Martempering is a metallurgical process used to control the characteristics of martensite in steels and alloys. Martensite is a crystalline state that makes the metal hard but brittle. The process involves heating and cooling cycles to gradually reduce the extent of martensite characteristics while minimizing distortion and cracking. Tempering martensite involves heating and cooling it […]
Conveyor systems move goods in industrial and manufacturing processes, packing, shipping, and transportation facilities. Different types of systems are available, including standard belts, steel rod rollers, vibratory trays, roller beds, track or rail transportation, pneumatic or vacuum conveyors, vertical or spiral conveyors, and horizontal conveyors. The benefits of using a conveyor system include quick and […]
Dimethylformamide (DMF) is a solvent used in many products, but is a volatile organic compound (VOC) that can harm humans and wildlife. It is not stable with strong acids or bases. DMF is used in many products that require a strong chemical reaction, but it can cause cancer and chronic organ damage. The MSDS rates […]
A forge hammer is used to shape metal during forging, and can be powered by humans, steam, or air. An anvil is often used with it. The Industrial Revolution led to larger hammers, and the steam hammer was developed in response to a challenge. A kickback hammer allows for faster forging times and high amounts […]
A solenoid pump uses an electromagnetic solenoid piston to move fluid through a sealed suction chamber. It consists of a solenoid coil with a plunger attached to a diaphragm or piston. The pump mechanism relies on a pulsed power supply that turns the coil on and off. The solenoid pump is used for precise, low […]
Sputtering machines use energetic particles to eject atoms from a source material, which then coat a sample object. They are used in SEMs, semiconductor industry, and chemical composition analysis. They can be simple devices and use physical vapor deposition. They can also be used for coating various materials and cleaning delicate components. A sputtering machine […]
Dust explosions occur when flammable dust particles in an enclosed space come in contact with a flame or spark, resulting in a potentially powerful explosion. Safety regulations and preventative measures, such as expelling air and avoiding dust accumulation, have reduced the occurrence of these explosions. A dust explosion generally occurs when the air in a […]
Tight gas is difficult to access due to the dense rock and sand surrounding the reservoir. Companies require a large financial incentive to extract it, but as energy prices rise, interest increases. Tight gas is found in coal deposits and requires finding a “sweet spot” to extract. Most deposits are at least 251 million years […]
Pulp molding creates recyclable packaging from recycled newspaper and cardboard. Four types of products are available, but the process requires significant energy and water. Thick-walled molding is for heavy items, transfer products have thinner walls, and thermoformed fiber produces smooth, strong products. Some products require two stages to complete. Pulp molding is the process used […]
Fossil fuels have been the main source of energy since the Industrial Revolution, but their depletion and environmental damage have led to a push for sustainable energy sources. Solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy are renewable and sustainable, while biofuels are controversial. Further scientific advances and investment are needed for sustainable energy to handle modern […]
Vibrating sieves are mechanical tools used to separate solids, liquids, and powders. They are used in various industries and work by vibrating in a circular motion to separate impurities. The mining industry is a major user of this technology, as are manufacturing, archeology, metallurgy, and construction. A vibrating sieve is a large mechanical tool used […]
Thermal power plants use steam to generate electricity, with coal, oil, solar, and nuclear power being common fuel sources. The Rankine cycle is often used, with geothermal plants using naturally occurring steam. Fossil fuels are heavily polluting, while nuclear sources have safety concerns. Solar thermal systems are renewable but face efficiency and variable challenges. Advances […]
Stamp sand, the waste material left after ore processing, was traditionally discarded but is now being reclaimed for new uses. Stamp mills produced so much sand that it was used to cover icy roads. Some sand deposits contain dangerous heavy metals, but many have been contained and cleaned up for reuse. Reclaimed sand requires less […]
Shielding gas is used in MIG and TIG welding to protect the weld from contamination. The gas mixture required depends on the type of welding being performed. Keeping the welding gun close to the work piece and following the manufacturer’s recommendations for gas flow is important. Cleaning the welding gun nozzle is necessary to remove […]
Lean and agile manufacturing differ in manufacturing style, inventory levels, and customization capabilities. Lean relies on manual labor and mass assembly lines, while agile uses automation and modular pieces. Lean requires high inventory storage, while agile uses standardized parts to reduce supply levels. Customizing a lean product is expensive and interrupts production, while agile can […]
Ethanol waste, or still grains, is a co-product of the dry milling process used to produce ethanol from corn. It is sold as a feed supplement for livestock, containing nutrients three times higher than the original corn input. It is particularly valuable as a high protein and energy supplement for cattle, poultry, and pigs. Ethanol, […]
“Amexica” is a term used to describe the relationship between America and Mexico, with some using it positively to describe an integrated community, while others use it negatively to refer to the “corruption” of America by Hispanic influences. The increasing Hispanic population in America highlights the country’s diversity, but conservative commentators use the term to […]
Mouth cancer symptoms include swelling, discolored patches, changes in mouth shape, unexplained bleeding, chronic pain, and tenderness. Routine dental exams can help detect symptoms early for prevention. Mouth cancer is an umbrella term for any of the oral cancers that affect the lips, tongue, inside of the mouth, throat, or cheeks. These tumors are related […]
Effective employee training is an investment, not a burden, and can increase productivity and employee happiness. Ongoing training with relevant materials and trainers is important, and results should be tracked to ensure effectiveness. Many companies make the mistake of investing little time or money to effectively train employees because the practice is not seen as […]
ATV utility trailers are small trailers that can be attached to an ATV to transport items around farms, construction sites, and remote areas. They come in two styles: stationary and dump, and are commonly used by sportsmen and rescue squads. They have a limited carrying capacity due to their lightweight design. An All Terrain Vehicle […]
