Cold working is a metalworking technique that alters the structure of metal through mechanical stress, increasing strength and hardness while reducing ductility. It is cost-effective for high volume production but has a high initial capital cost and lower ductility. Cold rolling and cold forging are common methods used. Cold working is a type of metalworking […]
Black powder, made of charcoal, sulfur, and potassium nitrate, was once the primary explosive used for guns, fireworks, and mining. It has been replaced by more efficient explosives but is still used by antique weapon enthusiasts and special effects specialists. Black powder can be dangerous and is restricted in some regions. It was first developed […]
Gravity separation separates suspensions by density and size. It is used in medicine and metallurgy. The most common methods are static separation, centrifugation, and jigging. Particle size and water balance are important for efficient separation. Centrifugation is commonly used in medicine, while jigging is an older but effective technique. Gravity separation is a method of […]
The demand factor is a ratio used to calculate the total demand for a system generated by different portions. It helps engineers and power grid managers make informed design decisions and redirect electrical loads to prevent failures and increase efficiency. The maximum demand factor can be constructed in anticipation of the demand load, and capacity […]
A claw hammer is a tool used to drive and remove nails from wood. It has a steel head and handle, with variations in weight and design for different uses. Framing hammers have off-center handles and a choice of striking surface, while finishing hammers are lighter and have a greater curvature in the claw. There […]
Structural beams can be made of wood, steel, or a combination of the two. Wood is commonly used in residential buildings for vertical support beams and floor joists. There are four ways to construct wooden beams. Composite or laminate beams and reinforced steel beams are stronger and more durable. Steel beam construction uses vertical round […]
Track bolts are used to attach railway track rails to concrete anchors. They consist of a threaded bolt, nut, and lock washer to prevent loosening due to vibrations. Hardened steel is used to ensure strength and prevent rust. The bolt is inserted into the rail anchor through a mounting bracket and secured with a lock […]
Chemical waste from manufacturing plants, labs, and households may be hazardous and requires proper handling and disposal. Legislation varies internationally, with the US and UK having specific regulations. Improper disposal poses risks to the environment and people. Specialized disposal services are used, with most waste incinerated or treated chemically before being disposed of in a […]
Maintenance procedures ensure machines and buildings operate smoothly. Types include preventive maintenance, maintenance management, and equipment maintenance. Maintenance teams handle repairs in various facilities, while software maintenance involves run-throughs and checks. Car and plant maintenance are also important. Corrective maintenance on city roads is routine, and commercial airliners, passenger trains, and buses require inspections for […]
Air separation plants use cryogenic distillation to separate atmospheric air into its component gases, including oxygen, nitrogen, and argon. The process involves cleaning, compressing, purifying, and cooling the air, before distilling it in a column to produce liquefied gases. These gases are used in various industrial processes and can be transported in liquid or gaseous […]
Battery manufacturing involves assembling anode and cathode, inserting a separator, applying seals, and creating a label. Different types of batteries have slightly different processes due to the materials and structure. Alkaline batteries use nickel-plated steel, porous separators, and brass and epoxy gaskets. The cathode forms a structural component known as the can cathode. The process […]
Reinforced masonry is strengthened with other materials to increase resistance to stress and deterioration. It is commonly used in exterior walls with steel rods inserted into cinder blocks or clay bricks. It also offers noise reduction benefits and must comply with local building standards. Reinforced masonry is any type of brick, concrete, or other masonry […]
Wire mesh is a metal material with interconnected wires used for various applications. Welded wire mesh is commonly used in concrete construction, while stainless steel mesh is used in transportation systems and food processing plants. Fine mesh is used for filtering in various industries. Wire mesh is a material made up of several interconnected metal […]
Machine screws are small screws designed to be fastened into an existing threaded hole in a metal surface with a matching nut. They come in different sizes, head shapes, groove types, lengths, materials, and thread characteristics. The type of slot in the head determines the type of screwdriver needed. The thread characteristics follow ISO standards, […]
A mixing valve combines hot and cold water to produce a safe temperature. Thermostatic mixing valves are used as safety devices to control hot water temperature and prevent scalding. Water stored at high temperatures can cause thermal shock, so the maximum safe temperature for domestic systems is 122°F. Thermostatic mixing valves have a central thermostat […]
Double acting actuators provide bi-directional actuation for secondary mechanisms, powered by electric motors or compressed oil and gas. They are ideal for high torque loads in both directions, while single acting actuators deliver power over half of their actuation output range. A double acting actuator is a mechanical device designed to provide powered bi-directional actuation […]
Calcination is an industrial process that uses high temperatures to change the properties of solid materials such as minerals, metals, and ore. It is used to remove impurities, improve conductivity, and remove water. The process is used in various industries, and can involve materials other than calcium. Examples include clay, waste metal products, and petroleum […]
Pyrometallurgy is a process that uses high temperatures to produce machinable compounds, purer metals, and alloys. It includes drying, roasting, melting, refining, and alloying. Fuel or electricity is needed as a heat source, and non-reactive materials are used to avoid explosions. Pyrometallurgy is a process by which minerals and metals are heated to produce a […]
Titanium rods, made of pure titanium or a blend of alloys, are commonly used in orthopedic surgeries. The type of rod used depends on the patient’s injuries and needs. Expandable rods are best for children, while non-expandable rods may require repeat surgeries and stunt growth. A titanium rod is a titanium rod; the rods can […]
Security hinges prevent theft and vandalism by making it difficult to remove doors by tampering with the hinges. They can be used on external doors and have fire ratings. Features such as flanges and set screws hold the pins in place. Installing security hinges may require retrofitting. Consider weight and fire resistance ratings when choosing […]
