Timothy McDuffie

An industrial plastic shredder is an important machine for any organization involved in waste management. Although a shredder is used in processing different materials for producing alternative products or waste reduction, this type of machine is used in manufacturing and recycling. Moreover, a shredder can help destroy confidential business products. Due to their range of applications, plastic shredders are available in different capacities, sizes, and shapes. You can get these machines here. These are factors to help you get the right plastic shredder for your organization.

Type of Material

You should note that the type of plastic shredder you purchase is dependent on the type and quantity of material you need to process. Remember that various types of shredders are designed to process materials at a given rate and size. There are industrial plastic shredding machines with high-speed chippers. In such machines, the granulator processes the plastics.

Desired Output

When choosing the best plastic shredder, you have to determine your level of operations. That is because different facilities have different operations. For instance, some equipment may need separation of materials, whereas others need grinding and re-shredding. Thus, if the plastic material you want to process needs shredding and compression, then you should get a compactor to do the job.

Capacity

You can determine the capacity of the industrial plastic shredder by calculating the amount of plastic it can process per hour. In this case, you need to take into account the density and physical size of the material and the amount that requires shredding. There is a need to consider your output to ensure you do not overuse the machine, thereby, diminishing its lifespan. Therefore, ensure you check the capacity of the machine before buying it.

Feed Type

You should note that plastic shredders have automatic and manual feeds. The manual shredders have a hopper that can be hand-fed. However, if the material used is bulky, then you can use a forklift. On the other hand, automatic plastic shredder has a conveyor that provides a regular and constant supply of materials.

Operational Concerns

As you choose the best industrial plastic shredder, you need to consider your operations and the environment of your organization. Ideally, you need to factor in the location of the shredder and scope of use. Remember that the amount of noise generated or fumes can cause environmental problems.

Maintenance

The truth is that maintaining industrial plastic shredders can be quite challenging. That is because of their huge production output. Thus, you should come up with a maintenance schedule to ensure the machine works at the optimal level. When choosing your machine, you should pay attention to the frequency of servicing and maintenance.

There are different things to consider when selecting an industrial plastic shredder. Remember that you want a machine that suits your needs and it is still cost-effective. Therefore, you need to gather a lot of information and carry out adequate research to help you make the right decision. You need to look at the design and capacity of the shredder and determine whether it matches the goals of your business.

A good prototype manufacturing presentation allows you to take your idea to the next level. Prototype manufacturing has become a way of showcasing excellent skills in the production industry. With a prototype, you are certain of exploring a world of unlimited creativity by converting your great thoughts into a three-dimensional version.

Prototype manufacturing companies are working hard to ensure the market gets the best products. As a prototype creator, it’s essential to develop the best model to stand out from the many idea presenters. Whether your project is big or small, you’ll always impress your audience when you walk into a room with a prototype in your hand.

Keys to a Successful Prototype

Regardless of the type of prototype, you choose to work with, ensuring that it owns great features gives you a chance to do your presentation successfully. The following are key characteristics of a good prototype.

1. Provides Illustrations

A good prototype should demonstrate the product’s real-world function ability. Also, it should show whether or not the product needs to be fine-tuned.

2. Shows Product Interactions

A great prototype shows how the product interacts and fits with other components or pieces. Additionally, it indicates if the dimension or the design is needs adjustments.

3. Provides a Close Facsimile

In this case, the prototype should offer a close facsimile of the end product’s actual aesthetics. It should indicate whether the product’s appearance is in keeping with your overall needs and goals.

4. Proves Proper Product Manufacture

A great prototype should prove that the product will go through a proper manufacturing process. Alternatively, it should indicate that you can consider other means.

5. Raises unaddressed Questions

If any questions were previously not attended to during product design, the prototype should raise them to answer and stay clear. In case of an arising problem, there should be room for design improvement.

6. Offers Reasonable Confidence

When presenting your product, having confidence assures you of the need to move forward. A good prototype should provide you with a sign that your product is ready to move forward. It should happen after performing tests, examinations, and all other stages.

7. Fits Budget

Having a prototype that doesn’t fit your budget is a sign that you need to check the type and your investment. When creating a prototype, ensure that it fits your budget to avoid inconveniences.

Tips to Achieving a Successful Prototype

Nothing goes well without enforcing great tips. Because your mission is to present your idea and produce it into the market, you may need great guidelines, including the following;

1. Understand Your Needs

Because every developer and product have different needs, it’s important to know your requirements. Ensure to answer all your queries, solve your problems. It’s crucial to understand how such specifications apply to you before proceeding because it’s hard to measure your prototype’s success if it doesn’t meet your goals.

2. Know Your Prototype Provider’s Specialties

A great prototype provider adds value to your idea by easing the process. Moreover, such professionals should provide valuable experience and expertise throughout the process.

Some prototype providers may only provide 3D printing or rapid prototyping because they lack the capabilities to accommodate a short injection molding for you even though they are willing. So, it’s important to research your potential prototype provider before finalizing your mind.

3. Outline Particular Goals for Each Prototype

Usually, a prototype may not operate many things at once. It could be because of cost, practicalities or logistics of the product, or other factors. In such a situation, be clear on what you are looking for in a prototype. For example, if your interest is in rapid prototyping, your iteration goal should be ensuring your product looks great to your investors and consumers.

4. Know Your Particular Prototype’s Limits

Knowing the limits of your particular prototype is essential. Keep in mind what a specific iteration shouldn’t or can’t perform. Types of materials and rapid prototyping are excellent choices for functional prototype production, while others are great for cosmetic testing.

5. Know Your Prototype’s Material Properties

It’s crucial to note your prototype’s material because of the difference in flexibility, hardness, resistance to temperatures, durability, strength, etc. Identify these properties when testing and proving a prototype and the material you selected for your end product.

6. Break Tunnel Vision

Sometimes, developers may miss big picture issues by becoming detail-oriented. Ensure to test your prototype with those unaware of your product outside your organization. It will summarize different ways of interacting and viewing your product.

7. Keep Your Mind Open

It is advisable not to quickly accept what your prototype does what it’s supposed to do. Instead, be ready to learn more about it. Examine your product and think about how to improve it.

Bottom-line

As you plan for your prototype production, remember not to blow away your budget. It’s vital to stay your prototyping cost’s top as your overall budget. Find a prototype provider offering excellent services at cost-effective prices.

Outsourcing is one of the success strategies for forward-moving companies. In the past, it was a short-term option used to reduce manufacturing costs. Over the years, it has transitioned into outsourcing a custom manufacturing partner to deliver services in key departments of an organization’s success. Choosing the right partner can be overwhelming if you do not know where to start. Below is an outline of the 7 key factors to consider.

Identify the partnership you want

There are various types of partnerships in the consumer sector. They are original equipment manufacturers and original design manufacturers. As you search for a reliable manufacturer, consider merging with the most advantageous one for your project.

1.Find out if the partner is flexible

Things often evolve in the consumer world. A flexible partner can move items around to allow for process adjustments. For that reason, you need to evaluate a prospective partner and decide if you would like to contract them or hire a contract manufacturer instead.

2.Weigh the partner’s expertise

After identifying the type of partnership you want, you should consider an organization’s expertise. Your choice will be determined by the product you want to bring to the market and the type of functionality you intend to achieve.

 If you want to work with an individual who can create a custom product for you, the organization must have the in-house expertise to help with execution.

3.Consider quality

Quality is often impacted by the experience and the engineering design of an expert. The condition of the equipment affects the quality of products created in the long run too.

When choosing between various partners, check their quality standards, practices, and track record. This is the best way possible to understand their proficiency.

Besides using top-notch equipment, a good partner should conduct checks such as QC at various manufacturing phases. Take a look at how the checks are conducted, including the standards of various manufacturers. Is there a default rate?

4.Communication is key

Find out if your prospective partner is open to communication. While you may poach the best manufacturer in town, only an adept communicator would ease the manufacturing process and end up with a product you envisioned.

5.Pricing

Pricing is a huge consideration when it comes to selecting a manufacturing partner. Some partners handle the design and manufacturing processes with a high price tag, while others handle smaller parts of the whole process at once. Thus, to find out the best option for your brand, it is crucial to weigh different prices altogether.

6.Have a partnership spirit

Create a spirit of partnership. If you want to have a long-term partner, you should be in a position to gain access to the partner’s expertise, coupled with the ability to meet your broad range of needs. Also, consider how the firm fits into your organization.

Final Thoughts

The optimization of costs is an essential element to consider when outsourcing an ideal manufacturer for your business. But it is no the only factor to look at because disruptive outsourcing can help deliver excellent results in the long run.

If you have been buying some complex items, there is a possibility that you have been put off by some design flaws. 3D printing with ender-3 v2 is making it possible for every person to create his or her items at home. You can simply download designs or start from scratch. The truth is that there are many things you can make with a 3D printer.

You can make convenient objects and tools that you do not have to purchase again. With the right 3D printer, these items can be made at home.

Bottle Openers

This is a common appliance in any household. If you do not have the skill of opening the bottle with the key, lighters, or eyelids, you can now make your bottle opener. Although this is not an expensive product, it is a must-have for every household. A 3D printer makes it possible to make different sizes of bottle openers.

Earbud Cases

You can save the hustle by making beautiful earbud cases. If you have wired headphones, then they are likely to be tangled when you put them in a pocket or case. You do not want to untangle the dreaded cables. Instead, you want to enjoy listening to your favorite music hits. You can keep your headphones tidy and neat with the right headphone case. You should note that the cost of headphone cases varies from one brand to another. Fortunately, you can make customized headphone cases with a 3D printer. Other than saving money, you can add other touches, such as your name.

Flower Pots

As far as decorative and artistic sensibilities are concerned, there is a need to select the right flower pot. You can enhance the appearance of your room with flower pots. There are lots of designs you can get online and print them with your 3D printer. You can make each pot unique to show off your personality and taste. This is a good example of various items you can print without spending a lot of money.

Toothpaste Squeezers

If you want to ensure you fully use all the toothpaste you have in a tube, then you need a toothpaste squeezer. It is designed to help get all of the toothpaste that may be left in the tube. As a result, you get what you paid for. Although you can buy this squeezer online, you can also create one with a 3D printer. Other than saving you the money you would use to buy one, you also reduce your trips to the store to purchase new toothpaste.

Windshield Scraper

As a driver, you already know why you need the right windshield scraper, especially during winter. The primary reason to make yours with a 3D printer is how you use it. It is advisable to use strong materials to ensure you get rid of the extra ice on the windscreen. You can design yours or make use of different designs you can find online. In this way, you can save money and still be prepared when winter comes.

You may be wondering, “what are the differences between basic and advanced features of a rapid prototyping company?” Well, we look at the basic features to look at when choosing any type of company at all- integrity of the product developer or company, great management system, adequate number of staff in the company, accountable and transparent development process, etc.

The above qualities are great qualities to look out for, but there are more. For those who don’t know what rapid prototyping is, it’s simply a technique that is used to produce 3D models of an object in a short period of time. It creates a visible product of an idea. Do you want to know more about the process and the best company to handle it? Click here. 

Without further ado, let’s look at the advanced features, ladies and gentlemen.

Shall we?

What advanced features do you look out for when choosing the right prototyping company?

1. Ready to create development-ready parts

The company must be ready to carry out agile development. What is agile development?

Agile development (or agile software development) is a series of practices and methods that can produce effective solutions through collaboration, stemming from diverse, functional, and self-management team workers.

They should be able to produce development-ready UI parts so that you can get them within the shortest possible time.

2. Look out for a company that produces the right MVPs

What are MVPs?

MVPs are known as Minimum Lovable Prototypes (MVPs). They allow people that use these prototypes to give credible and valuable feedback on why they love it or what can be changed. An MVP is aesthetically pleasing. Every structure is designed in an easily distinguishable manner.

Look for a company with a team that balances reward, amazement, and utility in whatever product they are handling. Most importantly, look for one that delivers on time.

3. Prototypes for development and research

Imagine working for a rapid prototyping company that haphazardly produce jobs without following due process, maybe because of lack of apparatus or machines, lack of adequate staff, or lack of skilled professionals. Although it’s good to patronize small rapid prototyping companies to help them grow, this is one of the advantages bigger companies have other them.

They make use of scientific processes (the processes are- hypotheses, prediction, testing, result, analysis, development, repeat) because they get the solutions to their problems faster.

Any rapid prototyping company that doesn’t follow due scientific process is a disaster waiting to happen. Please, don’t patronize.

4. Prototypes for momentum-building

So, you have a client or a company waiting to see your amazing idea in 3D form. You have pitched the product to them, created business contract documents, and now you’re looking for a rapid prototyping company to create the visuals.

Look for a company that creates simple-to-understand prototypes, as it makes it easier for you to sell it. There should be no complication and no complex grammar that only you or the company can understand. It’s your ultimate sales tool, so it has to inspire the client to invest in your idea.

Valve actuators or control valves are available in different options. Although they have a simple design concept, certain factors can help you choose the best application. You should note that valve actuators play an important role in your pneumatic or hydraulic control process’s overall performance. Therefore, choosing the right one is an important decision.

Mode of Operation

As noted, there are several forms of control valves in the market. However, their mechanism of operation can be classified as rotary or multi-turn operation. Valves with rotary operations include orbit ball valve, butterfly valves, and plug valves. You will find these valves simple to fit. On the other hand, multi-turn operation valves have non-rotating components that need multiple turns. Some of these valves include knife gates, globe valves, and gate valves.

Types of Control Valves

Hydraulic and Pneumatic Valves

These valves are quite versatile and are designed for use in areas where there is no electricity. Also, they are best suited for applications where reliability and simplicity are of the essence. Moreover, they have a range of capabilities that can deliver adequate torque for the specific application. These types of actuators can be further classified into quarter-turn and multi-turn.

Electric Actuators

You may be surprised to learn that these are the common valves used in most applications. That is because they are quite dependable and reliable. They are ideal for operating large valves and can be powered by a three-phase or single-phase motor. Usually, they have a declutching system for manual operation whenever power fails.

Manual Actuators

These types of actuators use wheels, gears, and levers to aid movement. They are quite different from automatic ones as they do not power source to operate. For most valves, there is no need for manual operation. Moreover, these actuators are not suitable for hostile and toxic environments.

It is vital to note that hydraulic and pneumatic actuators are quite different. For instance, in hydraulic actuators, the cylinder contains incompressible liquid. On the other hand, pneumatic actuators are designed to utilize compressed air. However, the latter is not ideal for huge equipment.

When it comes to cost, hydraulic actuators are more expensive than pneumatic ones. They are also susceptible to leaks and require other parts, such as fluid reservoirs, pumps, motors, and heat exchangers.

Usage Factors

When choosing a valve actuator, there is a need to consider usage factors. These are important usage factors:

Compatibility

You need to check the available power source and whether it is compatible with the valve actuator, you intend to purchase. As noted, electric actuators need electricity to run. Therefore, you ought to check the availability of the same.

Temperature Range

Valve actuators are designed to operate at a certain temperature range. Therefore, you need to check the recommended temperature range and that of the application. Remember that they need to have the right bearings, grease, and seals installed.

Hazardous Areas

If you are planning to install valves in hazardous places, then you should consider using pneumatic actuators. That is because they are ideal for toxic and hazardous environments. Always follow the recommendations to avoid unnecessary explosions.

With computers revolutionizing manufacturing, a CNC mill is a must-have if you are a manufacturer. The CNC, also known as computer numeric control, involves the use of computers to control your conventional machines. The CNC uses unique software to feed in specific instructions to facilitate the production process. When you seek precision control over your production process, your equipment such as lathes, routers, millers, etc., must all function in synergy. In this case, the CNC mill becomes an indispensable tool. There are numerous reasons why you should have a CNC mill at your disposal, firstly with CNC machines. There is a guaranteed increase in your productivity. Secondly, challenges regarding precision are well handled. Another reason involves improved safety at work, amongst others. However, one needs to have an in-depth knowledge of the CNC machine as well as how to go about the CNC machining parts.

Some reasons why to use a CNC mill are explained as follows:

1. CNC Mills offers precision

In producing your prototypes, you need a high precision level that is second to none. The CNC milling process delivers highly in that regard. It’s excellent attention to detail puts it at the fore in your production process, hence its usage in fields like aerospace industry and medicine. Thus, when you seek every piece to be exact, and with the lesser waste of materials, and eliminate human error, the CNC mills offer you that precision.

2. CNC offers you more efficiency

One benefit of CNC mills is efficiency. With a computerized process at the helm of your production affairs, consistency can be achieved easily. What this results in is the increased speed of production and efficiency. Also, other difficulties that are expected with conventional human labour is eliminated. CNC machines can work tirelessly, meaning production can go on without pause except in the instance of maintenance.

3. Using a CNC mill reduces workplace hazards

It’s not uncommon for accidents to occur in workplaces. The dangers of operating high-end machines are apparent. Thus accidents often lead to maiming or loss of lives. The CNC mills eliminate these inherent dangers, as each part has it’s programming orders. Functions like shearing, punching or welding are carried out in a synchronized manner, immensely improving workplace safety.

4. It implies less labour

CNC mills mean less labour in the production process. With its advanced software, the CNC cuts down on labour demands tremendously. One skilled operator, with a proper understanding of the software process, can do a lot. Thus, you gain more in the form of monies that should be spent on paying labourers as the CNC mill performs their jobs even better.

5. CNC mills provide a reliable endurance

Unlike human labour that requires rests, shifts and breaks, the CNC mill is equipped with high endurance components that can work tirelessly at all times without always needing rests.

CNC mills no doubt is a must-have for you. It gives you a massive advantage over the usual conventional means of production know to be rather strenuous. However, a proper understanding of a CNC machine, its maintenance culture as well as in-depth knowledge of the CNC machining parts are often called for.

Generally, contactors can be mounted on a field and come in a compact size. The electrical devices have several contacts. These elements are usually open and offer some operating power to the device’s load when the contactor coil has been energized. A contactor is mostly utilized in controlling electric motors. In this blog post, you will get to learn more about the basics of a contactor.

There are, of course, different types of contactors. Each one comes with a set of applications and features.

Contactors can also easily break circuit over certain currents. Other than that, the electric devices are also available in a variety of sizes.

But one of the common applications of a contactor is the high-current load. Here, the device is known for its capability to handle specific currents of about 4000 amperes.

Heavy motor currents, on the other hand, produce arcs if interrupted. The arcs can easily be reduced using a contactor.

Components of a contactor

Every type of contactor has its components. The following are three essential parts of one:

a. The electromagnet – also known as the coil, the electromagnet, refers to one of the most crucial parts of a contactor. It is also the driving force behind the operations of the contactor. The feature is protected using an enclosure.

b. The contact- this is another critical element of the electrical device. Typically, the contact is responsible for carrying current in the contactor.

That said, there are various types of a contactor. They include power contacts, auxiliary contacts, in addition to contact springs.

The enclosure- as with any other application, a contactor has an enclosure that offers insulation coupled with protection from the people touching these devices. The element is a protective device designed using various materials, like Nylon 6, thermosetting plastics, Bakelite, among others.  

Typically speaking, there is the open-frame contactor, which has an extra enclosure. It protects the machine from harsh environmental factors, like bad weather, dust, as well as oil.

Analyzing different contactor device types -The Knife Blade Switch

This is a prominent device that was used in the past centuries (the late 1800’s). Probably, it was one of the first contactors used in controlling the electric motors.

The element consisted of a switch with a metal strip. It would quickly drop onto the contact. Other than that, the switch contained a lever used to pull the switch down while pushing it up.

In the past, users had to level their knives into a closed position. They stood right next to it.

But there were issues with the method of switching. It caused the wearing out of the contacts because it was pretty challenging to open the switch manually.

For that reason, the soft copper devices used in switching went through corrosion, which in return, made them more vulnerable to dirt.

In just a few years, the motor size of the device increased. This would create the need for rather larger currents to help operate the contactor.

It also played a great role in creating some potential danger to operate a rather high current carrying switch, thereby leading to safety concerns.

Regardless of the multiple mechanical improvements that took place over the years, the switch could not be fully developed because of the impending problems coupled with risks of precarious operations as well as short life contacts.

Final Thoughts

Generally, a contactor is known as a special relay type often used in switching the electrical circuit, not just on but off too. They are often used with different electric motors coupled with lighting applications. The applications of a contactor offer some level of isolation rather than the high electrical currents linked with the applications.