Aerospace hardware

The latest aerospace fasteners.

Software-controlled intelligent fasteners are the latest from Textron Fastening Systems (TFS) with its new Intevia latches. Connected to a piece of shape memory alloy in a wire form, an Intevia fastener can be remotely commanded by sending a small amount of current into the metal. As this happens, the alloy changes shape. When physically linked to a mechanical latch, this shape change can be used to trigger it open or shut.

An Intevia-fastened panel could be opened in seconds with time savings MROs and OEMs have hitherto only dreamed about.
Also, the security advantages of an Intevia-equipped aircraft versus one that uses screws and bolts are considerable. They are like doors with electronic security access systems.

Intevia-controlled overhead bin latches can be flush-mounted, with no handles to catch on clothing or equipment. In addition, access to them can be controlled by the flight deck.

The flight attendant's job would be easier, knowing that passengers couldn't just open bins whenever they felt like it. The pilot would be able to secure the interior bins during turbulence with a single flick of a switch.

Intevia-equipped fasteners can not only be controlled electronically, but monitored this way as well. Given the number of accidents that have occurred when screwed/bolted hatches have inadvertently been left open--causing chaos and even disaster in flight, being able to confirm that all hatches are sealed on the flight deck would be a benefit for safety.

Aircraft Hardware

Aircraft hardware can cover fasteners, aircraft fasteners, aircraft interior fittings, exterior fittings, aircraft tooling, cryogenic tube and pipe fittings, Bolts, Screws, Pins and Collar Systems, Lock-Bolts, Washers, Nuts, Solid Rivets, Blind Rivets, Bearings, Latches, Inserts, Studs, Clamps, Spacers, Blind bolts, Fluid Fittings, Bushings, Brackets, Springs, Hinges, Cotter Pins, Gang Channel, Nutplates, Pip Pins quick release fasteners, Lanyards, Standoffs, Insulation blanket Retainers, Panel Fasteners, Tack Rivet, Cable Tie Retainers, aerospace gaskets, seals, O-rings and bonding leads.

To remain competitive, conventional aircraft hardware manufacturers are saving OEMs and MROs money and manpower by providing `turnkey' ordering and replenishment of fasteners, bearings, and other hardware. Stocking and replenishment services and bin management at customers' own locations use JIT systems which monitor the bin and replenish automatically.

All forecasting, planning, acquisition, distribution and logistics are taken out of the customers' hands... no need for a warehouse full of hardware. Increased traceability of parts can collect exact costs and aircraft parts usage right down to the last screw! Supply chain productivity, efficient asset management, lower transactional costs, and immediate availability are all benefits.