This large library of free industrial online webinars available from GlobalSpec's partners covers the big trends in engineering - everything from electrical engineering and power electronics to ...

In this chapter, you will learn about solid-state lasers, in which light is emitted by atoms embedded in a crystal, glass, or other transparent solid. After first explaining the general operation of ...

Valve positioners compare a control signal to a valve actuator's position and move the actuator accordingly. They are used with both linear valves and rotary valves. Valve positioners are used when ...

Diaphragm pumps are positive displacement pump which move gases, liquids, or gas-liquid mixtures via a reciprocating diaphragm. They are highly reliable because they do not include internal parts that ...

Wave washers, also referred to as wave springs, are wavy metal washers designed to provide a compensating spring force or absorb shock when under load. Many design variations have evolved to best ...

Pushbutton switches are mechanical switches defined by the method used to activate the switch. The activation method is typically in the form of a plunger that is pushed down to open or close the ...

Ball valves are quarter-turn, straight-through valves that have a round closure element with matching rounded seats that permit uniform sealing stress. The valve gets its name from the ball that ...

V-belt pulleys (also called vee belt sheaves) are devices which transmit power between axles by the use of a v-belt, a mechanical linkage with a trapezoidal cross-section. Together these devices offer ...

Butterfly valves are quarter-turn rotary motion valves used as throttling valves to control flow through a system. They can be used with many different media. Butterfly valves offer several advantages ...

Jet pumps, also known as ejector pumps, are devices capable of handling and transporting all forms of motive fluid including gas, steam, or liquid. They can be considered mixers or circulators, since ...

Hydrostatic bearings and hydrodynamic bearings are fluid film bearings that rely on a film of oil or air to create a clearance between the moving and stationary elements. Although they may be similar ...

Compression springs are the most recognizable spring and are intended to oppose compaction in the direction of the axis. The spring is extended at rest; shortened and stored with energy when a load is ...