Blog

Here at www.qualitetch.co.uk, we employ our precision manufacturing solutions for all manner of purposes. We can laser cut or photo etch everything, from mesh filters and furniture fixtures to components for aircraft and vehicles.

Metal is a useful and versatile material and different metals possess unique qualities that make them ideal for specific purposes. When it comes to aeronautic and aerospace manufacturing though, the choice of metals used becomes all the more important.

This is because the metals used in aerospace/aeronautic engineering need to be designed with longevity and robustness in mind.

As well as the strict regulations and requirements imposed by various safety boards and legal bodies, engineers and manufacturers want to ensure that every last component they produce and use is designed perfectly.

As such, every last component needs to optimise the material’s physical and chemical properties so that the structure can withstand the wear and tear of a tough environment. So what metals can be shaped, cut, etched and offer properties such as strength, corrosion-resistance and lightweight structure?

Well, we’ve highlighted two examples below.

Titanium

This metal can exhibit great strength, without having to be too heavy itself. This is ideal for aircraft that needs to be lightweight and easily manoeuvrable, but still needs to be strong and durable.

Titanium is also beneficial because of its resistance to heat, wear, and corrosion, particularly, corrosion in salt water and chlorine. This resistance means that the moisture in the atmosphere won’t negatively impact the craft.

Also, using the metal for various components, where water is present, will prove to be a good investment.

Generally speaking, this metal is an investment piece anyway. It comes at a relatively high cost, but the properties it possesses make the initial outlay well worthwhile. It is best used for airframe purposes and various components used for the landing gear, as fasteners, for springs and so on.

Aluminium

Though titanium is not heavy in comparison to the weight it can bear, aluminium is a far lighter option.

The lightweight and malleable nature of this metal makes it a great option if you want flexibility and fluidity in design and manufacture. However, aluminium (unless in alloy form) is not a practical option for aerospace or aeronautic construction.

Whilst being lighter than titanium is a benefit, the fact that aluminium is only half as strong means it is unable to withstand the barrage of debris, strong winds and environmental or atmospheric factors it would be exposed to.

It is still a superb material for components and inner structural work though, especially in alloy form. When combined with other metals, such as copper or scandium, aluminium is enhanced to such a degree that its structure improves its strength and its performance in extreme temperatures.

These two metals are just a small sample of the specialist materials used in the design and manufacture of aircraft, as well as the various components within it. Discover all of our services here at Qualitetch.