Each profession requires a collection of tools that are specific to the job. Of course, different professionals in different professions utilize a variety of tools. The focus of this article is on the tools of an aircraft mechanic, a career in which you may earn a good income. An aircraft mechanic would require specific tools in order to execute particular tasks effectively. They should be available to an aircraft mechanic. And, if you want to be an aircraft mechanic, you would need to know what tools an aircraft mechanic uses. Even if you do not have such ambitions, you might have an interest in learning about aircraft mechanics and maintenance. Regardless, you may get a fair sense of it by reading this article on the tools of an aircraft mechanic.
TheseAircraft: The Definitive Visual History Hardcover – Illustrated, May 20, 2013
Having knowledge of this industry is indeed a basic necessity for anyone who has the interest to succeed in the field of aircraft mechanics. And this is a perfect book for you to go through and understand what this field is about. Without a clear understanding, you can never get to a good level in this industry. Hence, make sure to gain knowledge of this field thoroughly. And this book will certainly help you.
What do Aircraft Mechanics do?
Airplanes mechanics are critical to the smooth and safe operation of aircraft. All types of aircraft are serviced on a regular basis by them. Aircraft mechanics have a lot of responsibility, no question. This is especially predominant when it comes to airplane maintenance and inspection.
In general, aircraft mechanics have to diagnose electrical or mechanical problems of aircraft. For that, aircraft mechanics would have to use gauges and such tools and equipment. And they have to see to the repairs of brakes, wings, and electrical systems of aircraft. Also, aircraft mechanics have to examine and carry on replacements of defective parts. All the same, it is up to them to make sure that every procedure is right up to the standard by all means. Of course, they would have to keep records of all that.
Aircraft mechanics require good training, a keen eye for detail, and a basic understanding of how things work. Such abilities are also necessary for entry into the field. You can certainly develop some of them if you do not already have them. However, there are some skills that you simply must have and cannot learn on your own.
This is what we can tell you briefly in terms of what aircraft mechanics do. If you choose to be an aircraft mechanic, you would have to carry out the above main tasks. So, it is important to have an idea of all that as well as being aware of the tools of an aircraft mechanic.
MECHANICS OF AIRCRAFT STRUCTURES Second 2nd Edition Paperback – January 1, 2009
The author of this book is C. T. Sun. And this book is a comprehensive overview of the mechanics of aircraft structures. So, this would surely be a pretty good read for someone who has an interest in this field. In general, this book has received good global ratings and reviews. So, we thought of suggesting you take a read of this and broaden your understanding of this field.
The Importance of Tools for an Aircraft Mechanic
The tools of an aircraft mechanic are of immense importance. Of course, we are not claiming that tools are the only important factor. Tools, anyway, play a pretty important role in the field of aircraft mechanics and maintenance. That is why we may have such emphasis on the tools of an aircraft mechanic. It is via the use of tools that you may increase the efficiency of your tasks and get them right. Let us forget efficiency. Most of the time, there is hardly any work that you can carry on without tools and equipment in this industry.
The value of tools is not just for aircraft mechanics. For everyone working in a comparable industry, tools are essential. Perhaps their ability to do almost all of their jobs effectively is due to the tools and equipment they utilize. Efficiency is one of the most important factors in such sectors, as we previously said. That is why having the right tools and equipment is so important.
What are the Tools of an Aircraft Mechanic?
Until now, we were paving the path to get into our main content on the tools of an aircraft mechanic. For the ease of our readers, we thought of listing them out in the first place.
- Torque wrench
- Vibration meters
- Speed handle
- Metalworking tools
- Pliers
- Ratchet set
- Mirrors
- Hearing protection
This is just a brief depiction. No doubt, you would have an enthusiasm to know a lot about these in detail. And we are willing to explain everything to you. Go ahead reading this article on the tools of an aircraft mechanic.
1. Torque wrench
The very first in our list of the tools of an aircraft mechanic is the torque wrench. Torque wrenches are tools that you can use to impart a specific torque to a fastener such as a nut, bolt, or lag screw. It generally takes the shape of a socket wrench with unique internal mechanics. When the tightness of screws and bolts is crucial, you can use a torque wrench. It allows the operator to adjust the torque that you supply to the fastener. So, it can match it to the application’s parameters. This ensures that all parts are properly tensioned and loaded.
When it comes to aircraft mechanics, you should tighten the majority of the screws and fasteners on a helicopter rotor to a specific tension. However, most spanners that tighten bolts or nuts are ineffective when it comes to securing numerous screws. The use of a calibrated torque wrench is the only reliable way to tighten a nut to a specific torque. The majority of torque wrenches are ones that you can set at different torque levels. So, that makes them extremely useful in aviation maintenance and repair.
EPAuto 1/2-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench, 10~150 ft./lb., 13.6 ~ 203.5 N/m
In relation to torque wrenches, this is a very good product that we can recommend to you. Hardened corrosion-resistant chrome vanadium steel alloy (Cr-V) has been used in the manufacturing process of this torque wrench. This is a product that has received good reviews and ratings from all over the world. Many buyers have admired factors such as ease to read, ease of using, and instruction quality. Also, this has got good ratings for factors such as accuracy and lock feature as well. So, we think this would be a good product for you to buy.
2. Vibration meters
A vibration meter is a device that measures the displacement, velocity, and acceleration of a moving object. Vibration meters are for on-site vibration measurement of any rotating machinery. And they are capable of detecting vibration risk, machine monitoring, and vibration analysis. These capture vibrations so meticulously. These devices are portable. And you can record their readings and retrieve them later.
Vibration meters are in use in laboratories, as well as in maintenance, manufacture, and production. Vibration meters are primarily in use to detect vibrations and oscillations in numerous installations and equipment. And you can use them in the manufacturing of certain tools and equipment.
When it comes to aircraft, vibration analysis in aircraft is critical for assuring the aircraft’s safety while in flight. The purpose of a vibration meter is to measure the degree of vibration on an aircraft. You can measure the greatest vibration that an airplane can withstand in kilos using a vibration meter.
A vibration meter will assist in determining the number of vibrations on the aircraft. Without a vibration analysis, no aircraft is safe to travel. It could be more like inviting problems if you let this happen. All the airplanes also have vibration meters. A plane without a vibration meter is a tragedy waiting to happen. It is prone to rotor blade difficulties and other structural concerns.
Vibrometer Digital Vibration Meter, AS63D Vibrometer Pen High Sensitivity Accelerometer Vibration Meter Tester Gauge Analyzer with Storage Case
This has high sensitivity probes that assure precise measurement. And this has long and short probe heads, each of which is appropriate for different measuring situations. This vibrometer is portable and easy to use. For convenient storage, it comes with a plastic case. And this has an LCD backlight that displays the measurements plainly and easily. It allows you to choose from a variety of vibration frequencies and is simple to use. Many people from various industries have chosen to use this product. Considering all these factors, this would be a good choice after all.
3. Speed handle
There are a variety of scenarios in which using a speed handle is useful. It is useful even for aircraft maintenance. So, it appears as the third in our list of the tools of an aircraft mechanic. Civilian aircraft mechanics work on a tight schedule and they have to fix problems as they move on with their duties. There is a great deal of work that an aircraft mechanic has to do in a short amount of time. So, it is important to use tools like speed handles to improve efficiency.
A speed handle is one of the most complex airplane maintenance equipment available. It is a long screw with which aircraft mechanics can remove a screw head swiftly with one hand while working on other repairs with the other. This is a crucial tool, particularly when working on a high-end engine with plenty of screws.
SK Hand Tools 40981 1/4″ Drive Speeder Handle 14.5″
This speed handle is entirely corrosion-resistant. Therefore, we can be sure that this is a durable one. Its ball detent feature has the ability to fasten the socket to the handle without any slipping. In general, this is actually a good product. “Great speed handle. Holds up well.” This is how a happy customer of this has reviewed it on Amazon.
4. Metalworking tools
Metal is the main substance in major frames and structures in an entire aircraft. Therefore, metalworking tools are a necessity as one of the tools of an aircraft mechanic. Most of the metalworking tools are mainly for fastening metal, bending metals, and cutting metals. Rivet guns and drills are two typical metalworking equipment that aircraft mechanics use. They are necessary to hold the aircraft’s main components together.
13″ Rivet Gun 50-Piece Rivets, Dual-Hand-Operation Riveter With Spare-Rods Collector, Equipping with 5 Interchangeable Color-Coated Heads, 5 in 1 Manual Riveter Set – AHR02
Under metalworking tools, we thought of suggesting this rivet gun to you. This has five interchangeable heads. They are of sizes 3/32”(2.4mm), 1/8”(3.2mm), 5/32”(4mm), 3/16”(4.8mm), and ¼”(6.4mm). The combination of a high-quality aluminum alloy body and a heat-treated reinforced carbon steel handle enhanced the gun’s robustness and longevity. Its ergonomic handle is also very user-friendly. Further, its adjustable sleeve design is commendable. And this has a collecting bottle to collect all the waste nails.
5. Pliers
Pliers are hand tools that you can use to hold things securely in place. Also, you can use them to bend and compress a variety of materials. Basically, there are various different types of pliers available on the market. Even as tools of an aircraft mechanic, you would need to have certain types of pliers with you.
Aircraft mechanics may need to have safety wire pliers. Although much effort is made to guarantee that the majority of the fasteners operate as intended and are torqued properly, safety wires are included to ensure that the nuts and bolts never loosen. To hold big aluminum wires and connect them together to produce massive and robust braids requires the use of safety wire pliers. The tying of wires is usually strong and tough to ensure that there is no problem with the nuts and bolts.
All the same, aircraft mechanics may also need to use duckbill pliers. You may call them flat-nose pliers as well. With the use of these, you can grip, bend, and twist wire and other tiny objects which would be necessary on certain occasions. For comfort and slip resistance, the hyper grip consists of soft and firm material.
Furthermore, an aircraft mechanic may also have to use cannon plug pliers. With cannon plug pliers, electrical connector installation and removal are easy and safe. They easily grip on smooth, or greasy surfaces, preventing connector lock rings from any damage.
Obviously, there are many types of pliers that you may need. We focused only on the main types. Of course, you need to have all the types that you would need for sure.
2 Pieces Aircraft Safety Wire Twisting Pliers Tools Wire Twist Pliers 9 Inch 6 Inch Lock Twister Safety Wire Pliers for Aircraft Auto Industry (Black)
These safety wire twisting pliers can work as wire cutters and strand cutters as well. Hence, this actually is a 3 in 1 tool to be specific. This is actually a durable and sturdy product. Hence, you can surely use this for a long time without any trouble for certain. Wire twist pliers make grasping, twisting, and cutting wires easier and faster. All you have to do is simply grip the wire and pull the handle. And the pliers will twist a number of wires, saving you time on the work. So, this is perhaps a pretty good product.
6. Ratchet set
As an aircraft mechanic, you would have to make use of a ratchet set as well. First of all, what is a ratchet? Perhaps, you may know. But for the completion of our content, we thought of including it. A ratchet is actually a wrench device that comes with a fastener component. To fasten and loosen nuts and bolts, you should definitely have a ratchet wrench.
When it comes to these types of items, it is important for them to be of good quality. If you cannot use them for a long period of time, they are actually of no use. They must surely be durable. And they must be sturdy and suitable for your work by all means.
GEARWRENCH 18 Piece 3/8″ Drive Ratchet & Drive Tools Set – 81254
This ratchet set has full polish chrome extensions, wobble extensions, and locking extensions to provide access to more fasteners. The material of these is alloy steel. That increases the strength and sturdiness as well as the longevity of this tool. Anyway, this really is a good tool. For factors like versatility, sturdiness, durability, and value for money, this has got really good ratings. Hence, this would be a good choice for you.
7. Mirrors
Just because you read mirrors in our list of the tools of an aircraft mechanic, do you get a funny feeling? There is no offense even if you get a funny feeling. You might get a weird feeling that aircraft mechanics would not need mirrors at all. As a matter of fact, aircraft mechanics need mirrors.
But why would aircraft mechanics need mirrors? This is mainly for the same purpose as dentists need mirrors? In the main, dentists need mirrors to see some parts that if not are unable to see. Just like that, aircraft mechanics need mirrors to inspect specific parts of an aircraft that are unable to be properly inspected if not
This is actually quite frequent. On most occasions, aircraft mechanics may not see some vital parts of an aircraft that need regular checking. Using a mirror rather than removing the entire wing is sometimes the only method to observe such a region. That is why it is indeed critical for an aircraft mechanic to use mirrors.
Juvale 2-Pack Round 2-Inch Telescoping Inspection Mirror, Extends up to 24.5 Inches, Black
This telescopic stick stretches to 24.5 inches and retracts to 6.4 inches. The swivel neck of this inspection mirror allows simple access to difficult-to-reach places as well. And this has a grooved cushion handle that provides a pleasant and strain-free grip, allowing you to easily complete inspections. In general, this surely is a good product for you to choose as an inspection mirror. That is why we thought of recommending it to you.
8. Hearing protection
The officials who work in the aviation sector surely do need to wear hearing protection. A single exposure to extremely loud noises or by listening to loud sounds over a period of time can cause hearing loss. Listening to loud noise for a long time can overwork hair cells in the ear. And they may die. As long as the exposure continues, the hearing loss will proceed. Even after noise exposure ends, negative consequences may persist. In most cases, damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve system is irreversible. Hence, it is critical to protect your ears.
So, it is necessary to have hearing protection as one of the tools of an aircraft mechanic. Obviously, there are various types of hearing protection available for aircraft mechanics. Single-use, or disposable, earplugs are typically worn only once and then discarded. However, they provide a high level of comfort, performance, and convenience. Anyway, you can use multiple-use earplugs for two to five weeks if you take proper care of them. Banded earplugs are another multi-purpose alternative. These are essentially a pair of earplugs that connects through a plastic band and are quite beneficial for those who often enter and exit noisy environments.
Also, you can step another step ahead by going for earmuffs instead of earplugs. And there are a few types of earmuffs as well. Passive earmuffs block sound by relying only on the foam and other components of the earcup to do so. Uniform attenuation earmuffs not only prevent noise but also use innovative acoustic technology to control incoming sound. When it comes to electronic earmuffs, they not only block sound but also modulate it electronically.
WorkTunes Connect + Gel Ear Cushions Hearing Protector with Bluetooth Technology, Ear protection for mowing, snow blowing, construction, workshops
This hearing protector is pretty comfortable. Without any discomfort, you can surely keep on wearing this during your working hours. Its wireless technology allows you to stream music from your phone and any other Bluetooth-enabled device in real-time. With its microphone, you may make and receive phone calls without taking off your hearing protection. This obviously is a fine one for an aircraft mechanic. Of course, with this, you can enjoy something that you like while restricting the treacherous noises.
Conclusion
Throughout this article, we discussed a great deal about the tools of an aircraft mechanic. And we hope that you would be having a good idea by now. We started off by telling what the duties and responsibilities of an aircraft mechanic are. Then, we told you the importance of the tools of an aircraft mechanic. We also added that tools are pretty important for many other professions just as they are for aircraft mechanics. Afterward, we discussed the tools of an aircraft mechanic in detail. And if you wish to read about the tools of a plumber, electrician, carpenter, masonry worker, HVAC technician, ironworker, glazier, solar installer, and so on, you can read about them and broaden your knowledge. Good luck with aircraft mechanics!
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