Both steel and cast iron are popular metals, but they are often used very differently. The key factor distinguishing one from the other is how much carbon each contains, and to a lesser extent, how much silicon. While this may seem like a subtle distinction, it has...
If you’re looking for a metal alloy, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From brasses and bronzes to titanium alloys and nickel-based superalloys, there are a mindblowing number of metal combinations out there. However, one alloy in particular is more widely used than any...
Machining is an essential process for creating metal parts and components across many industries, from aerospace to automotive. Choosing the right machining material is an important decision that needs careful consideration. This article explores the advantages and...
Modern machine shops have to work with an extensive variety of materials to meet product designers' needs. Some of these materials, like brass, are generally easy to work with. Meanwhile, parts made from other materials, like titanium, require more advanced tooling...
Titanium is an amazing material with some truly outstanding properties. It has a very high strength, is lightweight, is resistant to corrosion and chemicals, and can even maintain its strength when exposed to incredibly high temperatures. Unfortunately, some of the...
Lathes are incredibly versatile machines. They’ve been used in one form or another for thousands of years to make tools, furniture, parts, and more. Of course, the CNC lathes used in today’s machines shops are much more sophisticated than their ancient predecessors....
CNC (computer numerical controlled) machines are used to create turned parts with a very high degree of accuracy. The machines are programmed to follow a set of instructions that tell them how to cut and shape the material. This process ensures that each part is...
Each year humans produce hundreds of millions of plastic products. This adaptable material can be formed into finished products using a variety of methods. Two popular methods are injection molding and CNC machining, but they offer very different benefits. This...
As one of the most popular material categories in the world, ceramics are used widely across a variety of industries. Most commonly associated with pottery and household objects, ceramics can also be utilized in other products, including the ones with electrical...
Machine shops contain a diverse collection of equipment for meeting the production needs of designers. This machinery can be used together to create an unlimited number of unique shapes for both simple and complex parts. Without machining expertise, however, design...