The Boeing 747 is made of over six million parts. Half of these are aerospace fasteners. Fasteners, which play a critical role in the structural integrity and longevity of aircraft, include Aerospace Bolts, Aerospace Rivets, and Aerospace Screws & Studs. Bolts are used where high strength is the primary desired characteristic. Aerospace-quality bolts are typically made from titanium, stainless or corrosion resistant steel, or alloy steel.
How to Read Aerospace Bolt Head Markings
There are many different aerospace bolt head types available, and we manufacture them all. These include:
-Spline Head
-12 Point
-Socket Head
-Internal Wrenching
-Flush Head
-Hex Head
-Pan Head
-Six-Lobe
-Shear Head
-Place Bolt
-Brazier Head
-Pin Head
-Round Head
-Slotted Round Head
-Crown Hex
Aerospace bolt head markings are used to identify the different head types on the bolt itself. Every aerospace bolt will have a head marking. If it does not have a marking, it is a commercial grade bolt. Aerospace bolt head markings will vary by manufacturer as each manufacturer has a trademarked head marking. All of Aerospace Manufacturing’s products will be head marked with our “AM” logo, identifying the products correlation to its world-class manufacturer.
Naturally this is just a summary of some of the numbers and markings you are likely to find on aerospace bolts. If you have any questions about our vast inventory of high strength, close tolerance bolts, don’t hesitate to ask!
Check out our Extensive Inventory of Aerospace Bolts
Aerospace Manufacturing uses the latest technology and the highest quality materials to create a diversified line of high strength, close tolerance aerospace fasteners. We have extensive experience manufacturing customized fasteners made from exotic materials including Titanium, Inconel, Waspaloy, A-286, MP35N, MP159 as well as Alloy Steel, H11, Stainless Steel and Monel 400 and 500 series.
A new study from the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) found that nearly all aerospace and defense firms are investing in the digitization of their businesses. But that’s not surprising. What is surprising are some of the report’s other findings, among them:
How digital investment correlates to success
The 8 technology drivers that are reshaping aerospace and defense as a whole
The 4 technologies aerospace and defense companies are investing in most
Everyone is Investing in Digital
The study was centered around a survey of 110 senior executives and managers at aerospace and defense companies. As we mentioned, nearly 100% of them reported increased investment in digital technologies. Nearly 100% of respondents also reported that these investments were yielding positive results. Nearly half of respondents were willing to invest in digital technologies even without a short-term business case to support the investment. That tells us that digital investment is considered a relatively low-risk one. The report found that there are 8 technology drivers that are reshaping aerospace and defense:
Advanced robots
Additive manufacturing
Horizontal and vertical integration
Industrial internet
Simulation
Cloud and cybersecurity
Big data and analytics
Augmented reality
Frontrunners and Followers: Which are you?
The respondents were divided into two groups, followers and frontrunners, based on their self-reported success in using digital to:
Improve operations – (81% of respondents)
Increase revenues – (49% of respondents)
Drive innovation – (52% of respondents)
Interestingly, the report found no correlation between the level of spending and the likelihood of a company being a frontrunner. Of the companies that were investing in digital for all three purposes, 58% were considered frontrunners, evidence that a balanced investment strategy is warranted.
4 Most Commonly Implemented Technologies
The report found that digital frontrunners not only invest in digital technologies to improve operations, to increase revenues and to drive innovation, they also apply digital technologies more broadly across their functions. Many frontrunners in aerospace and defense are investing in the same technologies, the report found. The four most common are:
3D printing for prototyping
Simulation-based design
Predictive analytics
Real-time monitoring
A company is “four times more likely to be a frontrunner in operations if it applies digital across the life cycle of the product, from initial program management to aftermarket and sustainment activities.”
But the biggest differentiator that decided whether a company was considered a frontrunner or not was whether or not they had a chief digital officer (CDO). Few companies had this leadership position, but those that did were frequently among the frontrunners.
The report ended with a warning: although digital first-movers reap the greatest rewards, their advantage erodes over time as the digital tools they use become more prevalent. The lesson is an old one: innovation cannot stop. The goal must be to continuously evolve and stay ahead of the curve.
Stay Ahead of the Curve with Aerospace Manufacturing
Aerospace Manufacturing is a AS9100 and ISO:9001 accredited, QSLM approved manufacturer of high strength, close tolerance fasteners produced to AN, MIL, MS, NA, and NAS standards.
We use exotic materials and superalloys, such as Inconel, A-286, Waspaloy, MP35N and Titanium; can handle diameters from #0 to 2 inches, with unlimited thread length, and use numerous head style configurations, including recess configurations.
Waspaloy is an exotic material by any measure. This nickel-based superalloy, which consists of everything from cobalt and chromium to age-hardening aluminum and titanium, is extremely reliable at extreme temperatures. Waspaloy delivers strength and reliability even at temperatures as high as 1600°F. Therefore, it is typically used in the hottest areas of an airplane – those areas where Inconel bolts might fail. Unlike Titanium bolts, Waspaloy bolts are made from a patented exotic material instead of a naturally occurring element. Waspaloy is a registered trademark of United Technologies Corp.
Benefits of Waspaloy Bolts in Aerospace
High temperature limits – 1600°F for stationary parts and 1200°F for rotating applications
Low thermal conductivity
Resistant to thermal cycling
Superior stress rupture strength
Waspaloy Bolts are used for…
Areas exposed to extreme heat for extended period of time
Gas turbine blades, shafts, rings, seals and turbine disks.
Procure Waspaloy Bolts from Aerospace Manufacturing
Aerospace Manufacturing is trusted by companies and organizations like NASA, the US Navy, Lockheed Martin and DLA to deliver high strength, close tolerance aerospace fasteners, including bolts, screws, pins, studs and threaded rods. We pride ourselves on superior quality, quick lead times, and our ability to accommodate both large and small orders, as well as custom runs.
In addition to creating bolts screws, pins, studs and threaded rods to AN, MIL, MS, NA, and NAS standards, we specialize in working with various exotic materials to create Waspaloy bolts, Inconel bolts, Titanium bolts, and MP35N bolts and more.
Wonder what makes titanium bolts right for the job? Titanium has the highest strength-to-density ratio of any metallic element. Grade 5 titanium is four times stronger than steel and almost 50 percent lighter. Add to its specific strength its corrosion resistance, and it’s no wonder that titanium is commonly used for many demanding aerospace applications.
Benefits of Titanium Bolts in Aerospace
High temperature performance
High strength-to-density ratio
Corrosion resistance
Non-magnetic
Not a good conductor of electricity or heat
Titanium Bolts are used for…
High strength, close tolerance titanium bolts are used in many areas of an aircraft where performance under extreme temperatures and pressure is a must.
Landing gear
Jet engine – housing, pumps, screens, and fan blades of jet engine
Engine – casings, blades, shafts and discs in engine
Exterior air frames
Wings and propellers – internal components
Procure High Strength, Close Tolerance Bolts
Aerospace Manufacturing creates high strength, close tolerance aerospace fasteners, including bolts screws, pins, studs and threaded rods to AN, MIL, MS, NA, and NAS standards, as well as custom fasteners.
Scientists and engineers have worked rigorously to develop a versatile aerial robot that mimics the flight mechanisms of…bats. Yes, bats.
Weighing only 93 grams, the Bat Bot (B2) is the reverse-engineered brainchild of researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Caltech. This major advancement in autonomous flight technology could potentially have widespread application and positive outcomes.
A Feat of Flexibility
With ingenuity and innovation, the scientists and engineers have seamlessly translated biological features of bats into autonomous flight technology. When bats flap their wings, they are filled with air, change shape to accommodate it, and then push the air out as they snap back into place. The skeleton and silicone-based skin of B2 mimic that of actual bats, enabling it to reproduce bat-like motions and morph its structure midair. The silicone-based membrane was specifically designed with this elastic property in mind, as other conventional fabrics were not stretchable enough.
Bat Bot the Builder?
The possible applications of B2’s autonomous flight capabilities are diverse and numerous. One example is a supervisory capacity on construction sites. Construction sites are full of unique structures and are often a complex array of various textures and materials. An aerial robot with the ability to navigate small spaces, maneuver through inconsistent environments, and perch upon various materials (wood, steel, glass, fiberglass, pipes, etc.) would be extremely advantage in the monitoring of construction projects. The Bat Bot could fly around, record construction progress, relay the information, and compare it to the actual plans for the building. Projects often do not unfold as originally planned.
Bat Bot the Explorer?
Another excellent application of B2’s autonomous flight technology is in locations where human physically cannot go. Nuclear reactors where radiation levels are too high for humans, collapsed buildings, mine shafts, and other locations could be easily maneuvered by the dynamic, aerodynamic Bat Bot. B2 could be affixed with radiation detectors, 3D cameras, heat sensors, and other technologies necessary for the given task at hand.
Aerospace Manufacturing is a Leading Manufacturer of Aerospace Fasteners
Aerospace Manufacturing is AS9100 and ISO:9001 accredited, QSLM approved and a Phillips Screw licensee that is motivated by the ongoing ingenuity and innovation in the aerospace technology.
Aerospace technology enthusiasts waiting for supersonic passenger jets may have their wish fulfilled in the relatively near future. Although the Concorde will not be making a reappearance, the concept of supersonic international travel is once again being worked on by a few companies in the industry.
One notable group is the startup Boom, which has already advanced past the ultra-important wind tunnel testing phase. If engineers can figure out how to soften the noise level of a supersonic takeoff, travelers are likely to have this speedy option within the next decade. There are a few other hurdles any aerospace team will have to clear before they can start filling orders, but all signs indicate that international travel will be expanding with at least one new fleet.
Are Airlines Interested in Supersonic Passenger Jets?
The Concorde was retired for a reason; high ticket prices and declining demand made supersonic transcontinental flight increasingly unprofitable. However, that was 14 years ago, and international travel is extremely popular again.
There is currently a regulation in place that prohibits supersonic passenger jets from traveling across U.S. land, so Boom is planning to use transoceanic routes. Industry experts have determined that several airlines would be interested even with this restriction. As a result, companies such as Boom and Aerion may soon find themselves competing to build the estimated 1,300 planes that would be ordered industry wide.
Will Supersonic Speed be Worth the Price?
Make no mistake; supersonic travel is going to be expensive. In fact, experts predict it will primarily be utilized by business travelers. However, if Boom or Aerion can produce planes that travel from Heathrow to JFK in less than four hours, there are probably going to be enough people interested to help everyone turn a profit.
Boom also has plans to eventually make their 45-seat supersonic planes as affordable for passengers as a conventional business class ticket. The company is currently working on reducing the noise that accompanies a supersonic takeoff. Their goal is to have these planes available for service by 2023.
Aerospace Manufacturing is always excited by bold innovations in the industry.
People have been dreaming of a flying car for decades. After all, who wouldn’t want to avoid road traffic during rush hour by simply flying above everyone? We may not be any closer to getting a non-time travel version of the flying DeLorean from the end of “Back to the Future,” but if Uber and Airbus are successful, there will soon be multiple taxis that use air transportation.
Uber’s Aerospace Goals
Earlier this year, Uber announced that they had hired former NASA employee Mark Moore to work on their flying car project. Known as Uber Elevate, this program is dedicated to looking for viable vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. Ultimately, the company plans to offer a flying taxi service that would dramatically cut commute times. On-demand aviation of this type would almost certainly be quite expensive, but it’s also likely to represent the future of commuting.
Is a Self-Flying Taxi Possible?
Google has been working on a driverless car for several years, but is it possible that Airbus will beat them to the punch with a self-flying taxi? Although Google has already created and extensively road tested their driverless vehicle, there is still no known timetable for when consumers will be able to buy one. Meanwhile, Airbus is planning to begin testing a self-flying taxi by the end of the year.
The Airbus project seeks to provide transportation for one passenger at a time to anywhere within 50 miles. This may not be exactly what Uber has in mind, but Airbus has made it clear that they’re open to partnering with another company to get this technology off the ground. If plans come to fruition, the Airbus Vahana will be available as a self-flying taxi within 10 years. Airbus has been consulting with NASA, and Uber’s Mark Moore is confident that the concept will work.
About Aerospace Manufacturing
Aerospace Manufacturing is a AS9100 and ISO:9001 accredited, QSLM approved manufacturer of fasteners that are trusted by a diverse list of clients, including NASA, Boeing, Sikorsky, the U.S. Navy and Lockheed Martin.
Check out our homepage to learn more about our contributions to the world of aerospace technology!
There are several new planes that will debut in 2017 and 2018. However, some of the most intriguing design plans have been put on the back burner for at least a decade. Despite this, there are still numerous exciting upgrades coming within the next 12 months that are certain to get aerospace insiders and frequent flyers talking. You can expect to begin seeing these updated models at your local airport in the near future.
An Overview of 2017’s New Planes
• A321neo
This year will see the release of a 240 passenger jet from Airbus. Known as the A321neo, this large plane was designed with the intention of taking over for the transcontinental Boeing 757. In other words, international travelers and Europeans headed to popular destinations are likely to see a switch to the A321neo. Airbus will also unveil the A350-1000 and A319neo. These represent both ends of the size spectrum, with the A350-1000 having 366 seats and long-range capabilities.
• 737 Max 8
Boeing may no longer have their 757, but they’ll be releasing several new models in 2017 for the U.S. market. Perhaps the most exciting offering is the eco-conscious 737 Max 8. Southwest Airlines ordered several of these planes that reportedly offer a 14 percent reduction in fuel consumption. Other models to keep an eye on include the 787-10 Dreamliner and the 220 passenger 737 Max 9.
• C919
Comac has completed their C919 project after extensive delays and will soon unveil China’s first large airliner. The C919 family of narrow-body, twin-engine jet airliners will seat 158 to 174 passengers and are part and parcel of Comac’s long-term goal of breaking up the duopoly of Airbus and Boeing. Its first flight is expected to take place in 2017, but its first deliveries are not expected until the tail end of 2018.
• MC-21
Meanwhile, the United Aircraft Corporation in Russia is preparing to launch their new Irkut MC-21 (also formerly called MS-21), a twin-engine Russian jet airliner that seats between 150–212 passengers. Like the C919, the MC-21 is designed to compete with the Airbus A320neo and the Boeing 737 MAX – and it looks well prepared to do so. The MC-21 boasts 20% lower operating costs and 15% lower fuel consumption than the Airbus A320 thanks to a 15% structural weight efficiency advantage.
The Future of Aerospace
Current aerospace technology is focused on making small improvements to existing technology, but there are plans to make a major shift by 2030. If all goes according to plan, the new planes being announced in a couple of decades will be all-electric. This is lighter and more fuel efficient. All-electric or electric hybrids will require battery life improvements, which is one of the major reasons that they’re not already in production.
About Aerospace Manufacturing
Aerospace Manufacturing is a AS9100 and ISO:9001 accredited manufacturer of High Strength, Close Tolerance Aerospace Fasteners.
Our clientele includes industry leading OEM Aerospace and Defense contractors and organizations including Bombardier, DLA, NASA, U.S. Navy, General Electric, Lockheed Martin, and Sikorsky.
Every business has customers, and therefore nearly every business should aim to become more “customer-centric”. Customer-centricity happens when every department in a business is dedicated to improving the customer experience and has the tools to do it. It doesn’t happen overnight.
At Aerospace Manufacturing, we have continually improved the experience for our customers – staying open 12 hours a day, from 8:30AM to 8:30PM; making it easier to send and receive quotes; committing to quote turnaround of 24 Hours or less. We are customer-driven, and you can be too. Here’s a few suggestions that will help bring your customer service goals from the drawing board to reality.
Visualize Ideal Customer
In order to serve your customers better, you need to visualize what your ideal customer looks like. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to satisfy every customer every time. That’s why satisfying customers that are likely to repeat business with you is the goal. What qualities do they most look for in a business like yours? Come up with a list of “Wows” and “Woes” that details what they love as well as their pain points. Only when you have created a fully fleshed out “ideal customer” can you begin meeting their needs.
Collect Feedback
Many businesses fail to take customers’ viewpoints into account. Rather than being afraid of the truth and the wrath of a dissatisfied customer, make it as easy as possible for customers to send feedback – both good and bad. In the world of customer service, what you don’t know may be hurting you.
Take Action
Once you’ve received enough customer feedback to understand areas of your business that need improvement, take action in a focused and methodical way. Work on one customer pain point at a time and make sure to set quantifiable goals so you and your team know when you’ve made improvement.
Recognize Successes
Which brings us to a central aspect of customer-centricity: recognizing successes. There is no endpoint a company can reach, no finish line to becoming customer-driven. It is an ongoing process, and if you do not stop and recognize successes, your employees are likely to become discouraged and overwhelmed. Collect feedback, take action, and recognize (and celebrate!) your successes.
Aerospace Manufacturing’s Superior Customer Service
At AMI, we create world-class aerospace fasteners for industry leaders across the globe. We’ve met the demands of these customers by providing quick quote turnaround times of 24 hours or less, stellar customer service, and extended business hours –12 hours a day, from 8:30AM to 8:30PM.
For more information on Aerospace Manufacturing, please visit our homepage or contact us today. For more product and regulatory news, business ideas and insight from AMI, come back to the Aerospace Manufacturing blog!
There’s quality and then there’s quality, and in the world of aerospace fasteners, it’s not something to be taken lightly. Because of their critical role in the function and safety of aircraft, aerospace fasteners must adhere to strict standards. That’s why our aerospace fasteners are not only in-house manufactured, but also in-house tested and 100% traceable from raw material to finished product. Today we would like to give you a glimpse of the complicated process our aerospace fasteners undergo prior to shipment.
Tooling Aerospace Fasteners
The process of acquiring the machines and manufacturing components needed for production is called tooling. Tooling, also known as machine tooling, Common categories of tooling include cutting equipment, gauges, jigs, and fixtures. Our state-of-the-art facility includes the following equipment:
• Forging Presses
• Thread Rolling Machines
• Grinding Machines
• Drilling Machines
• Broaching
• Warm Heading Machines
Aging / Heat Treating
Aging, also called artificial aging or heat treating, is the treatment of a metal alloy at high temperatures to accelerate changes to its chemical properties. Aging can improve coercivity and strength and ensure accuracy and quality in aerospace fasteners’ close tolerance specifications. By doing aging in-house, Aerospace Manufacturing can create high strength, close tolerance aerospace fasteners with significantly reduced lead times.
Electroplating
Electroplating is a process that uses electric current to change the properties of a metal. Electroplating can change or improve the mechanic, electric, and even the aesthetic appearance of a metal. For our purposes, the mechanic changes electroplating achieves are most important. Electroplating improves our fasteners’ abrasion and corrosion resistance as well as the coefficient of friction or sliding friction – essential for all screws and fasteners. At AMI, we have a 6,000 square foot facility dedicated exclusively to electroplating for cadmium, cadmium fluoborate, and passivation.
Procure from Aerospace Manufacturing
Aerospace Manufacturing is a AS9100 and ISO:9001 accredited manufacturer of High Strength, Close Tolerance Aerospace Fasteners.
Our clientele includes industry leading OEM Aerospace and Defense contractors and organizations including Bombardier, DLA, NASA, U.S. Navy, General Electric, Lockheed Martin, and Sikorsky.
