starting the main engines. Given their role in conserving main fuel sources for startup operations and supplying backup power as needed, operators should always put effort into maintaining APUs properly. This guide will take you through the main components of APUs to contextualize important maintenance tasks that should be carried out, in addition to common signs of failure that should be noted.

From small, general aviation aircraft to large commercial airlines, modern designs are increasingly being equipped with advanced systems that bolster performance and increase safety. Among the many systems that drive flight operations, the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) is notable for its ability to support power and thrust needs without pure reliance on the main engines. While not every aircraft requires an APU, most commercial and many military platforms integrate them due to their valuable contributions to ground operations, inflight redundancy, and overall system reliability. As such, it can be beneficial for those involved in the industry to have an understanding of what an APU does, how it operates, and why manufacturers choose to include them in various designs.

Selecting the appropriate parts for a rocket engine is a vital step in creating reliable propulsion for various spacecraft. With the extreme conditions these engines endure, the Federal Supply Class (FSC) 2845–which comprises rocket engines and components–is fundamental for aerospace and defense professionals to make the appropriate purchasing decisions. In this blog, we will explore the significance of FSC 2845 and examine the key items that fall under this classification.

Upholding the high levels of safety required of aviation demands a precise balance of technology and human control. While modern aircraft are equipped with advanced systems that assist in smooth and efficient operation, the role of the pilot remains irreplaceable. From taking off to landing, pilots rely on various control mechanisms that allow them to intuitively navigate, manage speed, and respond to changing conditions in the sky. In this blog, we will delve into the fascinating world of pilot control systems and examine how these integral components empower pilots to maneuver aircraft with precision.

A barebone system is a pre-assembled kit of computer hardware designed to provide the basic components necessary for building a functional computer. This system typically includes a motherboard, power supply, case, and sometimes a cooling system. However, barebone designs usually exclude key components like a CPU, RAM, storage, and graphics card, allowing users to customize their build according to specific needs and preferences. The flexibility and cost-effectiveness of barebone systems make them a popular choice among tech enthusiasts and businesses alike, so read on as we briefly discuss them.

Aircraft engines propel passengers and crew through the skies, enabling people to reach distant destinations rapidly. However, the threat of an engine fire always looms as a rare but potential hazard. To counteract this risk, aircraft are equipped with sophisticated engine fire protection systems, a complex network of mechanisms designed to promptly detect, contain, and extinguish fires.

Maintaining an aircraft in top-notch condition is crucial for the safety of both pilots and passengers. Among the many components that demand attention, aircraft magnetos play a pivotal role in numerous operations. If you are a pilot or an aircraft owner, you have likely heard the term "magneto overhaul" before. In this blog, we will discuss the significance of a full magneto overhaul and how it can keep your aircraft running smoothly if it features one.

As a specialized type of electrical generator, aircraft magnetos play a vital role within the ignition systems of airplane engines. These compact yet powerful devices supply the necessary spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixtures in engine cylinders or combustion chambers to ensure smooth and reliable power production. To better understand aircraft magnetos, we will explore their functionality and importance in the context of an airplane's electrical and ignition system.

Serving as the undercarriage of an aircraft, landing gear is used to support the vessel when it is not in flight, enabling it to take off, land, and taxi without damage. In general, wheeled landing gear is most commonly implemented, with skis or floats being used when flying over snow, ice, and/or water. However, skids are often used when flying over wetlands. High-speed aircraft tend to take advantage of retractable landing gear, which fold away during flight to reduce drag. To better understand why there are so many different types of landing gear arrangements in the aircraft industry, we will provide a brief overview of each and how they work. 

Magnetos are used on aircraft as a way to generate electrical current to support their combustion engines. In such engines, the magneto consists of a rotating magnet placed near a high-output coil. By using this technology, the magneto is able to convert mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy that continually feeds spark plugs. While most engines that use magnetos can rely on just one for the power they need, most modern aircraft use a dual-magneto system to best guarantee their safe and effective use in high-powered vessels. In this article, we discuss the use of magnetos on aircraft so that you can further your understanding of these crucial elements in modern aviation.