Methodical Purchasing Blog

A diode is a type of electronic component that features two-terminals, and they allow for current to be conducted in a single direction. With operations similar to that of a fluid valve, diodes may be used within electronic circuits in order to dictate the patch of electricity as it moves through a system. While simplistic in their functionality, a diode’s ability to maintain a single direction of current while impeding any reverse flow is beneficial for a number of electronic systems and applications. In this blog, we will discuss the common types of diodes and their functionalities, allowing you to understand their various uses in electronic systems.

Though ethernet switches, routers, and modems look similar at a glance, they each play a different role within a network. This blog will discuss what each of these three devices are, how they are different, and how they function within a network.

When constructing an aircraft and its various structures, a great number of fasteners are utilized to conjoin parts and components to form assemblies. Screws and bolts are two common aircraft fastener types that are widely used throughout the construction process, and both are often confused with one another due to their similar designs and appearances. Despite their common characteristics, bolts and screws present different uses for aircraft construction, each providing their unique benefits and drawbacks which make them optimal for their respective applications.

Valves are indispensable components of fluid systems, allowing for the regulation and control of fluid flow and pressure. Solenoid valves in particular are a type of electrically controlled valve, allowing for remote control for opening and closing. Solenoid valves are extremely useful, allowing for more complex piping systems that can utilize automatic control to both create an ease of operation, as well as increase safety of workers for plumbing systems that are in hazardous areas.

The first airplanes did not come equipped with such technology like vacuum pumps installed on them. On the contrary, the suction that was needed to manage the inner gyro equipment was supplied by a venturi tube that was placed on the outside of the aircraft. Venturi tubes were simple and manageable but they did come with many disadvantages because it was so dynamic, meaning the aircraft was forced to be constantly moving at a fairly high speed to develop enough vacuum to run the instruments. Not only that but this tube needed to rotate the gyros before the venturi could start being used and it left the system exposed to the elements. What eventually solved this problem was the engine-driven vacuum pumps which we’ll go over more in detail below. 

A gas turbine, also known as a combustion turbine, is a type of continuous and internal combustion engine. The basic operation of a gas turbine engine is as such: atmospheric air flows through the compressor where it is brought to higher pressure. Here, energy is added by spraying fuel into the air and igniting it to create a high-temperature flow. This pressurized gas enters the turbine, producing a shaft work output used to drive the compressor. The unused energy comes out in the form of exhaust gases. Each part of the gas turbine has an important role in its operation, but the most critical components of it are the compressor, combustion chamber, and the turbine. This blog will explain each part as well as its role within the engine as a whole.

A stabilizer is an aerodynamic control surface that provides longitudinal and/or direction stability and control.  A stabilizer can feature a fixed or adjustable structure on which any movable control surfaces are hinged, or can be a fully movable surface such as a stabilator. Depending on the configuration, the stabilizer may only refer to the front part of the control surface. There are three primary types of stabilizers: Horizontal stabilizers, vertical stabilizers, and combined longitudinal-directional stabilizers. This blog will explain each type, their differences, and their functions.

Within the realm of aviation, hoses may be used for a variety of systems and applications. From fuel lines to hydraulic systems, aircraft hoses are an important component for standard operations. In general, hoses are a flexible tube that may be used to transport fluids between two locations. Depending on their application, hoses may vary in their materials, pressure rating, flexibility, and other factors. Common hose materials that are used across standard applications include synthetic rubbers, natural rubbers, PVC, nylon, polyurethane, and polyethylene. In this blog, we will provide an overview of the aircraft tubing system, and how hoses benefit aviation and related activities.

A heat exchanger is a device that allows heat from a liquid or gas to pass onto a second fluid without the two fluids having to mix together or come into direct contact with one another. In simpler terms, the heat exchanger transfers heat without transferring the source of said heat. They are commonly used to cool hydraulics, ram air, auxiliary power units, gearboxes, and many other components found in an aircraft.

An air compressor does just that -- it compresses air. Air compression is achieved by an increase of air pressure. This pressure can then be used for its kinetic energy and released incrementally to provide a reactive function. Take for example, a nail gun. When a nail gun is connected by a hose to an air compressor and you pull the trigger, the pressurized air in that storage tank is released. This release allows the pressure built up in the storage tank to shoot out like popping a pimple. Much the same, a pressure washer and pressure washer parts create the same effect with water.