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It's common knowledge that plants' most basic needs are water and sunlight, but what if they could thrive without access to the sun? Read more

While the toothbrush has existed since its invention in ancient China around AD 700, it wasn't until 1954 that the electric toothbrush hit the market. Read more

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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

What Is Procurement Management? Key Steps and Importance of Managing Procurement in an Organization 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

5 Key Factors to Consider When Conducting a Supplier Evaluation 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

Procurement Vs. Purchasing - Is There a Difference? 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

The 5 Stages of the Procurement Process - Managing Procurement from Start to Finish 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

What is Demand Planning? Key Steps Involved in Forecasting for a Supply Chain 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

What is Inventory? Keeping, Maintaining and Managing Inventory Risk for Companies 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

What is MRO? A Brief Guide to Maintenance, Repair, and Operations for Manufacturers 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

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