Voltage transducers measure current and voltage in electrical circuits, with different types for AC and DC power sources. They come in various sizes and capacities, from small computer circuits to large transformer circuits, and can be used to regulate energy consumption and identify noise sources. They must comply with national electrical component standards and display […]
A magnetic chuck is a device that uses magnetic force to hold a ferrous metal object during machining. There are three types: permanent, electromagnetic, and permanent-electro magnetic. They reduce machine setup time and spindle damage while providing a stronger grip. Neodymium is a rare earth metal used to create stronger magnets. A magnetic chuck is […]
Gold cyanidation is a process that uses cyanide to dissolve gold from ore. It is controversial due to its poisonous nature and environmental risks. The process involves grinding the ore and using cyanide to extract the gold, which is then removed in liquid form. Pre-processing may be required to ensure effective extraction. The process can […]
Fluoropolymers are strong, lightweight, and resistant to extreme environments, making them useful in industrial coatings, household items, and non-stick cookware. While generally safe in small quantities, those working in manufacturing plants may face risks from exposure to certain chemicals. Older or flaking cookware can also pose risks if ingested or heated too much. A fluoropolymer […]
A dip tube is a long, non-metallic pipe that introduces cold water near the bottom of a water heater to maintain an efficient convection cycle. A degraded or broken dip tube can cause lukewarm water and higher heating bills. Pickup tubes should also be made of heat-resistant plastic to avoid damaging the heater’s sacrificial anode. […]
Black anodizing is a special type of anodizing that produces black metal with benefits beyond ordinary anodizing. Two methods of dyeing metal for black anodizing are using inorganic salts or organic black dye. Black anodized metals perform best in areas of high light and heat and resist wear and corrosion better than other colors. The […]
Welding carbon steel to stainless steel is common and often uses MIG welding. Choosing the right grades of steel and welding rods is crucial. MIG welding requires a source of electricity, and the right electrode must be chosen based on location, abrasion, and transfer type. Welding carbon steel to stainless steel is a common process […]
Bearing resistance is the maximum weight a structure can hold before collapsing. It is used in engineering for building, aircraft, and transportation design. Calculations are necessary to avoid unnecessary stresses on load-bearing portions of the structure. Bearing resistance is a term used to describe the maximum amount of weight or pressure or some other variable […]
Water in hydraulic oil can cause surface corrosion and metal fatigue, change physical characteristics, and impair the oil’s ability to transfer power. Hydraulic oils can also perform other tasks and have different resistance properties. Water can exist in three states, with dissolved water having minimal effects and high levels causing component failure. Free water causes […]
A quality control audit assesses the effectiveness of a company’s quality assurance systems, and can be conducted in-house or by a third party. Auditors examine policies, procedures, and records, and may interview employees. The audit report can highlight areas of success and areas for improvement, and may be made public. Private internal audits are confidential […]
Hubbing is a machining process used to create female dies for metalworking, thermoplastics, and ceramics. It involves making a male die, heating a metal piece, and pressing the male die against it to create a female die. The same male die can be used to make many female dies. Hubbing is commonly used to make […]
Biofuels are made from recently dead matter such as plants, animal fat, oil, and sugar, and can be generated from algae. They are renewable, biodegradable, emit less CO2, and reduce the need for fossil fuels. Biofuels can be problematic in colder climates and have been a source of controversy due to concerns about fuel quality, […]
Facility maintenance ensures efficient operation of a business facility by addressing physical plant and machinery issues, building compliance with safety requirements, and identifying potential barriers to efficiency. Regular maintenance of machinery ensures safety and motivates employees to stay with the company. Backup strategies are incorporated to minimize the possibility of temporary failures. Facility maintenance is […]
Polymer concrete uses thermosetting resins as a partial or complete replacement for cement, resulting in improved thermal stability, mechanical strength, and resistance to chemical attack and water infiltration. However, the aggregates used must be of high quality to ensure proper bonding. Polymer-impregnated concrete can also be produced by treating cured concrete with resins. The use […]
Corrugated metal is a durable and lightweight material used for roofing and cladding in both commercial and residential construction. It is fire-resistant, moisture-resistant, and can withstand high winds and snow accumulation. However, it is energy-intensive to produce and must be grounded during installation. Aluminum is preferred near the ocean, while steel is better for hail-prone […]
Manganese steel is an alloy of steel and manganese, containing 11% to 15% manganese, which imparts unique properties such as magnetic and abrasion resistance, extreme durability, and improved surface hardness. However, its strength makes it difficult to work and drill. Most manganese is produced for steel alloys. Manganese steel, also known as Hadfield steel and […]
Micro compressors are small, battery-powered air compressors used for emergencies or to inflate water toys. They can also be used in the custom automotive industry and for airbrushing. They have the advantage of being able to be placed in out-of-the-way locations but cannot deliver large quantities of compressed air at high pressures. Overheating can also […]
Grade beams are heavy-duty concrete beams used to distribute the weight of a building over unstable ground. They can be supported by pipe piles and are designed to minimize deflection. Engineers design them based on local building codes and site conditions to maximize safety. They reduce the risk of building sinking or settling, reduce maintenance […]
Consumers are aware of the potential toxicity of VOCs in household products. Paints and varnishes contain carbon-based compounds, heavy metals, and other unsavory materials. Low VOC and no VOC products are becoming more popular, but they may be less effective and more expensive. Regulations require paint manufacturers to produce low VOC coatings. Advertised VOC-free paints […]
Cash crops were originally small acreage crops sold on commodity markets, such as wheat and cotton. Now, cash crops also refer to crops grown in developing nations for foreign trade, and illegal crops like marijuana and opium. Most industrial-sized farms now grow crops solely for sale on the global commodity market, chosen based on climate […]
