What Types of Fasteners Are Commonly Used in the Aviation Industry

In the aviation industry, the use of fasteners to assemble and secure various structures and components is crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of aircraft. Various types of fasteners are commonly employed for construction and maintenance, each serving a specific purpose. From bolts that secure structural components to washers that distribute loads, we will provide a brief overview of common aircraft fasteners in this blog.

Aviation bolts are among the most commonly used fasteners in the aviation industry, serving to join structural components such as wings, fuselage sections, and engine mounts. While found in numerous other settings, the bolts made for aviation are manufactured to withstand the extreme forces and stresses encountered during flight, including aerodynamic loads, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations. In fact, aircraft bolts are typically made from high-strength materials such as stainless steel, titanium, or alloy steel, which all offer exceptional tensile strength and corrosion resistance. Additionally, aviation bolts are often coated with protective finishes such as cadmium or zinc plating as necessary to further enhance their durability and longevity. Bolts are regularly paired with nuts to maintain attachment, and washers are routinely present as well within such joints.

Rivets are another essential type of fastener used extensively in the aviation industry. Unlike bolts, rivets are non-threaded fasteners that are permanently deformed to create a tight joint between two or more components. These types of fasteners are commonly used in applications where access to the backside of an assembly is limited, or where a watertight or airtight seal is required. Aviation rivets are available in materials like aluminum, steel, and titanium, as well as can be installed using pneumatic or hydraulic riveting tools to ensure proper installation and structural integrity.

As previously mentioned, aviation washers are critical components regularly used in conjunction with bolts, rivets, and other fasteners to distribute loads, prevent loosening, and protect surfaces from damage. These washers are typically made from materials such as stainless steel or aluminum and are available in various shapes and sizes to suit different fastening applications. For examples of use in aircraft, washers are often found in areas where high-strength connections are required, such as in engine mounts, landing gear assemblies, and structural joints.

Pins are another type of fastener commonly used in the aviation industry for securing and aligning components in aircraft assemblies, typically being cylindrical in shape while being inserted into pre-drilled holes to provide temporary or permanent fastening. Aviation pins are available in various configurations, including straight pins, taper pins, and cotter pins, each being designed for specific applications and load requirements. Aviation pins of all types are often used in conjunction with other aviation fasteners to provide additional security and stability in critical areas of the aircraft.

Overall, the aviation industry relies on a wide range of fasteners to ensure the safety, durability, and performance of aircraft structures and components. From aviation bolts and rivets to washers and pins, each type of fastener plays a crucial role in securing critical components and assemblies together. By using high-quality fasteners that meet stringent aerospace standards, aircraft manufacturers and maintenance professionals can ensure the integrity and reliability of aircraft structures and systems.

Here on Industrial Streamlined, we provide customers access to an expansive selection of products that trace back to leading manufacturers from across the globe. As you explore our website, you will find that we offer all types of fasteners to address the diverse needs of our customers and the aerospace industry. Take the time to consider our options as you see fit, and we feature an online Request for Quote (RFQ) service that you can take advantage of to receive pricing on desired items. Our team is also readily available to provide consultation and services through phone or email, so do not hesitate to reach out and connect with us today to see how Industrial Streamlined can serve as your trusted purchasing platform.