A distillation unit separates mixed liquids by heating them until each component reaches boiling point. It consists of a boiler, a column, a condenser, and storage vessels. Different types of distillation units include fractional, simple, steam, and vacuum distillation. A distillation unit is a set of machinery that is used to separate two or more […]
Spray irrigation, also known as sprinkler irrigation, is a popular method of watering plants using pressurized water. Sprinklers can be fixed or mobile, with some rotating to cover a larger area. Water sources vary, but the method requires a lot of water and can be wasteful. Low-pressure spray and drip irrigation systems are more efficient […]
Water transportation involves moving large volumes of water from one place to another. It can be done through aqueducts, container shipping, or towing across large bodies of water. Water transport is used for irrigation, supplying fresh drinking water, and other purposes. Aqueducts can refer to closed pipe systems, open channels, and other methods. Water can […]
A mercury switch is a glass tube containing liquid mercury and two electrodes that connect when tilted past a certain angle, allowing electricity to flow. However, mercury is dangerous, so many manufacturers are replacing them. They are used in thermostats, car lights, and even motion-activated bombs. Broken switches are toxic waste and should only be […]
A Warrington hammer is a lightweight double-headed hammer used for woodworking and craft projects. It has a rounded head and a wedge-shaped or flattened quill for starting small nails. The hammer comes in different sizes and weights and should feel comfortable in the hand. A Warrington hammer is a type of lightweight hammer designed for […]
Subassemblies are groups of parts that form part of a finished assembly. Electronics, optics, and computers commonly use subassemblies. They are used in consumer electronics like microwaves, cell phones, and televisions. Computers have custom subassemblies that form the CPU and other parts. PCBs are connected by soldering and mated with other PCBs to form a […]
Metalworking machines shape and cut metal with high accuracy and production levels. They include lathes, milling machines, planers, grinders, and embossing machines. CNC software controls most machines, including metal brakes, extrusion, and casting equipment. Metalworking machines include a wide variety of equipment used to cut and shape metal. These machines offer an alternative to hand […]
MIG welding is an automatic or semi-automatic process that uses a wire electrode and an inert gas shield to join two pieces of metal. It is faster than traditional welding and can be used with a variety of metals. However, it requires complex equipment and a learning curve for the technique. It is commonly used […]
Hydroblasting uses high pressure water to clean and cut through dense materials like steel and concrete, making it more environmentally friendly and energy efficient than abrasive blasting. It is used in various industries, including demolition, construction, and surface preparation. Hydroblasting can be used indoors or outdoors and has vacuum recovery for both water and debris. […]
Low voltage systems, such as lighting and doorbells, use transformers to reduce power levels and are safer than high voltage systems. International and British standards define low voltage as AC below 50V or DC below 120V, while the US defines high voltage as over 600V. Low voltage systems are easier to install and modify, but […]
Operational maintenance is a type of preventive maintenance that involves minor adjustments, cleaning, and inspections performed by equipment operators to extend the life of equipment and reduce downtime. It does not include major repairs or diagnoses and can be performed in any environment where machinery is used. Companies benefit from training operators to handle basic […]
Modern slavery is still a thriving industry with over 27 million people enslaved worldwide. Slavery includes forced labor, human trafficking, arranged marriage, and restrictions on freedom of movement. Children and women are the most frequent victims. Advocacy organizations work to educate people and free slaves. Unfortunately, the answer to this question is yes. According to […]
Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic test that assesses muscle activity and is often done with a nerve conduction study. It can diagnose muscle and nerve disorders, and involves placing needle electrodes on the skin to record electrical energy emitted by muscles and nerves. The test is safe, but may cause mild discomfort and carries a […]
Knowledge workers use their expertise to analyze, develop, and communicate information in various professions. They require critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and self-management. Quality and innovation are valued over productivity. Knowledge workers are people who make their living by understanding, analysing, developing, applying and/or communicating their knowledge in a specific area. Peter Drucker is credited with […]
A wind cone, also known as a windsock, is a device that shows wind direction and speed. It is commonly used at airports, highways, and facilities. It consists of a fabric tube that rotates around a pole and extends as wind speed increases. It is easy to read and can be illuminated for night use. […]
The origins of the hot dog and chili dog are uncertain, but both have become popular in the US. The chili dog can be customized with various toppings, and chili sauce can be made at home or bought canned. Fast food restaurants often offer their own versions of the chili dog. Sausage sellers in the […]
Decomposed granite is a natural building and landscaping material made up of weathered granite particles. It’s commonly used for paths, parking areas, and landscaping, and is popular in arid regions. It can be used on its own or with stabilizers, but drainage must be considered. Decomposed granite, sometimes referred to as DG, is most commonly […]
Flakeboard is a type of manufactured wood product used in construction, made of small wood pieces held together with resins. Different types include standard particleboard, waferboard, oriented particle board, and medium density fiberboard. Flakeboard is versatile and used for various construction and design purposes, and can be made to look like different materials. It can […]
South Africa is the world’s largest coal consumer, with 77% of its energy consumption based on coal. China uses the most coal, but its energy consumption is 70% coal-based. The average global coal-based energy consumption is 30%, with the US at 25%. Over 5.845 million tons of coal are produced worldwide annually. Surprisingly, China is […]
A Coombs test detects antibodies in blood that can attack red blood cells. There are two types: direct and indirect. The direct test looks for antibodies already attached to red blood cells, while the indirect test analyzes the serum surrounding red blood cells. The test can help diagnose anemia, mononucleosis, syphilis, and other ailments. The […]
