A blind flange is a solid disc used to block off a pipeline or create a stop. It has no openings and can be inserted between two open flanges to block the flow of liquid. It is used for repairs, adding new lines, and closing a line. It is cheaper than valves and can be […]
An open circuit is a circuit with a gap that prevents current flow, while a closed circuit allows current flow. An open circuit has infinite resistance and is the opposite of a short circuit. A circuit can be opened or closed with a switch. An open circuit is a type of electrical circuit that has […]
Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) automate electromechanical processes using a microprocessor programmed in a specialized language. They monitor sensor inputs and control output actuators, replacing thousands of relays and timers. PLCs have a range of functionality and can withstand harsh environments. They can be configured with various interfaces and were first developed for the automotive industry […]
Glazing paste is used to create a watertight seal between glass and window frames. It can be removed and reapplied if cracked or flaking. Once applied, it remains pliable to accommodate the frame’s expansion and contraction. Glass dots and another layer of compound are added to secure the glass in place. Glazing paste is a […]
Sealant application methods vary depending on the material and preferred compound. Some require machinery, while others only need a brush or rag. The time of year and desired outcome should also be considered. For driveways, brushing is preferred, while caulking guns are best for bathroom sealants. Production environments often use spraying, while high-end furniture is […]
A loading bay is an area for loading and unloading cargo from a transportation vehicle. It’s commonly found in warehouses, factories, and commercial buildings, and often has ramps, lifts, and safety equipment. Bumpers, lights, and dock seals are also common features. A loading bay is an area dedicated to loading and unloading cargo to or […]
Plastic deformation is a non-reversible process caused by stress on metal or plastic, resulting in permanent changes. It can be used intentionally to mold objects through heat or pressure, but must be controlled to avoid cracking. It was historically used in handcrafted products and is still used in the creation of various goods today. Plastic […]
A crawl space is a cheaper alternative to a basement, consisting of block walls and either a concrete or gravel floor. It can be accessed from both inside and outside the house. Moisture is a major issue, but insulation and a vapor barrier can help prevent damage. A fully finished concrete crawl space is the […]
A turret milling machine is a vertical mill used to cut metal into specific shapes. It has a quill that can be raised or lowered to create different depths of cut. The table moves both perpendicular and parallel, making it easier for operators to make cuts. Turret milling machines can be manual or automated and […]
A machine vise holds a workpiece for milling or drilling and can be adjusted to any angle or position. It is essential for repeating angles on multiple pieces. There are two spellings, vice in the UK and vise in the US. CNC machines use a hydraulically operated vise for precise machining. The vise allows for […]
Laboratory quality control ensures accurate and reliable results, manages costs and employee hours, and includes internal and external audits. Technicians follow strict procedures, calibrate equipment, and keep records. Forensic labs have extra precautions to protect evidence and follow evidence rules. Laboratory quality control is the practice of testing procedures in a laboratory to make sure […]
Typographical gutters are white spaces between pages or columns of text, used to control and direct the reader’s attention. Poorly designed gutters can make text difficult to read, while well-designed ones provide breaks for the eye and make the surface visually interesting. Margins are any type of white space, while gutters specifically refer to the […]
Rimmed steel is a low carbon steel that is easily bent and has a clean surface. It is partially deoxidized, allowing a circle to form that is almost entirely iron. It is softer than other steels and ideal for cold bending and rolling applications. The surface finish is cleaner and it is used for its […]
Falsework is temporary support structures used during construction to prevent collapse and provide stability for workers. Scaffolding is a common example, made of metal tubes and planks. Falsework is used in various construction projects, including restoration and remodeling of older buildings. “Falsework” is a term used in construction circles to identify temporary structures created to […]
Greenfield development is planned communities on undeveloped land, avoiding infrastructure problems of existing urban areas. It’s cheaper than brownfield reclamation and allows for environmentally responsible planning, transportation considerations, and community involvement. Funding and suitable land can be challenging, leading to smaller communities. Greenfield development is the creation of planned communities on previously undeveloped land. These […]
Cooling coils are used to control temperatures in material processing and heating/cooling systems. Heat exchange occurs as materials move through the coil, with longer coils promoting more heat loss. Coils can be actively pumped or use density differences to circulate materials. Maintenance is important to prevent reduced circulation and leaks. A cooling coil is a […]
Kraft paper is a strong, machine-produced paper made from wood pulp. It can be bleached to create a range of colors and is used for various purposes, including meat packaging, paper bags, crafts, book spines, and electrical insulation. Deriving its name from the German word for strong, kraft paper is a sturdy machine-produced paper that […]
A trunk is a high-speed connection via a telephone line routed through a central office on a telephone network. Nowadays, trunk lines are fiber optic lines capable of carrying both voice and data. They allow for simultaneous transmission of all types of data without interruptions, making them ideal for teleconferencing and manufacturing companies. The term […]
External cladding refers to all exterior surfaces of a building, including walls, windows, and doors. The most common type is siding, with vinyl and aluminum being popular due to their durability and cost. Wood, masonry, concrete, and stucco are also used. Other options include slate, tile, and unconventional materials like recycled plastics. The external cladding […]
Flat rope is a braided design that produces a strong, textured string that is resistant to kinks and easy to knot. It is superior for lifting heavy weights and takes up less storage space than other rope designs. Sometimes referred to as braided rope, flat rope is a rope design that involves braiding rather than […]
