Aircraft Maintenance Tools

Oil Eater Cleans Up Parts, Lowers Replacement Costs

Skokie, Ill.-based Kafko Intl’s Oil Eater is a 45-gallon, water-based parts washer that reduces the need for disposal services as well as costs for new parts. The unit’s industrial-grade HDPE resin tank lasts for a long time with easy operation. The Oil Eater can increase temperature to 110 degrees Fahrenheit by using 1,000-watt heaters to reduce heating time. Other features include a filter system to lengthen fluid usability, flexible spigot and flow-through brush, separate heater and pump switches with lighted on/off indicators, and a stainless steel workshelf. A ground fault interrupter provides protection. Three five-gallon buckets of cleaner-degreaser come with the Oil Eater, and a 25-gallon version of the unit is also available. Kafko Intl, 800-528-0334 or visit www.oileater.com.

Laser Provides Accurate Measurement of 2D Surfaces

Pinpoint Laser Systems has unveiled its Microgage 2D Laser, which is a tool for measuring machinery alignment, calibration and other uses requiring accurate alignment. Combining a compact laser transmitter with a receiver and digital display, the Microgage 2D uses the laser to move across the receiver either vertically or horizontally to provide a motion reading accurate to 0.0001 inch. Utilizing a bright red beam, the Microgage can operate to a distance of more than 100 ft. Accessories will allow the customer to measure alignment for straightness, bore or shaft configurations, flatness, parallelism, runout, squareness and other applications. The laser unit runs on batteries and is made of solid aluminum with a hard, anodized coating. A serial/USB interface allows connection to a laptop for analyzing maintenance records, customer compliance issues and other applications. Microgage 2D comes with a compact carrying case. Peabody, Mass.-based Pinpoint Laser Systems, 800-757-5383 or visit www.pinlaser.com.

Headphones Offer Day-Night Protection

Howard Leight Thunder T2HV earmuffs supply total protection for hearing and visibility in electrical environments, whether outdoors, in day or night conditions, during inclement weather or in low-light surroundings. In addition to the earmuffs, incorporating the company’s high-visibility earcups and reflective headbands will provide visual protection. Bright green earcups on the Thunder T2HVs become an asset in supplying contrast in dark settings, especially in low-lighting situations or inclement weather. The reflective headband illuminates when exposed to light, providing increased visibility and safety. Because of its dielectric construction, Thunder T2HVs will not conduct electricity, making them useful in virtually all noise environments, and particularly for airport ground workers, utility applications and road construction crews. Due to their robust configuration, the earmuffs will consistently perform on a high level and provide long-term durability. Rated at NRR 28 decibels and designed for hearing protection and comfort, Thunder T2HVs use Bilsom Technology’s Air Flow Control for optimal attenuation across all frequencies and more consistent attenuation at low frequencies. Snap-in ear cushions allow fast replacement and the ability to share the earmuffs with other users. Ventilated headbands minimize pressure on the head, and height adjustment settings allow individual comfort configurations. Howard Leight/Sperian Hearing Protection, 800-430-5490 or visit www.howardleight.com.

Clamps from Heyco Secure Cable, Hose or Wire

Heyco Products of Toms River, N.J. is offering its new line of Push Lock Cable Clamps and Snap Lock Cable Clamps. Both products are designed to securely clamp cable, wire or hose bundles in place. Push Lock Clamps are made for 0.187-inch mounting hole diameters and 0.125-inch panel thickness. They feature push-in arrows for rapid installation. Snap Lock Clamps fit 0.190-inch mounting holes and lock securely, but can be removed and reused with a #10-size screw. They can be assembled prior to installation on a wire, hose or cable and installed without forcing the clamp open, which avoids damage to the bundles. Both types are resistant to corrosion, grease, salt water, common solvents and weak acids, and are available in black or natural. Heyco, 800-526-4182 or visit www.heyco.com.

Bird Deterrent Features Ability to Use Indoors

Bird-X, which is located in Chicago, is announcing a new indoor-use bird deterrent laser for hangars, maintenance facilities and other buildings. The Bird BLazer utilizes a "fat-beam" laser, which sends out dozens of frequently changing patterns to discourage pigeons, sparrows, starlings, swallows and other birds. The device, which has a range of 10,000 sq. ft., runs on 110-volt electricity with no maintenance or oversight required. Included is mounting hardware, a 6-ft. power cord, remote control, security keys, and an instruction manual on issues relevant to bird management. Bird-X, 800-662-5021 or visit www.bird-x.com.

SPS Fasteners Feature Superalloy Material

Jenkintown, Pa.-based SPS Technologies is offering fasteners that use AEREX 350, a superalloy that was originally developed for bolting applications in gas turbine engines. AEREX 350 supplies a high-strength, corrosion-resistant material for use in temperatures up to 1,350 degrees Farenheit. With superior notch toughness and thermal stability, AEREX 350 can be forged into a wide range of fastener parts, and is capable of supplying large-diameter, high shear strength and corrosion resistance. SPS develops and manufactures aerospace fasteners and components for commercial and military aircraft, jet engines and other applications. SPS Technologies, 215-572-3145 or visit www.spstech.com/aero.

AeroLadder Intended for High-Wing Aircraft

Sporty’s of Batavia, Ohio has introduced its AeroLadder, a 3-step stool for high-wing airplanes. Maintenance, checking fuel levels, cleaning, preflight inspections and other tasks can be completed with the AeroLadder, which is easy to unfold. Constructed with aluminum, the ladder is rated at up to 300 lbs. Size is 17.5 inches (width) x 20 inches (height) x 7.5 inches (depth). Weighing less than 5 lbs., the AeroLadder can be stored easily and carried along on flights. Price is $44.95, with a 2-step version available for $34.95. Sporty’s, 513-735-9100 or visit www.sportys.com.

Cushion Clutch Pneumatic Screwdrivers Now Available

Jergens’ ASG Division, with headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio, has announced a new series of cushion clutch pneumatic screwdrivers — Torq2 HCP. The pistol grip screwdrivers are available with adjustable torque ranges from 4.5 lbf/in to 80 lbf/in. They supply a high-speed rundown with a clutch that ratchets at the preset torque level. Speed, power and torque repeatability are provided for most assembly applications, including for uses involving wood and sheet metal screws. Featuring an ergonomic design that provides operator comfort and gripping power, the screwdrivers’ sculpted thermoplastic elastomer housings are designed for balanced performance that does not cause fatigue. A quick-change collet allows rapid bit switching. Also available is a full line of accessories related to the Torq2, including error-proofing and torque-testing equipment, filter/regulators, holsters, lubricators, quick connects, reels and torque arms. ASG, 216-486-6163 or visit www.asg-jergens.com.