Tools Used to Measure the Dimensions of Metal Parts
Here’s an overview of tools used to measure the dimensions of metal parts, categorized by type and application: Hand Tools (Manual Measurement) Calipers: Vernier Calipers: Traditional, require reading a scale. Measure OD, ID, depth, and step. Dial Calipers: Feature a dial indicator for easier reading. Digital Calipers: Electronic readout (LCD). Most common, offer high resolution (typically 0.01mm / […]
What Is Galvanizing
Galvanizing protects steel and iron through different methods: Barrier Protection: Firstly, the zinc acts as a barrier or physical shield to protect the material from moisture and air. Sacrificial Protection: It also acts as a sacrificial anode, meaning it corrodes preferentially to protect the steel. Zinc Carbonate Formation: Lastly, the zinc reacts […]
Die Casting Mold
Core Terminology: Die Casting: A metal casting process where molten metal is injected under high pressure into a reusable steel mold cavity. Die/Mold: The hardened steel tool containing the cavity that shapes the molten metal. “Die” is industry-preferred; “Mold” is sometimes used interchangeably. Key Components of a Die Casting Die: Cavity & Core: Cavity: Fixed half (ejector side) […]
Main Cast Aluminum Alloy Families
Cast aluminum is used a lot in different areas because of its good durability and strength. Each alloy family is based on different alloying metals, with aluminum as the predominant metal. Below are some of them: Al-Si (Silumin): These are the most widely used of all aluminum cast materials as a result of their […]
CNC Lathe
CNC Lathe: Full Definition Computer Numerical Control Lathe A programmable machine tool that automates the process of shaping rotational workpieces using computer-guided cutting tools. Core Components CNC Controller: Executes G-code programs to coordinate machine movements. Interfaces: Touchscreen, keypad, or CAM software. Spindle: Rotates the workpiece at programmable RPM (e.g., 100–5,000 RPM). Chuck types: 3-jaw, 4-jaw, collet, or hydraulic. Turret: Holds […]
5-Axis CNC Machining
Here’s a comprehensive explanation of 5-Axis CNC Machining: 1. Core Definition 5-Axis CNC Machining is an advanced subtractive manufacturing process where a cutting tool moves along five different axes simultaneously to shape complex parts from solid material (metal, plastic, composite, etc.). This contrasts with 3-axis (X, Y, Z linear movements) and 4-axis (adds one rotational axis) machining. 2. The Five […]
How Sand Casting Works: The Core Process
Before the casting process begins, several materials such as sand, molten metal, and other casting tools are brought together. The sand serves as the main molding material, and it is important to pick the right type of sand to get good cast parts. Pattern creation: The pattern is a model of the part. It’s […]
How to Select Different Types of Lathes for Machining Metal Parts
Here’s a breakdown of how to select different types of lathes for machining metal parts, focusing on key selection criteria: Key Selection Criteria: Part Size & Geometry: Diameter & Length: Dictate the required “swing over bed” (max workpiece diameter) and “distance between centers” (max workpiece length). Complexity: Simple cylindrical shapes vs. complex contours, tapers, threads, grooves, or […]
Applications of Aluminum Casting
Automotive & aerospace: Cast aluminum alloys are very vital when used in reducing the overall weight of vehicles. It is used to create complex parts such as engine blocks and cylinder heads, gearbox housings, airframe brackets, and suspension components. Thanks to its ability to low tensile strength, parts such as transmission housings, which need to […]
Key Machine Tools
Here’s an introduction to key Machine Tools used in machining (metalworking focus): Lathe: Function: Primarily for Turning operations. Rotates the workpiece against a stationary cutting tool to remove material. Processes: Turning (external cylindrical surfaces), facing (flat surfaces on the end), boring (enlarging internal diameters), threading (external/internal threads), tapering, grooving, parting (cutting off). Key Components: Headstock (holds spindle/chuck), Tailstock (supports long workpieces), […]
