Aircraft hardware kits are a great way to rig your aircraft. They can be purchased over time and can reduce construction costs. However, they may have limited flexibility.
To increase flexibility, companies should consider a different planning approach. This approach involves categorizing parts, creating flexible kits with the required parts, and developing a building plan.
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Traceability
Traceability, or requirements traceability, is crucial to any product development process. It is essential for regulated industries. It gives teams visibility into all activity related to a requirement, both forward and backward. It allows them to identify potential production risks and minimize risks.
Aircraft hardware kits contain a variety of fasteners that are used to assemble and maintain an aircraft. Some fasteners are made of zinc or cadmium-plated steel, while others are more environmentally friendly. These alternatives are increasingly available for aircraft builders.
It’s important to use the right hardware for an aircraft project, as it is essential for flight safety. Using the wrong fasteners can lead to an unsafe airplane, so it’s necessary to consult the plans and assembly manual for guidance. Also, buy your hardware from a reputable supplier. The company should provide a complete list of components for the aircraft you’re building.
Completeness
Airplane builders need a variety of hardware and materials to complete their projects. These include rivets, screws, and bolts. Most are available in the hardware store, but some are not. All parts used on an aircraft must be made from high-quality, corrosion-resistant metals. They should also have a high fatigue resistance and be labeled with an AN number.
The AN number system is designed to identify fasteners by specification, with letters and dashes identifying size, type, and material. Airplane builders use the AN numbers in their plans and assembly manuals to identify each piece of hardware needed.
The AN system is also helpful in describing how each piece of hardware is installed. For example, a woven splice in an aircraft cable is more time-consuming than a hand-tied or tuck splice but offers greater strength. Using only the right equipment for an aircraft is crucial to its safety and performance. This is especially important when dealing with critical components such as the aircraft engine and landing gear.
Cost
Aircraft hardware kits come in various sizes and price ranges. For example, a small screw kit may contain only screws and washers to replace nonstructural hardware in your aircraft. A larger kit may include various parts, including wing nuts and bolts, requiring special removal tools. Aircraft hardware kits also have many corrosion-resistant metals, including stainless steel. They are excellent for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) departments.
Aircraft owners and mechanics should always use the hardware specified in their aircraft plans or assembly manual. The proper hardware is designed to withstand the stresses of flight, such as extreme temperatures and turbulence.
Aircraft hardware is typically made from AN (Aircraft Numerical) specification fasteners. These fasteners meet stringent aerospace and Army-Navy industry guidelines, which include design specifications, material quality, tolerancing, and coatings/finishes. For instance, AN cotter pins are manufactured from cadmium-plated or stainless steel. They are also marked with dash numbers that indicate diameter and length.
Suppliers
Aircraft hardware suppliers provide kits for various purposes, including ensuring compliance with service bulletins. They also offer custom engineering services to meet client’s needs, including aircraft transformations. Their engineering expertise can help you make the right decisions and achieve your goals for your project.
Using the correct hardware is crucial when building an airplane. You should consult the aircraft plans or kit manual for specific information on what type of hardware to use. It is also essential to use only the hardware specified by the manufacturer. It is possible to substitute parts with hardware of lesser quality, but this can be dangerous. Aircraft hardware is typically made of steel or brass and is heat treated to a higher strength than the hardware in a hardware store. It is also corrosion-resistant and able to withstand a wide range of temperatures. When dealing with hydraulic systems, such as those requiring 5606 hydraulic fluid, it becomes even more critical to adhere strictly to manufacturer specifications. It is available from several different manufacturers.