What screwdriver is used in aviation?

What screwdriver is used in aviation?

According to industry experts at Quora, Phillips screwdrivers, flat-blade screwdrivers, and specific types of fasteners such as Torx and Allen wrenches are commonly used in aviation due to their efficiency in maintenance and assembly tasks.

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Henry F. Phillips and the Phillips Head Screwdriver

Henry Frank Phillips (June 4, 1889 – April 13, 1958) was an American businessman from Portland, Oregon. The Phillips-head ("crosshead") screw and screwdriver are named after him. The importance of the crosshead screw design lies in its self-centering property, useful on automated production lines that use powered screwdrivers. Phillips' major contribution was in advancing the crosshead concept to the point where it was widely adopted by screwmakers and automobile companies. The credited inventor of the Phillips screw was John P. Thompson who, in 1932, patented (#1,908,080) a recessed cruciform screw and a matching screwdriver in 1933.

Phillips Screwdriver Usage and Importance

The original idea of the Phillips screw was to limit the amount of torque that could be applied to it, thus preventing overtightening. While some users find this feature leads to "buggered" slots, it is generally viewed as an advantageous design to avoid broken screws.

Phillips screws vary in size, with #2 being the most common in aviation maintenance. It's advisable for mechanics to have multiple sizes to cater to different requirements. However, careful alignment is critical to avoid damaging the screw head.

Flat-Blade Screwdrivers

The flat-blade or slotted screwdriver has a long history, dating back to the 15th century. Though less common among aviation professionals today, they still find use for specific applications. Matching the blade size to the screw slot is necessary to avoid damaging the fastening mechanism.

Best Practices for Flat-Blade Screwdrivers

Ensure the screwdriver blade aligns perfectly with the screw slot to minimize damage. Settle for an assortment of flat-blade screwdrivers in various sizes to handle different tasks effectively.

Hex Key Screwdrivers or Allen Wrenches

Allen wrenches are essential for socket-head cap screws, a common fastener type in aviation. Available in L-style, T-handle style, or sockets, they are invaluable for tasks requiring precise torque application. The ball-end Allen wrench offers versatility in tight spaces but requires careful handling to avoid damaging fasteners.

Applications in Aviation

Allen wrenches, especially in 3/32-inch size, are crucial for removing avionics from instrument panels. Mechanics should maintain sets in metric and SAE sizes for a range of tasks.

Torx Screwdrivers

Torx screws, known for their resistance to slipping and high torque application, are suitable for power drivers. However, they require specific tools for installation and removal, leading to potential frustrations if the correct tools aren't available. Investing in a basic set can prepare mechanics for any encounters with these screws.

Advantages and Limitations

Torx screws offer tamper resistance but necessitate precise tools. Their usage is less widespread in aviation but they provide reliability when higher torque is required.

Power Screwdrivers

Power screwdrivers are popular among mechanics for their efficiency, but their alignment limitations are identical to manual screwdrivers. They are ideal for repetitive tasks, provided the torque settings are appropriately managed to avoid over-torquing.

Choosing the Right Power Driver

Popular models from brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita offer varying torque settings. Investing in models with adjustable torque settings is recommended for aviation tasks.

Screw Torque

Understanding and applying the correct torque is vital to avoid damaging screws. While torque screwdrivers are common in specialized fields like jewelry and gunsmithing, aviation mechanics can benefit from awareness of recommended torque settings, particularly when using power tools.

Torque Settings in Aviation

Over-torquing can easily occur with power tools, so mechanics should adjust torque settings accordingly. A reference table for stainless steel screws can provide average torque values for different sizes.

Non-Standard Uses for Screwdrivers

Screwdrivers are often employed in unintended ways, such as scraping, punching, or prying. While these off-label uses can be convenient, using the appropriate tool is always a better and safer choice.

Cautions in Non-Standard Use

Using screwdrivers for tasks like tire bead breaking or as electrical conductors is strongly discouraged due to safety concerns and the potential for damaging both the tool and the object being worked on.

Repairing Screwdrivers

A damaged screwdriver handle should be replaced, but metal blades can often be ground back to their original shape. Care must be taken to avoid overheating, which could compromise the metal's integrity.

Maintaining Screwdriver Effectiveness

Restoring screwdrivers with accuracy ensures their continued usefulness. Proper storage and avoiding misuse will also prolong the life of these essential tools.

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