torque tools for helicopter maintenance

Aircraft fasteners are incredibly important components of any machine, and helicopters are no different. The main rotor of main helicopters is held in place by a so-called “Jesus nut,” called such by flight crews because to lose it was to have the main rotor detach completely and come face to face with him. While some helicopters do not feature a Jesus nut, all of them require fasteners that are precisely secured to ensure safe and controlled flight operations. This is why precision torque tools are so critical for helicopter maintenance, as every single nut, bolt, and screw must be tightened to exact specifications. If left loose, one can come free and damage the engine, propeller blades, or other components while in flight. If tightened too far, they can stress the housings and cause them to crack from the pressures and vibrations of flight.

The most critical components for fastening are the helicopter engine’s shafts connecting to the main and tail rotor, and the swashplate assembly. The shafts that power the main and tail rotor spin at extremely high rates per minute, and must be thoroughly secured. The swashplate assembly, meanwhile, connects the pilot’s control inputs to the main rotor and allows them to fly the helicopter. Therefore, any errors in fastening the swashplate will cause the controls to not work properly.

For all these reasons, using the right tools is essential. Torque wrenches, torque screwdrivers, and calibrated power assembly tools are best for when repairing helicopters and conducting preventative maintenance. The heavy-duty bolts on helicopter engines and transmissions and the screws on airframes must be tightened to very precise specifications, so pulse tools and air screwdrivers with an automatic shut-off are perfect for these requirements, speeding up assembly and disassembly, reducing operator fatigue, and delivering precise torque control throughout the process.

Mechanical systems like engine interiors, power transfer systems, and transmission rebuilds are more variable in their torque needs. Adjustable hand operated torque screwdrivers torque wrenches, and click wrenches signal to the operator when they are reaching the torque limit through physical and auditory means, while cam-over and breakover wrenches physically stop the user from over-tightening.

On the smaller and more precise level of controls and control linkages, dial torque screwdrivers and adjustable torque screwdrivers can precisely monitor and adjust the torque applied to aviation fastener components. Both types have memory functions that allow mechanics to precisely verify that everything is functioning and tightened properly.

mill-max spring loaded pins now offer removable pick and place caps

A new option of removable pick and place caps has been announced by Mill-Max manufacturing corp. The line is called the 806 series and features the standard Mill-Max pins but with a new spring loaded removable cap to keep pins centered and protected. The cap offers an easy target for automated vacuum pick-ups when they are removed after the soldering process.

Pins and small terminals are not the easiest target for automated vacuum systems. By adding a low cost and easily removable pin cover, Mill-Max improved the quality and consistence of the pin solders on their assemblies. The caps cover the spring loaded pins and are removed robotically after the initial assembly process. The caps slip over the pin without damaging the plunger and grip with four projections.

The 806 series has four through hole style spring pins and nine surface mount options. All parts are packaged to EIA standards on 13” reels. The caps are made of high quality nylon that are suitable for the midrange temperatures of most automated soldering. Pins are machined with a low tolerance for error. Gold plating ensures the pins conductivity and resistance to corrosion. Pins are rated for an average of 2A of current with the maximum at 3A.

Mill-Max spring loaded pins are build on machines that can both cut and mill to create complex geometry surfaces. Profiles can be a multitude of shapes, not limited to typical pin styles. Pins can also be from various different metals and alloys such as brass, copper, and even phosphor bronze. Mill-Max only used the highest quality conductive metals to ensure the best current flow and low resistance. High quality machined pins should be chosen by those looking for consistency and short lead time. Avoid die cast pins if tolerance is a top concern.

ASAP Parts 360 has a dedicated and expansive array of spring loaded pins, serving customers as a one-stop shop and primary destination for product sourcing. ASAP will ensure that your needs are addressed in the most expeditious and transparent manner, all the while offering cost-effective component solutions. If you are interested in a quote, please contact our friendly sales staff at purchase@asapparts360.com or call 708-387-7800 .

new lock nuts by pem with tri-dent technology hold mating screws fast

A new member has joined the PEM family of lock nuts known as Type SL. These steel self-clinching locknuts by Penn Enginering use the TRI-DENT locking system to keep mating screws from loosening due to forces such as vibration, heat cycling, and other disruptions. The lock nuts meet 3 cycle locking performance and lock to the threads of mating screws. Type SL locknuts can also have screws removed without damaging the locking threads.

The TRI-DENT locking technology is ideal for thin metal assemblies where a standard lock nut runs the risk of vibrating off. SL locknuts install permanently into metal sheeting and lay flush with the outer hull. They never have to be tightened, and will never fall out after integrating with host metal. They are much more reliable and cost effective compared to chemical methods and affixed patches. PEM SL lock nuts can save you money by reducing maintenance cost as well as reducing the number of steps during assembly.

PEM lock nuts are installed with a press by squeezing the locknut into a properly sized mounting hole. The force embeds the lock nut into a metal sheet by stretching out the clinching ring. The clinching ring will only project on the inner side of the sheet—leaving the outer surface smooth. Once in place the lock nut is permanent, and ready to lock with prevailing torque against mating screws.

The prevailing torque feature is an ideal solution in preventing hardware from loosening. The unique design feature that increases the contact area between mated threads, thus increasing the force required to tighten and loosen the nut. Prevailing torque also prevents threads from more easily loosening with an increased axial load.

ASAP Parts 360 has a dedicated and expansive array of lock nut products - serving customers as a one-stop shop and primary destination for product sourcing. ASAP will ensure that your needs are addressed in the most expeditious and transparent manner, all the while offering cost-effective component solutions. If you are interested in a quote, please contact our friendly sales staff at sales@asapparts360.com or call 708-387-7800.