Metal engraving tools can be manual or mechanical, with the burin being the most commonly used hand tool. Industrial machines with diamond tips are used for high productivity, but can limit creativity. Material and shape of the tool should be considered for different metals and designs. Metal engraving tools can be classified as manual or […]
When selecting a metal adhesive, consider the job requirements, certifications needed, load-bearing capacity, and durability. Epoxies are a good choice for metal-to-metal bonding, while cyanoacrylates cure in moisture and anaerobic compounds cure without air. Consider the materials being bonded and the environment. Combining adhesive with screws or bolts may provide structural support. To select the […]
Base metals are metals that oxidize easily and react with hydrochloric acid. Iron, aluminum, and copper are the most commonly used base metals in industry. Other important base metals include zinc, lead, nickel, and tin. Base metal prices and supply and demand figures are split from the scrap market versus mining and are tracked by […]
Sheet metal workers construct metal structures and equipment in factories or construction sites. They follow blueprints and use specialized knowledge to build roofs, ventilation systems, and more. They may work alone or in teams, and may also perform maintenance and repairs. Training can be obtained through community college or vocational school, or through a formal […]
A metal joist is a structural component found in buildings, connecting beams to each other or load-bearing objects. They are common in larger structures like warehouses and are usually visible near the ceiling. Joists allow walls and floors to hold a shape and support interior finishes. In most homes, joists are made of wood, while […]
Metal fabrication involves cutting, welding, and forming metal parts to create building materials or finished products. Jobs can be found in factories, construction companies, and private workshops, with tasks ranging from mass production to assembling furniture. Some metal fabricators work with sheet metal for building construction, while others work on auto or airplane repair. While […]
Amorphous metals have a disordered atomic structure and are also known as metallic glasses. They can be twice as thick as regular metal and are ideal for military armor due to their resistance to corrosion and wear. They were first created in 1957 by cooling an alloy in milliseconds. Amorphous metal suitable for commercialization was […]
Metal foam is a gas-bubbled substance made of metal, with high porosity and recyclability. It comes in closed or open cell varieties and retains many metal characteristics. Metal foams are less conductive and weaker than solid metal but are used in aerospace and high-performance applications. They are sometimes considered a subset of cellular metal materials […]
Metal fume fever is caused by inhaling toxic fumes from heated metals, with galvanized metals being the most likely culprits. Symptoms include chills, nausea, joint pain, and respiratory problems. Prevention measures include using hood ventilation, wearing respirators and face shields, and ensuring good cross ventilation. Occupational safety laws require adequate ventilation and respiratory protection for […]
A sheet metal mechanic can manufacture and install sheet metal parts in various industries, including construction, aerospace, and automotive. No specific education is required, but on-the-job training and apprenticeships are common. Basic math and reading skills, as well as the ability to read schematics and use computer-aided design, are necessary. In construction settings, sheet metal […]
Recycling scrap metal is an easy way to make money and help the environment. Over 70 million tons of metallic material are recycled every year in the US. Different metals have different values and prices can change daily. Some people steal copper to recycle, so storing it safely is important. Recycling scrap metal is one […]
Nickel is the most common metal that causes allergies, with an estimated 12% of women and 6% of men experiencing nickel allergies. Symptoms include a rash, swelling, and fluid-filled blisters. Cheap jewelry should be avoided, and precautions can be taken to minimize discomfort. Topical steroids can be prescribed by a doctor, and emollient creams can […]
