A centrifugal switch uses centrifugal force to open or close electrical contacts when a machine reaches a set rotational speed. It consists of spring-loaded weights and switch plates, and is commonly used in starter circuit breakers and split-phase electric motors. A centrifugal switch is a device designed to open or close a series of electrical […]
A cold chisel is a tool for cutting unheated metal, usually made of hardened steel. It is less accurate than cutting machines but useful when they are unavailable. Different types of cold chisels exist, with the most common being the flat chisel, which can also be used for masonry work. They come in various sizes […]
Acoustic sealant is used to reduce sound transmission in buildings and can be used on various materials. It is flexible and can be used in environments where there is expansion and contraction. It is used in a range of environments, from recording studios to hotels. Acoustic sealant is a type of sealing agent used to […]
A heat wheel is a rotating device used to reduce energy consumption in air conditioning by flowing hot and cold air streams through opposing halves. It balances temperatures and reduces equipment size and long-term costs, but requires adjacent air streams, cleaning filters, and maintenance. It is best used in places with a large outside air […]
Label makers dispense or print labels for various items, with a wide range of models available for different applications and industries. They can be manual or automatic, portable or heavy-duty, and designed for personal or professional use. Mid-range options are available for home business owners. A label maker is used to dispense or apply labels […]
A tailstock is a device found on lathes and milling machines used to turn metal between centers, improve accuracy, and prevent vibration. It consists of a body, adjustable base, feed screw, and handwheel. It can also be used for drilling, reaming, and threading tasks. A tailstock is a device found on both power and wood […]
Pecan wood is a hard, fine-grained wood with a golden to cream color and reddish heartwood. It is primarily used in the United States for finishing, such as floors and counters. However, it has a high moisture content and can shrink dramatically, which can create problems. It can also be used for smoking and cooking […]
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 […]
White pine lumber, derived from eastern white pine, is a durable and popular wood used for centuries in construction, furniture, and shipbuilding. It comes in graded and common classifications and is known for its strength, durability, and lack of knots. White pine lumber is a popular type of wood that is derived from eastern white […]
Tube banks are heat exchangers used to cool or heat fluids or gases. They are popular worldwide and can be custom-designed. The efficiency of the device depends on the number and size of the tubes. Tube banks are used in air conditioning, refrigeration, and industrial applications. The size and material of construction are considered during […]
Optical measurement uses sensors to collect measurements without touching the object. It is precise and fast, but automated systems cannot correct errors like humans. The cost varies and companies offer information on their products’ applications and features. Optical measurement is a measurement technique that relies on the use of optical sensors to collect measurements. There […]
A registered architect is listed on a building permit for the project they are contracted for. They must meet legal requirements and ensure safety codes are met. Communication and record-keeping are important, and the architect must be accountable for their documentation. A registered architect is a firm or individual architect listed on a building permit […]
Dial gauges are used to measure machined parts with high accuracy, using plunger, lever, or vernier inputs. They come in analog or digital formats and can measure in small increments up to 500 thousand inches. Plunger gauges are held in place while the workpiece is rotated, while vernier gauges use the movement of the jaws. […]
Freon, a non-toxic refrigerant developed by DuPont in 1928, was widely used until evidence suggested it was damaging the ozone layer. Alternatives have been developed, but old appliances still contain Freon. Leaks do not pose an immediate risk to human health, but can lead to suffocation. Freon is a family of products developed by the […]
Split-face block is a type of concrete block with a crack in the center, used for exterior construction and retaining walls. It’s made by combining cement, water, and aggregates, and then split lengthwise or crosswise for a rough texture. It’s available in various colors, textures, and shapes and is commonly used in commercial and institutional […]
Vapor tracing prevents heat loss in hydraulic systems, commonly used in the petroleum industry. Heat tracing is the general practice of heating pipes to keep materials at a constant temperature. Vapor tracing uses a small diameter pipe alongside the main pipe, with a conductive compound between them. It can maintain viscosity, prevent freezing, and control […]
Freight elevators are designed to lift goods and cargo, and are larger and can carry more weight than passenger elevators. They can be hydraulic or traction, and are often custom-designed for the facility they will serve. Dumbwaiters are smaller and used to move household items. Freight elevators have different fire codes and requirements than passenger […]
A hollow-edge blade has evenly spaced indentations near the cutting edge, reducing friction and preventing food particles from sticking. It is thinner and more durable, but should not be confused with a hollow ground blade. It can be marketed as a Granton blade and should be handled before purchase. Care should be taken to maintain […]
An electromagnetic motor uses magnetic forces from a wire with electricity to power movement. AC and DC motors are common types. Electromagnets can be created with coiled wire or an iron core. They are found in household appliances and can drain batteries quickly. An electromagnetic motor is a machine that uses the magnetic forces produced […]
Skeleton keys come in two types: the classic design for secured locks and the master key for various locks. Antique skeleton keys have ornate bows and plain inserts, while modern ones have plates facing outward. Master keys can open any lock within a given family or location. Two types of keys are referred to as […]
