投稿者: Sugita

What Is 3D Printing Service?

A 3D printing service provides manufacturing of designed 3D objects on a contractual basis.

Customers typically supply a 3D model, which is then used to produce the object with a 3D printer. These services allow for creating models of various sizes and scales customized to meet specific requirements without the cost and risk of installing 3D printing equipment.

3D printing services are especially useful for producing objects with complex geometries, such as internal structures and hidden details that traditional manufacturing cannot easily achieve. These services are also suitable for small production batches, offering efficient on-demand manufacturing when traditional methods are too time-consuming or expensive.

Uses of 3D Printing Services

3D printing services are utilized in various industries. Below are some common applications:

1. Construction Industry

3D printing services are used to manufacture building components by layering materials such as concrete and cement. This can reduce construction time and costs.

They are also ideal for producing complex designs and scale models for architectural projects.

2. Manufacturing Industry

These services are widely used in the automotive and medical device industries for custom parts production, such as aircraft engine components, automotive prototypes, and specialized medical devices. They enable cost-effective manufacturing of small-batch products.

With 3D printing, precision and quality are ensured, and design changes can be implemented quickly.

3. Art

In the art and design sectors, 3D printing services allow for the creation of intricate sculptures and three-dimensional works. This technology supports designs that are difficult to achieve with traditional methods, offering flexibility in artistic expression.

4. Toys

3D printing services are ideal for producing custom toys, such as personalized figures. This enables users to bring their creative ideas to life and create unique toys for themselves or their children.

Principle of 3D Printing Services

To use a 3D printing service, a digital 3D model is required. The model is created using CAD or similar software and converted into a compatible file format, such as STL.

After preparing the digital model, slicing software divides it into thin horizontal layers to guide the 3D printer’s operations.

The object is then produced by solidifying materials like plastic or metal, using methods such as UV curing for resin or laser sintering for metal powder. Between layers, cooling processes stabilize the structure.

Once all layers are completed, the object may undergo additional finishing, such as coloring or painting.

How to Select a 3D Printing Service

Several factors should be considered when choosing a 3D printing service. Examples include:

1. Materials

Confirm the materials the service provider offers, such as plastic, metal, or ceramic. Ensure the available materials meet your product’s requirements.

2. Options

Check for additional options like color customization and size adjustments. Verify with the service provider if your specific needs can be accommodated.

3. Delivery Date, Cost, and Quality

Ensure the service provider can meet your required delivery date. Pricing is generally based on material and design complexity but may vary by provider. Select a service that offers high-quality outputs at a reasonable price.

What is Calibration Gas?

Calibration Gas is a standard concentration gas used to calibrate gas detection equipment and sensors.

It is used to adjust sensors so that gas measuring instruments display correct readings. It is used for gas detectors for city gas and other gases, as well as for CO2 concentration meters for environmental measurements. Various Calibration Gases are available, such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, methane, etc., depending on the device.

Gas detectors and other instruments need to be calibrated periodically to maintain instrument performance. This prevents false positives and avoids false alarms. In addition, periodic calibration is often required by law in some industries.

Uses of Calibration Gases

Calibration Gases are used in a variety of applications. The following are some examples

1. Chemical and Manufacturing Industries

Hazardous or explosive gases may not be used in chemical plants or manufacturing facilities. When these gases are used, gas detectors and sensors must be used to quickly detect gas leaks.

Calibration Gases are used to adjust these sensors to accurately measure gas concentrations. Calibration Gases are essential to ensure early warning in the event of a leak of harmful gases such as carbon monoxide or hydrogen sulfide.

2. Energy Industry

In the oil and gas industry, monitoring for gas leaks and managing explosion risks is critical. Oil refineries and natural gas handling facilities use sensors to monitor leaks of flammable and toxic gases. It is important to calibrate these sensors using Calibration Gases and to calibrate them to accurately measure gas concentrations.

3. medical care

In the medical industry, Calibration Gases are used in respiratory testing equipment and oxygen meters. As an example, anesthesia gas monitoring equipment is often calibrated with Calibration Gases to ensure that the proper gas concentration is detected.

Principle of Calibration Gas

Calibration Gas contains a pre-determined concentration of gas. This reference gas is a reference gas that contains the same substance as the gas to be measured by the target gas detection device or sensor. This is the mechanism used to adjust the settings so that the equipment functions properly.

Gas sensors measure gas concentrations through chemical reactions and physical changes within the sensor. For example, in semiconductor or electrochemical sensors, when gas molecules come into contact with the sensor surface, a chemical reaction occurs and an electrical signal is generated. By using a Calibration Gas, the sensor sensitivity can be adjusted to match the gas concentration.

Gas sensors can be calibrated for a zero point, which is indicated when there is no gas, and a span point, which is indicated when the sensor detects the maximum gas concentration. In zero-point calibration, the sensor is set to detect no gas and there is no reference gas. Span calibration uses a Calibration Gas of known gas concentration to check and adjust the sensor response.

The above calibration is a mechanism to adjust the gas detector and gas sensor to ensure accurate value measurement. Calibration Gases play an important role in maintaining the accuracy of gas detection instruments and providing accurate data.

Types of Calibration Gases

The following types of Calibration Gases exist

1. Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a toxic and explosive gas and may be generated in chemical plants. Carbon monoxide is often monitored by carbon monoxide detectors because the generation and leakage of carbon monoxide can lead directly to personal injury. Carbon monoxide Calibration Gas is used to calibrate carbon monoxide sensors.

2. Nitrogen

Nitrogen gas is the most abundant gas in the atmosphere and is characterized by its inertness. It is often used to set sensor standards in a gas-free state, such as zero-point calibration. In some applications, it is mixed with other gases.

3. Nitrogen Oxides

Nitrogen oxides, also known as nox and other gases, are a source of air pollution. It is mainly generated by vehicle and factory emissions and is measured by environmental monitoring equipment. It is often measured simultaneously with sulfur oxides, which are generated for the same purpose.

4. Oxygen

Oxygen is a gas that is present at about 21% in the atmosphere and is a tributary combustion gas. Because oxygen is always needed in combustion equipment such as boilers, the oxygen concentration of exhaust gas is often constantly monitored. Oxygen analyzers are also used as a safety measure because low oxygen levels in the environment can be harmful to health.

What Is a Silicon Nitride Ball?

A silicon nitride ball is a ceramic ball made from a compound called silicon nitride.

Silicon nitride is a substance with the chemical formula Si3N4. It is characterized by its extremely high hardness and wear resistance, as well as high-temperature strength and excellent corrosion resistance. These properties make it widely used in various industries.

Silicon nitride is also a relatively lightweight material compared to metals. It is advantageous for applications where weight reduction is required. Due to its lightweight but high strength, silicon nitride contributes to the weight reduction of various structures.

Uses of Silicon Nitride Balls

Due to their excellent physical properties, silicon nitride balls can be used in various applications. The following are some examples:

1. Aerospace Industry

In the aerospace industry, silicon nitride balls are used in engine and turbine components. These components must operate under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions, requiring heat resistance and strength. Silicon nitride’s excellent hardness, wear resistance, and lightweight nature reduce the overall weight of the aircraft, contributing to improved fuel economy.

2. Automotive

In the automotive industry, silicon nitride balls are used in components such as bearings and gears. They can withstand the high temperatures and vibrations of engines and reduce friction losses. They are also used in components like exhaust control valves.

3. Electronics

Silicon nitride is an important material in manufacturing semiconductor devices and integrated circuits. It is used as a base material to reduce heat generation, particularly in LED and power electronics equipment. It is also used in test and measurement equipment for high-precision measurements.

4. Medical Devices

Silicon nitride balls are used in implants and surgical instruments due to their biocompatibility and corrosion resistance. They are gaining attention as a material for artificial joints and dental implants because of their low allergy potential. The material’s lightweight yet high hardness also makes it durable and reliable for medical applications.

Principle of Silicon Nitride Balls

Silicon nitride is a compound of silicon and nitrogen, characterized by its extremely high hardness. It has excellent wear resistance, allowing it to be used in machine parts and cutting tools for extended periods. Silicon nitride also has high heat resistance and is unaffected by temperature changes.

It is highly resistant to chemicals and maintains performance in corrosive environments, making it reliable under harsh conditions, such as in chemical plants and medical equipment.

The manufacturing process starts by mixing silicon and a nitrogen source to produce silicon nitride through a chemical reaction. The mixture is sintered at high temperatures to enhance the ceramic’s properties, strengthening the bonds between particles and improving the final hardness and durability.

In the forming stage, the sintered material is shaped into a ball, ensuring accurate dimensions and surface quality. Finally, the ball’s surface is polished to enhance dimensional accuracy and surface smoothness, resulting in a product with the appropriate performance for specific applications.

How to Select Silicon Nitride Balls

When selecting silicon nitride balls, consider the following factors:

1. Size

The diameter of the silicon nitride ball should match the application. In mechanical components like bearings and gears, precise dimensions are crucial for ease of integration and mechanical performance. Incorrect dimensions can increase friction and interference between parts.

2. Accuracy

Precision is essential in the manufacture of silicon nitride balls. High-precision balls have excellent circularity and surface smoothness, minimizing friction and ensuring efficient operation. Precision impacts reliability and durability, particularly in high-rotation bearings and precision equipment.

3. Purity

The higher the purity of silicon nitride balls, the fewer impurities in the material, resulting in better performance. High-purity silicon nitride has excellent wear and heat resistance, leading to a longer service life. It is recommended to choose high-purity material, especially in harsh environments or where high performance is required.

What Is a Ruby Ball?

Ruby balls are spheres made from ruby, a well-known gemstone.

Rubies are a type of mineral called corundum, characterized by their red hue. The degree of redness depends on the chromium content. Due to their vivid color, they are often used as ornaments and in artwork. Synthetic rubies are also frequently used for industrial applications.

Rubies have a Mohs hardness of 9, making them an extremely hard material. This makes them suitable as wear-resistant components, particularly in high-friction and high-pressure environments. They are also resistant to acids, alkalis, and corrosion, making them excellent performers in chemical processes.

Uses of Ruby Balls

Ruby balls can be used in various applications. The following are some examples:

1. Electronics

Ruby balls may be used as sensors and insulators. Due to their high heat resistance, they are used in temperature and pressure sensors, especially in high-temperature environments. This ensures accurate measurements even under extreme conditions.

Additionally, ruby has excellent electrical insulation properties, preventing short circuits and overheating when integrated into circuit boards and other electronic components.

2. Grinding Wheels

Rubies are sometimes incorporated into the surface of grinding wheels. This improves the durability of the grinding wheel and allows for higher precision machining. The use of ruby particles enhances the precision and efficiency of grinding operations.

3. Medical Equipment

Rubies are often used in medical lasers. A type of laser, known as a ruby laser, uses ruby crystals as a medium to produce light. These lasers are highly useful in medical applications, producing red light of approximately 694 nm, which is effectively absorbed by certain biological tissues.

4. Watches

Ruby balls play an important role in the manufacture of luxury watches. The use of bearing rubies inside the watch reduces wear and increases durability. This allows for the creation of watches that run precisely over long periods and require less frequent maintenance. Combined with the aesthetic beauty of rubies, this further enhances the value of luxury watches.

Principle of the Ruby Ball

Ruby balls are made from rubies, a type of corundum, and are valuable in various industrial applications due to their high hardness and wear resistance. They can withstand pressure and friction, making them durable components for long-term use.

Thanks to their smooth surface and high hardness, ruby balls are characterized by low friction and high wear resistance. This makes them effective in grinding and cutting operations. Tools that incorporate ruby balls can be machined more effectively, achieving more precise finishes than those made from other materials.

Ruby also has the ability to absorb or reflect certain wavelengths of light, particularly red light at around 694 nm. This property makes rubies ideal for optical instruments like ruby lasers.

Based on their physical properties and structure, ruby balls are essential materials that deliver high performance across various industrial fields.

How to Select Ruby Balls

When selecting ruby balls, consider the following factors:

1. Composition Ratio

The main component of ruby balls is aluminum oxide, which, due to the presence of chromium, gives ruby balls their characteristic red color. Purity is critical when making a selection. High-purity rubies exhibit excellent mechanical properties, while lower-purity rubies may contain more inclusions, reducing their strength and wear resistance. Higher chromium doping ratios enhance color brilliance but can also affect mechanical properties.

2. Size

The size of the ruby ball should be selected based on the application and required performance. Small-diameter rubies are suitable for precision work, while larger diameters can handle more force. However, larger sizes also increase weight, affecting kinematic and frictional properties, so selecting the most appropriate size for the application is crucial.

3. Precision

In precision instruments and abrasive tools, the accuracy of ruby balls directly impacts performance. This is particularly important in bearing and precision grinding applications, where tighter manufacturing tolerances result in higher precision. Rough surfaces can increase friction and reduce overall performance.

What Is Preventive Maintenance?

Preventive maintenance is a type of equipment maintenance, which involves inspecting and repairing equipment and facilities on a predetermined cycle before significant failures occur.

Maintenance is the activity of keeping facilities and equipment in sound condition and can be broadly classified into corrective maintenance and preventive maintenance. As the name suggests, corrective maintenance involves repairing and restoring facilities and equipment after failure. In contrast, preventive maintenance aims to prevent failures by replacing parts and making adjustments before problems arise.

Uses of Preventive Maintenance

Preventive maintenance is applied in various industrial fields and infrastructures to prevent sudden accidents and unplanned failures. Reactive maintenance is not sufficient when a failure or accident could cause serious damage or when a sudden breakdown could lead to significant consequences. Reliable preventive maintenance becomes essential and is used in areas such as:

• Repair of exterior walls of buildings and other general structures
• Pipelines and various types of piping, such as sewage lines
• Wiring
• Road surfaces and road appendages
• Various bridges on rivers
• Tunnels
• Dams
• Erosion control levees and coastal levees
• Harbors
• Airports and navigation signs
• Civil engineering facilities
• Parks
• Sprinklers
• Fire alarms
• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
• Earth leakage breakers

In the manufacturing industry, preventive maintenance ensures efficient production through the stable operation of machinery and equipment in factories. Specific examples include:

• Periodic bearing replacement
• Air and hydraulic pressure checks
• Greasing of robots and chains
• Belt inspections
• Inspection of cutting tools, presses, and other processing machines

As noted, preventive maintenance has significant advantages, such as efficient maintenance preparation and minimizing damage from breakdowns and accidents. However, it can sometimes result in unnecessary inspections and replacements, known as overmaintenance.

It is also important to note that preventive maintenance cannot always prevent breakdowns due to potential failures in planning.

Types of Preventive Maintenance

Utilization-Based Maintenance (UBM)

Utilization-Based Maintenance, also called UBM, is a preventive maintenance method where maintenance tasks are based on the number of times equipment is operated. In some cases, this is determined by average daily usage.

Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM)

Condition-Based Maintenance, also known as CBM, involves repairs or replacements when the condition of equipment deteriorates to a certain level. This may involve vibration measurement using sensors or waveform analysis of analog signals like electric current.