The Importance of Electrical Systems to the Aviation Industry

Perhaps one of the most exciting areas of electrical work in the aviation industry is that which provides for the basic electrical system within an aircraft.

Whenever an aircraft is airborne, communications between the aircraft and ground control is crucial. That means that on both ends of the communications system, there should be a proper installation of electrical systems that power the communications process.

But of course, for the aircraft, the generation of electricity goes beyond communication needs. An aircraft can produce electricity either through generators or alternators, and such power can either be used directly or coursed through a transformer. Part of the generated electricity is routed through to the aircraft batteries, which are often used as emergency sources of power. An aircraft’s electrical system, therefore, is what enables the aircraft to be functional in the first place. The electrical power generated will not only power the aircraft’s lights, flight instruments and navigation aids, it would also power radio and communication capabilities.

As the aircraft industry has made leaps and bounds in the development of aerospace technology, so have the demands and requirements for the electrical systems and wiring powering these crafts become more complex and sophisticated. These days, planes are also equipped with advanced units to work with multiple voltage systems and safety features in the event of failures. In any case, however, there should always be a provision for connecting the aircraft’s electrical system to a ground power unit.

There are a number of difficulties that an aircraft may experience, including generator failure, component failure, bus failure, or an electrical system fire. Should this happen, and the aircraft contacts a ground-based crew, and the ground-based crew member must be able to respond quickly to potential electrical problems in the craft. That means a very good background in electronics and electrical work, as well as the savvy capacity of maintaining safety in the airspace while a resolution is being sought.

Bottom line is, most aircrafts now are completely dependent on electricity. Even if you have several backup power sources, and even in single-engine airplanes, power is everything. It brings to life your aviation equipment by which the pilot operates his plane, it enables the pilot to navigate through poor visibility conditions, and to deliver two of the most important events for an airborne craft: taking off, and landing.

These days, innovations in the industry are continuously evolving, and electrical systems are growing more sophisticated than ever. At its most basic, however, a fully functional system should be able to supply as continuous and uninterrupted a flow of power as possible, and the supply should be sufficient enough to power the various aviation equipment on board the aircraft. Most of the rest of it requires mainly familiarity and sufficient experience with specialized equipment, and regular maintenance work to keep things up to date and safe.

These electrical systems are put in place with specialized work from experienced electricians. To a certain extent, it can be said that there is a healthy level of innovation in the electrical industry, as well.