A Guide to Choosing Aircraft Wheel and Brake Parts

Aircraft wheel and brake systems play a key role in ensuring the safe execution of takeoffs, landings, and taxiing operations. When choosing suitable parts for these systems, it is beneficial to thoroughly evaluate material durability, performance specifications, compliance with aviation regulations, and other key considerations. If you are currently in the market for brake components and need insight to make the most informed procurement decisions, read on as we explore essential factors in selection.

Types of Aircraft Wheels

Single-Piece Wheels

Single-piece wheels are typically manufactured from a single block of high-strength aluminum or magnesium alloy, which often enhances durability and reduces the risk of structural failures when compared to multi-piece designs. They are commonly used in light aircraft where tire replacements are relatively infrequent, as their one-piece design can make maintenance more complex and time-consuming.

Two-Piece Wheels

Two-piece wheels are often bolted together to facilitate tire mounting and replacement without necessitating the removal of the entire wheel assembly. This design typically enhances maintenance efficiency, which is particularly beneficial for large aircraft that experience high rates of usage.

Split-Rim Wheels

Split-rim wheels usually feature a bolted flange that allows for quick tire servicing. This design is commonly used in aircraft that conduct frequent landings, such as commercial airliners and military jets, where rapid maintenance turnaround times are often a priority.

Key Considerations for Selecting Aircraft Wheels

• Load-Bearing Capacity: Each wheel should be capable of supporting an aircraft’s maximum landing weight while minimizing structural deformation.
• Thermal Resistance: Wheel systems should be able to dissipate heat effectively to curtail damage from friction and extreme braking forces.

Types of Aircraft Brakes

Carbon Brakes

Carbon brakes are widely used in modern commercial and military aircraft, as they are generally lighter than traditional steel brakes and offer superior heat dissipation. They also tend to provide effective performance under high-energy braking conditions like aborted takeoffs.

Steel Brakes

Steel brakes, although typically heavier than carbon alternatives, are widely recognized for providing consistent stopping power under a broad range of operating conditions. Their durability and relative cost-effectiveness compared to most carbon variants make them a practical choice for many operators with moderate braking energy demands.

Expander Tube Brakes

Commonly found in light aircraft, expander tube brakes function by utilizing an expanding rubber tube to create friction against a brake drum. While usually effective for lower-weight aircraft, they are generally unsuitable for high-performance or high-speed applications due to their inherent design limitations.

Key Considerations for Selecting Aircraft Brakes

• Heat Dissipation: Brake materials need to be able to withstand extreme temperatures without significantly degrading or losing performance.
• Braking Force Distribution: Even distribution of braking force can reduce uneven wear, enhance safety, and ensure smooth deceleration.
• Weight Efficiency: Lightweight braking materials can help optimize fuel efficiency without compromising stopping power.

How to Ensure Compliance and Reliability in Wheel and Brake Selection

• Certification Requirements: Verify that all components comply with FAA, EASA, or other applicable regulatory approvals.
• OEM Specifications: Select parts that align with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) guidelines to ensure compatibility with other aircraft components.
• Supplier Credibility: Suppliers with a proven track record of reliability are more likely to provide certified components that offer full traceability and quality assurance.

Your Trusted Platform for Reliable Aircraft Brake and Wheel Items

Whether you take an interest in our vast selection of brake components, wheel parts, or other related aviation items, be sure to utilize our online Request for Quote (RFQ) service to obtain customized purchasing options for your comparisons. You can also get in touch with us via phone or email, where we would be more than happy to help you however we can. Keeping all that we provide in mind, feel free to initiate the procurement process here on Jet Force Aero to secure all the aircraft components you require to carry out operations.