A socket wrench is a wrench designed to work around a specific type of nut or bolt with a specific number of sides. It allows for easier turning and stronger grip. It is typically double-ended, but other variations are available. Different sizes may be needed for different bolts. More expensive versions with more options are […]
Douglas fir is a strong and durable softwood used in construction, furniture, and even aircraft. It is popular for its ability to withstand the elements and is often recycled in the architectural industry for its antique appearance. Douglas fir lumber is considered one of the best woods for projects ranging from furniture to home construction. […]
An electrical voltmeter measures voltage or current in a circuit. They come in different formats, including analog and digital, and can be permanent or portable. They are used for circuit testing and can be multimeters. Electrostatic and oscilloscope voltmeters are also available, but solenoid voltmeters are the most commonly used due to their durability. An […]
Carving is the process of cutting notches in metal stock for welding, bending, and folding applications. The angle and precision of the cuts are crucial for proper material-to-material contact and are typically done by metal cutting band saws, punch presses, or shear presses. The efficiency of the process depends on the operator’s skills. Carving is […]
Stall torque is the torque of a device at zero rotational speed or the torque load required to bring it to zero. Electric motors, steam engines, and hydrodynamic drives produce stall torque. Torque converters multiply stall torque and have ratios ranging from 1.8:1 to 2.5:1. The formula relating torque, stall torque, and RPM is T=Ts-(NTs/Nf). […]
A turbo flange connects a turbocharger to an intake or exhaust system and is made from mild steel, stainless steel, or aluminum. It must have a flat and finished surface to properly bite into the gasket material. It can be fastened with bolts or welding, with welding providing the best method for proper seating. A […]
Thermal converters convert thermal energy into electrical energy using the Seebeck effect. They differ from heat engines as they have no moving parts and are smaller. They can be used to increase fuel efficiency and generate electricity for space probes, but their efficiency is limited unless the voltage is increased significantly. Research is being done […]
Virtual manufacturing uses computer programs to create 3D models, saving time and materials. It also helps with faster production, lower tooling expenses, and fewer errors. This approach gives upper management a better idea of the final product and can give facilities a competitive edge. Virtual manufacturing uses computers and design programs to assist in creating […]
Packing peanuts are used to prevent damage to delicate items during shipping. They are made from polystyrene or biodegradable materials. Styrofoam became popular in the mid-20th century due to its strength and lightness. Companies are now using recycled plastic and corn starch peanuts to be more environmentally friendly. Companies and consumers can recycle and reuse […]
Stress cracks are caused by settling or stress in building materials, such as foundations, walls, and concrete barriers. They can be repaired but may reappear as buildings continue to shift and settle over time. A stress crack is a crack in a surface caused by the stress or settling of building materials. In a wall, […]
Steel pipes are made of iron and carbon and used in construction and industrial applications. Carbon tubing is affordable and used for large projects, while stainless steel is expensive but highly corrosion-resistant. Galvanized steel is used in harsh conditions and black steel is commonly used for plumbing. Pipes can be seamless or welded, with NPS […]
Abrasion resistance is the ability of a material to resist wear and damage caused by mechanical wear. It is useful in delicate applications such as building space shuttle components. Materials can be made abrasion-resistant through coatings or natural hardness. However, abrasion resistance does not make a material immune to wear and erosion. Abrasion-resistant materials can […]
Journal bearings reduce friction between moving parts in engines and machinery. Trunnion designs are best for high motion situations. They consist of four main parts and require regular lubrication. They handle high loads and speeds and are used in various applications. A journal bearing is a mechanical device used to reduce friction between moving parts […]
Venetian plaster is a technique for applying plaster to walls, ceilings, and curved surfaces to give a stucco-like appearance. The method was perfected in 15th-century Rome and remained popular, with refinements in the technique and gypsum compounds used making it accessible for contemporary projects. The primary method involves using a trowel to apply plaster in […]
Plumbers work on residential and light industrial piping systems, while pipefitters work on industrial, commercial, or military applications. Plumbers install fixtures and work with materials like PVC and copper, while pipefitters work with special metals and alloys for high-pressure systems. Both are needed in industries like oil drilling and refining, and licensing and certification requirements […]
NIOSH-approved respirators protect workers from airborne contaminants. They can filter outside air or supply clean air from a separate source. Respirators are classified by situation, duration, and respiratory risk. They can be submitted for approval with detailed specifications and must pass testing to be approved. A NIOSH-approved respirator is a protective device designed to protect […]
Winter crops, including root vegetables, chicory, and cruciferous vegetables, can thrive in cooler temperatures. Fruits such as citrus, kiwis, and pears are also commonly grown in warm climates. Winter wheat is a commercial crop sown in the fall and harvested in the summer. Some crops, like celery and lettuce, can be grown year-round in temperate […]
Offshore oil drilling extracts oil from beneath the ocean floor, with fixed rigs or floating platforms used depending on location and conditions. Environmental concerns and safety risks are associated with the industry. Offshore oil drilling is an oil extraction technique that allows oil companies to access deposits of oil buried beneath the ocean floor. Typically, […]
Pipe beading is the process of crimping the end of a metal pipe to form a spout shape. It is used to connect hoses or slide into other metal tubing. Internal roll forming or ram forming is used to bend the ends of metal tubes into the shape of the bead. Beaded metal tubing is […]
High impact polystyrene (HIPS) is a versatile, resilient, and inexpensive plastic resin used in various industries. It can be molded, pressed, or delivered on sheets or rolls. HIPS is stronger than polystyrene and has resistance to shocks. It is used in commercial, industrial, and residential settings for various applications. HIPS is heat resistant, durable, and […]
