RFQ Experts Blog

Bearings are used across aircraft systems to support controlled motion and manage load transfer within assemblies that operate under demanding mechanical and environmental conditions. Among the bearing categories used in these applications, components classified under Federal Supply Classification (FSC) 3120 are commonly selected where characteristics like sliding contact, durability, and simplified design are desired. In this blog, we will explore what products fall under FSC 3120, examine where plain bearings are used in aircraft systems, and outline why many procurement teams rely on FSC data for accurate sourcing.

What Is FSC 3120?

Beginning with a National Stock Number (NSN), an NSN is a 13-digit identifier used to standardize how items are cataloged, identified, and managed across defense and federal supply systems. Within this structure, the FSC comprises the first four digits of the NSN and groups products into broad categories based on shared physical and functional characteristics. Under this classification framework, FSC 3120 designates plain, unmounted bearings, covering components that are defined by their use in sliding contact applications without integrated mounting features.

When working with machinery and applications that involve fluids, it is common for equipment like pumps and motors to be present. Despite the popularity of both devices across industries and applications, the two are unique with their own set of functions, roles, and designs. Since they are two of the most important industrial tools, it is highly advantageous to have a basic understanding of pumps and motors

When aircraft operate through cold winter months and hot summer days, the aircraft HVAC system is important for maintaining the comfort of passengers within the cabin. Beyond temperature control, providing a steady supply of air to the cabin also ensures that there is an optimal amount of pressure within the cabin, all while maintaining hygiene through the cycling of older air. In this blog, we will discuss the aircraft air conditioning system, allowing you to better understand how passengers are kept comfortable throughout a flight regardless of the environment outside.

You might have taken note of a few things during your flight travels or when you gaze up at a night sky. The one thing you will definitely have noticed is that the aircraft is geared with a number of illuminating lights. If you are the more detail-oriented type, you might have even noticed that planes flash different sets of lights during landing and takeoff. If you’re an inquisitive type, you probably asked yourself what might the intention and design be behind this design, what does the positioning and different colored lights mean? If you are curious to find out or if you are entering the aircraft industrial industry and want to brush up your knowledge, read the article below and find out why such aircraft lights were put in place and how they air with flight crews.