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- Maybe you're just looking for some ground-level information. Maybe you need to make an informed sourcing decision. Whatever the reason, whatever you're looking for, these primers, briefs, articles and guides serve as your gateway to learning more. Each resource category offers a wealth of information aimed at providing you with the background and facts you need. Whether you're trying to track down the basics on a certain manufacturing process or deciding between various equipment vendors, Thomasnet's Need-to-Know Guides connects you to key industry info.
 | The Disruptive Glass Cleaning Technology NASA Is Using on the ISS Dealing with dirty, smudged lenses is often considered the worst part of wearing glasses. This may not be an issue much longer. Read more |
 | The History of April Fools' Day It's possible the entire concept of April Fools' Day is a prank in itself. Read more |
 | 5 Fun Facts About the Milky Way No, we're not talking about the candy. Read more |
 | The Electro Nickel Plating Process Electro nickel plating, also known as nickel electro-deposition, is becoming an increasingly popular process for a variety of different manufacturing applications. Electro nickel plating is a process that uses an electrical current to coat a conductive material, typically made of metal, with a thin layer of nickel. Other metals used for electroplating include stainless steel, copper, zinc, and platinum. Benefits of Electro Nickel Plating In general, electroplating improves a wide range of characteristics not inherently present in the base material. Some of these benefits include: Increased... |
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| Types of Magnets There are three main categories of magnets: permanent magnets, temporary magnets, and electromagnets. Each type features a different composition and distinct applications. Read more |
For companies in any industry, smart procurement practices are essential for ensuring efficient operations and an optimal bottom line. Put simply, procurement comprises all activities and processes involved in acquiring needed goods and services from external parties. This may include everything from office supplies, furniture, and facilities to heavy equipment, consulting services, and testing and training. Read more
| How Springs Are Made There are many types of springs available for load-bearing and energy storage and transfer applications. Spring manufacture is a relatively simple process that, given the proper equipment, can be performed by an individual or, in longer runs, by automatic machinery. Read more |
 | The Basic Raw Materials Involved With Metal Fabrication Metal fabricators have numerous standard raw materials at their disposal that can reduce cycle times and workflow. This guide discusses the various types of raw materials that are typically used in metal Read more |
A strong supply chain is the backbone of a successful business. Regardless of your industry, close working relationships with your suppliers will streamline production timelines, minimize operating costs, and guarantee the quality of your products. Read more
Although the terms "procurement" and "purchasing" are often used interchangeably, they actually refer to two different processes, and fully understanding the distinction can have a huge impact on your bottom line. Read more
Procurement is the process involving the acquisition of products or services needed for a company to carry out its operations. With direct impact on your bottom line and day-to-day functionality, effectively managing your company's procurement process is critical. Finding the right supplier who can provide you with high-quality goods at a reasonable rate is key to keeping your costs in check and your profits growing. Read more
Demand planning involves using past demand patterns and forecasts in order to reliably predict demand for different items throughout the supply chain. When implemented, this useful tool can help companies more accurately forecast their revenue streams, match inventory levels with anticipated demand levels, and increase their products' profit. Most importantly, it can better inform your sales and operation (S&OP) process. Read more
Put simply, inventory is defined as the products within a company's supply and control that are available for sale. While inventory is generally thought of as a company's stock of product or goods, it can take many different forms. Read more
MRO may include spare parts, equipment such as pumps and valves, consumables such as cleaning supplies, plant upkeep supplies such as lubricants, and activities completed to restore or maintain the functioning of needed equipment. Anything used in the manufacturing of but not employed in a final product may be considered MRO. Read more
A complete guide to Hoists, including types, suppliers, and important attributes and considerations. Read more
| Torque Tensioning It is important to determine proper torque tensioning preload rates for different bolts and materials. Figuring it out can be difficult, but there are standards used across the industrial spectrum. Read more |
 | Types of Plain Bearings (Bushings) - A ThomasNet Buying Guide Plain Bearings (Bushings) are mechanical elements used to reduce friction between rotating shafts and stationary support members. Typically, a bushing relies on soft metal or plastic and an oil film to support the rotating shaft on the hardened shaft journal. Read more |
 | Types of Shaft Couplings - A ThomasNet Buying Guide Shaft Couplings are mechanical devices used to connect rotating shafts and absorb misalignments between them. Couplings can be rigid or flexible depending on the alignment accuracies of the system and torque requirements. Read more |
 | Wood Plastic Composite Wood plastic composite, a hybrid of wood and plastic, is a material commonly used to replace wood in various applications. The composition of wood plastic composite, as well as material characteristics, are explained here. Read more |
This article summarizes the top manufacturers in greater Memphis according to Thomasnet.com user session data. Read more
This article lists the top featured manufacturing companies in Utah on Thomas, as well as the top Utah-based manufacturing companies by revenue. Read more
Find a list of the top featured suppliers of welding services on Thomasnet.com, as well as the top welding companies in the US and Canada by revenue. Read more
Find a list of the top featured manufacturers and suppliers of packaging on Thomas, as well as the top packaging suppliers in the USA and Canada by revenue. Read more
Find a list of the top featured suppliers of roll forming services on Thomas, as well as the top roll forming services suppliers in the USA by revenue. Read more
Find a list of the top featured manufacturers and suppliers of steel plates on Thomas, as well as the top suppliers in the USA that qualify for diversity status. Read more
Find a list of the top featured manufacturers and suppliers of abrasives on Thomas, as well as the top abrasives suppliers in the USA by revenue. Read more
Find a list of the top featured manufacturers and suppliers of hydraulic hose on Thomas, as well as the top hydraulic hose suppliers in the USA by revenue. Read more
A list of the top PVC plastic sheet & sheeting suppliers in the USA, including the top PVC plastic sheet & sheeting companies with diversity status and quality certifications. Read more
A list of the top conveyor component suppliers in the USA, including the top conveyor component companies with diversity status and quality certifications. Read more
The best 3D printers under US$1000 based on 4,400+ 3D customer reviews including the best 3D printer under US$700, and the largest and fastest 3D printers under US$1000. Read more
This article provides a summary of the field of 3D printing, including what it is, how it works, the different technologies and materials that are used, as well as some of its applications and advantages Read more
Browse through our selection of the best tool box organizers to keep everything from wrenches to nails and bolts organized and tidy. Read more
Properly managed inventory is crucial for ensuring smooth, efficient business operations. Read more
This article summarizes the best vacuum pumps as found on Thomasnet.com. Read more
This article provides a summary of the best CNC routers as found on Thomasnet.com. Read more
This article summarizes the best explosion-proof fans as found on Thomasnet.com. Read more
The best 3D printers under US$300 including the best 3D printer for beginners, the best cheap 3D printer, and the best 3D printers for kids. Read more
A list of the best yard sprinklers to ensure a healthy garden and lawn to water a vegetable garden, tall plants, and cover small to large yards. Read more
The best commercial paint sprayers for painters and decorators, carpenters, and even homeowners, including airless and HVLP models and paint guns. Read more
