Aviation Wheel Chock Guidelines

Aviation Wheel Chock Guidelines

Aviation wheel chocks are a must for safety in the aviation industry. Used for parking security and during engine test procedures, this piece of aircraft protection must not be overlooked. Various sizes are available, made from different materials, and each application must be fitted to the particular aircraft and conditions under which they are expected to perform.

Wheel Chock Construction

In the past, aviation wheel chocks were made from wood, but since the chocks are often located outside, the wear and tear of weather can affect their performance by the wood rotting away. Other factors include aircraft fuels and lubricants that deteriorate the wood. Aviation wheel are also available in rubber, yet again, the erosion potential can be high after only a few seasons. The highest quality chocks will be made from urethane, using reaction injection molding (RIM) technology.

This durable polyurethane material is very abrasion and weather resistant and is maintenance free, opposing flammable and toxic fuels. These chocks are very impact resistant and will not rot, crack or splinter over time. They are identified as with the letters FOD and a circle with a slash over it to represent, No Foreign Object Damage - nothing will corrode it.

Aviation Wheel Chock Guidelines

As with any wheel chock, aviation wheel have guidelines that must be followed to ensure the safety of the product. The various conditions, including the size and width of the aircraft tire, the type of tire, the gross aircraft weight, the tire pressure variances that occur with weather and wear and lastly the type and state of the chocking surface (dry, wet, icy, firm or soft) will affect the chock's effectiveness. All of the variables mentioned above must be taken into account when deciding which size to use. An aircraft company or military unit (who also use chocks for safety) most likely has their own established guidelines that must be followed, so be sure to administer accordingly.

Test the Chock

A pair of aviation wheel must go through thorough testing to assure that the chocks will meet the expectations. N guarantee is valid if they are not applied properly. Countless combinations of the surface and aircraft size will play a part in the effectiveness. Don't test the chocks beyond reason, however. In addition, you must remember to remove the chocks before moving the aircraft.

Shape and Size

Aviation wheel chocks typically look like a parking bumper, with a flat side, a small incline and then flat on top. They can come in multiple widths, 14 inches, 20 inches and up to 56 inches for larger aircraft. They typically come in safety yellow to remind the user to take them off before flying, and the military version have a rope lock system. When you order your aviation wheel chocks, you may even be able to have a personalized logo imprinted upon them. Be safe!