Bleed air, the compressed air that originates from the compressor section of a turbine or auxiliary power unit, is a critical component of jet engine functionality. Gas turbine engineers use bleed air in many different ways throughout an aircraft to improve its efficiency. In fact, the successful distribution of bleed air is vital to the operation of an aircraft. To do this, air bleed valves have a critical role. Because bleed air valves have to be reliable even at extreme temperatures and in dry conditions, they are primarily made from carbon graphite. This material is a popular choice due to its ability to lubricate rubbing components. Read more >>

An axle is a central shaft for a rotating wheel or gear. On wheeled vehicles, the axle may be fixed to the wheels, rotating with them, or fixed to the vehicle with the wheels rotating around the axle. Generally speaking, there are three types of axles: rear, front, and stub axles. This blog will explain each of the three types and what makes them unique. Read more >>

Fuel oil has many various uses for both business and the home. Such examples of ways to use fuel are lighting up the engine for a vehicle, heating up a home, producing steam to generate electrical energy, etc. Fuel, which can also go by the names of home heating oil, kerosene, coal oil, and diesel fuel, is produced from liquids that are burnable and that are derived from crude oil. It can be used to power engines, heaters, stoves, lanterns and more.  Read more >>

When people think of diesel engines, they often compare them with the standard gasoline engine and picture a sootier and noisier engine. While diesel has the advantage and capabilities to haul large shipments over long distances, this tendency to produce more smoke and noise turns the majority of consumers off. Not only that but they have become strongly associated with trucks and large vehicles. Overall diesel engines are more efficient and thanks to advancements in technology, are steadily more cleaner and less noisier. In this article, we will look closely at diesel engine parts and their various functions. Read more >>

There are strong advantages and disadvantages for fixed wing aircraft and rotary wing aircraft and depending on what you need, each have their respectable purpose and utility. A fixed wing aircraft would be your basic airplane, utilizing wings, the airspeed generated from forward motion, and wing design and shape to create lift and thus flight. A rotary wing aircraft, such as a helicopter, uses rotary wings or rotor blades that revolve around the mast to create lift and flight. The projected distance from point A to point B, capacity needs of cargo and supply, weather conditions like strong winds, the environment in which take off takes place, how much time is allowed to reach said destination, and flight demands once in the air, all are determining factors in deciding which aircraft is better suited for a pilot’s mission at hand. Read more >>