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What are Aerospace Sensors?

An important part of responsible aircraft operation is analyzing feedback from your instruments and making adjustments whenever necessary. A wide array of sensors are constantly monitoring the state of the aircraft’s flight equipment and systems as well as the flight conditions. This blog will explain each of the most important aircraft sensors in the aerospace and aviation industries.

  • Flow Sensor:

Flow sensors are used in both fuel transfer and bleed air systems. In fuel transfer systems, flow sensors monitor the quantity of lubrication oil flowing through the system. In bleed air systems, they are employed to control coolant entering the system and the airflow at the exit of the system.

  • Pressure Sensor:

Pressure sensors play a critical role in controlling the pressure in hydraulic systems, braking, raising and lowering landing gear, engine oil, oxygen tanks, as well as heating and coolant fluids.

  • Temperature Sensor:

Temperature sensors are used to maintain hydraulic oils, fuels, refrigerants, and environmental cooling systems. Metallic temperature gauges, thermometers, Wheatstone bridge indicators, radiometers, and thermocouples are all examples of temperature sensors.

  • Altimeter:

The altimeter is a sensor that determines the altitude of an aircraft by measuring the changes in static air pressure. In aircraft, a barometer measures the atmospheric pressure via a static port on the exterior of the aircraft. Changes in pressure indicate changes in altitude, which is relayed to the aircraft’s instruments.

  • Airspeed Indicator:

Airspeed indicators calculate air speed through the combination of a static and pitot system. Air entering the tube causes a diaphragm to open or close, moving a pointer and indicating the airspeed.

  • Position Sensor:

Linear variable differential transformers and rotary variable differential transformers are examples of position sensors. Position sensors detect the displacement of aircraft components and indicate any displacements to the operator.

Attitude Heading System: 

The attitude heating and reference systems (AHRS) is an electronic system that has, for the most part, replaced the gyroscope in modern aircraft. Data other devices including MEMS, GPS, magnetometers, aircraft accelerometers, and attitude information is received, analyzed, and communicated by the AHRS.

In addition to these important components, oxygen sensors, force & vibration sensors, compasses, magnonmeters, and gyroscopes also have important functions within an aircraft. Oxygen sensors are integral in the control of inerting systems within Airbus aircraft. The inerting system is a configuration that helps prevent the combustion of flammable materials that are stored in confined areas on an aircraft. Aircraft compasses and magnetometers both provide directional assistance by measuring the Earth’s magnetic fields to determine what direction the aircraft is headed in. Gyroscopes, both electric and mechanical, are also used to determine direction but additionally help control the turning and attitude of an aircraft.

These sensors are found in different systems throughout any aircraft. In the communications systems, sensors are found in the radio and satellite systems that link aircraft to one another for traffic control. Sensors are also critical in collision avoidance systems. In addition to air traffic control, aircraft use traffic alert and collision avoidance systems (TCAS) that detect other aircraft in the surrounding area. Another system, the portable collision avoidance system (PCAS), is less accurate but much more affordable, making it a popular device for pilots all over the world. It is a passive device with virtually the same function as a TCAS system.

Sensors are an important part of aviation. At ASAP AM Spares, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find all the sensor components for the aerospace, civil aviation, and defense industries. We’re always available and ready to help you find all the aircraft parts and equipment you need, 24/7-365. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@asapamspares.com or call us at 1-702-919-1616.


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