Sintering is a process of heating powdered raw materials to create solid products without melting them. It can be used to shape ceramics, metals, glass, plastics, composites, and alloys. There are two methods: solid state and liquid phase, with specific variants like spark plasma and selective laser sintering. Sintered products have advantages over other manufacturing […]
Vacuum drying is a process that reduces the moisture in materials in a low-pressure environment, using less heat than traditional drying methods. It saves energy, is faster, and less damaging to materials. It also reduces risks to workers and allows for the recovery of moisture. Vacuum drying is a process where materials are dried in […]
Hydraulic pumps use the kinetic energy of water to move fluid from a low point to a higher point, based on Bernoulli’s principle. A pressure vessel can improve efficiency and prolong the pump’s life. Water pumps are useful in developing countries for accessing clean water. A pump is any device used to move gas or […]
Gold refineries process impure gold to generate pure gold for sale or alloy it with other metals. The process involves smelting, refining, and assaying the gold. Some refineries buy lots outright, while others pay based on the value of the assay. Environmentally conscious refineries control waste and use non-toxic materials. A gold refinery receives gold […]
Tap and die sets are used to cut threads on blanks and in holes for screws and bolts. The set includes matching taps and dies in common screw sizes, along with wrenches. Taps form female threads by drilling into a pilot hole, while dies form male threads on a hollow rod or screw. They can […]
Electrical steel, also known as transformer steel, is an alloy of iron and silicon used to build transformer cores, stators of generators and motors. It retains heat and prevents magnetic eddy currents. Grain-oriented silicon steel produces a stable magnetic field, while non-oriented silicon steel is used in motors or generators. Grades of electrical steel are […]
Choosing the right blasting material depends on the purpose of the blasting. Sand, aluminum oxide, and glass beads are some options. Sand is cheap but disposable, while aluminum oxide lasts longer. Silicon carbide is the best choice for a wide range of blasting needs. Safety concerns include silica dust from sandblasting. When trying to choose […]
A palm sander is a versatile power sander that can handle both coarse and finish sanding jobs. It uses regular sandpaper and has a rubberized grip for comfort. It may come with a dust collection bag and costs between $20 and $80. Other types of sanders are also available. A palm sander is a type […]
Aluminized steel is steel coated with aluminum, making it stronger, heat-resistant, and corrosion-resistant. There are two types: one coated with a silicon and aluminum combination, and the other with pure aluminum. It combines the benefits of both metals and is used in household appliances, automobiles, and industrial applications. It is cost-effective and can be easily […]
A cycloconverter is a device that converts AC power at one frequency into AC power of an adjustable but lower frequency without any DC stage. It can control the speed of drives and is used in high-power applications. It has advantages such as compactness, direct frequency conversion, and ability to regenerate. However, it has disadvantages […]
A continuous hinge, also known as a piano hinge, is a long hinge used in furniture and cabinet making. It spans the entire length of the hinged area and is typically made of light metal with pre-drilled holes. It was originally designed for piano lids and is available in extended lengths, with a small knuckle […]
Dry ice blasting is a cleaning method that uses compressed air to accelerate dry ice particles, removing surface contaminants without toxic solvents. It is non-abrasive, non-conductive, and non-flammable, making it ideal for use on electrical equipment. Dry ice blasting can save time, reduce equipment breakdowns, and eliminate excessive waste removal. It is also safe for […]
Foaming agents are chemicals that help create and maintain foam in various industrial and household applications. They act as surfactants, reducing surface tension, and can be added to materials during processing. Different agents are effective for different materials, and their composition impacts foam integrity. Some agents have toxic components, leading to safety concerns. Foaming agents […]
Fossil fuels have negative effects on the environment and are limited. Solar, wind, hydroelectricity, and biofuels are alternatives gaining popularity due to technological advancements and affordability. These alternatives will help make better use of limited resources and correct damage to the ecological balance of our planet. Many people today are concerned about the continued use […]
A synchronous inverter works with the local power grid to regulate energy consumption. It converts DC to AC for everyday use and allows for the use of alternative energy sources. Multifunction and stand alone inverters are also available. Load requirements and voltage should be considered when choosing an inverter. A synchronous inverter is used to […]
Sea waybills are proof of a contract between a shipper and shipping company, allowing for the release of goods to the consignee. They are an alternative to bills of lading, which can be delayed. Sea waybills cannot transfer title, unlike bills of lading. Shipping companies issue sea waybills to shippers as a sort of proof […]
A site plan is a drawing that shows land development plans, including building location, parking, landscape design, and materials used. It is required for construction project approval and should be drawn by a professional architect. Color may be added for public interest, but it’s best to check with local governing bodies first. A site plan […]
An air compressor compresses and stores air under pressure, used to operate pneumatic tools, inflate tires and toys, and power paint tools. It comes in various sizes and types, with a pressure-sensitive switch to prevent overpressurization. Two-stage superchargers are used for more airflow. An air compressor, or air compressor as it is also called, is […]
Mass production involves designing a product, manufacturing components in bulk, assembling them on an assembly line, applying quality control measures, packaging, and shipping. Specialization of semi-skilled workers and interchangeability of parts increase efficiency. Marc Brunel automated pulley production in the 19th century, and Henry Ford’s assembly line reduced automobile assembly time from 1913 hours to […]
Photovoltaic energy is produced by converting sunlight into energy using silicon solar cells. These cells can be linked to form solar panels or modules, which can power small buildings or large complexes. Energy can be stored using rechargeable batteries and capacitors. Photovoltaic energy is ecologically clean, safe, and can be used in various applications. Continued […]
