The Aerospace Industry continues to grow. Industry experts expect it to grow to 29.3 Billion USD by 2038. More manufacturers are stepping in to meet the demand for replacement and spare parts. Each part produced must be marked appropriately according to FAA standards.
Why Mark the Aerospace Parts?
Marking Aerospace parts enables traceability, so you can find the origin of the part, if necessary. Because the fitment of the wrong part can easily cause a catastrophe that results in the loss of lives, it is imperative to mark every part fitted to an aircraft. You will also have an exact part number for when you are looking for a replacement part.
Marking of Aerospace Parts
To keep up with the aviation industry, we must be fast but accurate in our parts marking. We mark every aircraft part with a unique serial number and part number. The most frequently replaced parts are:
- Turbine components, including fins, blades, flanges, vanes, discs, and rotors
- Fasteners like nuts, bolts, washers, screws, and rivets
- System Components such as pumps, motors, generators, movable shafts, flight control parts, and electronic boxes
- Airframe parts like landing gear, brake discs, and thrust reversers
- Power Plant parts, including nozzles, combustors, gears, assemblies, and transmission systems
- Autoflight parts such as lights, switches, control panels, displays, and computers
Every part of the aircraft, from the wing to even the smallest of nuts, has a unique part number and serial number.
Types of Material Marked in the Aerospace Industry
Aluminum is used for aircraft bodies, flaps, ailerons, and more.
Platinum is used in engine components like fuel nozzles, turbines, and other heat exchangers.
Composite Materials such as carbon-reinforced materials
Plastics are typically used for the interiors of aircraft
Tools- According to major EASA and FAA regulations, all tools used on aircraft must be serialized and properly marked.
While parts often come marked from the manufacturer, some organizations want to serialize the tools on their serial numbers to satisfy their local regulatory bodies.
Some Marking Systems Used in the Aerospace Industry
Dot Peen Marking
Dot Peen marking leaves behind permanent markings that can endure the extreme working conditions of most parts, including high temperatures and pressures, making this a popular marking method.
Fiber Laser Marking
Ideally suitable for metals and metal alloys, fiber laser marking is flexible, has a wide range of applicable materials, and can be easily incorporated into existing systems. It also provides deeper engraving on metals. And because pulse energy and pulse peak power are not dependent on the repetition rate, it creates a homogenous marking pattern.
CO2 Laser Marking
CO2 laser marking systems electrically stimulate the laser from CO2 gas. This is mainly used for marking non-metallic materials like plastics for the aircraft’s interior, which undergo frequent replacements and, thus, are in high demand.
Laser Marking
Laser marking creates long-lasting marks that can endure the high temperatures and pressures of the flight. It is the most economical option among the various marking methods available in the industry, is extremely safe, and poses no danger to the environment.
Integrated Technology: On The Cutting Edge Of Laser Technology For Over 20 Years
At Integrated Technology, we understand the requirements for parts marking within the aerospace industry. As a result, save time and money while maximizing quality and compliance. Count on Integrated Technology, Inc.