Metal spinning involves using machinery to shape metal into specific forms. Training can be obtained through formal education or on-the-job experience, with a combination of both being ideal. Obtaining a degree or certificate in metalworking can increase job opportunities. Becoming an apprentice in a metalworking business can also lead to becoming a metal spinner and […]
Bare metal recovery reinstalls operating systems, applications, components, and data on a corrupted or new drive. It is fast and reliable but requires an effective backup plan. Users need a system disk to perform the recovery, which can be time-saving and accessible quickly. However, system settings and configurations will not be saved unless the user […]
The properties of metals, including physical, chemical, and conductive properties, help define what makes a substance a metal. These properties vary between metals and are important in determining their uses, such as in frying pans or building materials. With more than 70 different types of metals on the planet, some may wonder what defines a […]
Becoming a sheet metal worker requires 4-5 years of training, including on-the-job experience and possibly community college education. Attention to detail, precise measurement skills, and physical fitness are necessary. Apprenticeship programs are available, combining classroom training with hands-on experience. Good reading, math, and hand-eye coordination skills are also required. A sheet metal worker is a […]
Active metals, found in group I of the periodic table, react strongly due to the arrangement of electrons in their structure. They have a single electron in their outer shell and can cause explosive reactions with water. They are used in controlled chemical reactions and in the manufacture of products. An active metal is one […]
Sulfuric acid reacts differently with metals depending on factors such as metal type, acid concentration, and temperature. Dilute acid reacts with metals above hydrogen in reactivity series, while some metals form a protective oxide layer. Solubility of the metal sulfate formed and water content also affect the reaction. Metals below hydrogen do not react with […]
Alloy steel, with added carbon and other elements, is the hardest known metal with a tensile strength of 0.84 GPa and yield strength of 0.64 GPa. Carbon steel is surpassed only by non-very hard metals like rubies and diamonds. Carbon steel is commonly used in construction tools but is prone to corrosion. Tungsten carbide, iridium, […]
Precious metal scrap, including gold, silver, palladium and platinum, is sold for its weight and determined by purity and market price. Unwanted or broken jewelry, coins, and silverware can be sold. Dealers purchase scrap gold and sell it to refineries. Refineries liquefy and purify the metal before selling to various buyers. Scrap of precious metals […]
A sheet metal brake is used to shape metal and is commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, heating and ventilation, and body shops. There are different types of brakes, including large electronic ones for manufacturing and portable hand-operated ones for installers. Renting a brake may be useful for homeowners, but for specific pieces, it’s […]
Metal flanges join pipes together with bolt holes for easy assembly. Different types are available for various applications, such as copper or stainless steel for water pipes. ASME provides a classification system in the US, while other countries have their own. Flange designs vary, with high pressure connections using a “plug and groove” interface to […]
Using an abrasive wheel on a regular circular saw to cut metal is inefficient and costly. A metal-cutting circular saw with a specially designed blade is more efficient, cost-effective, and produces cleaner cuts with less heat. It also creates less friction, resulting in faster metalworking. Metal cutting circular saws are designed to prevent debris from […]
Metal can deteriorate through rust, corrosion, abrasion, wear and tear, and chemicals. Metallic coatings protect metal from these factors, with protection value being the first consideration. Coatings can also be used as lubricants or torque agents, for abrasion and impact resistance, and for appearance. Coatings are applied in various ways and formulations, with cost and […]
Electroplating involves placing two metals in a conductive liquid and applying a charge to both. One metal dissolves and is absorbed by the other, adding to its mass. The process is like a battery, with a cathode, anode, and electrolyte. The anode deteriorates and the metal travels to the cathode, coating it. No metal is […]
Metalworking fluids are used to lubricate, cool, and clean metal workpieces during machining. They can be petroleum-based, water-based, or synthetic and are used in high-volume or high-speed machines. However, exposure to these fluids can cause health problems such as skin irritation and respiratory complications. Safe handling precautions should be taken, including using protective clothing and […]
Boeing created microlattice, the lightest metal ever, which is 99.99% air. It weighs one-tenth of carbon fiber and may be used in space rockets and commercial aircraft. In 2015, Boeing announced the creation of the lightest metal ever, a microlattice material that the aerospace company describes as 99.99 percent air. It was developed by HRL […]
Metal detectors come in various types, including walk-through and handheld wands, and can be rented or permanently installed. They are commonly used for security screening at official buildings, airports, and events. Walk-through detectors are the most convenient, while wands are cheaper but slower. Prices vary depending on the type and number of units required. Rental […]
Metal sealant protects metal from corrosion, scratches, UV damage, and wear. Different types of sealants offer benefits such as anti-friction and extra shine. It can be applied easily and comes in clear or colored spray cans or tubs. The metal might seem durable, but it still needs to be taken care of. One of the […]
Road metal is crushed rock used for paving, originally referred to as “metal” due to its hard-mined nature. Contractors can specify size ranges for projects. It improves driving conditions and drainage, and can be used for sub-bases. Delivery is available for larger loads, or supplies can be picked up from a quarry. Road metal is […]
Sheet metal cladding is a panel material used in construction to cover the exterior or interior of a building. Common forms include corrugated metal panels, PVCu, aluminum, copper foil, and polycarbonate. Metal siding has been used since the early 1800s, and sheet metal ceilings became popular in the mid-19th century. Using sheet metal siding can […]
Metal beams are used in building construction, created by casting or forging liquid steel into the correct shape. They are welded or bolted into place and form the skeleton of a building. Metalworkers face safety concerns when working at heights and in inclement weather. Rivets have been replaced by bolts and welding, reducing worker injuries. […]
