Also known as a nailer, a nail gun is a handheld power tool that’s designed to drive nails into an object or workpiece. They are typically powered by either compressed air, flammable gas or electromagnetism. Rather than relying on a traditional hammer, a worker can use a nail gun to quickly and conveniently install nails….
Not all fasteners require the use of a screwdriver to install or remove. There are different types of fasteners. While fasteners with a slotted or Philips head typically require a screwdriver, those with a hexagonal recess only require a hex key. Hex keys are simple, manually operated tools that are used to install and remove…
If you own or manage a commercial building, you may want to invest in copper crash bar covers. Offices, restaurants, retail stores and other commercial buildings often have crash bars on their doors. Rather than pulling a handle, visitors can leave the building by pushing the door open. Crash bars are opening mechanisms that allow…
Not all cables are made of copper or aluminum. When used to transmit data, cables are often made of optical fibers. Known as fiber optic cable, it’s used extensively in telecommunications applications. Even if you’re unfamiliar with fiber optic cable, you’ve probably used it to send or receive data. Homes and businesses throughout the world…
Not all hoist rings consist of a fixed bail. Some of them have a bail that can freely turn from side to side. Known as swivel hoist rings, they are used in conjunction with a hoist. Hoists are industrial lifting devices. You can mount a swivel hoist ring on top of a heavy object, after…
If you’re thinking about investing in a solar panel installation, you may want to familiarize yourself with solar payback periods. Solar panels have become increasingly popular in recent years. According to Pew Research Center, 8% of U.S. homes are currently powered by them. While all solar panels require an upfront investment, they can save you…
Manufacturing companies often use die casting produce complex metal products and components with precise dimensions. There are other processes available that can manipulate metal workpieces into a new size and shape. Die casting, however, is more accurate since it allows for close tolerances and precise dimensions. Below are five fun facts about the manufacturing process…
When shopping for drawer slides, you may come across the term “travel distance.” Drawer slides are commonly used in cabinets, tool benches and other storage solutions. They consist of rails with ball bearings. As their name suggests, they are used to slide drawers in and out of the furniture with which they are used. The…
Whether you’re on a construction site or at home, making mistakes with your fasteners can come with serious problems. Learn about the most common fastener mistakes and avoid jeopardizing your project. Using the wrong tool to fasten it When you choose a fastener, consider the type of tool you need to fasten it with. For…
When shopping for workholding solutions, you may come across jig feet buttons. They are commonly used as workholding solutions in the manufacturing industry. Overview of Jig Feet Buttons Also known as jig rest buttons, jig feet buttons are workholding solutions that are designed for jigs. They provide a flat and stable surface to support a…