B & S Machine Shop Blog Archives - Page 2 of 2

The Importance of Testing Pneumatic and Hydraulic Valves

Posted on June 13, 2019June 13, 2019 by southernviewmedia

The Importance of Testing Pneumatic and Hydraulic Valves

Hydraulic and pneumatic valve systems are used worldwide in various industries. The importance of testing pneumatic and hydraulic valves cannot be understated. Maintaining adequate function and safety is the key to not only get the job done but to ensure users and end-users stay safe. The testing of pneumatic and hydraulic valves needs to be left to the professionals. There are very strict guidelines around proper testing which should be followed whether the testing is legally bound or simply to ensure your tools are safe. Let’s cover the importance of testing pneumatic and hydraulic valves.

Pneumatic Valves

Pneumatic valves use compressed air for power. Pneumatic valves are most commonly used in construction, buildings, factories, mills and in technology. Pneumatic valves are also used in medicine. If you have been to the dentist for dental work, you have likely been the recipient of pneumatic valve power in the dentist’s drill. Likewise, a routine bank stop at the drive-thru is a lesson in the power of pneumatic valves as you send your deposit up the teller tube. With this, it is easy to see the importance of testing pneumatic valves. So many industries run on this type of power. To keep these tasks running smoothly and efficiently, proper and timely testing is critical.

Hydraulic Valves

By contrast with pneumatic valves, hydraulic valve systems use a type of fluid for power instead of air for the source of power. Types of fluid used in hydraulic valves include oil, mixtures of oil and in some tools, water. Like pneumatic valve systems, hydraulic power is also used in many different industries. Some places you will find hydraulic valves is in your car’s braking system and in construction equipment such as bulldozers or excavating equipment. You can also look for hydraulic power in lifting equipment such as powered wheelchairs and some boat lifts. Tasks that require very heavy lifting or excavating often run on hydraulic power.

Both hydraulic valves and pneumatic valves have their advantages in the chosen industry and job at hand. From lighter tasks such as the dentist’s chair to bulldozing a large piece of land, the choice of which power source to choose lies in the job. However, either of these systems can malfunction when not tested professionally on a regular basis. Risks of danger to the user, recipient or parcel of land are real. Lack of efficiency to get the job completed on time is a real risk, too. With the competitive marketplace of all industries, being able to deliver safe and timely work is key to keeping business running. Therefore, it is best not to risk these important items by neglecting testing or testing yourself.

B&S Machine Shop is a family-owned business with expertise including proper testing of pneumatic and hydraulic valves. Give us a call at 251-928-5291 or visit bsmachineshop.com and allow us the opportunity to serve your Manufacturing and Machine Shop needs.

6 Things To Consider When Choosing The Right Machine Shop

Posted on June 13, 2019June 13, 2019 by southernviewmedia

6 Things To Consider When Choosing The Right Machine Shop

When you are searching for a machine shop, you should be sure to do thorough research in order to determine what shop is best for your project. Ordering parts can be an extremely complex process and many consumers run into issues that are avoidable when proper research is done. At B&S Machine Shop we have compiled a list of six things that should be considered when choosing the right machine shop. Keep reading as we dive deeper into detail and help assist you in this decision.

Be Specific with Tolerances

Always be sure to be specific regarding tolerances. This is one of the most important steps to ensure that the part you are having made is going to work in the way you need it to. The term tolerance is a way of specifying the range of measurement for the part needed. If you are doing a project that requires precision and exactness, having specific tolerance plays a large role and is important to ensure proper functioning. In addition, tolerances can affect the final cost of production significantly.

Surface Roughness

Surface roughness is used in regards to the height of the peaks and valleys of the surface at a microscopic level. If you are wanting to keep your cost to a minimum, use the highest number that you are able to accept.

Choose Proper Material

Choosing material can’t be that hard, right? This process seems like it would be the easiest, but there are some things that can be considered in order to reduce your production cost. For example, many people think that ordering steel parts is cheaper than aluminum due to the fact that steel costs less. However, aluminum is easier to machine and results in less wear on tools because it is about four times less dense than steel.

Be Flexible

Keep in mind that when you are ordering a certain material, the shop may not have it in stock at the time. If you are able to and the part is flexible, consider using a different material. For example, if you are looking for Aluminum 6061 but can use Aluminum 5052, let the shop know.

Know the Process

Those who are new to custom part design should always consider the manufacturing process in order to have an idea of accurate production costs.

Never Assume

Just like with anything else in life, there is always the chance that things may not go as you have planned. Be sure that you have specified everything that you need and leave no room for interpretation.

B&S Machine Shops’ manufacturing team is prepared to handle any of your parts manufacturing and service requirement needs within our capability and limits! Give us a call at 251-928-5291 and allow us the opportunity to serve your manufacturing/machine shop needs.

Different Types of Welding

Posted on June 13, 2019June 13, 2019 by southernviewmedia

Different Types of Welding

When it comes to machine shop services, welding is a commonly needed service. It requires precision and a keen eye in order to produce a finished piece. While we may think of the type of welding seen in movies and television shows, there are many different types of welding used in the industry.

Arc Welding

One of the most popular kinds of welding is Arc Welding. It is the first type of welding most professionals learn and with good reason; it is among the most versatile. It produces a bright light and makes a “welding” noise. It is used in a variety of industries. Arc welding involves the use of a stick, also called the electrode, that melts when exposed to the arc and acts as a filler for the two metals being welded together.

MIG Welding

Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding is a type of welding that relies on a gas to protect the weld area from the atmosphere during the process. The weld can be corrupted by moisture and oxygen in the environment; requiring work to be done indoors. Welders using this type of welding process can work at a faster pace, thus making it a great choice when a job requires extensive welding.

TIG Welding

TIG stands for Tungsten Inert Gas and this type of welding requires a non-consumable tungsten electrode to deliver a current to the welding arc. This process also uses a gas for shielding the weld area much like MIG welding. Whereas MIG uses a continuous feed of wire, TIG uses long welding rods that are fed into the weld area (if you are using a filler). This type of welding is used on thin pieces of metal whereas MIG would be used on thicker metal pieces.

Flux-Cored Welding

The big difference here is that the welding rod, or electrode, is a tube filled with a material called flux. A benefit of Flux-Cored Welding is that it can be used without a shielding gas. Combine this with the continuous feed of the welding rod and you have a very quick form of welding. In addition, the filler will be less brittle than in MIG and TIG welding. This type is also mainly used on thick metal pieces.

Plasma Welding

Plasma welding is similar to TIG welding in that the electrode, or stick, is not melted by the arc. In this type of welding, there are at least two separate gases being used: one is shielding gas and the other is the plasma gas. The plasma gas shoots out of a nozzle and is aimed at the weld area. Either a separate filler is used for filling gaps or the two metals are fused from melting together. Also like TIG, this is mainly used on thin metals.

Many of the products in use today exist because of the materials and expertise of an experienced welder. No matter the size of the project, the experts at B&S Machine Shop have you covered. For any questions regarding the services we offer, call us at 251-928-5291.

Five Machine Shop Safety Tips

Posted on June 13, 2019June 13, 2019 by southernviewmedia

Five Machine Shop Safety Tips

Practicing safety in your machine shop is vital to operating a successful business. Safety measures must be enforced to ensure your employees’ protection and keep production on track. These five safety tips will ensure your shop is operating with everyone’s protection in mind.

Train Employees

Whether you have hired new employees or have had the same staff for a number of years, everyone needs proper training. New employees may be fresh out of a program and may not have much experience in an actual job setting. Long-term employees may have become complacent. Starting on day one, educate new employees on workplace safety. Give them a tour of the shop and show them locations of where safety equipment can be found and what to do when an injury occurs. Organize a day to go over the basics with everyone in the shop about implementing safety measures. Refreshers are always beneficial for anyone; regardless of how long they have been employed.

Training not only helps prevent injuries, it also informs people what to do should an accident occur. Make sure everyone knows what to do and who to call if an injury does happen. The response to an injury is just as critical as trying to avoid it.

Wear Protective Gear

Foregoing protective gear for the sake of time is a recipe for disaster. Provide employees with signs reminding them the importance of wearing their PPE. Provide the proper supplies they need to protect themselves including gloves, ear plugs, safety footwear and protective eyewear. Ensure that everything fits properly and it is appropriate for the job at hand. Oversized gloves can get caught in machinery and cause injury. If the eye protection does not fit properly, an object could damage the eyes.

Keep a Clean Workspace

Good housekeeping is not only for looks, but for safety as well. Keeping a clean and clear workspace means you will not be stumbling over scraps or other projects. Practicing a “clean as you go” routine will ensure your space is always cleared.

Clear Walkways

It is important for everyone to monitor the walkways to make sure they are clear of objects. Cluttered walkways are prime areas for slip and trip accidents. Objects that are left on the floor or blocking one’s right of way could result in someone slipping and becoming injured.

Do Not Work Alone

Imagine working alone in the shop and suddenly you are injured. How would you reach out for help? An injury could easily become a life-threatening situation if you are unable to call for help or no one is there to assist you. Enforce a rule that the shop must be occupied by at least two people at all times. This will provide a sense of security in case an accident does occur. Instruct employees on what to do during an emergency and the importance of dialing 911.

Practicing important safety measures in your shop will provide a productive and efficient workspace for everyone. By enforcing these tips your shop will be a safe environment for everyone.

B & S Machine Shop provides a wide variety of quality machine parts. We focus on the care of the costumer and make their needs our top priority. For more information on the services we offer, visit www.bsmachineshop.com, stop by our location at 8095 Falcon Blvd in Fairhope or call us at 251-928-5291.