Drill plates guide the location of holes and create uniform patterns. They are made of plastic, acrylic, aluminum, or steel. Punch plates prevent costly mistakes and guide drill bits for straight holes. They are used in construction and mechanical applications and can cut a range of hole sizes. A drill plate is a template used […]
Web plates are used to join two supports together, often in a perpendicular way. They are commonly made from steel and have a triangular shape with rounded corners. The shape of the holes in the plate gives it the nickname T-connector. The use of hardened steel is important for structural integrity. The dimensions of the […]
A cam plate is a device used for smooth movement of a part in multiple directions simultaneously. It can be used in linear applications, such as carousels. The plate portion of the device is inclined, allowing for multi-directional movement. The attached form is the most popular due to reduced slippage. A cam plate is a […]
Retainer plates reinforce injection molds and secure internal parts. They consist of a backing plate and retainer plate, with channels for heating/cooling fluids. Retainer plates support guide and ejector pins, and are used as back cooling/heating elements. A retainer plate is part of the internal injection molding mechanism used to reinforce the mold and secure […]
Bearing plates distribute the force of a bearing wall or column and are used to support the weight of a building. Carrier plates are placed under carrier structures and have additional screw or bolt holes. They can also have additional features such as sliding surfaces. In most cases, a bearing plate is a specially designed […]
Splice plates are used to reinforce connections between steel beams in construction. They help improve safety and prevent structural failure. Splicing is used when long beams are not available or difficult to transport. The plates are pre-drilled and bolted onto the joint, distributing forces and reducing the risk of deformation. Building codes provide specific requirements […]
The vibratory plate compactor is a common tool used for soil and asphalt compaction. It features a large plate that vibrates to create a centrifugal force. The best design depends on the job, with smaller walk-behind models suitable for limited spaces and larger models mounted on excavators for higher compaction forces. Some models have an […]
Nameplate capacity is the maximum power rating for various facilities, such as chemical and power plants. It refers to the theoretical maximum production or electricity generation under ideal conditions. Dispatchable plants calculate without external factors, while intermittent energy sources are calculated under ideal circumstances. The term originated from physical nameplates on generators and is used […]
A plate compactor is construction equipment used to level earth before paving or landscaping. It comes in different sizes and operating mechanisms, and is useful for a variety of outdoor projects. The main benefit is that it increases the life and performance of a project by eliminating air pockets and future movement. It is an […]
A breakfast plate is a way to serve and display breakfast on a table or buffet line. It typically includes scrambled eggs, meat, potatoes, and other items. It’s important to keep hot and cold foods separate to prevent bacteria growth. For room service, a breakfast plate might have individual dividers and a special theme. A […]
The top plate in wood frame construction provides support to the joists, rafters, and roof beams. Improperly seasoned wood, rot, insects, and mold can cause structural problems. Regular inspections and using seasoned wood can prevent issues. Structural engineers can identify problems during inspections. In wood frame construction, the top plate is the horizontal framing that […]
The bottom plate, studs, top plate, sills, and beams are essential to a building’s structural integrity. Bottom plates are an extension of the foundation, usually made of wood, and attached to the sub-base. The studs are nailed or screwed into the bottom plate and top plate. Wooden beams can be used for added load resistance. […]
Consider type, size, and style when shopping for a pizza pan. Microwave and dishwasher safe qualities may or may not be important. Large clear glass or white porcelain plates can serve as a serving plate for appetizers or cupcakes. Triangular pizza plates are sold in a variety of styles. Be sure to check washing and […]
A plate vibrator is a machine used to compact soil and asphalt. It has a bottom plate mounted on a vibrating machine powered by a gas unit. It can be adjusted to change the phase position of the eccentric masses and has an easy-to-use design for changing direction and compaction motion. A plate vibrator is […]
Roller plates are used to bend light steel products into different shapes, including conical and rounded shapes. Roll plate machines heat the metal to make it pliable, and a popular type uses three rollers. Another type uses four rollers and is much larger. Metal thickness, width, and tensile strength affect the ability to form tubular […]
Galvanized steel sheet is treated with a zinc alloy to create a rust-proof and moisture-resistant barrier, making it suitable for building materials and household appliances. The process involves heating pure iron, cooling it in water or a chemical solution, and immersing it in liquefied zinc. The outer coating may eventually rust or chip, requiring anti-corrosive […]
Surface plates are flat planes used as a reference for determining flatness and levelness in manufacturing, meteorological, and optical industries. Cast iron was commonly used before mid-20th century, but now granite is the norm due to its non-magnetic and rust-resistant properties. Glass surface plates are rare but were used during metal shortages. All surface plates […]
Chain plates are steel plates on sailboats that distribute weight and provide support for rigging systems. They are connected to turnbuckles and rigging cordage and are attached to standard rigging covers or brackets. Sailboats use a complex system of ropes and pulleys to control the sails and put stress on rigging components, requiring counter-tensioning and […]
Structures like bridges, footbridges, and pipes move due to atmospheric agents and seismic movement. Skid plates are added to minimize frictional damage and allow for smooth movement. They can be made of slippery fluoropolymer or metals containing graphite carbon or lubricating oil. Skid plates can also be used as wear surfaces for moving parts like […]
Structures like bridges and pipes move due to atmospheric agents and seismic activity, requiring expansion joints and bearing surfaces to minimize frictional damage. Skid plates, made of low-friction materials, are used to create bearing surfaces that require little maintenance. They can also be used in pipe supports and to separate buildings from foundations in earthquake […]
