Category Archives: Industrial
Copper Recycling: a Sustainable Solution
Since the 1960s, the total demand for copper has surged to 250 per cent, from 5 million tonnes to 20 million tonnes. However, copper is 100 per cent recyclable, a majority coming from copper wire recycling. With the increasing demand, recycling can put a dent to many markets producing a valuable resource like copper.
Market Benefits
It serves as an alternative to mined copper.
Nearly 40 per cent of global copper production is derived from secondary sources: end-of-life products or factory waste. In Europe alone, according to the International Copper Study Group, half of the copper used comes from recycling.
It preserves the balance between market output and market demand.
Recycling helps producers and consumers strike a balance in the market. This avoids output shocks and market price fluctuations that are common among metal commodities.
Ecological Benefits
It avoids the depletion of natural resource reserves.
By conserving raw materials, natural copper reserves are preserved. This ensures that the next generation will have a ready resource for future consumption.
It conserves energy.
Copper recycling can conserve energy by at least 40 per cent to a maximum of 85 per cent. Globally, it saves 100 million MWh of energy from electricity.
It decreases environmental pollution.
Recycling significantly limits solid wastes and carbon emissions. With less processing, the need for waste disposal is significantly reduced. Also, with less energy use, the world saves 40 million tonnes of carbon dioxide every year.
Copper is everywhere, from coins to electrical products. However, it is the most recyclable material. As such, resource sustainability can be reached. Hence, the market and environment both win.
Magnetic Drive Pump Maintenance for Extended Service Life
You got a recommendation from your contractor to get a magnetic drive pump for your industrial application, and you went ahead and bought one. How well, though, do you know this pump and to keep it functioning optimally? Here’s a closer look at that:
No Mechanical Seals
First, if you pump corrosive or toxic fluids, this pump is a better option than the typical types since it doesn’t have any mechanical seals. The pump contains sleeve bearings that support an impeller shaft and a pump casing. Its drives move the shaft through a shell that contains the pumpage, all of which make the pump come without any mechanical seals.
Bearings
Unlike conventional pumps, this pump uses different types of bearings, and their location is different. These bearings are on the shaft and source the lubrication from the fluid in transit. The presence of solid impurities in the fluid in transit can affect the state of the bearings, as they are on the slot of the pump.
In conventional pumps, mechanical seals are the first to wear out, but in these pumps, the first parts to wear out are the bearings. Therefore, always keep inspecting the bearings to ensure they’re in their best condition.
Decoupling
The pumps’ ratings dictate the maximum torque they can handle. Beyond this point, the magnets can’t operate at their optimum speed, and the pump undergoes decoupling. Equally, if you leave the pump to run in this state, it compromises the functional integrity of the magnets, as the chances of getting demagnetised are high. Therefore, it’s crucial you incorporate power monitors whenever you’re using these pumps.
Ask anyone who uses magnetic drive pumps, and they will tell you that these are the king of all pumps. Several considerations, though, should go into their maintenance and use for optimal performance. Following the above tips will make an excellent guide on that.
The Small-Space Design Rules You Need to Break to Reap Bigger Rewards
Designing small spaces is tricky. It’s no wonder there are lots of rules for it so people can make the most of their living space. But as the old saying goes, “rules are meant to be broken.” And there are huge benefits to breaking these small-space design rules:
1. Never use dark colours.
Yes, lighter shades make the space look bigger. But when you use dark colours properly, you’re able to highlight better the architectural features of your house, offering the room a dimension. This creates the illusion of depth, making the room feel larger than it is.
When painting your room with dark colours, it’s best to have a satin or semi-gloss finish. These have reflective properties, which keeps the light in the room. And the lighter the room feels, the bigger it seems.
2. Tear down dividers.
It makes sense: to allow an unobstructed sightline and make the space look airy. But, do you really want to give up those dividers which define and distinguish different zones at your home? Of course not.
Keep the concept of dividers — just be smart in choosing. Swap concrete walls with glass cavity sliding doors to achieve and maintain that clear sightline and open, airy feel. You can also go for bookcases or slatted wood as room dividers.
3. Ditch the patterns.
People don’t go bold on patterns when it comes to small spaces because it makes the area look more cramped. Yet, if you actually choose a good pattern for your walls, for instance, it might just be a focal point in the room, creating visual interest and driving people’s attention away from the small space.
What’s more, you can also use big patterns to keep a steady, unhindered flow all throughout the house. For example, when you apply huge, horizontal patterns in narrow halls, these elements would lead people’s view to the next area of the house, making the illusion of space extension.
Small spaces are a challenge to design, that’s why people consult the rulebook. Do know though that there are big rewards in breaking some small-space design rules. So, go ahead, break ‘em.
3 Outstanding Benefits of Stainless Steel Pipes
Stainless steel comes with many unique features, so more homeowners and industrial manufacturers are replacing their piping needs with the material. It may be more expensive than other materials. But, it is more durable, appealing and savvy regarding repair and maintenance bills. Below are some more benefits of using stainless steel pipes.
Strength
When compared to metals like copper and iron, stainless steel is much stronger.
Stainless steel pipes and press-fit systems are able to withstand high pressure, extreme weather conditions and drastic changes in temperature. They display a high level of durability which makes plumbing systems and other systems functional regardless of external conditions. Internally, they withstand high flow rates. Overall, stainless steel pipes and press-fit systems demonstrate strength despite internal and external pressure and conditions.
Resistance to Corrosion
Some plumbing pipes are more susceptible to corrosion and rust than others. Soil and moisture are some of the most common reasons for corrosion. Ultraviolet rays are another element that can damage plumbing pipes. As a result, you have to allocate extra budget to accommodate pipe repairs and replacement costs.
Stainless steel is an ideal material for plumbing pipes because it has a high resistance to corrosion. It can even go without any coating, lining or painting. As such, these pipes may lay for decades with minimal or no repairs or replacements.
Longevity
While shopping for plumbing pipes, most buyers would opt for cheaper piping systems made from ordinary materials to spare some cash. However, this may not be as cheap as you think, given the regular repairs and replacement costs you are likely to incur after installation.
When you spend your high-quality stainless steel pipes, you are investing in a product that will stand the test of time. This is a product that can defy the natural elements that may cause corrosion, warping, caving and ultraviolet effects.
Stainless steel has many industrial applications, from tubing to home appliances to art. Architects and engineers also use the material to set up pillars and structural foundations. The mentioned benefits make it a great choice for these applications.
How Do You Properly Clean Vinyl Floors? Here Are Three Steps
You can usually find vinyl flooring in an establishment’s common areas, hospital lounges and even patient rooms. It perfectly blends function with aesthetics.
In fact, most people find it appealing because it is easy to clean and can also ensure patient safety while maintaining its affordable price. But how do you properly maintain these floors?
1. Apply acrylic finish to your vinyl floors
You might want to try applying acrylic finishes to the vinyl floors to give it a more modern look. You only need a mop and a bucket to apply the finish together with a buffer. Doing so will help your staff save more time and even protect your flooring from any damage.
2. Use tennis balls to remove marks
One effective way of removing marks is rubbing it with a tennis ball. The fibre in the tennis ball removes the marks on your floor. You can make the task easier by putting the tennis ball right on the end of the stick so your staff would not need to get down to clean the floors.
3. Learn a few low-impact cleaning techniques
Sweep or vacuum the floor every evening to keep it clean. Try to veer away from using heavy-duty cleaners as these could damage your floor in the long run. You could also use a mop dampened in warm water to remove any dirt that either the broom or vacuum cannot reach.
Another simple method is by using soap specially designed for your type of flooring to clean it up.
These are just a few tips that you might want to consider when cleaning vinyl flooring. It is always best to properly maintain any type of commercial flooring to ensure it lasts several years.
Drought Conditions Cause the NSW Government to Offer Funding Assistance for Farmers
Farmers in New South Wales who are grappling with the worsening effects of the recent drought may apply for financial assistance from the state government. The funding programme comes at the right time after farmers in the country struggled during the 2017-2018 season, due to severe weather that affected grain production.
Funding Aid
Niall Blai, NSW Primary Industries Minister, said that the Drought Transport Fund will help qualified farmland owners to cover expenses such as water cartage, fodder distribution and livestock agistment. Applicants may borrow up to $20,000 to pay for these costs.
The amount may be small, but it would be enough for short-term expenses, particularly for farmers in the Hunter Valley Region. Agribusinesses in the area are suffering from dry landscapes. Some parts in the Upper Hunter district are experiencing a severe shortage of rainfall that happens once in 20 years, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
Harvest Numbers
The lack of rainfall served as one reason why harvest numbers in the 2017-2018 season were bad for the industry. Despite hot weather conditions in 2017, a Global Agriculture Information Network (GAIN) report expects grain production for the 2018-2019 season to reach 24 million tonnes, provided that average seasonal conditions occur over the year.
With brighter prospects ahead, farmers may want to improve their storage and shelter facilities in time for the harvest. Shipping container sheds, like the ones provided by Domeshelter Australia, are a mobile and convenient way to provide shelter in the harsh Australian outback for vehicles, livestock, office space and storage.
Dry weather has been a perennial concern among farmers not just in New South Wales. Fortunately, there are now different solutions for both storage and irrigation. As industry forecasts for the next harvest season are moderate, farmers are considering all options to keep their business afloat.
Minimising the Effects of Running a Business to the Environment
One-third of the world’s natural resources have been used up in the last three decades. One of the main causes of this excessive consumption is commercial activity. Responsible business owners can help conserve resources by recycling and proper waste management.
Commercial activities damage the environment in many ways, from adding to fuel emissions through transportation of goods to the destruction of natural habitats. Huge amounts of waste, such as wood scrap, metal, paper and office supplies end up in landfills that are already full to the brim.
Commercial waste comes from agriculture, construction and demolition or any other industry.
Traders’ Responsibility to the Planet
Business owners have certain legal responsibilities to safeguard the environment. These are:
- To store business waste safely
- To choose a waste carrier that is fully registered
- To ensure no fly-tipping or other illegal methods of waste disposal occur
- To complete a waste transfer note for every load of waste that exits the premises
- To undertake ‘greener’ practices, such as recycling commercial wastes and using the existing resources
Other Ways to Reduce Carbon Footprint
Other ways the ethical business can nurture the environment is to get their supplies from local companies. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions from long-haul transportation, as well as supports the employment and economy of the local community. Agricultural businesses can go organic and avoid harmful pesticides. Financial institutions can avoid funding projects that harm the people or the wildlife.
Business is the biggest cause of environmental pollution and with no established human right to live in a clean atmosphere, many businesses flout the rules to put profit first. A sustainable and responsible company can still make a profit while taking simple steps to conserve the environment. Reusing and recycling are among those important steps.
Types of Flanges Used in Gas Pipes
Pipes are an essential component of gas connections. Pipe fittings are also a vital component of these connections, their primary purpose being to connect the gas pipe to the gasket or connect two pipes. Pipe flanges are the standard type of fitting used to make these connections.
The material of choice for these gas pipe fittings is carbon steel owing to its unmatched strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. That said, you should know that there are different types of carbon steel flanges you may opt for depending on your application and requirements. Here are the commonly used flange types.
Slip-On Flanges
This flange has a slightly larger diameter compared to your gas pipe’s outer diameter. It slides and snugly fits into your pipe. Though slipped-on flanges are thinner than most types of flanges, they are cost-efficient, secure and dependable. Hubs and rings are also considered slipped-on flanges since they snugly fit over gas pipes.
Weld-Neck Flanges
These flanges are welded onto the neck of your pipe and have an inner diameter that matches your pipe. They allow stress transfer from the weld-neck flange to the pipe. These flanges are ideally used in high-temperature and pressure applications to enhance flexibility and strength. They are however more costly and bulky compared to other flange types.
Blind Flanges
Blind pipe flanges seal gas pipe ends and efficiently prevent flow. They are typically used when testing the pressure of the gas in your pipe or during repair and maintenance works. They allow the technicians to work around the pipe or inside them easily. Blind flanges can also be used to terminate gas pipes.
Lap joint flanges are fitted over gas pipes. These flanges are typically used together with carbon steel stub end fittings to save costs and prevent issues caused by misalignment of bolt holes. Lap joint flanges are frequently used for applications in which the juncture has no contact with your gas or fluid and those that are frequent dismantled.
The What, Why, and How of Bio-Based Products
If you’re in any manufacturing industry, you’ve probably already heard of bio-based products. When Henry Ford predicted in the 1920s that ethanol would fuel cars, not a lot of people were convinced. If those people were still alive today, they’d be eating their doubts for breakfast. Just like the manufacturers of polyurethane coatings from Zebron.com, many industries are now making bio-based products their material of choice. Here’s a look at what these bio-based products are and why time and money is being spent on research for it.
What are Bio-Based Products?
Bio-based products are industrial or commercial goods that are made from biological materials or materials that come from plants, animals, and forestry or marine materials. These types of materials are considered to be biodegradable and non-toxic to the environment.
Why Should Industries Use Bio-Based Products?
There have been numerous efforts by different organizations to go green or to help save the earth and its natural resources. This is one way that for the industrial sector to help them. By using bio-based products, manufacturers can help the farmers increase their profit as they use corn, soy, and other crops to create the materials they need. Besides that, since these materials are biodegradable, it reduces the toxins in the air and water as factories release cleaner smoke or wastewater.
How are Bio-Based Products Created?
Biological materials like plants, for example, go through a process to extract oils or other resins that can create industrials materials. A good example of this is castor oil, which comes from the castor bean plant. Castor oil is used in the manufacture of many materials like lubricants, adhesives, paint, plastics, and cosmetics.
“Bio” means life. It means that if more industries choose bio-based products over fuel-based products, it gives life not only to consumers but the manufacturers, and farmers as well. It helps build a more sustainable process in making commodities that people use every day. Using bio-based products is the green choice for the manufacturing industry.
What You Should Know When Buying a Laser Cutter
All vendors claim to have the best products. What do you do when need to buy a laser cutter? First, you should know there are different types of laser machines as well as materials on which laser cutting works.
One of these is the C02 laser cutter. However, no matter which kind of laser cutter you opt for, here are four pointers you will find helpful in getting the right one:
Type of Material
Laser cutters can engrave and cut different materials — wood, acrylic, and textiles, for example. You can also carve in lamination using a laser machine. Determine what you need the laser machine for, and the material you will be handling.
Warranty and Support
Buying a laser machine is a big investment that you have few chances to get it right the first time. Ask your dealer whether they have a manufacturer’s warranty for the equipment and the extent of repairs they allow. You could also ask about spare parts should you need to get them replaced.
Shape of the Material
Most of the laser work is on sheet materials, although it can involve tubular items. If you plan to use cylinders, you should get a laser machine that supports a rotary tool. A rotary tool holds circular objects in place and rotates to be able to engrave the entire surface.
Power Capacity
You do not need to buy the machine with the highest wattage you can afford. The quality of the optics determines the performance of the laser. Again, wattage performance varies across manufacturers. Thus, it is advisable that, when possible, test the laser cutter’s performance before you buy it.
Now that you are aware of what to look for when buying a laser cutter, you can assess your needs and choose a laser machine that will best meet them.
