Aero-Terms!

Aero-Terms are designed to be a daily reminder of the terms, names, acronyms and explanations of the unique language that populates the aviation world. Aerospace, sport aviation, fixed wing, helo, you name it... it's all fair game.

Aero-Terms should serve as a quick but intriguing reminder of the terms you may use every day, or an introduction to an aspects of the Aero-World you may not yet be familiar with. ANN also encourages readers to go beyond the FMI link, and further research any intriguing terms.

Suggestions for future Aero-Terms are ALWAYS welcome, as are additions or discussion of the explanations given for each Aero-Term.

Expander Tube Brake

A type of lightweight, hydraulically operated aircraft brake. A synthetic rubber tube is installed around the brake housing mounted on the landing gear axle, and blocks of brake lining material are held against the expander tube with flat metal springs. The brake drum, mounted inside the wheel, rotates around the linings. When the brake pedal is depressed, hydraulic fluid is forced into the tube. The tube expands and forces the brake blocks against the rotating brake drum. This force applies friction to the drum, thus slowing the rotation of the wheel.

FMI: www.carlislebrake.com/products/brake_systems/et_drum_service_brake.php