What You Need to Know About Aircraft Hardware Kits?

Aircraft hardware kits have become extremely popular in recent years. They provide several benefits, including reduced cost and convenience. However, when it comes to choosing which hardware to buy can be tricky.

Special purpose fasteners

There are many types of fasteners used in aircraft hardware kits. These include nuts, bolts, rivets, and structural fasteners. Each type of fastener has its own set of requirements. They are identified with a series of letters and numbers and their respective specification number. Aerospace fasteners are designed to be extremely strong, durable, and light. To do so, they are made from different materials. These include titanium, steel, and aluminum. The material chosen for a particular piece of aircraft hardware will depend on the weight of the load it is supposed to support. In addition, the manufacturer will also consider the requirements of the hole in which it is to be installed. Lastly, the plane’s size will affect the cutting tool’s needs. 

High-shear pin rivets

High-shear pin rivets are fasteners for holding shear joints in aircraft structural assemblies. The first use of high-shear rivets in aviation was on the North American Mustang fighter. They are used for attaching aluminum sheets. These rivets are installed with pneumatic riveting hammers. There are several types of these fasteners. Some are similar to blind rivets, while others are designed to be inserted into the workpiece with a manufactured head on the far side. Various materials are used for these rivets, including 2024 aluminum, silicon bronze, titanium, and tungsten. Lockbolts are a type of high-shear pin rivet that combine the features of a bolt and a rivet. Unlike traditional rivets, they are stronger, have no need for lock washers, and are installed quickly and easily.

Blind bolts

Blind bolts are one of the best ways to fasten steel to steel. They are very strong, durable, and tamper-proof. Their installation is simple and easy to manage. In addition, they can be installed in tight spaces. It is essential to choose the correct blind bolt. The strength of the bolt should match the load. It would be best if you also considered the shear resistance. Shear resistance refers to the maximum load that the bolt can hold before fracture. The bolt will wear out quickly if it doesn’t meet these specifications. Depending on the application, blind bolts can be manufactured from different materials. Typical bolts are made from zinc-plated carbon steel for the collar. Other materials include titanium and black oxide. Unlike rivets, blind bolts are easier to install. However, they are more expensive. They are used in many industries, such as aviation and shipbuilding.

Traceability

The traceability of aircraft hardware kits is vital for the aerospace industry. If a part fails, a trace can help identify the issue, allowing for faster troubleshooting and corrective action. It also boosts the brand image. The aviation industry has faced the challenge of developing a common approach to aircraft part trace. A lack of standardization can lead to confusion among suppliers and manufacturers. This can result in interminable negotiations and time wastage. Several quality assurance programs have established traceability guidelines. These guidelines include the use of unique identifiers and data carriers. They also provide the framework for a repeatable process. Whether a part is life-limited or not, the aircraft owner or operator must be able to determine the status of the part. Sometimes, a part’s history can be distinguished from its Airworthiness Approval Tag or the release documents.