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

In manufacturing, knurling is a finishing process used to create any combination of horizontal, vertical or crossing lines on the surface of a workpiece. For example, if a manufacturing company wants to add a diamond-patterned texture to a product — … Read More

Fasteners are the mechanical components used to temporarily join two or more objects. While there are other ways to join objects — welding, brazing, adhesives, crimping, etc. — fasteners are often preferred because they can be easily removed. Threaded fasteners … Read More

When most people hear the word “spring,” they envision a coiled piece of metal that’s able to retract under pressure, followed by bouncing back to its normal state after the pressure has been released. While this is a common way … Read More

In metalworking, rolling involves forcing metal — either cool or heated — through one or more rollers to change the metal’s physical properties. The rollers compress bar or sheet metal, thereby making it thinner while also achieving a more uniform … Read More