413 Terms from the Metal Industry

Abrasive blasting: A process of cleaning or roughening a metal surface using an abrasive material such as sand or glass beads.

Acetylene: A gas used as a fuel in welding and cutting torches.

Adhesive bonding: A process of joining metal parts using an adhesive material such as glue or epoxy.

Aging: A process of heating and cooling metal to improve its strength and hardness.

Alloy steel: A type of steel that contains one or more alloying elements to improve its properties.

Alloy: A mixture of two or more metals.

Annealing: A process of heating and cooling metal to relieve stress, improve ductility, and reduce hardness.

Anodizing: A process of applying a protective or decorative coating to aluminum or other metals by electrolytic oxidation.

Arc blow: The bending or deflection of the welding arc caused by magnetic fields in the metal being welded.

Arc length: The distance between the tip of the electrode and the workpiece in arc welding.

Arc length: The distance between the welding electrode and the metal being welded.

Arc welding: A group of welding processes that use an electric arc to melt metal and join parts together.

Arc welding: A welding process that uses an electric arc to melt and join metals.

Austempering: A process of heat-treating steel to improve its strength and ductility.

Austenite: A type of crystal structure in steel that is stable at high temperatures.

Austenitic stainless steel: A type of stainless steel that contains high levels of nickel and chromium for improved corrosion resistance.

Auto darkening welding helmet: A type of welding helmet that automatically darkens when the arc is struck.

Babbitt metal: A soft metal alloy used for bearings and other applications where low friction is required.

Babbitt metal: A soft metal used as a bearing surface in machinery.

Back gauge: A device used to position metal parts or sheets during cutting or bending.

Back gouging: A process of removing excess weld material from the opposite side of a joint to improve penetration and fusion.

Backing gas: A gas used to protect the backside of the weld from oxidation and contamination during welding.

Backing strip: A piece of metal placed behind a weld to help support and fill the weld.

Bainite: A type of crystal structure in steel that is formed during the cooling process and provides increased strength and toughness.

Ball bearing: A rolling element bearing that uses balls to reduce friction between metal parts.

Ball milling: A process of milling metal using a ball mill and a liquid medium.

Ball peen hammer: A hammer with a rounded end used for shaping and forming metal.

Bar stock: A length of metal stock used in machining operations.

Bar stock: Metal bars of various sizes and shapes used as raw material for machining and other operations.

Bead blasting: A process of cleaning or roughening a metal surface using glass beads or other abrasive particles.

Bead: The metal deposit left by a weld.

Bearing: A component that supports and reduces friction between moving parts.

Bench grinder: A grinding machine used for sharpening or shaping metal parts.

Bend allowance: The amount of material needed to compensate for the deformation of a metal part during bending.

Beryllium: A metal element commonly used in alloys for its strength, stiffness, and heat resistance.

Beryllium: A metal element used in alloys for its strength and conductivity, but also known for its toxicity.

Bevel: An angled cut made on the edge of a piece of metal.

Billet: A length of metal that has been hot-rolled or forged into a specific shape.

Black oxide: A coating applied to steel to improve its corrosion resistance and appearance.

Blacksmith: A person who shapes metal by hand using heat and tools.

Blanchard grinding: A machining process that uses a rotary table to grind large metal parts.

Blanchard grinding: A process of grinding metal parts with a rotary table and a vertical grinding wheel.

Blowtorch: A tool used to heat metal for bending, soldering, or welding.

Bolt cutter: A tool used to cut metal bolts, wires, or other objects.

Bore: The diameter of a hole or tube in a metal part.

Boron: A metalloid element commonly used in alloys for its strength and heat resistance.

Brazed joint: A joint formed by brazing.

Brazing rod: A filler metal used in brazing.

Brazing: A process of joining metal parts by heating them and adding a filler metal that melts at a lower temperature than the parts being joined.

Bridge crane: A type of overhead crane used to move heavy metal objects in a factory or workshop.

Brittle: A property of a metal that makes it prone to cracking or breaking under stress or load.

Broaching: A process of cutting a non-circular shape into a metal part using a broach or cutting tool.

Burnback: A welding defect that occurs when the welding wire fuses to the contact tip and is pulled back into the welding gun.

Burnishing tool: A tool used to smooth and polish metal surfaces by pressing and rubbing them.

Burnishing: A polishing process that smooths metal surfaces by rubbing them with a hard, smooth object.

Burr: A rough edge or ridge on a piece of metal caused by machining or cutting.

Butt joint: A joint where two pieces of metal are joined by welding the ends together.

Butt weld: A type of weld used to join two metal parts that are aligned end-to-end.

Cadmium: A metallic element commonly used as a coating to protect steel from corrosion.

Carbide: A compound of carbon and a metallic element, often used as a cutting tool material for its hardness and wear resistance.

Carbon steel: A type of steel that contains carbon as its main alloying element.

Carburizing: A process of adding carbon to the surface of steel to improve its hardness and wear resistance.

Cast iron: A type of iron that is brittle but has good compression strength, and is commonly used for casting and other applications.

Casting: A process of forming metal parts by pouring molten metal into a mold.

Cathodic protection: A method of protecting metal from corrosion by applying an electric current or coating it with a sacrificial metal.

C-clamp: A type of clamp used to hold metal parts together during welding or machining.

Centerless grinding: A process of grinding metal parts using a centerless grinding wheel and a regulating wheel.

Ceramic coating: A thin layer of ceramic material applied to a metal surface for improved corrosion resistance and wear resistance.

Chamfer: An angled cut made on the edge of a piece of metal to make it easier to weld or join.

Chamfering tool: A tool used to cut a chamfer on the edge of a metal part.

Chipping hammer: A hammer used to remove slag and weld spatter from a weld.

Chisel: A hand tool used for cutting or shaping metal by striking it with a hammer.

Chisel: A tool used to cut or shape metal by striking it with a hammer or mallet.

Chromate conversion coating: A coating applied to aluminum or other metals to improve their corrosion resistance and adhesion.

Chrome plating: A process of applying a layer of chrome to a metal surface for corrosion resistance and improved appearance.

Chromium: A metal element commonly used in alloys for its corrosion resistance and durability.

CNC: Computer numerical control; a technology used in machining that uses computer-controlled machines to perform precise cuts and operations.

Cold forging: A process of shaping metal by applying pressure to it at room temperature.

Cold forming: The process of shaping metal at room temperature

Cold rolled steel: Steel that has been rolled at room temperature to improve its strength and dimensional accuracy.

Cold saw: A saw used to cut metal at low speeds to avoid overheating and damaging the blade.

Cold working: The process of deforming metal at room temperature to improve its properties.

Collet: A clamp used to hold a metal part or tool in a machine tool.

Concentricity: The property of a metal part or component that describes its center axis being in the same location as the center axis of another part or component.

Contact tip: The part of the welding gun that makes contact with the welding wire and conducts the welding current.

Contour cutting: A process of cutting metal parts into a specific shape or contour using a CNC machine.

Corrosion inhibitor: A substance added to metal to prevent corrosion.

Corrosion: The deterioration of metal due to chemical reactions with its environment.

Corrosion: The process of metal deteriorating due to exposure to environmental factors such as water, air, and chemicals.

Crater: A depression at the end of a weld bead caused by the sudden termination of the welding arc.

Creep: The gradual deformation of a metal part over time under constant stress or load.

Crimping: A process of compressing metal to create a secure joint.

Cross rolling: A process of rolling metal in two directions to reduce its thickness and improve its properties.

Cross-sectional area: The total area of a metal part or component that is perpendicular to the direction of stress or load.

Cupola furnace: A type of furnace used to melt iron and steel.

Cupping: A process of forming metal into a cup shape using a punch and a die.

Cutter: A tool used to cut or shape metal in a machine tool.

Cutting fluid: A lubricant used during machining to reduce heat and friction and improve tool life.

Cutting speed: The speed at which a cutting tool moves across a metal surface during machining.

Dapping: A process of forming metal into a curved shape using a dapping block and punches.

Deburring: A process of removing burrs or sharp edges from metal parts.

Deformation: A change in the shape or size of a metal part due to stress or load.

Density: The mass per unit volume of a metal.

Die casting: A process of forming metal parts by injecting molten metal into a mold under high pressure.

Die holder: A device used to hold a metal die in a machine tool.

Die sinking: A process of forming metal parts by pressing them into a metal die.

Die: A tool used for cutting, shaping, or forming metal parts.

Dielectric fluid: A liquid used to cool and lubricate metal parts during EDM (electrical discharge machining).

Dielectric strength tester: A device used to test the dielectric strength of a metal part or component.

Dielectric strength: The ability of a material to withstand electrical stress without breaking down.

Differential hardness: A measure of the difference in hardness between the surface and interior of a metal part.

Differential hardness: The difference in hardness between two different areas or regions of a metal part.

Dimpling: A process of creating small indentations or dimples on a metal surface for aesthetic or functional purposes.

Drawing: A process of forming metal parts by pulling them through a series of dies.

Drill bit: A tool used to drill holes in metal.

Dross: A layer of impurities that forms on the surface of molten metal during smelting or casting.

Ductile: A term used to describe metals that can be easily stretched or bent without breaking.

Ductile: The property of a metal that allows it to deform without breaking or cracking.

Ductility: The ability of a metal to be stretched or bent without breaking.

Duplex stainless steel: A type of stainless steel that contains both austenitic and ferritic structures for improved strength and corrosion resistance.

Edge preparation: The process of beveling or chamfering the edge of a metal part for welding or other purposes.

EDM (electrical discharge machining): A process of machining metal parts by using an electric spark to erode material from the surface.

Elastic modulus: The ratio of stress to strain in a metal part or component.

Elasticity: The property of a metal that allows it to deform under stress or load and then return to its original shape.

Electrical discharge machining (EDM): A process of cutting metal parts using a series of electrical sparks.

Electrode holder: The part of the welding machine that holds the welding electrode and conducts the welding current.

Electrode: A metal rod or wire used in welding or other operations that conduct an electric current.

Electrogalvanizing: A process of applying a layer of zinc to a metal surface using electrolysis.

Electromagnetic forming: A process of shaping metal using a magnetic field.

Electropolishing: A process of smoothing and polishing metal surfaces by electrochemical means.

End mill: A cutting tool used in milling operations.

Etching: A process of removing material from a metal surface using an acid or other chemical.

Expansion joint: A joint used in metal structures to allow for thermal expansion and contraction.

Extruder: A machine used to extrude metal into a specific shape or profile.

Extrusion: A process of forming metal parts by forcing molten metal through a die.

Fabrication: The process of creating metal parts or structures by cutting, shaping, and assembling metal components.

Facing: A process of removing material from the end of a metal part to make it flat and perpendicular to the axis.

Fatigue: The weakening or failure of a metal part due to repeated stress or load.

Ferrite: A crystal structure of iron that is magnetic and is found in some types of steel.

Ferritic stainless steel: A type of stainless steel that contains a high amount of ferrite for improved strength and corrosion resistance.

Ferrous: A term used to describe metals that contain iron, such as steel and cast iron.

Filler metal: Metal used to fill the gap between two metal parts being welded together.

Fillet weld: A type of weld used to join two metal parts that are perpendicular to each other.

Fillet: A rounded or triangular-shaped weld used to join two pieces of metal at right angles.

Finishing: The process of improving the appearance and quality of a metal surface after machining or other operations.

Flame cutting: A process of cutting metal using a torch with a flame of oxygen and a fuel gas such as acetylene.

Flame straightening: A process of straightening bent or warped metal parts using a torch and controlled heating.

Flange: A flat, raised rim or collar on a metal part used for strength or to attach to another part.

Flaring: A process of expanding the end of a metal tube or pipe to form a flange or lip.

Flexural strength: The resistance of a metal to bending or flexing without breaking.

Flow forming: A process of forming metal parts by applying pressure to a spinning metal blank.

Flux: A material used in welding to protect the molten metal from oxidation and contamination.

Forge welding: A process of joining metal parts by heating them and hammering them together.

Forge: A furnace or hearth used for heating metal to a high temperature to shape it by hammering or pressing.

Forging: A process of forming metal parts by heating them and shaping them with a hammer or press.

Forming: The process of shaping metal into a specific shape or profile.

Foundry: A facility where metal is melted and cast into specific shapes or parts.

Fracture toughness: The ability of a metal to resist cracking or fracturing under stress or load.

Fracture: A break or separation in a metal part caused by stress or load.

Friction welding: A welding process that uses friction to generate heat and join metals.

Galling: A form of wear that occurs when two metal surfaces rub together and seize up.

Galvanized steel: Steel that has been coated with a layer of zinc for increased corrosion resistance.

Galvanizing: A process of applying a protective coating of zinc to a metal surface to prevent corrosion.

Galvanneal: A coating applied to steel to improve its corrosion resistance and adhesion.

Gas lens: A device used in gas tungsten arc welding to distribute shielding gas evenly around the welding electrode.

Gas metal arc welding (GMAW): A welding process that uses a continuous wire feed and a shielding gas to join metals.

Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW): Another name for TIG welding.

Gas welding: A welding process that uses a flame from burning fuel gas to melt metal and join parts together.

Gauge: A measurement of the thickness of a metal part or sheet.

Gold plating: A process of applying a thin layer of gold to a metal surface for decorative or functional purposes.

Gouging: A process of removing excess weld material or other metal from a joint or surface.

Grindability: The ease with which a metal can be ground or machined.

Grinding: A process of removing material from a metal surface using an abrasive wheel or belt.

Grit blasting: A process of cleaning or roughening a metal surface using abrasive particles such as sand or grit.

Groove weld: A weld made in the groove between two metal parts.

Gun drilling: A process of drilling deep, straight holes in metal parts using a specialized gun drill bit.

Hardenability: The ability of a metal to be hardened by heat treatment.

Hardening: A process of increasing the hardness of a metal part through heating, cooling, or other methods.

Hardness: The resistance of a metal to indentation, scratching, or other forms of deformation.

HAZ cracking: Cracking that occurs in the heat affected zone of a weld due to residual stresses.

Heat affected zone (HAZ): The area of a metal part that has been affected by heat during welding or other operations.

Heat exchanger: A device used to transfer heat between fluids or gases in a metal system or machine.

Heat input: The amount of heat applied to a metal part during welding or other heat-related processes.

Heat sink: A material used to absorb or dissipate heat from a metal part or component.

Heat treating: A process of heating and cooling metal to change its properties such as hardness, ductility, and strength.

Heat treatment: A process of heating and cooling metal to alter its properties, such as hardness or ductility.

Hemming: A process of folding the edge of a metal part over itself to form a hem.

High carbon steel: A type of steel that contains a high percentage of carbon for increased hardness and wear resistance.

High speed steel: A type of tool steel used for cutting tools and other metal parts that require high speed and wear resistance.

Hot dip galvanizing: A process of applying a layer of zinc to a metal surface by dipping it into molten zinc.

Hot rolled steel: Steel that has been heated and rolled to improve its strength and dimensional accuracy.

Hot working: The process of shaping metal at high temperatures by forging, rolling, or extruding.

HVOF (high-velocity oxygen fuel) coating: A process of applying a dense, wear-resistant coating to metal surfaces using a high-velocity jet of gas and powdered metal.

Hydraulic press: A machine used to shape metal by applying pressure with a hydraulic cylinder.

Hydrogen embrittlement: A type of metal degradation that occurs when hydrogen atoms penetrate the metal and make it brittle.

Impact strength: The ability of a metal part to resist fracture or deformation under sudden impact or shock.

Inclusions: Non-metallic materials such as dirt, sand, or oxides that are present in a metal part.

Inconel: A nickel-based alloy commonly used in high-temperature applications.

Induction hardening: A process of hardening steel by heating it with an electric current.

Ingot casting: A process of casting metal into ingots for further processing.

Ingot: A large block of metal that has been cast from molten metal.

Interpass temperature: The temperature of the metal between weld passes during multi-pass welding.

Investment casting: A process of forming metal parts by pouring molten metal into a ceramic mold.

Iron oxide: A compound that forms on the surface of iron or steel and contributes to corrosion.

Iron: A metallic element commonly used for making steel and other alloys.

Jig: A device used to hold and position metal parts during machining, welding, or other operations.

Jig: A device used to hold metal parts in a specific position during machining or other operations.

Joining: The process of connecting two or more metal parts together by welding, soldering, brazing, or other means.

Joint preparation: The process of preparing the metal surfaces to be joined by welding.

Kinematic viscosity: A measure of a metal fluid's resistance to flow.

Kinematics: The study of the motion of objects, including metal parts and machines.

Kinetic energy: The energy of motion; in machining, the energy used to cut or shape metal.

Knurling: A process of cutting a pattern of small, raised bumps or ridges into a metal surface for improved grip or appearance.

Lamination: A process of forming metal into thin sheets by rolling or pressing.

Lap joint: A joint between two overlapping metal parts.

Laser cutting: A process of cutting metal parts using a laser beam.

Laser engraving: A process of engraving a pattern or design onto a metal surface using a laser beam.

Lateral strain: The amount of deformation a metal part experiences when subjected to a load.

Lathe: A machine used for shaping metal parts by rotating them against a cutting tool.

Lead screw: A threaded metal rod used to transmit motion or force in a machine tool.

Lead: A metallic element commonly used as an additive in alloys for increased strength and durability.

Lean manufacturing: A philosophy of manufacturing that emphasizes efficiency and waste reduction.

Limit switch: A device used to limit the motion of a metal part or machine.

Linear motion guide: A device used to guide and control the motion of a metal part or machine.

Liquid nitrogen: A cryogenic fluid used to cool and freeze metal parts.

Machinability: The ease with which a metal can be machined or shaped.

Machining: The process of cutting, shaping, and finishing metal to create a specific shape or part.

Magnetic particle inspection (MPI): A non-destructive testing method that uses magnetic fields and iron particles to detect defects or flaws in metal parts.

Magnetic particle testing: A non-destructive testing method used to inspect metal parts for cracks or other defects using magnetic particles and a magnetic field.

Malleability: The property of a metal that allows it to be hammered or pressed into different shapes without breaking.

Mandrel: A tool used for shaping or forming metal parts by inserting it into a hollow metal tube or pipe.

Manganese: A metal element commonly used in steel alloys for its strength and toughness.

Marker pen: A pen used to mark a metal surface for cutting, machining, or other operations.

Martensite: A type of crystal structure in steel that is formed during the hardening process.

Mechanical properties: The physical properties of a metal, such as strength, ductility, and toughness.

Melted zone: The area of metal that has been melted and solidified during welding or other heat-related processes.

Metal fatigue: The weakening or failure of a metal part due to repeated stress or load.

Metal injection molding (MIM): A process of forming metal parts by injecting a metal powder into a mold and sintering it.

Metal spinning: A process of shaping metal parts by rotating them against a cutting tool while applying pressure.

Metallurgy: The science of studying and manipulating the properties of metals.

Microstructure: The microscopic structure of a metal part or component.

Microstructure: The structure and composition of a metal at the microscopic level.

MIG welding: Another name for gas metal arc welding.

Mild steel: A type of low carbon steel that is soft and easy to shape.

Milling: A process of cutting metal with a rotating cutter that removes material from the surface of the metal.

Mirror finish: A highly polished and reflective surface finish on a metal part.

Molybdenum: A metal element commonly used in alloys for its strength and corrosion resistance.