The Most Common Tools In Aviation Maintenance

Modern aircraft maintenance requires precision, consistency, and the right set of tools to get the job done. Whether working on a commercial airliner, general aviation aircraft, or cargo helicopter, aviation maintenance technicians rely on a range of equipment and resources to perform safe and efficient repairs. While tool requirements vary depending on the aircraft in question and maintenance task being carried out, some options are considered more universal in the aviation industry. This guide will explore the most commonly used tools in aviation maintenance, detailing their purpose, usage, and variations.

Why Tool Selection Matters in Aviation

In aviation, accuracy and safety are paramount concerns. Having the right tool upholds this, ensuring:

• Proper installation and removal of aircraft components
• Reduced risk of damaging delicate parts
• Compliance with strict maintenance protocols
• Increased efficiency and reduced downtime

Using the wrong tool for the job or improperly handling equipment can lead to a range of serious consequences, ranging from part damage and work violations to safety hazards and harm.

Popular Types of Aviation Tools

Soft-Faced Hammers and Mallets

Soft-faced hammers and mallets are both common to aviation operations, being used for shaping soft metal components or striking surfaces that must not be marred. These tools are also ideal when forming sheet metal or working on delicate parts with softer materials. They are not designed to strike nails, bolts, or punch heads, as this could damage the hammer itself and the workpiece.

Compatible Materials:

• Rawhide
• Wood
• Brass
• Hard Rubber
• Plastic

Being used for these materials and others, soft hammers and mallets are useful for reducing the chance of creasing or denting surfaces during forming processes.

Screwdrivers: Manual and Powered

Screwdrivers are used in countless maintenance activities, primarily being used to tighten or loosen screws and bolts with slotted heads. There are a number of common screwdriver types, including standard slotted, Phillips, torx, and hex variations. One can also choose between manually operated hand tools, corded electric screwdrivers, and mobile cordless versions.

Important Notes for Screwdrivers

• Many screwdrivers come with interchangeable tips for flexibility.
• The screwdriver tip must fill at least 75% of the screw’s head slot to prevent slippage and stripping when torque is applied.
• Cordless power screwdrivers are highly popular due to their speed and ease of use, especially in repetitive disassembly work.

Pliers

Plier tools in aviation maintenance settings provide a mechanical advantage by offering leverage to grip, bend, cut, or crimp various materials and components. This enables technicians to carefully manipulate small parts, secure wiring, and perform delicate adjustments essential for aircraft airworthiness.

Common Types of Aviation Pliers

• Diagonal (Side-Cutting)
• Needlenose
• Duckbill

Always use the correct plier type to ensure precision and avoid damage to the wire or component.

Wrenches

Wrenches in aviation maintenance provide a precise and controlled application of rotational force to tighten or loosen fasteners, often offering accurate levels of torque to ensure critical components are secured to exact specifications for aircraft safety and structural integrity.

Common Types of Wrenches:

• Open-End Wrenches: These are ideal for easy access to nuts and bolts.
• Box-End Wrenches: Such tools offer more grip and less chance of slippage.
• Socket Wrenches: Used with ratchets, socket wrenches are useful for numerous fasteners with their ease of use.
• Adjustable Wrenches: Also called crescent wrenches, these offer flexible sizing.
• Flare Nut Wrenches: Such wrenches are designed for soft fittings like hydraulic lines.
• Spanner Wrenches: Spanner wrenches are used on round fasteners with holes.
• Torque Wrenches: These offer precision tightening with specific torque values.
• Allen Wrenches (Hex Keys): Allen wrenches are used for hex socket fasteners.

How to Choose the Right Type of Wrench

• Step 1: Always identify the bolt type you are working with and any space constraints.

• Step 2: Match the correct wrench type accordingly and apply proper torque.

Essential Safety Practices for Tool Use

To maintain tool effectiveness and ensure technician safety, one should always follow these basic practices:

• Inspect Tools Regularly: On a scheduled basis or when issues are suspected, be sure to carefully check tools for wear, cracks, or damage.
• Calibrate Torque Wrenches: Tools like torque wrenches only work best when properly calibrated, with manufacturer recommendations regularly being available.
• Store Tools Properly: Designated containers and climate-controlled spaces are important to protect sensitive equipment from damage, contamination, or loss.
• Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety is always a first in operations, so technicians would use proper PPE as necessary, with gloves, goggles, and other equipment being typical.

AFR Enterprises As Your Sourcing Solution for High-Performance Aviation Tools

As we have shown in this article, aviation maintenance technicians depend on a wide array of tools, each being tailored for specific tasks and materials. From delicate forming hammers to torque-measuring wrenches, every item in a technician’s kit plays a vital role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of an aircraft. As such, it is important to have the right tools at one’s disposal for any expected job.

Here on AFR Enterprises, we proudly offer customers access to a wide range of high-quality aviation tools and aircraft maintenance components that are sourced from leading manufacturers and suppliers from across the globe. With a plethora of options ready for purchase today and hands-on service offered to any prospective customer, AFR Enterprises reduces the complexity of sourcing and fulfillment. If you are ready to see all that we can offer, give us a call or email today to discuss aviation tools and other items of need.