OneMonroe

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 Facts About Adjustable Handles
Adjustable Handles
Adjustable handles offer a convenient and effective tightening solution. Once installed, you can grab and turn them to tighten the machine or equipment with which they are used. Turning an adjustable handle clockwise will result in a tightening action, whereas … 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
How to Choose Spring Plungers: What You Should Know
Ball Plungers
Spring plungers are used in a variety of indexing and positioning applications. Also known as spring-loaded plungers, they feature a they feature a ball or nose and a spring. The spring is designed to apply pressure so that the ball … Read More
What Are Tooling Balls Used For?
Ballizing
Tooling balls are commonly used in machining operations. Consisting of a heavy-duty metal construction — typically tungsten carbide — they provide a fixed reference point. To learn more about tooling balls and what they are used for, keep reading. Positioning … Read More
What Is a Bearing Housing?
Bearings
Bearings play an important role in many machines. Consisting of enclosed rings with balls, they are designed to support rotating shafts. Machines with a rotating shaft will often feature a bearing to reduce friction. Bearings, however, are typically used in … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Carriage Bolts
Beginners Guides
When shopping for bolts, you may come across carriage bolts. Also known as coach bolts, they are used in fastening applications. You can use carriage bolts to fasten metal workpieces to other metal workpieces, or you can use them to … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Poly Cushion Top Levelers
Blog Posts
Machinery, equipment and furniture need to be level. If one side is higher than the opposite side, it may become unstable. Vibrations may cause the unlevel object to shake uncontrollably or even tip over, creating a serious safety hazard. Rather … 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 Guide Rail Brackets?
Brackets
If you’re thinking about implementing guide rails in your business’s operations, you may want to invest in a set of brackets. Guide rail brackets are commonly used in the construction, transportation and manufacturing industries. They allow for the mounting, as … 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
5 Things You Didn’t Know About Bushings
Bushings
Bushings offer a simple and effective way to dampen vibrations. As shown in the adjacent photo, they consist of a cylindrical sleeve with an exterior of rubber or rubber-like padding. You can place a part like a shaft or control … Read More
6 Benefits of Peg Board Storage Cabinets
Cabinets
Peg board storage cabinets offer a versatile alternative to traditional “flat wall” cabinets. Like all storage cabinets, they consist of an enclosure with doors and shelves. You can use them to store tools, materials, hardware, office supplies, cleaning supplies and … Read More
The Benefits of Molded Cables
Cables & Wiring
When shopping for cables, you may come across molded cables. They are characterized by a unique manufacturing process that involves molding. A protective material — typically thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) — is heated and then injected into … Read More
6 Common Types of Breather Caps
Caps
Breather caps are commonly used to regulate the pressure of machines and industrial equipment. As their name suggests, they allow the machines and equipment with which they are used to “breathe.” Breather caps work by allowing excess pressure to escape … Read More
Swivel vs Omnidirectional Casters: What’s the Difference?
Casters
Not all casters are restricted to a fixed back-and-forth movement. There are many different types of casters, some of which can roll in all directions. Swivel casters and omnidirectional casters, for example, offer a superior level of mobility compared to … 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
What Is a G70 Transport Chain?
Chains
You can’t use just any ordinary chain for towing and lifting heavy objects. Rather, you’ll need to choose a heavy-duty chain that can withstand the weight of the load. One of the most popular types of chains used for towing … Read More
What Are Antimicrobial Coatings?
Chemical Processes
It’s no secret that germs are everywhere. While invisible to the naked eye, they linger on most common surfaces. Research, in fact, shows that the average person encounters over 50,000 types of germs per day. To prevent the spread of … Read More
6 Benefits of Cushion Clamps
Clamps
Cushion clamps offer a versatile fastening solution for hydraulic hoses, fuel lines, electrical harnesses and pneumatic tubing. Also known as cushioned clamps, they feature a padded lining. Cushioned clamps are still made of heavy-duty materials, such as carbon steel or … Read More
What Are Cable Clips?
Clips
Cable clips simplify the process of installing, as well as maintaining, wires and cables. Rather than allowing a wire or cable to hang loosely, you can secure it in place with a set of cable clips. Whether you’re installing a … 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
6 Types of Industrial Crank Handles
Crank Handles
Crank handles offer a simple and easy way to adjust machinery. Consisting of an arm-attached handle, they convert circular motion into rotary motion. As you turn a crank handle in a circular direction, the base of the arm will rotate … 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
6 Features to Look for When Choosing a Shop Desk
Desks
Regardless of the industry in which your business operates, it can probably benefit from a shop desk. Also known as a receiving desk, it functions as a workstation. You can use a shop desk to organize and sign documents, prepare … 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
What Is a Distribution Box?
Distribution Boxes
Distribution boxes are commonly used in residential and commercial electrical systems. Also known as a distribution board, it’s responsible for distributing the electrical power throughout the home or building with which it’s used. To learn more about distribution boxes and … Read More
6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Door Holder
Doors
If you’re tired of using random objects to prop open doors, you should consider installing a door holder. As their name suggests, they are designed specifically to hold open doors. Most door holders consist of two parts. One part is … Read More
Partial Extension vs Full Extension Drawer Slides
Drawer Slides
You can’t ignore the extension type when choosing a drawer slide. Drawer slides, of course, are mechanical assemblies that allow drawers to “slide” open and closed. Also known as drawer runners, they typically feature rails with rollers or ball bearings. … 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
6 Facts About Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)
Electronics
Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are the building blocks of most modern electronics. Consisting of conductive pathways or “traces” on an insulative backing, they provide routes for electrical signals. Electricity can travel through a PCB’s traces. While they may sound simple … 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
Hex Bolts vs Carriage Bolts: What’s the Difference?
Fasteners
When shopping for bolts, you may come across hex bolts and carriage bolts. They are two of the most popular styles of bolts. Hex bolts and carriage bolts both feature exterior threading, and they are both used in conjunction with … Read More
The proper screw length
Fasteners Inc
The American Wood Council offers a Connection Calculator that determines connector capacity. Be sure to check it out along with this guide to find out how to choose the right wood screw length for your upcoming carpentry projects. Screw Categories … Read More
How to Choose Fine Screw Adjusters
Fine Screw Adjusters
Fine screw adjusters offer a convenient alternative to reduction-geared adjusters. Consisting of small rods with a high threads per inch (TPI) count, you can use them to fine-tune machines and equipment. Fine screw adjusters make it easy to perform adjustments … Read More
6 Common Uses for Footman Loops
Footman Loop
Footman loops are versatile products that support a variety of different applications. Also known as strap loops, they are metal bars. You can install them on just about any flat surface. What are some uses for footman loops exactly? Here … Read More
Do Solar Panels Need Fuses?
Fuses
If you’re thinking about installing solar panels, you might be wondering whether they need fuses. Solar panels, of course, convert sunlight into electricity. Consisting of photovoltaic cells, they release electrons when struck by sunlight. This process creates electricity that, once … Read More
Gas Springs: What Is Travel Per Stroke and Why Does It Matter?
Gas Springs
Gas springs are commonly used to absorb shock, position parts and assist with the movement of objects. They are characterized by a sealed cylinder filled with an inert gas, such as nitrogen. A piston moves in and out of this … Read More
What Are Door Gaskets and How Do They Work?
Gaskets
Door gaskets offer a reliable sealing solution for buildings and equipment. Doors can leak. Even when closed, air may pass through the perimeter, resulting in a loss of air-conditioned or heated indoor air. Door gaskets prevent problems such as this … Read More
6 Benefits of Padlocking Handles
Handles
Protecting valuable equipment from theft, vandalism and tampering begins with the right hardware. A poorly designed handle can become a liability. In unauthorized user can open it, they may be able to access items or equipment stored behind the handle. … Read More
Handwheels With a Handle vs Without a Handle
Handwheel
Handwheels are used in a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. With their round shape, they make it easy to adjust machinery. You can open and close valves, move conveyor belts, tighten connections and make other machinery adjustments by … Read More
Choosing the Right Drawer Slide Finish
Hardware
Slides are an essential part of all drawers. From cabinets and chests of drawers to workbenches and toolboxes, they are runners that allow drawers to open and close. When you pull open a drawer, it will glide along a pair … Read More
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Hex Keys
Hex Keys
Not all threaded fasteners have a traditional slotted or Phillips drive type. You can find them in a wide range of alternative drive types, such as hexagonal socket. Hexagonal socket fasteners are characterized by a six-sided drive recess. In the … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Torque Hinges
Hinge
Hinges play an important role in many everyday objects. You can find them on doors, gates, cabinets, access panels, toolboxes, lids, medicine bottles, furniture and more. Hinges allow parts to rotate and swing open from an adjacent part. They typically … 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
How to Choose a Side Pull Hoist Ring
Hoist Rings
Not all hoist rings are designed for vertical lifting applications; some of them are designed specifically for pulling applications. Known as side pull hoist rings, they can withstand lateral forces. If you’re looking to buy a side pull hoist ring, … Read More
2-Screw vs 4-Screw Steel Hooks: Which Is Best?
Hooks
Steel hooks offer a convenient and versatile storage solution. They are commonly used in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, workshops, utility rooms, garages and even retail stores. After mounting a steel hook to a wall, you can hang objects from it. Some … Read More
Common Types of Indexing Plungers
Indexing Plungers
If you’re planning to use an indexing plunger, you’ll need to choose the right type. Indexing plungers, of course, are mechanical devices used to position, secure and align components. They typically feature a spring-loaded pin that, when engaged, locks the … Read More
The ABCs of Rubber Keypads: Glossary of Terms
Keypads
Rubber keypads are used in a wide variety of consumer and commercial applications. Consisting of a rubber pad with many individual switches or keys, they function as device interfaces. You can control a device by pressing the buttons on its … Read More
5 Benefits of Brass Ball Knobs
Knobs
Ball knobs offer a simple and effective way to control machinery. They are characterized by a spherical, ball-shaped handle. Once connected to a piece of machinery, you can move the ball knob to perform a command. While ball knobs are … Read More
What Are Sliding-Action Latches?
Latches
When shopping for latches, you may come across sliding-action latches. Like all latches, they are used to secure doors, cabinets and access panels. Sliding-action latches, however, don’t rotate during use. Instead, they operate via a straight side-to-side movement. To learn … Read More
What Are Teardrop-Style Leveling Mounts?
Leveling Mounts, Feet and Pads
Leveling mounts offer a simple solution for wobbly furniture and equipment. Also known as leveling pads, they typically feature a height-adjustable threaded rod. If a piece of furniture or equipment isn’t level, you can attach a set of leveling mounts … Read More
Cam Levers: An Ergonomic Clamping Solution
Lever Arms
Cam levers offer an ergonomic and tool-free clamping solution. You can use them to quickly tighten, lock and secure parts. Cam levers don’t require a wrench or socket; all they require is a simple push. Pushing the handle will engage … Read More
How to Choose a Shackle
Lifting Equipment
A shackle is an essential component of many rigging systems. Also known as a gyve, it consists of a U-shaped piece of metal with an opening at the end. You can secure a shackle by placing a bolt or pin … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Light Bars
Lighting
Whether you’re off-roading at dusk or working in your garage, you probably know the importance of lighting. Proper illumination improves visibility so that you are more productive and less likely to experience accidents. While there are many different lighting solutions, … Read More
Laminated Padlocks: Everything You Need to Know
Locks
Not all padlocks are made of a solid block of metal. While many padlocks do, in fact, feature a solid steel or brass construction, others are laminated. Laminated padlocks have become increasingly popular in recent years. They are used in … 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
6 Benefits of On/Off Magnetic Welding Angles
Magnets
If you work in the metal fabrication industry, you probably know the importance of magnetic welding angles. Also known as magnetic welding squares, they are used to hold metal workpieces in place while welding. Magnetic welding angles produce a magnetic … 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
6 Benefits of Tilt-Out Storage Bins
Material Handling
If you regularly work with small parts, you may want to invest in a tilt-out storage bin. Also known as a tip-out bin, it simplifies the otherwise tedious process of finding and retrieving small parts. Tilt-out storage bins feature many … Read More
Carburized Steel: Everything You Need to Know
Metalworking
Consisting primarily of iron and carbon, steel is a versatile alloy that’s used in many different industries. It’s strong, durable and corrosion resistant. During production, however, some types of steel undergo additional treatment processes, such as carburizing. Carburized steel contains … Read More
What Are Inspection Mirrors?
Mirrors
Mirrors aren’t used strictly for decorative purposes; they play an important role in many industries. Workers in the automotive, construction, HVAC, pest control and plumbing industries, for instance, often use inspection mirrors in their daily activities. Like all mirrors, they … Read More
6 Facts About Molded Rubber
Molding
Molding is a common manufacturing process used to make rubber parts. It involves the use of a hollow and rigid frame known as a mold. Manufacturing companies fill these molds with raw rubber to create new parts. Here are six … Read More
Belleville Washers Improve Reliability
Monroe News
This is an article talking about how Belleville washers improve reliability and preload stability in electrical grounding and bonding applications, written by George P Davet.
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
What Are BS O-Rings?
O-Rings
British Standard (BS) O-rings are used in a wide range of industries. Like all O-rings, they are designed to prevent leaks. They fit between two or more parts to create a fluid- and air-tight mating surface. While they look like … 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
What Is Hinge Gauge and Why Is It Important?
Piano Hinges
You can’t ignore the gauge when shopping for a hinge. Hinges are mechanical bearings that allow for a limited degree of rotation. They are commonly used on doors, gates, cabinets and access panels. Once installed, hinges will allow objects such … Read More
6 Benefits of Quick Release Pins
Pins
Quick release pins are used in a wide range of fastening applications, including aerospace assemblies, agricultural machinery, automobiles, mechanical systems and more. As their name suggests, they are used to quickly secure and release components. Unlike traditional threaded fasteners, 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
High-Pressure Hex Socket Plugs: Everything You Need to Know
Plugs
Plugs offer a convenient sealing solution for pipes. If a pipe has an uncovered end, you can always remove or replace the pipe. Alternatively, you can seal it with a plug. There are many different types of plugs, however. High-pressure … Read More
Why Do Some Spring Plungers Have a Nylon Patch?
Plungers
When shopping for spring plungers, you may notice that some of them feature a nylon patch. Spring plungers are spring-loaded indexing devices. They feature an internal compression spring that pushes against a nose or ball at the tip. Spring plungers … 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
6 Benefits of Big Hand Pull Handles
Pull Handles
Not all pull handles are the same size. Some of them are small and compact, whereas others are larger. Big hand pull handles fall under the latter category. They are characterized by a thicker, longer design than traditional pull handles. … 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
How to Choose an R-Clip Pin
Quick Release Pins
Quick release pins come in a variety of styles, one of the most popular being R-clip. Also known as hairpin cotters and R-pins, they are characterized by their shape resembling the letter R. One side is straight and the other … Read More
The Beginner’s Guide to Mate Rivets
Rivets
If you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting fastening solution, you may want to opt for a mate rivet. They can resist external forces like vibrations, making them a popular choice in aerospace and industrial applications. To learn more about … Read More
6 Common Materials Used for Rod Ends
Rod Ends
From steering links and tie rods to control ends and more, rod ends are used in a variety of applications. Also known as Heim Joints, they are mechanical joints consisting of a shank and bearing. Like with other mechanical joints, … Read More
6 Facts About Extruded Rubber Parts
Rubber Products
Extruded rubber plays an important role in many industries. This versatile material is made by forcing raw rubber through a die with the desired shape. The die is smaller than the raw rubber, which allows the rubber to take its … Read More
Understanding the Different Filler Materials for Filled PTFE Seals
Seals
Not all mechanical seals are made of a single piece of material. Filled PTFE seals, for instance, feature an inner core and an outer jacket. The outer jacket is made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), but the inner jacket is made of … Read More
What Is a Web Sling Shackle?
Shackles
When shopping for rigging equipment, you may come across web sling shackles. They are commonly used in conjunction with web slings. Web sling shackles offer a point of connection for web slings. What are web sling shackles exactly, and how … 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
Understanding Solar Panel Efficiency Ratings
Solar
When researching solar panels, you may come across efficiency ratings. Some solar panels have an efficiency rating of just 10%, whereas others boast an efficiency rating of over 20%. You can expect to pay more for highly efficient solar panels, … Read More
How to Choose Spring Plungers: What You Should Know
Spring Plungers
Spring plungers are used in a variety of indexing and positioning applications. Also known as spring-loaded plungers, they feature a they feature a ball or nose and a spring. The spring is designed to apply pressure so that the ball … Read More
5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Wave Spring Washer
Springs
If you’re planning to use a wave spring washer, you’ll need to choose the right type. All wave spring washers feature a curved shape. They aren’t completely flat like traditional washers. Instead, wave spring washers live up to their namesake … Read More
5 Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Stainless Steel
Steel
Stainless steel is prized for its unique combination of strength and durability. It’s roughly 2.5 times heavier than aluminum and boasts a higher tensile strength and shear strength. At the same time, stainless steel features a layer of chromium oxide … 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
6 Interesting Facts About Membrane Switches
Switchs
Membrane switches offer a sleek and stylish switching solution for electronic devices. Like all switches, they are used to control a circuit. Membrane switches, however, consist of many thin layers that are integrated together. #1) Commonly Found on Appliances Even … 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
6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Threaded Rod
Threaded Rods
Threaded rods are commonly used to join and anchor objects. Also known as simply as studs, they consist of a cylindrical piece of metal that’s fully threaded. They don’t have a pointed tip, nor do they have a head. Rather, … 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
What Is a Vertical Toggle Clamp?
Toggle Clamps
If you’re looking for a workholding solution, you may want to choose a vertical toggle clamp. This clamp will secure your workpiece into place so that you can perform tasks like drilling, cutting or sanding. All toggle clamps are workholding … Read More
What Are Tooling Balls Used For?
Tooling Balls
Tooling balls are commonly used in machining operations. Consisting of a heavy-duty metal construction — typically tungsten carbide — they provide a fixed reference point. To learn more about tooling balls and what they are used for, keep reading. Positioning … 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
Louvers: Why Vents Have Angled Slats
Vents
Vents are commonly used in HVAC systems, automotive appliances, machinery and enclosures. Typically consisting of a thin sheet of metal with an array of openings, they provide a path for airflow. Air can flow into and out of a given … Read More
What Are Wave Washers With Overlap?
Washers
Not all washers are perfectly round. You can find them in different styles. Wave washers with overlap, for instance, have a curved wave-like shape. To learn more about wave washers with overlap and how they work, keep reading. The Basics … Read More
What Is a Ground Clamp in Stick Welding?
Welding
Stick welding offers an easy and effective way to join two or more metal objects. A form of arc welding, it involves the use of heat and a stick-based filler material. Contact between the electrode and the workpiece creates an … Read More
What Are Monolithic Caster Wheels?
Wheels
Not all casters have the same wheel type. While many of them feature two-part wheels, some feature monolithic wheels. Monolithic caster wheels are commonly used in environments where extreme temperatures or chemicals are a concern. Thanks to their unique construction, … Read More
Relay Harnesses for Light Bars: What You Should Know
Wiring
If you’re planning to use a light bar, you may want to invest in a relay harness. Light bars, of course, are commonly found on ATVs, trucks, tractors, utility vehicles, emergency vehicles and construction equipment. Consisting of a long bar-like … Read More
6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Monitor Arm
Workers & Workplace
If you regularly work with a computer monitor, you may want to invest in a monitor arm. Also known as a monitor mount or bracket, it can help you create a more ergonomic and productive workspace. Monitor arms act as … Read More
What Are 45-Degree Angle Connectors?
Workholding
If you regularly work with aluminum profiles, you may want to use 45-degree angle connectors. Also known simply as angle connectors, they eliminate the need for miter cuts. You can install them in T-slot extrusions, after which you can use … Read More

6 Benefits of Tilt-Out Storage Bins

August 17, 2026 | Material Handling

If you regularly work with small parts, you may want to invest in a tilt-out storage bin. Also known as a tip-out bin, it simplifies the otherwise tedious process of finding and retrieving small parts. Tilt-out storage bins feature many … Read More

Hex Bolts vs Carriage Bolts: What’s the Difference?

August 14, 2026 | Fasteners

When shopping for bolts, you may come across hex bolts and carriage bolts. They are two of the most popular styles of bolts. Hex bolts and carriage bolts both feature exterior threading, and they are both used in conjunction with … Read More

Belleville Washers Improve Reliability

August 13, 2026 | Monroe News

This is an article talking about how Belleville washers improve reliability and preload stability in electrical grounding and bonding applications, written by George P Davet.

The Beginner’s Guide to Cone Lock Nuts

August 12, 2026 | Fasteners

Nuts play an important role in many fastening assemblies. They are used in conjunction with a threaded fastener, such as a bolt, to hold two or more parts together. A threaded fastener is inserted through the parts, after which a … Read More

Handwheels With a Handle vs Without a Handle

August 10, 2026 | Handwheel

Handwheels are used in a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. With their round shape, they make it easy to adjust machinery. You can open and close valves, move conveyor belts, tighten connections and make other machinery adjustments by … Read More

5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Wave Spring Washer

August 7, 2026 | Springs

If you’re planning to use a wave spring washer, you’ll need to choose the right type. All wave spring washers feature a curved shape. They aren’t completely flat like traditional washers. Instead, wave spring washers live up to their namesake … Read More

5 Facts About Toggle Wing Anchors

August 5, 2026 | Fasteners

When installing load-bearing hooks or fasteners in walls, you should check for studs. Most walls have vertical structural members every 16 or 24 inches. Known as studs, they form the skeleton of many residential homes and commercial buildings. You can … Read More

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