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

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