Types of Aircraft Engine Mounts and Their Functions

Aircraft propulsion systems tend to generate a significant level of mechanical force during use, with airframe integrity and engine positioning often being affected by resulting thrust loads, rotational torque, vibration, and thermal cycling. The assemblies responsible for bridging the connection between an engine and airframe serve a critical role in managing these stressors, functioning as structural interfaces that keep propulsion systems secured while mitigating negative byproducts of operation. Understanding how these components can differ in design and function is particularly valuable for procurement teams that are tasked with sourcing parts for assembly and repair, so be sure to read on as we examine common aircraft engine mount types, the functions they serve, and the key factors buyers should evaluate before making any purchase.

What Are Aircraft Engine Mounts and Why Do They Matter?

As structural assemblies, aircraft engine mounts facilitate the basic connection of an engine to an airframe or a structural pylon. While the security of any connection is the grand concern for mounts, these assemblies are also designed to maintain the precise positional relationship between the engine and nacelle, all while supporting surrounding structural members by managing loads. For this connection to remain steadfast during typical flight operations, engine mounts are carefully engineered to withstand common forces that include:

• Thrust Loads: These are forward and rearward forces created during engine operation, which can act upon connected structures and wear down components over time.
• Torque Reactions: Rotational forces are generated as the engine produces power, which then spreads throughout adjacent assemblies naturally and causes issues if not managed properly.
• Vibration Exposure: Repeated dynamic movement across varying frequency ranges will create vibration, making it necessary for safeguards to be put in place for sensitive assemblies and joints.
• Temperature Cycling: Heat variation caused by operating conditions and shutdown periods will create stress on affected components, with the expansion and retraction that occurs through cycles potentially hastening wear.

These demands and others make aircraft engine mounts safety-critical components, rather than basic attachment hardware. If a mount loses structural integrity, engine positioning and the distribution of loads through an airframe can be directly affected. 

Common Types of Aircraft Engine Mounts and Their Functional Roles

Aircraft engine mounts are commonly categorized in various ways, such as by how much movement they allow, how they isolate vibration, and how they maintain attachment security for engines and control system parts. While each design one may encounter can be expected to support the same broad objective of securing an engine to an aircraft structure, the way it performs that job can vary significantly. For those seeking suitable solutions for their own needs, common variations include:

• Rigid Mounts: Rigid mounts are used when one desires a firm, direct connection between an engine and its surrounding structure that is established through mounting bracket parts. Prioritizing structural stiffness over vibration isolation, these options are often used in military aircraft and turboprop applications, where an installation must tolerate high mechanical demand without facing significant flex. 
• Soft or Elastomeric Mounts: Soft mounts will use rubber or elastomeric elements to absorb engine movements and mitigate vibration from transferring into the airframe, making them widely used in commercial aviation for passenger comfort and the protection of surrounding structures.
• Fail-Safe Mounts: Fail-safe mounts are built with secondary load paths that help retain the position of a connected engine if a primary element becomes damaged. For transport category aircraft, this redundancy is especially important because engine attachments must remain secure under demanding expectations as a certification requirement. 
• Forward and Aft Mount Configurations: Forward and aft mount placement regularly affects how different sections of a nacelle, pylon, or airframe will respond to engine forces during operation. Near the front of the engine, forward mounts may be relied upon to control positioning, while aft mounts will support load distribution needs closer to the rear.

Source Aircraft Engine Mounts Through a Verified Procurement Platform

With an understanding of common aircraft engine mount types and the key considerations that should guide procurement, the next step is working with a purchasing platform that can address operational needs with care. For this, we encourage you to take advantage of the inventory we feature through ASAP Semiconductor's premier website for aerospace needs, Aviation Purchasing Platform. Through the curated catalogs featured on our platform and the user-friendly search tools we provide, customers can narrow down relevant aircraft engine mounts, improve parts, and related aviation hardware with ease. Meanwhile, our online Request for Quote (RFQ) service gives buyers a direct and quick way to secure tailomounts red pricing options on desired components, with team members available to respond to submitted requirements shortly after review. If you are interested in learning more, be sure to get in touch with our industry experts today!