The aerospace industry is one of the most demanding sectors in terms of quality and precision. The parts that make up aircraft must meet stringent safety and performance requirements, so the machining process is critical to ensure that they meet expectations.
In this article, we are going to talk about the different types of machining processes used in the aerospace industry, as well as their applications and characteristics.
What are machining processes in the aerospace industry like?
Machining processes are those that allow shaping a material by removing excess material. However, these processes are very different from other industries due to the need for extreme precision and the use of advanced materials.
The aerospace industry, known for its demand for precision and quality, employs a wide range of machining processes to manufacture its components. Among the most common are:
- CNC Milling, a key technique for creating complex and highly detailed parts, essential for ensuring performance and safety in aircraft.
- CNC Turning also plays a crucial role, being the preferred choice for the manufacture of cylindrical and radially symmetrical parts, where precision and symmetry are critical.
- EDM is another vital process, especially suitable for working with extremely hard materials.
These processes are indispensable in the aerospace industry, each providing unique characteristics that are essential to the development and maintenance of high-performance aerospace equipment.
Applications of Machining Processes in the Aerospace Industry
Machining processes are used to manufacture a wide range of parts for aerospace use, including:
- Structural parts: these are the parts that make up the skeleton of the aircraft. High-precision machining processes are used to manufacture parts from aluminum, titanium and other lightweight, strong materials.
- Engine parts: these are the parts that allow the aircraft to propel itself. High-speed machining processes are used to manufacture parts from titanium, steel and other heat- and corrosion-resistant materials.
- Avionics system parts: these are the parts that control the aircraft. High-precision machining processes are used to manufacture parts from aluminum, plastics and other light and strong materials.
Types of machining processes used at PMA
In addition to standard processes, PMA offers a line of special processes. These include:
- Anodizing: to increase corrosion resistance.
- Passivation: essential to protect and clean stainless steel parts.
- Liquid penetrant and magnetic particle inspection: to ensure structural integrity without damage.
These processes are backed by Nadcap certification. PMA is certified by Nadcap, an international organization that accredits companies that meet the highest quality standards in the manufacture of aerospace parts.
This certification is also a guarantee that the parts machined by PMA meet the most demanding requirements of the aerospace industry.
