Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a polyester material used for fibers, injection molded parts, and food and beverage containers. It is recyclable, lightweight, and provides a long shelf life. PET is also used to make synthetic fibers and is not to be confused with polyethylene or polypropylene. Polyethylene terephthalate is a polyester material that is often […]
Curing agents, such as chemicals, heat, or cold, are used in various products to harden and preserve them. They create crosslinking within the ingredients to provide strength, and must meet industry standards and government approval for use in food products. Curing agents are any type of additive or ingredient used to help harden or cure […]
Speed blocks are mortarless butt joint or H-block concrete masonry units (CMUs) with an open “H” configuration. They are lighter and more versatile than standard CMUs and require less mortar. Speed blocks are commonly used in upper joints and wall cladding. They can be made of various aggregates, including plastic and rubber, and can be […]
Voltage transducers measure current and voltage in electrical circuits, with different types for AC and DC power sources. They come in various sizes and capacities, from small computer circuits to large transformer circuits, and can be used to regulate energy consumption and identify noise sources. They must comply with national electrical component standards and display […]
Fluoropolymers are strong, lightweight, and resistant to extreme environments, making them useful in industrial coatings, household items, and non-stick cookware. While generally safe in small quantities, those working in manufacturing plants may face risks from exposure to certain chemicals. Older or flaking cookware can also pose risks if ingested or heated too much. A fluoropolymer […]
A dip tube is a long, non-metallic pipe that introduces cold water near the bottom of a water heater to maintain an efficient convection cycle. A degraded or broken dip tube can cause lukewarm water and higher heating bills. Pickup tubes should also be made of heat-resistant plastic to avoid damaging the heater’s sacrificial anode. […]
Black anodizing is a special type of anodizing that produces black metal with benefits beyond ordinary anodizing. Two methods of dyeing metal for black anodizing are using inorganic salts or organic black dye. Black anodized metals perform best in areas of high light and heat and resist wear and corrosion better than other colors. The […]
Welding carbon steel to stainless steel is common and often uses MIG welding. Choosing the right grades of steel and welding rods is crucial. MIG welding requires a source of electricity, and the right electrode must be chosen based on location, abrasion, and transfer type. Welding carbon steel to stainless steel is a common process […]
Bearing resistance is the maximum weight a structure can hold before collapsing. It is used in engineering for building, aircraft, and transportation design. Calculations are necessary to avoid unnecessary stresses on load-bearing portions of the structure. Bearing resistance is a term used to describe the maximum amount of weight or pressure or some other variable […]
A quality control audit assesses the effectiveness of a company’s quality assurance systems, and can be conducted in-house or by a third party. Auditors examine policies, procedures, and records, and may interview employees. The audit report can highlight areas of success and areas for improvement, and may be made public. Private internal audits are confidential […]
Hubbing is a machining process used to create female dies for metalworking, thermoplastics, and ceramics. It involves making a male die, heating a metal piece, and pressing the male die against it to create a female die. The same male die can be used to make many female dies. Hubbing is commonly used to make […]
Biofuels are made from recently dead matter such as plants, animal fat, oil, and sugar, and can be generated from algae. They are renewable, biodegradable, emit less CO2, and reduce the need for fossil fuels. Biofuels can be problematic in colder climates and have been a source of controversy due to concerns about fuel quality, […]
Facility maintenance ensures efficient operation of a business facility by addressing physical plant and machinery issues, building compliance with safety requirements, and identifying potential barriers to efficiency. Regular maintenance of machinery ensures safety and motivates employees to stay with the company. Backup strategies are incorporated to minimize the possibility of temporary failures. Facility maintenance is […]
Corrugated metal is a durable and lightweight material used for roofing and cladding in both commercial and residential construction. It is fire-resistant, moisture-resistant, and can withstand high winds and snow accumulation. However, it is energy-intensive to produce and must be grounded during installation. Aluminum is preferred near the ocean, while steel is better for hail-prone […]
Manganese steel is an alloy of steel and manganese, containing 11% to 15% manganese, which imparts unique properties such as magnetic and abrasion resistance, extreme durability, and improved surface hardness. However, its strength makes it difficult to work and drill. Most manganese is produced for steel alloys. Manganese steel, also known as Hadfield steel and […]
Micro compressors are small, battery-powered air compressors used for emergencies or to inflate water toys. They can also be used in the custom automotive industry and for airbrushing. They have the advantage of being able to be placed in out-of-the-way locations but cannot deliver large quantities of compressed air at high pressures. Overheating can also […]
Grade beams are heavy-duty concrete beams used to distribute the weight of a building over unstable ground. They can be supported by pipe piles and are designed to minimize deflection. Engineers design them based on local building codes and site conditions to maximize safety. They reduce the risk of building sinking or settling, reduce maintenance […]
Consumers are aware of the potential toxicity of VOCs in household products. Paints and varnishes contain carbon-based compounds, heavy metals, and other unsavory materials. Low VOC and no VOC products are becoming more popular, but they may be less effective and more expensive. Regulations require paint manufacturers to produce low VOC coatings. Advertised VOC-free paints […]
A D-ring is a hardware used as an attachment device, often attached to straps, chains, cords, or ropes. They are made of different materials and used in industrial settings, pickup trucks, and as trailer hitch designs. Carabiners are a type of D-ring used for rock climbing and other outdoor activities. A D-ring is a piece […]
Concrete installers use steel bars for structural support in reinforced concrete. The distance between the top of the rebar and the top of the finished concrete, or concrete cover, is important for durability and performance. The amount of concrete cover required varies based on factors such as seismic activity, weather conditions, and structure type. Local […]
