Articles
Although it is one of the world’s oldest metal fabricating technologies, investment casting (sometimes known as “lost wax” casting) has in recent years suffered from a few misconceptions. Ironically, these fallacies have probably caused many who could... more »
In today’s world of high-tech automation, the design engineer must consider a myriad of variables when specifying the right encoder. Incremental vs absolute output, resolution, and of course physical form factor are key parameters that most every engineer... more »
One of the largest heavy equipment-based construction firms in the U.S.,. has implemented the Asset4000 fixed asset management system to streamline the depreciation, tracking, reporting and maintenance of its nearly 1,500 assets, which include bulldozers,... more »
Having the right tools for a fabrication or assembly is essential in getting the job done, whether the project requires tube bending, tube end preparation, presetting, or general cutting and deburring. Obtaining the needed equipment can be challenging,... more »
In a manufacturing environment, a company’s greatest asset is its workers, and protecting those workers from illnesses or workplace injuries is critical to success. Operating an injury-free facility is no longer a dream. In many workplaces, it has become... more »
Growing a successful infrared program involves planning and action. This document outlines steps that will help you grow your thermography program into a key part of the way your company does business. Getting StartedGain support from management. Send... more »
In recent years, there has been substantial growth in environmental awareness in a wide variety of industries. Green technology, green buildings, and green products have entered the thoughts and lexicons of professionals worldwide. Major car manufacturers... more »
"If it is to be, it is up to me." -- Robroy Shield Motto Not too long ago, many manufacturing companies considered accidents and their resulting costs to be part of the expense of doing business. However, today's progressive business managers understand... more »
Laboratories are potentially dangerous work environments, often containing a wide variety of toxic, flammable, corrosive, or reactive compounds. Potentially infectious or pathogenic organisms are handled, and research often involves the use of radioactive... more »
Today’s ac drives are more reliable, more cost-effective, and last longer than their predecessors. With the addition of modern electronic controls, ac drives can provide performance that was not possible just a few years ago. These controls now allow... more »
If the answer to that question involves washing or rinsing bottles, kegs or barrels, small storage tanks, plastic crates or cleaning machines in place, then a rotating nozzle might be for you. Another option might be a cluster of fixed nozzles, but in... more »
Single-stage pressure blowers, the most common and least expensive design choices for industrial systems, can offer tremendous operating cost savings in low pressure systems. Companies use very expensive compressed air for various drying, dust blowoff,... more »
It is fairly common to see proper equipment maintenance get neglected, especially when plants are concentrating on maximizing production. Reductions in maintenance staffs add to the challenge. Yet neglecting to maintain equipment properly can cost money.... more »
In discrete manufacturing, the adoption of “lean” principles has become an increasingly important strategic practice for reducing waste and improving profits and efficiency. However, many companies do not have the right tools in place for addressing lean... more »
Accidents involving lift trucks and a pedestrian are among the most frequently reported incidents, and often involve serious or fatal injuries. Hyster Co has conducted a comprehensive study of such accidents, and this article reports in detail information... more »
Those in the zinc die casting industry understand the advantages of zinc die castings over other processes and materials. However, much work is needed to educate potential buyers of zinc die castings.This article, written with them in mind, highlights... more »
Electrical arc flash and shock hazards have been recognized as particularly dangerous and fairly frequent occurrences that put the lives and health of electrical workers at significant risk. Statistics indicate that based on hospitalization records, 5-10... more »
Are you confident that your facility could be safely evacuated in the event of a fire or other type of disaster that requires quick evacuation?Clearly understanding a live or recorded mass notification system during a fire or threatening situation is... more »
To evaluate a compressed air system, you must begin at the end: what are your air requirements at the point of use? Once you determine exactly what type and how much air you need, you can begin to factor in design considerations, costs, and efficiencies.... more »
The food processing industry is one of the largest manufacturing industries in the United States, accounting for approximately 14% of the total U.S. manufacturing output.As you walk through a typical food processing plant you can see equipment of varying... more »