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How to Find the Right Metal Supplier for Your Next Project

When you’re looking for combined metals for your next big project, it pays to find a company that you know you can trust. Sure, you could always type something like “metal sales near me” into your favorite search engine, but how can you know that the companies that pop up are going to be worth your time and money? Here are a few simple tips to keep in mind when you’re trying to find the right combined metals supplier for your next project.

Don’t underestimate the value of good customer service

Time and time again people make the mistake of undermining the value of customer service. If a metal supplier takes your ideas and opinions into account, then that is often an excellent sign of their products’ quality. Why is that? Well, often times a metal supplier who knows the industry has experience dealing with a diverse range of customers and clients. If they navigate project discussions in a way that’s favorable to the customer, then chances are that they have confidence in their service. Anyone who searches “metal sales near me” would be wise to consider the important role that customer service plays when choosing a combined metals supplier.

Think about finding a supplier who knows your industry</h3

Knowing your market is key, whether you are taking on your first major project, or undertaking a routine project. Anyone who has found themselves searching something such as “metal sales near me” knows just how difficult it can be to locate a metal supplier who is familiar with all the ins and outs of your particular industry. However, this means it’s that much more important to spend the time necessary to select a company who will really understand your detailed specifications.

If you’re in the aerospace industry, then you’re well aware that you don’t want to just choose the first metal supplier you happen to come across. Doing so is a great way to find yourself with a lackluster product that doesn’t measure up to the standards of your project. Instead, it’s far more preferable to take a little more time discussing your project with potential metal suppliers. In fact, asking around within your industry isn’t a bad option. Once you find a metal supplier that seems adequate, call them up and ask about their experience in working with companies whose projects share similar qualities to yours. Even if you want to give a new company a chance, it’s often far more reliable to go with a company who knows how to service your particular needs.

Consider the company’s reputation

In a growing industry, reputation is critical. After all, did you know that according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the metal fabrication industry is projected to add 12,000 jobs to the sector over this decade? Are there other companies in your industry who can vouch for a supplier’s quality? What do past clients have to say about the supplier? These questions are quite valuable as you search for the right supplier. If you’re not sure how to locate this information, then go online and read some past customer reviews. Alternatively, you can speak to representatives from people in your industry or adjacent industries to get a sense of a metal supplier’s reputation. When you’re dealing with such expensive and time-sensitive projects, you really can’t afford to choose a metal supplier that is anything but excellent. Be wary of companies that don’t have a positive reputation. Establishing confidence in a metal supplier’s strong, positive reputation is one of the best ways to guarantee their value.

Thin Metal Sales specializes in supplying a wide range of industries combined metals, thin steel sheets, thin metal strips, and much more. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for copper and brass, 6061 aluminum, 304 stainless, or something else, we have you covered for all your combined metals needs. If you’ve ever found yourself searching something like “metal sales near me” and you’re just not sure who you can trust, then look no further. We are here to help supply you for your next project, no matter how large or small it may be. Want to place your first order? Just looking for a little more information on our offerings and products? No worries, all you have to do is reach out and get in touch with a member of our team today. We’re excited to work with you!

The Most Common Types of Metal Used in Medical Devices

Advancements in medical technology are helping people live longer and healthier lifestyles. These innovations are made possible through the applications of thin metal strips in medical devices. As the sheet metal market continues its annual growth rate of 4.09% each year, newer technologies in the medical field will be able to be developed to improve people’s lives. Here are the most popular types of thin sheet metal used in medical devices.

Titanium

Titanium is the most popular metal used in medical devices, especially for internal use in humans. It can resist corrosion and connect with human bones with less risk of rejection than any other metal, including stainless steel. This metal can be used in implanted devices that dispense medicine, control heart function, and provide neurostimulation and doesn’t interfere with CT scans or MRIs. These thin metal strips can also be found in orthopedic plates, rods, and pins. Titanium is also ideal for surgical instruments such as Lasik eye surgery equipment, forceps, drills, retractors, and needle holders.

Tantalum

Tantalum is also popular as a metal used in medical devices. It is highly resistant to corrosion, which makes it ideal for permanent bone implants. This metal has been used in the medical industry for over 50 years. It is commonly used in stents and vascular strips to help prevent arteries from collapsing. Tantalum is also MRI compatible as well.

Copper And Brass

Brass and copper are mainly used in the medical industry for external hospital equipment. It is used to help transmit signals to diagnostic tools and small implants. Copper also has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties which make it highly suitable in hospital settings. It can be used in hospital linen and clothes to help reduce rates of infection.

Nitinol

Nitinol is a nickel-titanium alloy that features superelastic properties. It can be manufactured at one temperature and then molded at another temperature into a smaller form for insertion into the human body. Body heat then expands the metal into its original size. This makes it ideal for stents, implants, staples, and bone anchors. It can also be used in devices that reconnect intestines and locate breast tumors.

These are only a few of the metals used within the medical industry. As you can see, the thin metal strips in medical devices can perform a wide range of functions to help patients live healthier lives. More applications are being developed every day. This will help us live longer and have a better quality of life as we age in the future.

The Most Overlooked Things about 6061 Aluminum

Aluminum alloys are used in most industrial processes due to their broad range of uses and wide availability. 6061 aluminum is one of the alloys with improved material properties. However, many people do not understand the uses and differences of various aluminum alloys. Here is detailed information about everything you need to know about 6061 aluminum.

Differences between 6063 and 6061 Aluminum

One of the most common concerns about aluminum alloys is differentiating between 6061 and 6063 aluminum. Silicon and magnesium are the two primary alloying elements of both 6063 and 6061. The main difference between these alloys is their end-use.

6063 has good formability and high corrosion resistance, so it is used mainly for custom extrusions. On the other hand, 6061 aluminum is primarily used for structural applications because it is stronger than 6063.

3003 aluminum

This alloy is made from combined metals namely manganese, aluminum, and copper. Since 3003 aluminum is one of the most popular aluminum alloys, most people confuse it with 6061 aluminum. Some of its popular uses are making chemical equipment, cabinets, trailers, trucks, metal sheets, and fuel tanks.

Versatility

The formability and weld-ability of 6061 aluminum make it suitable for general-purpose applications. Also, it is corrosion resistant and has high strength that makes a great pick for structural, architectural, and motor vehicle applications.

We cannot exhaust its uses in most industries. However, some of the common applications are furniture, electronic parts, aircraft, heat sinks, chemical equipment, marine frames, and truck frames.

It is worth noting that 40% of steel production globally is made with recycled metals such as aluminum alloys, and 6061 aluminum is one of the commonly used metals.

Corrosion Resistance

When you expose aluminum to water or air, it forms an oxide layer that makes it non-reactive with most elements. The level of corrosion resistance of 6061 aluminum depends on aqueous conditions and temperature.

However, the copper content found in 6061 makes it less resistant to corrosions as compared to other alloy types.

6061 is exceptionally great at resisting corrosion from ammonium hydroxide, ammonia, and nitric acid. You can get rid of these corrosive effects with a protective layer in which 6061 aluminum responds well.

Copper sheet metal for sale

Buying copper can be a daunting task especially if you do not have adequate information about different aluminum alloys. You are probably asking yourself, where do I get trusted metal sales near me? Check out Thin Metal Sales today to learn more!

Nervous Flyer? Here Are The Reasons You Shouldn’t Be!

Approximately one billion U.S. men and women fly privately or commercially in any given year, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

That means–every year–one billion Americans trust airlines and aircraft workers to safely get them from point A to point B. Airline travel is extraordinarily safe. In fact, it is the safest mode of travel, and the facts back that up. Let’s take a look at a few:

• • Turbulence is Nothing to Fear!

Although turbulence may make passengers nervous, it’s a perfectly normal occurrence and does not indicate that anything is awry. Planes have systems in place to keep them level. They will not flip over or go into a tailspin during turbulence. “Think of turbulence the same way you would think of bumps in the road on a long drive,” Life Hacker writes. “The main reason pilots do their best to avoid turbulence is because it’s annoying. They want to be able to sip their coffee without spilling the same as you do.”

Moreover, of the one billion passengers mentioned earlier, just 34 people on average are injured due to turbulence each year.

• • Air Travel is Much Safer Than Driving.

To briefly break out the numbers, driving is the most dangerous form of transportation–by far! Drivers have a 1 in 114 chance of being in a fatal accident. Comparatively, only one in two million flights involve fatalities, or individual risk of dying in a plane crash amounts to about 1 in approximately 10,000, according to the National Safety Council (NSC).

We drive every day and feel safe doing it. Air travel is much, much safer, so it makes sense to feel just as safe–or safer!–when flying!

• • Planes Are Tested–And Tested Again!–Prior to Sale.

Aerospace manufacturers choose from thin metal strips, brass and copper, stainless steel, combined metals, and copper sheet metal for sale, and begin putting together the frame of the plane. (Aluminum in all its forms–in bar shapes or cold-rolled–and stainless steel are most frequently purchased.) At completion, planes undergo several tests to ensure that they are safe and air-ready.

For example, the wings and the materials companies use to build the wings such as aluminum and copper sheet metal, are bent and put under stress. This simulates extreme situations. Manufacturers design wings to withstand stress, bouncing, and bending.

• • Aircrafts Go Through Regular, Ongoing Inspections.

Cars require a single annual inspection, and that’s it. Some states, like Florida, don’t even require that much. Aircraft, on the other hand, require annual inspections plus 100-hour or progressive inspections. Both 100-hour and progressive inspections are frequent and ongoing inspections. Safety features and structures undergo tests before every flight.

Planes are extremely safe. Manufacturers don’t just simply purchase metals, such as copper sheet metal for sale, throw it together, and call it a day. The same copper sheet metal for sale, once crafted into a plane, undergoes regular inspections. Tests are required prior to sale, planes are built to withstand turbulence, and statistics show that these measures add up to flying being one of the safest possible means of travel.

Everything You Need to Know About 302 Stainless Metal Grades

The thin metal strips industry has significantly grown in the last five years. It is attracting huge attention from building and contractors who are looking for alternative construction materials. Brass and copper have specifically experienced significant growth in the last few years owing to their lightweight property. The same can be said for thin aluminum strips.

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights that the metal fabrication industry is expected to grow by approximately 9% between 2016 and 2026. This is a clear indication that the metal sector is continuously growing. Combining the use of metal in the automotive sector and the real estate will bring a new dimension in the sector that was in decline several years ago.

Thin Metal Grades (302 Stainless)

Before using metals for construction purposes, it is important to understand that there are different types of metal grades. Some of the most common metal grades to consider include 302 stainless, 17-7 stainless, and 304 stainless. However, this article discusses the properties of 302 stainless and why metal experts should consider this metal grade for construction purposes.

Extremely Tough

302 stainless is an example of combined metals that are used to perform specific construction activities in the industry. Besides the combination of several metals, other properties make this grade one of the best in the industry. Elements such as carbon, titanium, and iron produce one of the toughest alloys that can be used in any construction work. The toughness of this metal grade explains why it is used in the manufacture of some of the most sensitive parts in the aeronautical industry.

Ductility Property

In the construction industry, many pieces of construction materials are required to achieve a specific objective. However, 302 stainless is solving the entire problem by bringing its ductility property in the industry. Unlike other construction materials that cannot be stretched without becoming brittle or demonstrating significant weaknesses, 302 stainless can be stretched to the point of forming a thin wire without breaking. It is one of the few metal grades that can be pulled and stretched to meet the needs of the constructor.

Corrosion Resistant

Most of the metals out there in the industry corrode when exposed to various elements in the atmosphere. This is a weakness because such metals cannot be used in the construction industry. They will weaken with time and any structure constructed using such metals will ultimately collapse. However, just like stainless steel, 302 stainless is corrosion resistant. Therefore, it cannot corrode when exposed to various elements in the atmosphere. This property makes it one of the best metals in the aeronautical sector.

Fabrication and Formability

Fabrication and formability are important properties in metals. Both properties are essential in the construction industry, where raw materials are converted into finished products that can be used in construction activities. 302 stainless is one of the few thin metal sheets that demonstrate both fabrication and formability properties. These properties make it one of the most reliable metal grades in the construction sector. The fact that it can be curved into various shapes and angles without breaking is a welcome bonus.

Rust Resistant

Rust is a major issue when it comes to construction metals. It makes them weak and unsuitable for sensitive structures, especially those used in medical and aeronautical industries. 302 stainless steel is an alloy of nickel and iron, which means that all the properties of iron, including rust, have been watered down. Just like 6061 aluminum, 302 stainless does not rust, which makes it one of the most suitable metal grades in the construction industry.

Are you looking for metal sales near me? Thin Metal Sales is a leading business that provides all the metal needs to customers in the West Coast region. With specialized and custom customer services, you can easily get 302 stainless sheets within the shortest time. With experienced technicians and advanced equipment, we can provide quality metal sheets with consistent customer satisfaction.

What You Need to Know About 3003 Aluminum Alloy

When it comes to elements, aluminum is available in large quantities on the crust of the earth. As a metal, it is a useful material for many industries. There exist various kinds of metallic aluminum, which are called aluminum alloys, which differ in characteristics.

Some of them include 3000 aluminum, alloy 2011, 6061 aluminum, and alloy 1100. To understand what are combined metals, you must know the procedure involved in alloying. First, there must be metallic components such as copper, magnesium, and steel.

According to recent studies, steel constitutes approximately $30 billion of revenue in the United States. Next, these elements of metal are combined with a non-noble metal, which in this instance, is aluminum. This article explores more on the properties and uses of 3003 aluminum.

Physical Characteristics of 3003 Aluminum

Combined metals such as aluminum alloys differ in formability, machining, corrosion resistance, strength, and heat tolerance. Types and proportion of alloying components determine the difference. The 3003 aluminum alloy is commonly used, and for commercial purposes, manganese is added to boost its strength.

It is superior to alloy 1100 as it is 20% higher in strength. On the strength metrics, the alloy 3003 ranks on medium and is made hard by cold work. Alloys which are of the 3xxx grade are hardened without any heat treatment.

The work-hardening procedure involves mechanical distortion, such as hammering and rolling. Depending on the method applied during hardening, it can have more significant designations, such as the H18-hardened 3003 aluminum (3003-H18). When it comes to corrosion resistance, weldability, and formability, it is rated excellent.

Fabrication Process

Different metals react to fabrication methods in distinctive ways. All alloys, including stainless steel, aluminum alloys, and copper brass, have different manufacturing processes. Most industries prefer to use aluminum as a raw material because of its metal fabrication process.

Whether for use in automobiles, spacecraft, or solar panels, some level of fabrication is essential for the aluminum components to meet their standard. With new technology, the process is less complicated. Alloys made from aluminum are typically supplied as unfinished products like the coil, plate, sheet, tube, and wire.

The various forms are then manufactured into finished goods through many processes. Cutting is usually achieved through shearing, chiseling, or sawing.

The Bending Property of 3003 Aluminum Alloy

Numerous techniques can be used to bend aluminum, including three-roll bending, three-point bending, stretch forming, wrap, and mandrel. The appropriate method depends on the form of an alloy. Three roll bending involves a main flexible roller that is progressively caved in the workpiece until a suitable radius is attained.

Just like three-roll bending, the three-point bender slowly or instantly applies an object through. The two methods of bending are implemented in inactive regions. Regarding bending, due to its formability, aluminum is the primary material.

3003 aluminum alloy bends easily, which allows for a large radius and high elasticity. The least acceptable bend radius is subject to factors like temper, mandrel functions, alloy, and cross-sectional measurements. For this reason, it is difficult to give a general rule regarding the bend radii.

Typical Applications

Since aluminum is used in several industries, including aerospace, it is referred to as a general use alloy. In the building sector, the 3003-aluminum alloy is used in roofs, folded sheets, sidings, and acoustic ceilings. Storage containers, fabricated metal products, and pipes are utilized in the food and chemical industry.

One of the significant applications of 3003 aluminum alloy is in the cooling units of heat engines including radiators since it is light and thermal conducive. For the heating and cooling system, the alloy is used in air conditioning evaporators, car radiators, and heat exchangers. Other popular applications include cooking utensils, ice cube trays, refrigerator panels, fuel tanks, and pressure vessels.

The aluminum grade on this alloy makes it ideal for various uses. You can get a wide range of applications of the 3003-aluminum alloy due to its response to certain factors like bending, heat treatment, and hardening.

Need Combined Metals for Your Facility? Do Your Research

Whether you work in aerospace parts, chemical etching, or stamping, the quality of your combined metals has an enormous impact on the overall quality of your work and your output. In turn, the reputation of your facility also hinges on the durability of your parts. When you find yourself asking questions such as “what are combined metals?” and “where do I find a trustworthy sheet metal supplier?,” you are well on your way to making sure that your facility keeps up with the latest trends and practices of the industry.

Before making a final decision on your combined metals supplier, it helps to get informed about the current state of the sheet metal market as a whole. When you learn even a little bit, you will be far more prepared to make a rational, intelligent decision. In an ever-expanding market, you gain an edge by committing to your own education on subjects that pertain to your industry.

Across the globe, the sheet metal market is expanding at a continuous average growth rate of 4.09%. This growth is projected from the years 2018 to 2022. When you consider this figure, it is no surprise that there is more demand than ever for high-quality, dependable stainless steel, thin metal strips, and copper and brass materials. However, just because the market has a higher demand, that does not mean you can cut corners by choosing the first supplier that you happen to come across. Securing the highest quality of your combined metals is key to ongoing safety and functionality at your facility, regardless of your industry.

If you have been asking yourself “what are combined metals?” or “how do I use combined metals properly?” but you are just not sure how to get started or who you can trust, then do not hesitate to reach out to a member of our team today. With years of experience and industry-specific knowledge, we have the materials and equipment you need to succeed in today’s modern world. No matter how large or small your needs may be, we have you covered.

Why Are Copper and Brass Materials Used in the Medical Industry?

From transport to the medical industry, metals are useful and reliable. Statistics from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that the metal fabrication sector will grow by 9% between 2016 and 2026. This is a clear indication that copper, brass and other combined metals are in huge demand.

One of the most prominent applications of copper brass sheets is in the medical industry. Below, we’ll cover a few of the ways that copper and brass materials have impacted the medical field.

Unmatched Strength

Needles, scalpels, scissors, and other important medical tools need to be reliable for medical operations. Copper materials and brass materials are very useful in this regard because they have the necessary strength. When you are buying medical tools and equipment, durability is one of the major factors that you have to consider. You don’t want to keep replacing your tools and equipment now and then. Durability is a must for medical tools.

Readily Available

Copper and brass are more readily available than other metals, which makes them much more cost-effective. Their availability means that products made with these metals are typically more widely available for purchase, as well. Although the cost of medical tools and equipment is usually high, buying tools and equipment made of these two metals still ensures high-quality tools.

Eco-Friendly

In an age where eco-friendliness is important, more and more manufacturers are interested in fabricating metal products that can be recycled. Metal sheets made of copper or brass can be recycled without losing their original properties, too. Most of the medical tools made from these materials, once they’ve served their purpose, can be taken back to recycling companies for reprocessing when possible. This trend minimizes mining needs, which extends the availability of resources for future generations.

If you had any doubts before, now you know that copper, brass, or a mix of the two is the way to go when it comes to medical tools and equipment.

How to Choose the Right Machining Company for the Aerospace Industry

Almost every sector in the economy uses fabricated metals. The rise in demand for these products has led to the growth of the fabrication industry. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that this growth will add over 12,000 jobs over the next decade.

While the industry is expected to grow, selecting the right metal for your project can be challenging. The amount of different options to consider doesn’t help the situation, either. So, where do you start?

Thin Metal Sales offer various metals including stainless steel, thin aluminum strips, copper and brass metals. These metals play a vital role in aerospace engineering.

When selecting the ideal metal, you have to be cautious. Ensure you understand the respective properties of these metals. For instance, thin aluminum strips have a low density which makes it ideal for lightweight applications. Further, it increases in strength when exposed to low temperatures. Combining aluminum with other elements like copper, magnesium, and silicon forms stronger combined metals.

When using these metals for aerospace engineering applications, you should understand the machining of the parts. Better yet, you need a machining company that produces instrumental aerospace components. Here are the basic tips to consider when selecting a machining company.

1. Its Technological Capability

High precision aerospace components play a vital role in the operation of an aircraft. Most of these components are “life-critical,” which is why they require precise specifications. In the entire process, quality is prioritized as these parts are going to different areas including the landing gear and jet engines. Therefore, there is no room for mistakes.

Machining high-quality components require the use of state-of-the-art equipment. Be sure to check the technology used to avoid engaging under-equipped machining experts. If possible, the machining expert should have the following:

• High-quality machines capable of processing large volumes of metal faster and seamlessly.
• Multi-tasking capabilities that facilitate multiple machining processes in a single operation. It helps improve reliability in the production of aerospace parts.

Engaging a machining company with the required in-house technology reduces the lead time and improves the supply chain to provide consistent and quality parts.

2. High Quality and Precision

Making a mistake is impermissible in the production of aerospace parts. Quality and precision are crucial considerations that require great attention. But how will you know that the machinist can deliver thin aluminum strips, and other components consistently?

• Look for a firm with great experience and reputation in the manufacture of aerospace components or parts.
• The extent and length of the firm’s supply chain is also a consideration. Engage a company that has a reliable source of raw materials. This ensures you get your deliveries on time.

3. Check the Internal Operational Excellence

The internal operations of your ideal machining partner affect all the output operations. Such include timely delivery of your thin aluminum strips.

Other than the equipment in use, workforce productivity plays a major role in ensuring your needs and wants are met. Without these people, the equipment you get cannot offer any competitive edge.

4. Reliability and Cost Effectiveness

As a manufacturer, you want to get all the necessary parts on time. Any delay on a single component slows down the production process. Such encounters make it impossible for buyers to meet their customer’s requirements.

Dealing with correctly machined parts accelerates the speed of production by saving inspection time and reducing buyer issues. However, to enjoy such benefits, you must work with the right machining company.

Aerospace Materials: A Historical Breakdown

From aluminum to thin steel sheets to combined metals, the aerospace industry has seen a lot of changes in manufacturing materials. This article will give you a brief historical breakdown of the different materials used in the aerospace manufacturing industry.

Aerospace Manufacturing: Early Years vs. Today

In earlier years, aluminum was the primary metal used in aircraft manufacturing since the metal was lightweight, relatively inexpensive, and very modern at the time. The metal was also very practical since it was malleable and ductile and easy to cut through. Almost 40 years ago, aluminum made up almost 70% of an aircraft, while composites and combined metals, which were relatively new materials at the time, made up about 7% of the craft. Aluminum came in thin sheet metal strips that were later welded and forged to make the fuselage, main engine components and other parts of the plane. Currently, the use of aluminum has drastically reduced to almost 20% because of the entry of combined metals, composites, and carbon fiber into the aerospace industry. In contrast to aluminum, these newer entries are very lightweight and strong and have broad applications in the more aesthetic and less functional parts of a plane like the paneling.

Aluminum still makes up a large portion of the engine and other vital components because it has one very important property. The thin metal strips strike the proper balance between light-weight and heat resistance, making it suitable for engine parts that generate a lot of heat but still light enough to make the craft fuel-efficient.

Steel and the Aerospace Industry

Steel has many diverse applications in a lot of industries, especially in aerospace manufacturing. The US spends about $30 million on steel metals annually, putting stainless steel amongst the metals with the most revenue in the country. The metal which comes in thin steel sheet batches is essential for many aerospace manufacturing companies for two reasons. First, it is resistant to oxidation even at high temperatures and corrosion, and second, they’ll maintain the same mechanical integrity even at low or high-temperature extremes. These attributes make thin steel sheet a very versatile material for a lot of aircraft parts depending on their grade.

AISI 304 and AISI 304L for example of austenitic steel is used to make fuel tanks while AISI 316 and AISI 321 are used for the more high-temperature parts like the exhaust, engine and other structural parts. For the more ambient parts, manufacturers prefer ferritic steel AISI 430 and Autentisic steel AISI 304 for their non-corrosive properties. Just like aluminum, steel comes in thin steel sheet batches that are molded into plane parts and welded into the plane.

New Materials in the Field

When it comes to metals, the term new may not actually mean a new entry. Some of these metals and their alloys have been around for decades, but engineers are finding new ways to combine them or form them to make them extremely cost-effective, light-weight, or durable hence the term new. Titanium 5553 is a perfect example of a relatively fresher entry into the aerospace scene because of its strength and resistance properties. Alcoa, which is also a new alloy, can be found in oxidizers and fuel tanks on both aircraft and space crafts.

The extensive use of metals in aerospace is only growing larger by the decade. Though the future of aerospace is uncertain, what is certain is things are only going to get better.