Laser cutting is the preferred method for precision machining of sheet metal due to its consistency. Laser cutting machines use significant amounts of electricity, and the lasers used can vary in thickness. Industrial laser cutting machines come in three types, and different types of lasers are used for cutting and engraving. Factors such as metal […]
Vanadium is commonly alloyed with iron, titanium, and gallium for various applications. It is a silver gray metal with high strength and is mined from minerals. Ferrovanadium is used in vanadium steels and iron, while vanadium-containing alloys are used in cutting tools, engines, and turbines. Vanadium-titanium alloys are used in aerospace, military, and medical devices. […]
Sheet metal shears are used to cut various metals and plastics. They have square edges for added strength and durability. There are different types of shears, from hand-held to floor-standing models, and some can make angled or curved cuts. They are used in various industries for cutting automotive and aviation parts, building materials, and HVAC […]
Coated metal is created by adding a thin layer of dissimilar metals to a base metal, resulting in a stronger and more durable surface. Overlay, inlay, and contact cladding are different types of metal coating processes used to create coated metal objects with varying strengths and weaknesses. Coated metal is metal that uses a thin […]
Metal casting is an ancient technique where molten metal is poured into a mold and allowed to harden before being finished. Molds can be made from a variety of materials, including sand, clay, and wax. Metal smelting requires a foundry, which can handle different metals and alloys. Metal casting is still used today in various […]
Barrier metals are thin layers of metal or ceramics placed between objects to prevent contamination. They must be conductive and inert, with the right thickness. Titanium nitride is the most common barrier metal in semiconductors, while diffusion barriers protect metal components from welding. Gold, nickel, and aluminum are common metals used for diffusion barriers. A […]
Corrugated metal is a durable and lightweight material used for roofing and cladding in both commercial and residential construction. It is fire-resistant, moisture-resistant, and can withstand high winds and snow accumulation. However, it is energy-intensive to produce and must be grounded during installation. Aluminum is preferred near the ocean, while steel is better for hail-prone […]
Metal lathe tools are designed for specific applications, including cutting, shaping, threading, and finishing steel. Different tools are needed for different tasks, and dull tools will produce lower quality results. Most tools come in right and left-hand styles and can be made of carbide, tungsten, or steel. Boring tools and spindles are common, and even […]
Metal milling shapes, cuts, and punches metal parts using milling machines. Newer technology uses computer numerical control (CNC) processes. Metal milling is a crucial component of manufacturing metal products and employs around 70 million people worldwide. The process can produce flat surfaces or complex three-dimensional shapes using various cutting bits. It is an expensive process […]
Wire nails are the most common type of nail used in construction and home projects. They are produced by cutting wire coils into predetermined lengths and shaping them into nails through a machine. They have replaced square nails due to their quick manufacturing process. Different types of glue and coatings can be applied to metal […]
Galvanized metal buckets are resistant to corrosion from moisture and exposure to the elements. The process involves creating the frame of the bucket from a specific type of metal, such as aluminum, iron, or steel, and then coating it with a protective layer of zinc using a process known as hot dip galvanizing. This process […]
White metal is a term for lighter colored alloys used to make a variety of items, including jewelry, machine components, and decorative pieces. It is affordable and easy to shape, making it popular for crafting. It can also be used to make inexpensive flatware and bearings. White metal is a broad term used to describe […]
Ferrous metals contain iron and are often magnetic. They are used in manufacturing for products such as steel beams, machine parts, and cookware. Cast iron and wrought iron are examples of ferrous metals, with different properties and uses. Steel is the most common type of ferrous metal, with various compositions for different purposes. Stainless steel […]
Degreasing metal surfaces can be difficult, but a good degreaser can do the trick. Kitchen appliances often need grease removal, but degreasers are also useful for items in the garage, garden, and yard. A selection of high-quality degreasers is necessary, including heavy-duty oven cleaner, oxygen-based products, butyl-based products (for bare metal surfaces only), and citrus-based […]
Galvanized metal is steel with a zinc oxide coating that protects it from corrosion. It can be used in various construction projects, including warships and buildings, and requires specific painting techniques. Galvanized metal is a valuable building tool for long-lasting structures. As a type of steel with a special coating, galvanized metal enjoys a high […]
Pot metal is a low-quality metal alloy with a low melting point, often made up of zinc, lead, copper, and tin. It is easy to smelt but unpredictable in quality and prone to deformity. It can be hazardous to human health and difficult to repair or plate. Some people use it for foundry play or […]
Sheet metal screws are used to fasten metal objects and have a threaded shank with a sharp tip. They are labeled with three numbers indicating diameter, threads, and length. There are two types: standard drives and self-tapping. The head can be button, pan, flat, or oval, with different slots. They can be made from carbon […]
Heavy metal poisoning can occur when the body accumulates an excessive amount of metals such as arsenic, mercury, and silver. Symptoms can be vague and misdiagnosed as chronic conditions. Exposure can occur in various environments, and acute and chronic cases can cause a range of symptoms, including damage to organs and the development of certain […]
Metal raw materials come from minerals and recycled parts. Conflict has arisen due to the mining of metals in developing countries. Some metals are scarce, such as the platinum group, and rely on limited regions. Steel is vital but only slightly recycled, while lead is the most commonly recycled metal. Metal raw materials consist primarily […]
To remove rust from metal, commercial products are available but can be toxic. Household items like vinegar, baking soda, sandpaper, and steel wool can also be used. Prevention is best by keeping metals dry. If you need to remove rust from metal, there are many commercial products available. Most of them are highly toxic and […]
