The tan delta test checks insulation quality in medium and high voltage cables. It measures the resistance in the cable as current flows through it to determine the level of phase shift and insulation condition. It can uncover water tree problems, but does not provide information about the location of a problem. Technicians must take […]
Fillet weld is a basic type of weld used to join flat steel at a 90° angle. It requires proper penetration and heat settings, and the weld wire must travel the same distance on both sides of the joint. It is important to avoid excessive penetration when welding a lap joint. Fillet weld is the […]
Base molding is a protective strip applied to walls where they meet the floor, designed to protect from furniture and other objects. It also hides gaps and provides access to the area behind the wall. Chair rails protect walls from chair backs. Commercial base moldings are usually plastic and less decorative than residential ones. Installation […]
A universal vise can hold objects at compound angles and adjust to irregular shapes. There is no standard configuration, and buyers should consider their project needs. They are used in various industries and come in different sizes. Swivel bases and accessories are available, and it’s important to test the vise for a secure fit. Sometimes […]
A current transformer measures electricity without diverting the current into the measuring instrument, which could be hazardous. It uses the magnetic field produced by the current to create a current that is directly proportional to the device or line being measured. It is an important tool in electrical engineering for safety and efficiency monitoring. A […]
White gas, also known as naphtha, is a petroleum ether used as a feedstock for high-octane gasoline. It’s found in many household and industrial products, but overexposure can lead to health problems, including cancer. Companies have strict guidelines for its use, and it’s generally safe in small quantities. More properly known as naphtha, white gas […]
Solder wire is a fusible alloy of tin and silver or lead, used for electronics and plumbing. Different alloys are used for different jobs, and some contain a flux core. Lead-free solders are becoming more popular due to health and environmental concerns. Cored solder wire contains internal veins of rosin or acid-based materials, making external […]
A package conveyor is used in warehouses or shipping facilities to move packages. There are three types: powered, unpowered, and a combination of both. Belts and rollers are used to move items. Retarders are used to slow down packages and prevent collisions. Some systems combine gravity rollers with motorized conveyor belts, and transfers are used […]
Black start is the ability of certain power plants to generate their own power to restart after a power outage, allowing for quick restoration of power to the grid. Black start stations must meet strict criteria and have their own fuel source. They have limitations and are used in different countries. A black start is […]
A hand vise is a tool used for gripping objects, with a handle attached to a set of jaws that can clamp various objects. They are made of steel or other corrosion-resistant metals and can be used for woodworking, jewelry making, and other crafts. Hand vices can hold small or delicate objects while working on […]
Injection molded plastic parts are made by melting plastic granules and injecting them into a mold. The design process must consider the part’s purpose, including the nominal wall, protrusions, holes, and indentations. Varying wall thicknesses can cause defects, and bosses must not be thicker than the nominal wall. The location of holes and indentations affects […]
Knowing the generator load is important for safe operation and purchasing a generator with the appropriate load capacity ensures continuous operation of appliances during a power outage. It’s important to assess what appliances will be needed and purchase a generator that can handle the maximum voltage required. Overloading the generator can cause damage. Generator load […]
3D printing is a manufacturing method where objects are made quickly on a machine connected to a computer. Enthusiasts hope it will usher in a custom manufacturing revolution. Current models are expensive and used by professionals. The latest devices use a laser and metal powder to make metal objects. There may one day be 3D […]
Lime plaster is a building material made of water, sand, and lime, often confused with other types of plaster. Hydrated lime is the most commonly used form and takes time to dry. It has been used since ancient times and is making a comeback due to its eco-friendliness. It is important to wear protective clothing […]
A generator set is an electrical generator located near the end user, used as an extension to an existing grid or off-grid power source. It can be integrated with an existing electrical grid, providing backup power during outages. Cogeneration plants can capture excess heat and convert it back into electricity. However, routing excess energy back […]
Barbed wire fences are made of wire with barbs and used to contain people and animals. They can be made of various materials and mixed with other fencing products. They were developed in the 1800s and can be electrified or mixed with solid barriers for security purposes. A barbed wire fence is a fence made […]
Rust removers contain toxic oxalic acid and can corrode surfaces. Rust stains can be removed with household items like cream of tartar, hydrogen peroxide, borax/baking soda, and white vinegar. A mixture of borax and lemon juice can also be used. As the name suggests, rust removers are special formulas used to remove rust stains, which […]
Assembly line balancing optimizes assembly lines to minimize costs and maximize profits. It considers factors such as workstations, time, workers, and resources. Different methods, including equations and algorithms, are used to optimize specific operations. Balancing the assembly line guides decision making based on the variables affecting the manufacturing process. Managers can analyze their operation using […]
A rotary kiln is a device that uses heat to change the chemical composition of an object. It consists of a reinforced steel shell, support rollers, and internal heat exchangers. It is commonly used in the creation of cement and can break down many types of solids into usable materials. A rotary kiln is a […]
Co-injection molding involves injecting different polymers into the same mold to change physical properties or reduce costs. There are two types: machine-based and mold-based. It allows for creating double-layered effects and combining materials for different properties. It also reduces cooling time and allows for recycling materials, benefiting both manufacturers and consumers. Coinjection is an injection […]
