Mechanical tools used in manufacturing airplanes vary widely depending on the specific task or process involved. Here are some common mechanical tools

1. CNC Machines: Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines are used for precision machining of aircraft components such as engine parts, structural components, and landing gear. CNC milling machines, lathes, and routers are commonly used for shaping metal and composite materials to exact specifications.
2. Sheet Metal Fabrication Tools: Sheet metal is used extensively in aircraft manufacturing for constructing components such as fuselages, wings, and control surfaces. Tools such as shears, brakes, punches, and stamping machines are used to cut, bend, and shape sheet metal into the required forms.
3. Welding Equipment: Welding is used to join metal components together in aircraft manufacturing. Various welding techniques, including TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), MIG (Metal Inert Gas), and resistance welding, are employed to create strong and durable welds in materials such as aluminum, steel, and titanium.
4. Composite Fabrication Tools: Many modern aircraft incorporate composite materials such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, and epoxy resin for their lightweight and high-strength properties. Tools such as molds, vacuum bagging systems, autoclaves, and composite layup machines are used for fabricating composite components with precision and consistency.
5. Precision Measurement Tools: Accurate measurement is critical in aircraft manufacturing to ensure components meet tight tolerances and quality standards. Tools such as micrometers, calipers, coordinate measuring machines (CMM), laser trackers, and optical measurement systems are used for dimensional inspection and quality control.
6. Assembly Fixtures and Jigs: Assembly fixtures and jigs are used to hold aircraft components in place during assembly, ensuring proper alignment and fit-up. These fixtures are often custom-designed and fabricated to match the unique contours and geometries of specific aircraft components.
7. Riveting Tools: Rivets are used extensively in aircraft construction to join metal and composite components together. Riveting tools such as pneumatic rivet guns, bucking bars, and rivet squeezers are used to install rivets quickly and securely, providing structural integrity and sealing joints.
8. Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Equipment: NDT methods such as ultrasonic testing, X-ray inspection, and eddy current testing are used to detect defects and flaws in aircraft materials and components without causing damage. NDT equipment helps ensure the structural integrity and safety of aircraft during manufacturing and maintenance processes.

These are just a few examples of the mechanical tools and equipment used in aircraft manufacturing. The aerospace industry relies on a wide range of advanced technologies and processes to produce safe, reliable, and efficient aircraft.