What’s the Difference Between Buffing and Polishing

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 Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) Works

Manufacturing companies use a variety of techniques to alter and improve the properties of raw materials. Some of these techniques are basic, consisting of nothing more than exposure to heat, whereas others are more complex. Hot isostatic pressing (HIP) falls … Read More

Why Screws Pop Out of Drywall (and How to Prevent It)

When installing drywall, construction companies and contractors use screws to secure the drywall panels to studs. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for these screws to come out. Even if a screw was originally installed deep into the drywall, it may loosen … Read More

Partially vs Fully Threaded Screws: What’s the Difference?

All screws are designed with external threading so that they can be driven into an object or surface. On the shaft of a typical screw, you’ll see helical grooves. Known as external threading, these grooves essentially dig material out of … Read More

What Is the Metalworking Process Clinching?

Have you heard of clinching? It’s used extensively in the metalworking industry to join two or more pieces of sheet metal without the use of fasteners, heat or adhesives. With clinching, special tools are used to lock”multiple pieces of sheet … Read More

The Benefits of Cold-Rolled Steel

Not all steelmaking processes involve heating steel to or above its recrystallization temperature. Cold rolling, for example, is performed at room temperature. Not surprisingly, it requires greater pressure to roll and form steel at room temperature. Because cold-rolled steel is … Read More

Low vs Medium vs High-Carbon Steel

Steel is often categorized according to its carbon content. All steel contains at least some amount of carbon. After all, steel is defined as an alloy of iron and carbon. Without the presence of carbon, it would simply be iron. … Read More