Oxy-fuel combustion uses pure oxygen instead of air to burn fuel, allowing for easier removal of carbon dioxide without the need to remove nitrogen. This technology can be applied to coal-fired power plants, gas turbines, and welding applications. The resulting gas is nitrogen-free and can be easily purified and stored. While still under development, oxy-fuel […]
Chromium plating is a process of depositing a thin chrome layer onto metal for decoration or protection. The process involves degreasing, cleaning, smoothing, pre-treatment, and etching. Properly done, chrome plating can last for many years with minimal maintenance. Chromium plating is a process which involves the electrodeposition of a thin chrome veneer onto an underlying […]
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) provide in-depth information on potentially dangerous chemicals or components in a substance or product, including physical data, storage, handling, and disposal. MSDS forms vary by country and are enforced by specific organizations. Any workplace that uses a chemical-based product must have MSDS information accessible to its workers. Consumers can request […]
Foundry engineering involves designing and building structures to heat raw materials to high temperatures to create metal products. Foundries have large furnaces, mold building stations, and storage facilities. Foundry engineers also repair and improve existing foundries. They do not build metal forging machinery. From aluminum to steel, zinc to iron, the world’s metals are created […]
Cast iron pipes are made by melting pig iron with scrap metal and casting it in a mold. They transport sewage and potable water and come in eight grades. Cast iron pipes have been used since the 15th century and are still used in sewer and drain lines. There are two types of cast iron […]
Electrostatic separation uses charges to separate crushed material particles, commonly used in ore sorting to remove valuable or foreign material. Conducting particles attach to oppositely charged objects, while repulsive force changes the trajectory of falling objects. Electrostatic charges can be positive or negative, and can build up from friction. Electrostatic separation is a preferred method […]
Sintering is a process of heating powdered raw materials to create solid products without melting them. It can be used to shape ceramics, metals, glass, plastics, composites, and alloys. There are two methods: solid state and liquid phase, with specific variants like spark plasma and selective laser sintering. Sintered products have advantages over other manufacturing […]
Hydraulic pumps use the kinetic energy of water to move fluid from a low point to a higher point, based on Bernoulli’s principle. A pressure vessel can improve efficiency and prolong the pump’s life. Water pumps are useful in developing countries for accessing clean water. A pump is any device used to move gas or […]
Tap and die sets are used to cut threads on blanks and in holes for screws and bolts. The set includes matching taps and dies in common screw sizes, along with wrenches. Taps form female threads by drilling into a pilot hole, while dies form male threads on a hollow rod or screw. They can […]
Electrical steel, also known as transformer steel, is an alloy of iron and silicon used to build transformer cores, stators of generators and motors. It retains heat and prevents magnetic eddy currents. Grain-oriented silicon steel produces a stable magnetic field, while non-oriented silicon steel is used in motors or generators. Grades of electrical steel are […]
A palm sander is a versatile power sander that can handle both coarse and finish sanding jobs. It uses regular sandpaper and has a rubberized grip for comfort. It may come with a dust collection bag and costs between $20 and $80. Other types of sanders are also available. A palm sander is a type […]
A cycloconverter is a device that converts AC power at one frequency into AC power of an adjustable but lower frequency without any DC stage. It can control the speed of drives and is used in high-power applications. It has advantages such as compactness, direct frequency conversion, and ability to regenerate. However, it has disadvantages […]
A continuous hinge, also known as a piano hinge, is a long hinge used in furniture and cabinet making. It spans the entire length of the hinged area and is typically made of light metal with pre-drilled holes. It was originally designed for piano lids and is available in extended lengths, with a small knuckle […]
Dry ice blasting is a cleaning method that uses compressed air to accelerate dry ice particles, removing surface contaminants without toxic solvents. It is non-abrasive, non-conductive, and non-flammable, making it ideal for use on electrical equipment. Dry ice blasting can save time, reduce equipment breakdowns, and eliminate excessive waste removal. It is also safe for […]
Foaming agents are chemicals that help create and maintain foam in various industrial and household applications. They act as surfactants, reducing surface tension, and can be added to materials during processing. Different agents are effective for different materials, and their composition impacts foam integrity. Some agents have toxic components, leading to safety concerns. Foaming agents […]
Fossil fuels have negative effects on the environment and are limited. Solar, wind, hydroelectricity, and biofuels are alternatives gaining popularity due to technological advancements and affordability. These alternatives will help make better use of limited resources and correct damage to the ecological balance of our planet. Many people today are concerned about the continued use […]
A synchronous inverter works with the local power grid to regulate energy consumption. It converts DC to AC for everyday use and allows for the use of alternative energy sources. Multifunction and stand alone inverters are also available. Load requirements and voltage should be considered when choosing an inverter. A synchronous inverter is used to […]
Sea waybills are proof of a contract between a shipper and shipping company, allowing for the release of goods to the consignee. They are an alternative to bills of lading, which can be delayed. Sea waybills cannot transfer title, unlike bills of lading. Shipping companies issue sea waybills to shippers as a sort of proof […]
A site plan is a drawing that shows land development plans, including building location, parking, landscape design, and materials used. It is required for construction project approval and should be drawn by a professional architect. Color may be added for public interest, but it’s best to check with local governing bodies first. A site plan […]
An air compressor compresses and stores air under pressure, used to operate pneumatic tools, inflate tires and toys, and power paint tools. It comes in various sizes and types, with a pressure-sensitive switch to prevent overpressurization. Two-stage superchargers are used for more airflow. An air compressor, or air compressor as it is also called, is […]
