Frequently Asked QuestionsContact Us with your questions. We'll help you identify the parts you need.
Should
we use rubber, metal, or plastic?
Molded Rubber - Environment
Plastic - Weight, corrosion resistance depending on application
Aluminum - Weight
Metal - Strength, durability, corrosion resistance
Cost - Advantages and disadvantages of each material must be considered
with respect to the application required
O-ring,
Seal or Gasket:
 Is
the part intended to seal something in or seal something out between environments?
Eg: To prevent leakage of a fluid or gas from one area to another.
Yes - You need a seal, o-ring or gasket
No - You do not need a seal, o-ring or gasket
SHIM:
Does your part fill a gap between two other assemblies or surfaces?
Yes - You
need either a seal or shim.
No - You do not need a seal or shim.
What
is the purpose of a shim, either metallic or non-metallic?
It is used
as a leveling device or to seal a surface in order to prevent leakage.
The choice of material used depends on the substance being contained.
How
do I know if I need a metallic or non-metallic gasket?
A gasket is required to seal a surface to prevent leakage of contents.
The choice of material would depend on the substance and its environment.
What
is the difference between domestic and imported o-rings, seals and gaskets?
Domestic - delivery and quality is superior, but more expensive than imported
Imported - longer lead time, but less expensive
Custom - designed specifically for customer needs when a standard size
is ineffective
Standard - Usually stocked and less expensive; delivery is quicker.
SPRING:
 Is
the part intended to pull, push or twist some or all of the assembly?
Yes - You need a spring
No - You do not need a spring
What
is the difference between types of springs?
Extension - Attached to a pulling force with a variety of ends to absorb
and hold energy. Eg. - Screen doors
Compression - Open coil helical spring resisting compressive force applied
axially. Eg. - Valve actuator or vending machine coin return
Torsion - Ends twist to resist externally applied torque, while the wire
resists bending stress rather than torsion stress. Eg. - Cabinet door
hinge
What
is the advantage of laser cutting over metal stamping?
Laser Cutting - No tooling charge.
It is extremely accurate. Edges are cleaner, diminishing the need to debur.
Smaller quantities can be run. Corners can easily be rounded. Radii and
irregular shapes can be fabricated from thicker metal. Large sheet sizes
can be accommodated and the process can be
repeated accurately.
Metal Stamping - one-time tool charge.
The quality is excellent, low cost dies, zinc plating and dichromatic
dip, clear chromate, welding, light assembly are available.
When
is a finishing process required?
For appearance if the part is visible.
To protect the part from corrosion or other damage due to the environment
to which it is exposed.
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