The aerospace industry has produced some of the most awe-inspiring marvels of the modern age. These wonders of innovation are barely more than 100 years old, and yet, we take global air travel for granted. 

While most think of radar and communication systems as the key innovations in modern airplanes and defense vehicles, one element they may not know about is advanced plastics. The aerospace industry couldn’t function without a reliable aerospace plastics manufacturer, any more than it could without pilots. This article explores the impact of custom plastic fabrication on the aerospace industry , diving into 10 critical uses for this innovative technology.

1. Windows, Canopies, and Dust Covers

As with any vehicle, visibility is paramount for safe and efficient travel. Any airborne vehicle requires windows, canopies, and dust covers that protect those inside while providing optimal visibility for safe operation. Custom plastic fabrication provides the perfect solution, as high-performance plastics are transparent and highly durable, preventing damage from bird strikes and providing long-term functionality.

2. Landing Gear Components

Aviation plastic suppliers have made a massive difference in landing gear construction. While traditional materials like steel and aluminum were undeniably strong, they were also heavy and susceptible to corrosive damage. Premium plastics are lightweight and durable, and they can be manufactured with corrosion-resistant technology. Custom plastic fabrication has produced more efficient, reliable landing gear components.

3. Smooth Signal Transmission

Communication is essential for safe and successful flights, whether commercial airlines or defense departments. Therefore, any components used in aerospace manufacturing must allow for clear transmission of electromagnetic signals. Plastic is perfect for this. It doesn’t interfere with these signals and can be used to create components that need to be “invisible” to radar systems. Custom plastic thermoforming is especially beneficial for military applications, providing critical stealth capabilities.

4. Quality Insulators

Any airborne vehicle needs to be able to withstand extreme temperatures and dramatic temperature changes as it ascends and descends. Quality plastics offer reliable insulation of critical components, protecting them from damage due to temperature fluctuations. Use custom plastic fabrication to protect electrical components and passengers alike.

5. Interior Panels and Luggage Compartments

Weight is a critical factor in aerospace engineering. Planes are manufactured to save weight wherever they can, which makes custom plastic fabrication particularly useful. It provides a lightweight alternative for interior panels such as walls and luggage compartments. These savings add up, allowing engineers to create the lightest aircraft possible for optimal performance without sacrificing the passenger experience.

6. Trays and Tray Tables

Passengers expect a certain degree of comfort and functionality from their flight experience. In-flight meals or sky-high work sessions are more enjoyable with tray tables. Custom plastic thermoforming delivers premium trays and tray tables, giving passengers a luxury experience without adding unnecessary weight. Quality plastics are used for everything from armrests to entertainment systems!

7. Ventilation Ducting and Seals

Internal air circulation is essential for keeping passengers and crew members safe during flights. This responsibility falls to the ventilation ducting and seals, which carry oxygen throughout the cabin and contribute to proper pressurization. Plastics are a lightweight, efficient choice for ventilation systems, are easy to install, and provide reliable, lasting performance.

8. Bushings and Bearings

Efficient functioning requires the smooth movement of interconnected pieces, which is dependent on components like bushes and bearings. Plastic is often used for these components due to its low friction coefficient. A plastics manufacturer can provide bushes and bearings that won’t deteriorate quickly and require less maintenance than metal alternatives.

9. Pipes and Tubing

Whether we’re talking about fuel lines, water pipes, or even hydraulic systems, plastics are phenomenal at smoothly moving fluids throughout an aviation vehicle. Their flexibility means they can be easily installed even in tight spaces, and their corrosion-resistant properties prevent damage from harsh fluids. Since they are lightweight, unlike their metal counterparts, they also prevent unnecessary weight, helping to enhance performance.

10. Fasteners, Mirrors, and Wiring Conduits

An aerospace plastics supplier helps engineers save weight even in small areas, like fasteners, mirrors, and wiring conduits. These little savings add up, allowing them to design lightweight and efficient vehicles, which is especially beneficial to the defense industry. Aerospace plastics also contribute to fuel efficiency, and their non-corrosive properties provide long-term quality.

If you’re looking for a reliable plastics manufacturing company, look no further than New Technology Plastics. We are high-performance plastics specialists, using innovative software and technology to bring you the necessary components to create high-performing aviation vehicles. Our Aeroworks division manufactures plastic and aluminum components for the top aerospace engineering companies in the nation. Call us today at 866-687-0700 or contact us online to learn more about our services.