Aircraft fasteners are used to assemble small, detailed parts of an aircraft, specifically to connect all the various parts of the primary and secondary structural areas. These fasteners are also used in both pressurized and nonpressurized applications and to transfer loads from one part to another, making them critical aircraft components. In fact, of the 6,000,000 parts used to fabricate a Boeing 747-800 airplane, aircraft fasteners account for half the parts! That is why it is important to choose an aircraft fasteners manufacturer with a proven track record of reliable parts and strict quality standards.
“Fasteners” is a broad term that includes things such as screws, nuts, bolts, pins, rivets and collars. These parts are often exposed to extreme environments, from high temperatures and pressures to harsh fluids and extreme loads. Aircraft fastener manufacturers know that each part must be machined with its exact specifications in mind to ensure they meet strict Aviation or Department of Defense Standards.
There are several different fastener types, each one exhibiting different qualities and characteristics. To choose the right aircraft fastener, engineers consider multiple factors, including what type of joint the fastener will be exposed to in its application and what types of loads will be transferred through the joint. Aircraft loads include those experienced during normal flight operations, pressurization, landing, towing, wind-gusts and more. Engineers will also consider weight, tooling requirements, corrosion, access, cost and aerodynamic smoothness when selecting the right aircraft fastener.
Common characteristics of aircraft fasteners include:
While fasteners are often made from stainless steel, brass, aluminum and copper, aerospace engineers are increasingly turning to advanced plastics to meet the unique requirements fasteners demand. These plastics can be up to 50% lighter than aluminum and 83% lighter than stainless steel while delivering equal – if not higher – strength. They are also far more resistant to corrosion and chemicals than metals, and can withstand exposure to jet fuel and abrasive aviation fluids without deteriorating. This leads to fewer corrosion-related breakdowns and a reduction in maintenance and labor costs.
At Reading Plastic, we have been machining to strict Aviation and Department of Defense Standards for decades. We’re experienced in manufacturing aircraft fasteners from a wide variety of advanced plastics, including Torlon®, Vespel®, acetal, PEEK, Celazole® PBI, and more. If you need dependable, high-quality aircraft fasteners that hold tight tolerances, call us today at (610) 926-3245 or request a quote online. With clientele spanning the globe and experience meeting the strictest compliance standards, we’re confident we can machine you a solution.
