Posted on September 23, 2012 by Reda Abouleish
The space shuttle Endeavour arrives in Los Angeles.
NASA’s youngest space shuttle Endeavour is being transported from Houston to Los Angeles so it may be part of a permanent museum exhibit. The images of this monumental vehicle being taxied to the West Coast are currently featured in national and global multimedia news outlets. For me, it initiates a floodgate of memories about the main role stainless steel plays in the former NASA aerospace industry, which is also a positive reminder of how stainless steel shall continue to work hard for the new, privately-owned aerospace explorers for generations to come.
When materials are needed for the aerospace industry certain regulations and requirements must be met. The selected metals need to be reliable and efficient while working in facility environments. It must be devoid of corrosion and deterioration when placed in high temperature settings. It also must not split or trigger pitting under extreme scenarios. These traits are vital to the success of past and future exploration flights.
Steel grade 316 is a powerful, corrosion-resistant metal that remains together and unharmed for temperatures up to 1598 degrees Fahrenheit. This is remarkable but options for the aerospace industry do not stop there. Grades 309 and 310 are ideal for temperatures reaching up to 2102 degrees Fahrenheit. These properties are exactly what the aerospace industry examines before selecting and using these superior metals.
Find out more about the role of stainless steel and nickel alloys in the aerospace industry today!
Posted on December 16, 2011 by Reda Abouleish
Many different alloy steels are ideal to use in the aerospace industry.
Recently in the news, there has been much talk about Obama’s vision for NASA and manned space station programs. Just having the media focus on the space program got me thinking about the importance of stainless steel in aerospace.
A vital element to a successful aerospace operation is the use of durable fasteners. These are considered the screws that hold the aircraft together. They enable landing gear, wings, engines, and other components to function properly. Fasteners are what engineers and designers rely upon to deliver. They ensure the safety of the aircraft and your business. The material you choose for fasteners makes the deciding factor on whether your mission or business fails or thrives.
Fasteners must be made from a material resistant to unpredictable pressure conditions and is stable under severe temperatures. At the same time, the fastener material must fulfill specific industry requirements. Stainless steel is the ideal choice. It holds up under extreme situations; it is exceptionally strong and meets manufacturer and military standards.
Another important part of an aircraft is the landing gear bolts. Generally, these bolts are made of alloy steels. Alloy steels have been proven over time to exhibit tremendous strength and corrosion resistance qualities. These are the exact traits needed for any landing gear function in an aircraft. I believe the words “landing gear” exemplifies how fatal having poor landing gear bolts can ensue.
To find out more about the benefits of using stainless steel or nickel alloy bars in your aerospace business, call us today.