Lost-foam and full-mold casting are two of the most popular types of evaporative-pattern casting. They both involve the use of pattern that, when exposed to heat, evaporates. The pattern material essential vaporizes while filling the surrounding space in the mold … Read More

Have you heard of the deformation process known as burnishing? It involves the use of a smooth tool to deform the surface of a workpiece. Burnishing isn’t as popular as other deformation processes. Nonetheless, it still offers several noteworthy advantages, … Read More

Powder coating and painting are two common finishing processes used in the manufacturing industry. They both involve the deposition of particulate matter onto the surface of an object or workpiece. Either powder or painting can be used to protect the … Read More

Also known as resistance spot welding, spot welding is a welding process that involves the use of an electrical current to join two or more metal surfaces. It’s typically used to join sheet metal. As the respective metal surfaces heat … Read More

Have you encountered a rusted screw or bolt? Because they are often made of iron alloys, including steel, it’s not uncommon for fasteners to rust. As oxidation breaks down the screw or bolt, a layer of reddish-brown rust will develop. … Read More

Whether you’re on a construction site or at home, making mistakes with your fasteners can come with serious problems. Learn about the most common fastener mistakes and avoid jeopardizing your project. Using the wrong tool to fasten it When you … Read More

Not all nuts feature a traditional hexagonal shape. While hexagonal nuts are popular because they are easier to turn — and therefore install — than other shapes, but that doesn’t mean all nuts are hexagonal. Insert nuts, for example, feature … Read More