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

A lathe is a turning machine used to perform a variety of machining operations, including cutting, knurling, facing and drilling. The workpiece is secured inside the lathe, at which point it’s exposed to a rotating tool bit. As the tool … Read More

Dip molding is a process used to create a layer of plastic, usually polyvinyl chloride (PVC), over a metal object. Whether it’s steel, iron, copper, brass or aluminum, metal has different properties than plastic. Unlike plastic, for example, must metal … Read More

Wall plugs, or what’s more commonly known as wall anchors, are fasteners used to support another fastener like a screw that’s driven into a weak or brittle surface. As the name suggests, they are most commonly used in walls, such … Read More

Not all cutting processes involve the application of a sharp cutting tool or blade to selectively remove sections of a workpiece. Water jet cutting, for example, relies on a controlled stream of pressurized water. When applied to a workpiece, the … Read More

Punching is a metalworking process that’s used extensively in the manufacturing industry. It’s called “punching” because it involves punching a hole through a workpiece. It can be performed either by hand or using a machine, the latter of which is … Read More

The term is “living hinge” is somewhat of a misnomer because neither it nor any other hinge is actually alive. Hinges are inanimate objects made of various materials, and living hinges are no exception. So, what is a living hinge … Read More