Metal
What is Metal Fatigue?
Metal fatigue can cause catastrophic failures without warning, such as a fan blade separating from a jet engine, causing damage or even death. To understand and prevent metal fatigue, we must first understand something about stresses in metals. Stress can be applied in different ways. For example, tension stress develops on the outer radius of…
Read MoreBest Metals for Welding
The best metals for welding depend on the project design and budget, the skill and experience of the welder, and the welding process to be used. Almost any metal can be welded, but some are easier than others for creating a high-quality, defect-free weld. Some types of metal require special equipment, such as a vacuum…
Read More10 Things You Didn’t Know About Metal
Metals are some of the most important materials on Earth. Check out these fun facts about metal. The periodic table consists of 118 known elements, and approximately 95 of these are metals, with a small group of about 7 or 8 “metalloids” that are neither one nor the other, but have properties of both. The…
Read MoreGive Your Space An Industrial Look With These Metals
Industrial furniture style makes for great DIY metal fabrication projects. From mirror polished stainless steel to aged and oxidized copper tubing, metal, in all its varieties, forms the heart of industrial design. Add the organic warmth of weathered or reclaimed wood, exposed pipes, earthy brick or concrete, rivets, and a touch of leather to round out your industrial…
Read MoreA Guide to Perforated Metal
What is Perforated Metal? Perforated metal, also known as perforated sheet, plate, or screen, is a thin sheet of metal that has been punched with a regular pattern of holes. The result is a versatile, yet economical solution for a broad spectrum of uses, such as enclosures, partitions, sign panels, guards, filters, screens, and more. How…
Read MoreHow to Cut Aluminum Sheet Metal
Aluminum sheet is any aluminum sheet metal thicker than foil but thinner than plate (sheet is under .249” thick, while plate metal is .250” and above.) Many do-it-yourself projects, such as metal fabrication, siding, or roofing, use aluminum sheet because it is a relatively soft metal and thinner gauges can easily be cut. If you work in…
Read MoreMetalsmithing 101
Additional metalsmithing tools and techniques include heating the metal, soldering pieces together, and decorating it with engraved, stamped or embossed patterns and textures. You can also inlay it with precious gems or finish it with colorful lacquer or a rich patina. One of the easiest ways to begin learning the craft of metalsmithing is by…
Read MoreDFARS
DFARS Compliance for Metals Do you know the melt source of the metal you’re using? On a regular basis, it may not matter to you, but it’s important to be aware of where your metal is being melted. Melt source doesn’t matter in most day-to-day situations, as long as the metal is of good quality.…
Read MoreHow to Bend Metal Bars and Rods
If you’re ready to start bending metal but aren’t sure where to begin, we can help with our easy-to-follow instructions. Before you get started, decide what you want to make with your bent metal rods. Create fun art, improve your latest DIY project, or simply learn a new skill to enjoy as a hobbyist. Once…
Read MoreDIY Candle Holders
How to Craft a DIY Candle Holder If you’re looking for your next project, candle lanterns are fun and easy to make yourself. They make beautiful decorations for your home or unique, hand-crafted gifts for a special occasion. Before you start shopping, consider what size candles you want to hold. Measure your candle and be…
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