Aircraft landing gear plays a crucial role in ensuring safe takeoffs, landings, and ground operations. As one of the most critical structural systems in aviation, it must withstand the immense forces it is subjected to while maintaining stability and control for safety. Whether absorbing impact upon touchdown or providing directional maneuverability on runways, each component of an aircraft landing gear assembly contributes to its overall functionality. Understanding the different parts of landing gear can help one appreciate how aircraft handle diverse operational conditions while maintaining safety and efficiency, so read on as we provide a brief overview of the most common elements.
Shock absorbers manage impact forces during landings, preventing excessive stress on airframes. Without an effective system to dissipate energy, structures would experience accelerated wear. Most modern aircraft use oleo-pneumatic struts, which combine hydraulic fluid and compressed gas for efficient energy absorption. As landing occurs, hydraulic fluid moves through small openings in the strut assembly, converting kinetic energy from the force of impact into heat that is then dissipated. Compressed gas ensures struts return to their original position, maintaining proper alignment for taxiing and takeoff.
Well-maintained shock absorbers improve landing smoothness while reducing stress on tires, brakes, and structural components, extending their operational lifespan.
Aircraft wheels and tires endure extreme forces, rapid temperature changes, and high-speed landings during typical flight operations. Unlike automotive tires, aircraft tires feature multiple synthetic rubber and Kevlar layers for reinforcement, allowing them to handle heavy loads.
Inflated to high pressures, these tires absorb impact while preventing collapse, ensuring safety across operations. Specialized treads also enhance traction on wet or icy runways, while nitrogen gas is often used for inflation to minimize expansion and contraction due to temperature fluctuations.
Braking systems allow aircraft to slow down efficiently after touchdown. Unlike automobile brakes, these systems must absorb immense kinetic energy within seconds to ensure controlled stops.
In the braking system of a typical aircraft, hydraulic disc brakes are most popular, these assemblies apply hydraulic pressure to press brake pads against rotating discs to generate friction that slows wheels. To enhance efficiency, modern aircraft often feature carbon-composite brakes, which offer superior heat resistance, reduced weight, and improved durability.
Many aircraft integrate anti-lock braking systems (ABS) to prevent skidding, allowing for the dynamic adjustment of brake pressure for optimal grip. A larger aircraft may also employ thrust reversers and spoilers to assist braking procedures, reducing strain on wheel brakes and extending component longevity.
Landing gear doors reduce aerodynamic drag by sealing wheel wells when gear is retracted. Controlled by hydraulic or electric actuators, these doors must be able to open and close with high precision to ensure smooth transitions and safety between flight and ground operations. Failure in these mechanisms can lead to improper deployment or increased aerodynamic resistance, as well as other issues that are best avoided through proper manufacturing and maintenance. In order to balance strength and minimal weight to maintain fuel efficiency, landing gear doors are commonly constructed from lightweight composite materials or aluminum alloys.
Aircraft with retractable landing gear rely on hydraulic or electric actuators for extension and retraction. This system enhances fuel efficiency by preventing drag during flight as a result of landing gear being in the path of airflow.
Landing gear must be able to fit securely within designated compartments when retracted and reliably locked in place to prevent accidental deployment. Locking mechanisms, such as over-center linkages and hydraulic locks, secure gear in position until extension is necessary.
Ground maneuverability relies on an effective steering system. While airborne, control surfaces dictate movement, but on the ground, directional adjustments are derived from nose wheel steering.
Smaller aircraft may use mechanical linkages connected to rudder pedals to carry out nose wheel steering, while larger models tend to incorporate hydraulic actuators for more precise movement. Some commercial aircraft also feature tiller control systems, allowing for sharp turns at low speeds without excessive rudder input.
When it comes to procuring aircraft landing gear parts or other aerospace components, look no further than Jet Force Aero. Operated by ASAP Semiconductor, an AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accredited distributor, we ensure every component is thoroughly inspected for quality and compliance. Our platform connects you with high-performance parts that trace back to over 5100 trusted manufacturers, making it simple to find the precise parts you require. With over 2 billion product listings, finding the right component for your needs has never been easier. Fill out our online RFQ form to get started today, and a dedicated team member will provide a competitive quote within 15 minutes.
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