Don’t Forget To Check Your Aircraft Wicks!
If you look at the wings of an aircraft, sometimes you will see small thin wicks protruding from the outermost edge. These are called the static wicks of the aircraft, which are sometimes known as the static discharge wicks. These are a high electrical release device that have a lower corona voltage than that of the surrounding aircraft vessel. These static aircraft wicks were designed to dissipate the static electricity that builds up during each flight.
Aircraft wicks serve a very important purpose which is why it’s just as important to check them often and maintain them. But it’s also crucial that you understand more about the wicks themselves so that you can appreciate why it’s necessary to maintain them. When planes fly through snow, fog, dust, or ash, they are flying through uncharged particles. When negative charges attach to the airframe and positive charges deflect the particles build up and are eventually discharged at places along the airframe where the wicks are stationed at. Were it not for these wicks, there would be audio disturbances, potential loss of communication and weak radio transmissions.
As important as they are, static wicks can still be purchased without authorization of the FAA. There are some planes that can fly without them entirely. This is usually because the planes that do not use them tend not to fly through such uncharged particles. However it is always better to come prepared, which is why major commercial airlines will always carry and maintain static wicks. If you are interested in purchasing electronic controller parts, aviation plug connectors or other items, contact the team today.
At ASAP NSN Hub, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find all the unique parts for the aerospace, civil aviation, and defense industries. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@asapnsnhub.com or call us at 1-920-785-6790.
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