Spray forming
Spray forming is a manufacturing process used to produce metal components with specific shapes and properties. The process involves the atomization of molten metal into fine droplets, which are then projected onto a substrate or mold. As these droplets fall onto the surface, they solidify and form a layer of the desired material. This technique is particularly known for producing high-performance materials with controlled microstructures.
Squeeze casting
Squeeze casting, also known as pressure casting, is a metal casting process that combines features of both casting and forging. This technique is used to produce highly dense metal parts with improved mechanical properties compared to those made through traditional casting methods. The process involves the following steps: 1. **Mold Preparation**: A mold is designed and prepared, typically made from materials such as steel to withstand high pressures and temperatures.
Steel wool
Steel wool is a type of abrasive material made from fine strands of steel that are twisted together. It is commonly used for scrubbing and cleaning purposes, as well as for polishing surfaces and finishing wood. Steel wool is available in various grades, ranging from coarse to fine, which indicates the thickness of the strands and the abrasiveness of the material.
Superforming
Superforming is a manufacturing process primarily used in the production of complex, lightweight shapes, often for components in the aerospace, automotive, and other high-tech industries. The process involves using heat and pressure to form materials, typically aluminum or aluminum alloys, into intricate geometries. In the superforming process, a sheet of material is heated to a specific temperature, making it pliable.
Sword making
Sword making, also known as swordsmithing, is the craft of designing and producing swords, which are bladed weapons typically used for cutting and thrusting. This age-old art combines metallurgy, engineering, and craftsmanship, and has evolved over centuries across different cultures and regions. ### Key Aspects of Sword Making: 1. **Materials**: Traditionally, swords were made from various types of steel or iron. Modern swordsmiths might also use specialized alloys or modern materials.
Tension control bolt
A Tension Control Bolt (TC Bolt) is a type of high-strength bolt used primarily in structural steel connections. It is designed to provide a reliable method of achieving and maintaining a specific tension in the bolt during installation, which is critical for ensuring the integrity and strength of the connection between steel components. ### Features: 1. **Tensioning Mechanism**: TC bolts have a built-in mechanism that allows the installer to achieve the desired tension by twisting the bolt during installation.
Tenterhook
The term "tenterhook" refers to a hook that was historically used on a tenter (a frame used to stretch fabric) to hold the material taut while it dried. The phrase "on tenterhooks" has evolved to mean being in a state of anxious anticipation or suspense, often associated with waiting for an uncertain outcome. For example, one might say they were "on tenterhooks" while waiting for the results of an important exam or a significant announcement.
Tinware
Tinware refers to items made from tinplate, which is a thin sheet of steel coated with tin to prevent rusting. This coating makes the metal easier to work with and provides a decorative finish. Tinware has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history, including kitchenware, storage containers, and decorative items. Common examples of tinware include pots, pans, dishes, cups, and canisters.
Toilet service
Toilet service generally refers to the maintenance, cleaning, or installation of toilet facilities. This can encompass a variety of activities, including: 1. **Cleaning Services**: Regular janitorial services to keep toilet facilities clean and hygienic, typically in public restrooms or commercial buildings. 2. **Maintenance and Repairs**: Services that address issues such as clogged toilets, leaks, or malfunctioning fixtures. This could involve professional plumbers who specialize in toilet repairs.
Tool steel
Tool steel refers to a variety of carbon and alloy steels that are specifically designed for making tools and dies. These steels are chosen for their hardness, resistance to abrasion, and ability to hold a sharp cutting edge, as well as their toughness and ability to withstand high temperatures. Tool steels are classified into several categories based on their performance characteristics and compositions.
Tool wear
Tool wear refers to the gradual deterioration of a tool's material properties and geometry due to mechanical, thermal, and chemical interactions during machining operations or other manufacturing processes. It is a natural consequence of using tools for cutting, shaping, or finishing materials and can significantly affect the performance, accuracy, and lifespan of the tools.
Tumble finishing
Tumble finishing, also known as tumble polishing or barrel finishing, is a mechanical process used to smooth, polish, and deburr metal, plastic, or ceramic parts. This technique involves placing the parts along with abrasive media (such as ceramic beads, plastic pellets, or other types of abrasives) into a rotating barrel or tumbler. As the barrel rotates, the media and parts tumble together, resulting in friction and abrasion that smooths the surfaces of the parts.
Ultrasonic impact treatment
Ultrasonic Impact Treatment (UIT) is a process used to enhance the properties and performance of materials, particularly metals. This technique involves the application of high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations to a surface, which in turn introduces localized mechanical impacts. These impacts can induce beneficial changes in the material's microstructure, resulting in improved characteristics such as increased strength, hardness, ductility, and fatigue resistance.
Underwater cutting and welding
Underwater cutting and welding refer to specialized techniques used to perform cutting, joining, and repairing metal structures while submerged in water. These methods are essential in various industries, particularly in marine construction, shipbuilding, oil and gas, and underwater maintenance. Here's a breakdown of each process: ### Underwater Cutting Underwater cutting involves removing material from a submerged metal structure.
V-block
A V-block, also known as a V-block clamp or V-block fixture, is a tool used primarily in machine shops and laboratories for holding cylindrical objects securely during machining, measuring, or inspection processes. It typically has a V-shaped groove that allows round workpieces, such as shafts, rods, or tubes, to sit firmly in place, preventing them from rolling or shifting.
Vapor degreasing
Vapor degreasing is a cleaning process that uses vaporized solvents to remove grease, oil, and other contaminants from metal parts and components. This method is particularly effective for precision cleaning applications, such as in the aerospace, automotive, and electronics industries, where even minimal residual contamination can affect performance. ### Key Features of Vapor Degreasing: 1. **Solvent Use**: The process typically employs halogenated solvents or other specialized cleaning solvents that vaporize easily.
Vibratory finishing
Vibratory finishing is a technique used in surface finishing processes to enhance the texture, smoothness, and overall appearance of a workpiece. This method utilizes a vibratory mass finishing machine that contains a bowl or tub filled with abrasive media (such as ceramic, plastic, or metal components) alongside the parts to be finished. Here's how it typically works: 1. **Vibration**: The machine generates vibrations that cause the media and parts to move in a controlled manner.
Wrought iron
Wrought iron is a type of iron alloy that is known for its malleability, ductility, and resistance to corrosion. It typically contains a very low carbon content (less than 0.08%) and is characterized by its fibrous texture, which is a result of the manufacturing process that involves heating and working the iron to shape it. Historically, wrought iron was produced by heating iron ore in a forge and then hammering or rolling it to remove impurities and shape it.