Monroe Engineering -Monroe Engineering

An Introduction to Stereolithography (SLA)
3D Printing
3D printing has evolved over the years. In addition to fused filament fabrication (FFF), there are now other technologies used to build three-dimensional objects from raw materials. Stereolithography is one such alternative 3D printing technology. Like FFF, it involves the … Read More
6 Surprising Facts About Titanium
Aerospace
Featuring the atomic number 22, titanium is a refractory metal that’s used extensively in the aerospace and manufacturing industries. Its strong and lightweight properties make it ideal for aerospace and manufacturing applications. Even if you’ve heard of titanium, though, there … Read More
What’s the Difference Between Mass Production and Custom Production?
American Manufacturing
Production is what makes the world go round. Defined as the conversion of raw materials and resources into finished products, it’s the precursor to consumption. People desire specific types of products. Before they can buy and use a product, though, … Read More
4 Common Types of Plungers
Ball Plungers
Plungers are commonly used for workpiece positioning applications. Consisting of a rod-shaped body that may or may not feature external threading, they can “lock” and position parts in place. You can find plungers in countless machines. While most of them … Read More
How to Choose a Pillow Block Housing
Bearings
When shopping for housings for ball bearings, you may come across pillow block housings. Also known as plummer block housings, they consist of a pedestal assembly with a central ring. You can use a pillow block housing by mounting the … Read More
Employee of the Month: Tracy Walker
Blog Posts
Congratulations Tracy Walker on being the Employee Of The Month for November 2021 Nomination I am very proud to be able to nominate not only a great co-worker but a lifelong friend, Tracy Walker, for Employee of the Month. Wish … Read More
Pros and Cons of Single-Pass Boring
Boring
Boring is a common process used in the manufacturing industry. Not to be confused with drilling, it involves the use of a cutting tool or bit to enlarge an existing hole in a workpiece. While some boring processes require multiple … Read More
What Are Floor Brackets Used For?
Brackets
Have you heard of floor brackets? Like most brackets, they are used to secure one surface to another surface. Floor brackets, however, are designed specifically for use on the floor. You can mount them to the floor using a threaded … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Rubber Bumpers
Bumpers
When shopping for molded parts, you may come across rubber parts. They are made of molded rubber. Rubber bumpers are small rubber pads that are highly versatile. You can use them in a variety of recreational and commercial applications. Overview … Read More
How to Choose Bushings: What You Should Know
Bushings
Are you looking to buy bushings? Consisting of a cylindrical-shaped sleeve with a wall, they are commonly used to reduce noise and vibrations. A rod-shaped part, for instance, can be inserted through the center of a bushing. The bushing will … Read More
Cable Binders: A Simple and Effective Cable Management Solution
Cables & Wiring
Have you heard of cable binders? Cables are a common source of clutter. Whether it’s a home office, a commercial office or any workspace, it may feature a variety of devices that use a cable. Cable binders are a cable … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Pneumatic Casters
Casters
When shopping for casters, you may come across pneumatic casters. They’ve become a popular alternative to traditional casters. With their pneumatic operation, they can absorb shock while subsequently protecting the objects with which they are used from damage. For a … Read More
5 Fun Facts About Die Casting
Casting
Manufacturing companies often use die casting produce complex metal products and components with precise dimensions. There are other processes available that can manipulate metal workpieces into a new size and shape. Die casting, however, is more accurate since it allows … Read More
An Introduction to G30 Chains and What They Are Used For
Chains
Not all industrial chains are made equal. While most of them feature multiple metal links that are joined together, there are different types of industrial chains. When shopping for industrial chains, for instance, you may encounter G30 chains. What are … Read More
What Is Thread-Locking Fluid?
Chemical Processes
Have you ever installed a fastener, such as a bolt or screw, only for it to wiggle its way out? Even if it doesn’t happen immediately, fasteners can and will loosen over time. This is especially true in applications involving … Read More
What Is a Bridge Clamp? Get the Facts
Clamps
Hydraulic clamps are commonly used to hold and secure workpieces. As their name suggests, they leverage hydraulic pressure to press against a workpiece. Hydraulic pressure is achieved with liquid, such as oil. There are different types of hydraulic clamps, however, … Read More
What Are Wire Rope Clips?
Clips
Wire rope is commonly used to lift heavy loads. It consists of braided strands of metal, such as steel. When compared to traditional rope, wire rope is stronger and able to support heavier loads. When using wire rope, however, you’ll … Read More
6 Facts About Nail Guns
Construction
Also known as a nailer, a nail gun is a handheld power tool that’s designed to drive nails into an object or workpiece. They are typically powered by either compressed air, flammable gas or electromagnetism. Rather than relying on a … Read More
How Does Water Jet Cutting Work?
Cutting
Cutting is synonymous with the manufacturing industry. To convert raw materials and workpieces into finished products, manufacturing companies must typically cut them. Cutting is simply defined as physically separating or opening a solid object. There are several different types of … Read More
What Is a Solar Inverter and How Does It Work?
Did You Know?
Solar energy is on the rise. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), 3% of all electricity produced in the United States comes from solar panels. Solar panels are devices that produce electricity in response to sunlight. Solar panels, … Read More
Why Exterior Doors Swing Inward
Doors
Ever wonder why exterior doors on homes and buildings swing inward? Interior doors typically swing outward. When opening a door inside of a home or building, you’ll probably push it away from you. Exterior doors, though, typically swing inward. All … Read More
Did You Know? How Ball Bearing Drawer Slides Are Mounted
Drawer Slides
There’s no denying the fact that ball bearing drawer slides are popular. When compared to wheel-based drawer slides, they have a smoother operation that makes them easier to use. Ball bearing drawer slides are characterized by the use of balls. … Read More
An Introduction to Lifting Magnets and How They Work
Economy
Have you heard of lifting magnets? If so, you might be wondering how they work. Lifting magnets produce the same magnetic field as all other magnets. They are known as “lifting magnets,” however, because they are designed specifically to lift … Read More
How Much Does it Cost to Charge an EV at a Public Charging Station
Electric Vehicles
Cost To Charge Electric Vehicles The cost to charge an electric vehicle can vary greatly due to different charging station network companies and their pricing model. Electrify America, a common charging station in the south, charges by kilowatt per hour … Read More
Top 10 Failures in Manufacturing
Employment
If you are looking for a list of spectacular manufacturing failures, where products fail to perform as intended, that is not this story (although I would bet at least one of these listed failures happened in every one of those … Read More
5 Tips to Reduce Waste in the Manufacturing Industry
Energy
All businesses should take a proactive approach towards minimizing waste, and manufacturing companies are no exception. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), more than a quarter-billion tons of trash are produced in the United States each year. While it’s … Read More
What’s the Difference Between Buffing and Polishing
Fabrication
Buffing and polishing are two common finishing processes used in the manufacturing industry. They both involve smoothing the surface of a workpiece to improve its aesthetics as well as its physical properties. Unbeknownst to many people, however, buffing and polishing … Read More
How Cold-Formed Steel Is Made
Factory
Statistics show steelmakers in the United States produced over 95 million tons of the iron-carbon alloy in 2018 — the industry’s highest level of production in over a decade. Consisting mostly of iron with about 0.03 to 1% carbon, it’s … Read More
What Are L9 Fasteners? Here’s What You Should Know
Fasteners
Fasteners are often categorized according to their grade. When shopping for hex cap screws, for instance, you may notice that some of them are L9. L9 hex cap screws are commonly used in the manufacturing industry. They are strong, durable … Read More
5 Things to Consider When Choosing Footman Loops
Footman Loop
Are you looking for a simple and effective anchoring solution? Look no further than footman loops. They are a popular anchoring solution for a variety of industries, including marine, automotive and other commercial industries. Footman loops are essentially raised bars … Read More
Gasket Strips: A Versatile Sealing Solution
Gaskets
Gaskets are often the first and last line of defense against leaks. They are used to seal mating surfaces. When two parts are placed together, they’ll create a mating surface. Pressurized oil, coolant or gases may leak out of this … Read More
Swing Handles: A Convenient Alternative to Pull Handles
Handles
Not all handles are the same. In addition to traditional pull handles, there are swing handles. Swing handles still require a pulling force to open the doors or objects with which they are used, but they feature a different design … Read More
Exploring the Different Handwheel Styles
Handwheel
When shopping for a handwheel, you’ll need to consider the style. Handwheels are commonly used to control machines. Turning a handwheel will engage the machine to which it’s connected. While all handwheels feature a circular, wheel-like handle, they are available … Read More
How to Choose the Right Drawer Slides
Hardware
Drawer slides are an important component in many types of furniture. You can find them in cabinets, dressers, hutches and chests of drawers Drawer slides live up to their namesake by serving as the tails on which drawers slide. You … Read More
5 Benefits of Using Hex Keys
Hex Keys
Not all fasteners require the use of a screwdriver to install or remove. There are different types of fasteners. While fasteners with a slotted or Philips head typically require a screwdriver, those with a hexagonal recess only require a hex … Read More
5 Facts About Living Hinges
Hinge
Contrary to common belief, not all hinges have a knuckle or pin. Some hinges are made of a single piece of flexible material, thereby eliminating the need for these parts. Known as living hinges, they are used to connect two … Read More
A Short History of Casters
History
Casters are one of those things we take for granted and use every day. From the grocery cart to the office chair you sit in, the caster is a part of moving heavy items easily in multiple directions by pushing … Read More
Side Pull Hoist Rings: What You Should Know
Hoist Rings
Hoist rings are available in different styles. There are pivoting hoist rings, for instance, and there are swivel hoist rings. You may also come across side pull hoist rings. All hoist rings are used in lifting applications. They are used … Read More
What Are Rope Rings and How Do They Work?
Hooks
If you regularly use rope for recreational or work-related purposes, you may want to invest in rope rings. You can use them to create anchor points. You can also use them to guide rope. Rope rings are simple yet versatile … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Wing Knobs
Knobs
Industrial knobs are available in a wide variety of styles. One of the most popular styles in which they are made of wing. Wing knobs are commonly used to adjust machinery Like other styles of industrial knobs, you can turn … Read More
The Benefits of Polymount Leveling Feet: What You Should Know
Leveling Mounts, Feet and Pads
Think all leveling feet are the same? Think again. While they allow you to level objects, some leveling feet perform better than others. Polymount leveling feet, for instance, are an excellent choice for nearly all leveling applications. You can use … Read More
6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Lever Arm
Lever Arms
Lever arms are commonly used to control machines. Also known as lever handles, they support a variety of machine-related applications. You can use them to start and stop machines, change the gears, make adjustments and more. If you’re going to … Read More
What Are the Benefits of Clevis Hooks?
Lifting Equipment
Clevis hooks are commonly used in commercial lifting applications. As their name suggests, they feature a clevis pin. You can find the clevis pin at the top of a clevis hook. It’s a bolt-like piece of hardware that runs through … Read More
Marine Lighting: What Are Drain Plug Lights?
Lighting
Have you heard of drain plug lights? They are a popular type of marine lighting. If you own a boat with a drain hole, you may want to invest in a drain plug light. Drain plug lights can illuminate your … Read More
An Introduction to Cam Locks and How They Work
Locks
There are different ways to secure cabinets, lockers and other enclosures. You can use a padlock, for instance, or you can use a cam lock. Cam locks are oftentimes preferred over padlocks because they are concealed. You can install a … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Cams and How They Work
Machining
Cams are commonly found in engines, industrial printers, manufacturing machines and various mechanical equipment. While small in size, they play an important role in the function of these devices. What are cams exactly, and how do they work? What Is … Read More
5 Facts About Lifting Magnets
Magnets
Have you heard of lifting magnets? Also known as material handling magnets, they leverage a powerful magnetic field to pick up ferrous materials and workpieces. Rather than attempting to physically lift ferrous materials and workpieces — something that could result … Read More
What Are Jig Feet Buttons? Here’s What You Should Know
Manufacturing
When shopping for workholding solutions, you may come across jig feet buttons. They are commonly used as workholding solutions in the manufacturing industry. Overview of Jig Feet Buttons Also known as jig rest buttons, jig feet buttons are workholding solutions … Read More
An Introduction to Inorganic Antimicrobial Coatings
Material
You might not be able to see them, but germs are everywhere. Studies show that a typical desk surface contains over 10 million germs. Aside from cleaning surfaces, though, there are other ways to stop these microscopic invaders from spreading. … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Spring Stops
Material Handling
When shopping for workholding solutions, you may come across spring stops. Also known as spring stop buttons, they feature an enclosed spring that’s designed to press against the side of a workpiece. You can use a spring stop on any … Read More
5 Common Types of Non-Ferrous Metals
Metalworking
There are over 90 metallic elements listed on the Periodic Table. While no two metals are the same, they can all be classified as either ferrous or non-ferrous depending on whether they contain iron. Ferrous metals contain iron, whereas non-ferrous … Read More
Top 3 Most Common Molding Techniques for Custom Parts
Molding
If you need a custom part in a specific size and shape, molding may offer a solution. As the name suggests, it involves the use of a mold. Molding is a manufacturing process in which a mold is filled with … Read More
Monroe Engineering Products Announces Rebrand
Monroe News
Monroe Engineering Products announced today that is has completed rebranding Rochester Hills, MI—May 11, 2022— Monroe Engineering Products, a leading manufacturer and distributor of hardware, electrical components, rubber & sealing, and cables & harnesses, has completed an extensive rebranding effort … Read More
Top 10 Failures in Manufacturing
National
If you are looking for a list of spectacular manufacturing failures, where products fail to perform as intended, that is not this story (although I would bet at least one of these listed failures happened in every one of those … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Compression Molding
Operations
Compression molding is a molding process that’s characterized by the use of a heated mold that’s exposed to pressure. Like other molding processes, it involves placing a material, typically plastic or a similar polymer, in a mold cavity. After the … Read More
Keyed Different vs Keyed Alike Padlocks
Padlocks
When purchasing padlocks in bulk, one of the decisions you’ll have to make is whether to choose keyed different or keyed alike. All padlocks require the use of a key to open. They don’t have a combination dial. Rather, padlocks … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Quick Release Pins
Pins & Plungers
Quick release pins offer a simple and effective way to secure, as well as release, machinery parts. When inserted, they will hold the respective part in place. You can release the part, on the other hand, by removing the quick … Read More
5 Benefits of Powder Coating
Plating
From motorcycle and bicycle frames to musical instruments, cookware and more, countless products are manufactured with a powder-coated exterior. Powder coating is a finishing process that involves the deposition of dry particulate matter (powder) onto the surface of an object … Read More
What Is a Toggle Press and How Does It Work?
Pressing
Machine presses are used extensively in the manufacturing industry. They live up to their namesake by applying pressure to a workpiece. Some of them can apply as much as 30 tons of pressure, in fact, whereas others are designed to … Read More
Understanding Airplane Stalls
Quality
There are some key differences to understanding the difference between a stall in your car and a stall in an airplane. When your car stalls, it slows until it comes to a complete stop. When an airplane stalls, it stops … Read More
The Benefits of Vulcanized Seals
Rubber Products
Not all seals are made of a single piece of material. Some of them are made of multiple pieces of material that are bonded together. Vulcanized seals, for instance, are defined by their fused construction. They are made of multiple … Read More
An Introduction to PTFE O-Rings and How They Work
Seals
O-rings are one of the most common types of mechanical seals on the market. Like all mechanical seals, they are used to seal passages and protect against leaks. O-rings, however, are available in different materials, including polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) What Are … Read More
What’s the Difference between Bolts and Screws?
Slider Top Post
It’s a common assumption that bolts are screws refer to the same fastening hardware. But while they look similar — and have similar characteristics — they are two unique fasteners with their own unique applications. So, what’s the difference between … Read More
Why Solar Panels Are a Smart Investment for Your Home
Solar
Are you thinking about buying solar panels for your home? Solar has become an increasingly common source of power for both commercial properties and residential properties. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), roughly 3% of all electricity produced … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Flat Springs
Springs
Springs come in different shapes and sizes. While most of them consist of coiled pieces of metal, others do not. Some of them consist of a flat, ring-shaped piece of metal. Known as flat springs, they can store mechanical energy … Read More
NAM Releases Third Quarter Manufacturers’ Outlook Survey
Survey
The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) has released its 2018 Third Quarter Manufacturers’ Outlook Survey. Available here, the survey provides insight into the current state of the American manufacturing industry. While the NAM regularly releases these surveys on the American … Read More
What Is a Membrane Switch?
Switches
Switches play an important role in nearly all electronic devices. From manufacturing equipment and vehicles to lamps, smartphones and more, most electronic devices feature one or more switches. Not all switches are designed the same, however. There are membrane switches … Read More
What Is Fiber Optic Cable?
Technology
Not all cables are made of copper or aluminum. When used to transmit data, cables are often made of optical fibers. Known as fiber optic cable, it’s used extensively in telecommunications applications. Even if you’re unfamiliar with fiber optic cable, … Read More
Top 5 Benefits of Using Arrow Ties
Ties
Have you heard of arrow ties? As shown in the adjacent photo, they are arrow-shaped ties. You can use them to quickly secure bags, cables or other objects together. Arrow ties feature teeth along the shaft. After wrapping an arrow … Read More
How to Choose the Right Toggle Clamps
Toggle Clamps
Toggle clamps offer an effective solution for securing and holding workpieces in place. They feature a lever-like arm that, when engaged, will apply a clamping force to the workpiece with which it’s used. There are different types of toggle clamps, … Read More
What Are Tooling Balls and How Do They Work?
Tooling Balls
Tooling balls are commonly used in the manufacturing industry. Also known as construction balls, they typically consist of a smooth and a round metal ball that’s attached to a cylindrical shaft or stem. Unless you’ve used them in the past, … Read More
What Is Diamond Turning?
Turning
Turning is a machining process used in the manufacturing industry to remove material from a workpiece using a stationary cutting tool. It’s typically performed using a lathe. Once secured to the lathe, the workpiece will rotate. The cutting tool will … Read More
Top 5 Benefits of Omni Wheels
Wheels
Have you heard of omni wheels? Short for omni-directional wheels, they are commonly used as an alternative to casters. Most casters use traditional swivel-mount wheels. Omni wheels use a different design without swivel-mount wheels. Omni wheels feature small rollers embedded … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Plunger-Style Door Holders
Workers & Workplace
Door holders are available in different styles. There are T-style door holders, for instance, as well as plunger-style door holders. You can use either of them to hold doors open. T-style door holders live up to their namesake by featuring … Read More

An Introduction to G30 Chains and What They Are Used For

May 23, 2022 | Chains

Not all industrial chains are made equal. While most of them feature multiple metal links that are joined together, there are different types of industrial chains. When shopping for industrial chains, for instance, you may encounter G30 chains. What are … Read More

What Are L9 Fasteners? Here’s What You Should Know

May 19, 2022 | Fasteners

Fasteners are often categorized according to their grade. When shopping for hex cap screws, for instance, you may notice that some of them are L9. L9 hex cap screws are commonly used in the manufacturing industry. They are strong, durable … Read More

How to Choose a Pillow Block Housing

May 18, 2022 | Bearings

When shopping for housings for ball bearings, you may come across pillow block housings. Also known as plummer block housings, they consist of a pedestal assembly with a central ring. You can use a pillow block housing by mounting the … Read More

5 Facts About Living Hinges

May 16, 2022 | Hinge

Contrary to common belief, not all hinges have a knuckle or pin. Some hinges are made of a single piece of flexible material, thereby eliminating the need for these parts. Known as living hinges, they are used to connect two … Read More

6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Lever Arm

May 12, 2022 | Lever Arms

Lever arms are commonly used to control machines. Also known as lever handles, they support a variety of machine-related applications. You can use them to start and stop machines, change the gears, make adjustments and more. If you’re going to … Read More

Monroe Engineering Products Announces Rebrand

May 11, 2022 | Monroe News

Monroe Engineering Products announced today that is has completed rebranding Rochester Hills, MI—May 11, 2022— Monroe Engineering Products, a leading manufacturer and distributor of hardware, electrical components, rubber & sealing, and cables & harnesses, has completed an extensive rebranding effort … Read More

What Are Lynch Pins?

May 10, 2022 | Fasteners

Have you heard of lynch pins? They are commonly used to secure axles. Wheels, for instance, are often mounted with a lynch pin. Lynch pins prevent wheels and other objects from falling off axles. They are small, simple fasteners that … Read More

Roller vs Ball Bearing Drawer Slides: What’s the Difference?

May 9, 2022 | Bearings

You can’t build drawers without slides. Also known as drawer runners, drawer slides are rail-based components that allow drawers to pull out from the furniture or objects with which they are used. Drawers will glide or “slide” along the drawer … Read More

5 Facts About Lifting Magnets

May 5, 2022 | Magnets

Have you heard of lifting magnets? Also known as material handling magnets, they leverage a powerful magnetic field to pick up ferrous materials and workpieces. Rather than attempting to physically lift ferrous materials and workpieces — something that could result … Read More

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