From stereo speakers and telephones to heavy lifting devices and medical imaging machines, magnets are used in a variety of applications. By definition, a magnet is any object that produces a magnetic field. They are able to attract or repel … Read More

In terms of mass, iron is the most common element on Earth. Research shows iron accounts for 35% of Earth’s total mass, followed by oxygen at 30% and silicon at 15%. It’s found in the Earth’s outer core as well … Read More

It’s not uncommon for metal objects and surfaces to corrode. Corrosion occurs when metal reacts to environmental elements, such as oxygen or moisture, resulting in gradual degradation. It literally eats away at the metal, creating visible holes while changing the … Read More

With its unique properties, including longevity and weather resistance, plastic is now an essential material used in the production of countless consumer and commercial goods. Statistics show that global production of plastics has increased from just 100 million metric tons … Read More

Facing is a common machining process that involves the use of a lathe or milling machine to remove material from the end and/or shoulder of a workpiece. After the workpiece is placed on the machine, a cutting tool is pressed … Read More

Piercing, punching and blanking are three common machining processes that are used to manipulate raw metal, such as sheet metal. All three processes require the use of a machine, which in some way deforms or alters the physical properties of … Read More

Also known as a disc spring or cupped spring washer, a Belleville washer is a unique washer-style fastener that’s characterized by a cupped construction. As shown in the image here, Belleville washers don’t lie flat. Rather, they feature a canonical … Read More