Choosing the Material for Hydraulic Cylinder Seals

Hydraulic cylinder seals play a crucial role in various types of machinery, and are usually constructed from thermoplastics, elastomers, or thermoplastic elastomers such as rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene, and polyurethane. When it comes to selecting the most appropriate material for the sealing element in hydraulic cylinders, there are several conditions that are important to consider. These include temperature, system pressure, media, surface roughness, system tolerances and sliding speed. Let’s take a look at the most important of these (Temperature, Pressure, Media, and Speed) and how they impact the decision of which material to use in order to get the best performance from hydraulic cylinder seals. Continue reading

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Medical Lasers for Surgery

The word laser stands for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. Lasers are used in everything from work to movies and even in the medical fields for various applications. The amplified focused light is able to be achieved because of a specific wavelength that narrows the beam to create extremely high intensity light. The light can become so fine and accurate many times it is referred to as a laser scalpel in the medical field. The consistent energy emitted from the laser is less likely to cut too deep as long as it is in motion opposed to human error with a scalpel. The benefits of lasers in this industry are vast and growing. Continue reading

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Spray Dryers: Differences in Design

When it comes to spray dryers, there are many different designs on the market. So how do you know which design would work best for your purposes? Well, deciding on the most appropriate spray drying methods and processes always depends on the composition of the products as some are fairly simple to dry while others are quite difficult to dry. Before selecting process equipment, it is crucial to understand not only the requirements and specifications of the powder being produced, but the properties of the liquid feed to be dried as well. The liquid feedstock may incorporate solutions, emulsions, and pumpable suspensions and these each factor into the way the product dries. Complying to specific quality requirements (which may include but are not limited to residual moisture content, particle size distribution, particle morphology, and bulk density) is a must for these end products, and this is why selecting the most ideal spray dryer design is one of the most important steps in the process. Continue reading

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Emulsifiers: Mixing and Then Some

How many different types of industrial mixers can you name? Mixers are used in a variety of ways across industries to create a variation of products. Though there are many variations each has a significant use. One type of mixer that creates many items we use everyday is an emulsifier. Emulsifiers create many food items and cosmetic items, among other products. So how do emulsifier mixers work and what kinds of products do they make? In addition to the mixer, certain additives may need to be added to create the final product solidifying the emulsion. Continue reading

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Explosion Proof Vacuums Live Up to Name

Dealing with the removal of combustible dust from a plant or facility can be a headache, especially since conventional cleaning methods such as sweeping and compressed air only serve to move the dust around and cause it to become airborne. This can be dangerous, as these airborne particles increase the likelihood of a combustible dust explosion. To remedy this issue, specialized vacuums are often used to remove combustible dust and other hazardous or flammable materials from facilities. But even these specialized industrial vacuums could produce sparks either from the electric motor or other metal parts in the machine. Simply adding anti-static accessories to the vacuum does not guarantee safety as they can still create sparks, arcs, and can generate heat that could lead to explosions. This is why it is crucial to be sure that your vacuum is certified “explosion-proof.” Continue reading

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What to Look For In Vibratory Conveyors

When searching for a new product sometimes it is hard to start because of all of the different options. This can be proven true for any number of items or industries, including the industrial industries. Like most industrial parts, products and machines they come in a range of shapes and sizes with various special features. Conveyors are merely one of hundreds of examples across industries. One example is a unique style of conveyor called a vibratory conveyor. While all vibratory conveyors do nearly the same task not all are created equal. Depending on what you are moving along your conveyor, specific attributes may be more desirable than others. There are more options than can be encapsulated in this article so be sure to do your own research and be on the look out for more articles in the future. Continue reading

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Repeatability on Rolling Roads Known as Chassis Dynamometers

Horsepower readings taken from chassis dynamometers indicate the amount of power going to the tires of the vehicle, and these devices have led to numerous advancements in transmission and wheel design as well as experimentation with gear styles used inside the transmission and drive axles. Horsepower measurements have not only led to developments in the building of new automobiles, but are used to fine tune new and used vehicles at specialty chassis dyno auto shops as well. The following provides advice for getting the most accurate readings from chassis dynamometers and is intended to aid both vehicle and shop owners alike, so informed tuning decisions can be made. Continue reading

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Gear Reducers: Controlling your Equipment

Have you ever wondered why a machine does not run at the speed of the engine that is powering it? If a machine ran at that speed it would be difficult to control the machine and its functions. Therefore, speed reducers are able to help control the speed and torque of an engine by utilizing different gear ratios. Speed reducers are used on all types of electrical, mechanical and hydraulic motors. Another term for speed reducer is a gear reducer and depending on the machine that uses the reducer, there are several types to choose from. The three general categories are spur, worm and bevel gear reducers. Each is used for different types of applications in a range of industries. Continue reading

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IQS Newsroom Featured Profile: DV8 Foam Fabrication

DV8 got their start over twenty five years ago offering fabricated reticulated foam filters to a variety of industries in the filtration market. The company now offers a number of foam products such as reticulated ester and ether urethanes, felted products, foam buns, and filtration foams. Specialty foams produced by DV8 include medical foams, military safety foams, athletic foam as well as building materials and packaging foam. The company has also expanded their reach to offer products like explosion suppressing fuel tank baffles, bioreactor media platforms and endoscopy tube cleaners. They also specialize in flexible plastics, fabricating conventional polyester and ployether, XLPE, and specialty materials like Magnifoam and Poron. Continue reading

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Photo Engraving: Getting The Best Results

Over 160 years ago William Fox Talbot was a pioneer of photoengraving, patenting his work for a prototype in 1852. Techniques continued to develop over the next few decades, improving the appearance of graphics in newspapers and advertisements. The practicable photoengraving process was invented in 1863, which led to the mass marketing of magazines, newspapers, and books that combined traditional text and photography. Today, photoengraving continues to be relied on in a wide range of industries due to the fact that the method can be used to produce etchings that simplify the production of multiple images. Printing plates created by the process are able to be used in the mass production of products including nameplates, commemorative trophies and plaques, print media illustrations, as well as in the production of printed circuit boards that are employed in a variety of different electronic applications and devices. Continue reading

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The Resilient Properties of Neoprene Tubing

Has your company been looking for a rubber tube to suit a range of needs? There is an abundance of rubber to choose from when trying to figure out what will work best for your company. So how do you choose? Many variables must be taken into consideration such as abrasion, temperature and chemical resistance. One type of rubber that has all of these properties is neoprene, also known as chloroprene. Neoprene is a synthetic rubber that is used for several applications and products, but commonly used as tubing in industrial settings. All of the characteristics above coupled with others make neoprene tubing a sought after synthetic rubber for many industries. Continue reading

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Air Scrubbers a Necessity in Water Damage Remediation Environments

When it comes to construction and restoration work in buildings or warehouses where there has been water damage, air scrubbers are necessary to combat air contamination that occurs in the process of solving water damage issues. Dust particles, ultra-fine dirt, and fungal spores become airborne when carpets, walls, and other materials are forcibly dried. Not only can this issue increase the overall cost of the job, but workers are put at risk of inhaling these pollutants. These allergens and toxins can linger after the building is reoccupied, causing health issues, complaints and, in some cases, can lead to legal action. One economical way to prevent this is through the use of air scrubbers as they reduce overall job time, and improve hygiene and safety throughout and after the remediation process. Continue reading

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High Pressure Hose Reels: Extending the Life of a Hose

One important component in many industries is a simply a hose. Nearly all industries and companies have a need for a hose to some extent. Hoses consistently and safely carry air, gas and a number of liquids. Hoses are made out of a variety of materials that depend on the substance that will be carried through the component. Also, when a hose is not in use it needs a place to be stored safely and securely. The floor is not the optimum storage place as convenient as it may be. A hose reel is the best solution. Like hoses, hose reels have a range of materials and components that make each unique with special features. An important variety of hose reel is high pressure hose reels. Since the contents in the hoses are under high pressure certain precautions must be implemented into the hose reel for optimum support and functionality. Continue reading

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Mobile Cranes: Tips for Safe, Smooth Operation

Mobile cranes are employed in many construction applications due the numerous advantages they offer. Mobile cranes take up less space and can be maneuvered more easily in almost any environment, including urban settings with little space. Multiple turning axles also means a significant increase in hoisting power, able to hoist much more than an average tower crane. The use of mobile cranes also reduces the cycle time of most construction projects as they require minimal assembly time, and they are both flexible and efficient. While mobile cranes are utilized for these advantages, there are also certain precautionary measures that must be taken to ensure smooth, successful operation as well as the safety of everyone in the vicinity. Continue reading

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Stainless Steel Water Tanks for Storage

One resource that we cannot survive without is water. Although most of our planet is covered in water only a small fraction is fresh water that can be used for drinking, manufacturing and agriculture. In many cases reservoirs are needed to have water readily available for whatever purpose is necessary, whether the reason is that water is scarce in that location or waste water needs to be stored. These reservoirs or stainless steel water tanks can be found in the form or water towers for entire communities, on a factory’s property or even available for a single residence, among a vast range of other possibilities. Continue reading

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Contract Manufacturing: The Importance of Communicating Expectations

There are many benefits that companies can rely on when it comes to using contract manufacturing. Some of these include responsiveness, quality, federal compliance, and international connections. Not only do companies save time and money by taking this route, but contract manufacturers very rarely compete in the same market with their clients, so they are also able to provide confidentiality and safety as well as innovation. Knowing exactly what a contract manufacturer offers is key, and most do offer a wide range of services and can be relied on as a turn-key supplier to develop, fabricate, package, label and deliver the finished product to the company that has hired them. Contract manufacturers can create strategic solutions and partnerships with vendors that can give their clients huge advantages in the market place. Continue reading

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Friction Hinges in a Fixed Position

Have you ever slammed a door on accident and wished you could have had a hinge that held steady in an open fixed position, allowing for less wiggle room? To more easily visualize this instance, imagine the free flowing motion of a door in your house or office. Then contrary think about the way a laptop case hinge functions. Both are responsible for opening and closing, but each hinge performs differently. The door moves fluidly with no guarantee of staying open in a fixed position. The laptop case also moves smoothly, but does not require a prop to hold open in one position, it can self sustain an open position effortlessly. Continue reading

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Compressed Air Cylinders Used More in Heavy-Duty Applications

Compressed air cylinders, also known as pneumatic cylinders, are employed in a wide range building and automotive applications such as gates, doors, hatch motors, and jacks and hoists. Air cylinders are also heavily relied in the industrial sphere as actuators for lift gates, valves, machines, and hoists. Engineers often favor compressed air cylinders as they are more clean and quiet, and require less space for fluid storage than other actuators. Some other benefits of these cylinders include their excellent energy storage characteristics, reduced fire and electrical shock hazard, lightweight fluid and components, and they are ideal for applications of variable forces. There is also no leakage from pneumatic cylinders that could contaminate surroundings as the operating fluid is a gas. This makes them ideal for situations where cleanliness is of great importance. Continue reading

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Rubber O-Rings for a Tight Seal

Strong seals that connect equipment and machines are essential to safety, efficiency and longevity. When two desired pieces of a machine or system need to be connected, but also still have the ability to be disconnected again, an o-ring may be the best option. O-ring design is both simple and inexpensive making them popular in manufacturing. A common variety of o-rings are rubber o-rings. O-rings can be manufactured into a range of materials including rubber, metal or plastic. Rubber o-rings are responsible for connecting two pieces together in a number of industries to establish a no leaking connection. Rubber o-rings are frequently made from Kalrez, Neoprene, flourosilicone, nitrile, hydrogenated nitrile, polyurethane, ethylene-propylene (EPDM or EPR) and silicone. Each rubber is used for specific purposes, based on the pressure, temperature and resistance to chemicals. They are used across an excess of industries including the aerospace, automotive, water treatment facilities, oil refineries and more. Continue reading

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Swivel Casters for a World in Motion

From industrial and commercial dollies, carts and tables, to office chairs, shopping carts and furniture, casters keep things moving quickly and smoothly. There are over 50,000 models of these small wheels on the market today that are designed to suit a wide range of applications. Swivel casters, for instance, are used in many applications where free rolling and turning are required. It is the vertical offset between the wheel axel and the center point of rotation for the caster fastener that makes this kind of motion possible. This offset causes the wheel to “trail” and remain properly aligned when rolling, which makes steering even large awkward objects easier. One application where swivel casters are heavily relied on is in theater for moving massive and elaborate set pieces during scene changes. These changes need to happen as swiftly, quietly and seamlessly as possible in order to maintain the illusion of the reality that is created on stage. Long, awkward and overly loud scene changes take the audience out of the experience and draws attention away from the story. Continue reading

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