What to Know Before Using Diesel Engines
Diesel engines are used for a variety of vehicle and equipment types. Many drivers choose to purchase vehicles that are fueled by diesel because of the variety of benefits they offer drivers. If you’re considering investing in a diesel-powered vehicle, it’s essential to learn as much as you can about them. Read on to learn more about things that you should know before purchasing or using diesel engines in order to make an informed decision and maximize the benefits of diesel power.
Fuel Efficiency and Power
One of the significant advantages of diesel engines is their fuel efficiency. Diesel typically costs more than regular gas, which makes people think it’s more expensive. However, according to Progressive, diesel-powered engines typically offer better mileage compared to gas vehicles. This makes them an attractive choice for those seeking long-term cost savings.
Diesel fuel has a higher energy density, meaning it can generate more power per unit of fuel. This translates to improved torque, allowing diesel engines to excel in applications that require high pulling power or heavy loads. Whether you’re using a diesel-powered engine for transportation, industrial equipment, or marine vessels, their fuel efficiency and power characteristics make them a reliable and economical choice. Be sure to talk with your local diesel vehicle seller to learn more about the fuel-efficient options they have in stock.
Maintenance Requirements
Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of diesel engines. Unlike gasoline engines, these engines often require more frequent oil changes and fuel filter replacements. This is important to know as it can increase your overall maintenance costs and downtime. Regular maintenance tasks include checking and cleaning the air filters, inspecting the cooling system, and monitoring the fuel injection system.
It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and use quality lubricants and filters to ensure optimal engine performance. Additionally, these engines may require occasional maintenance on components such as glow plugs or injectors, which should be inspected and serviced as needed. By staying proactive with maintenance by working with a reliable diesel engine service technician, you can maximize the lifespan and reliability of your diesel-powered engine.
Performance Characteristics
Diesel engines offer distinct performance characteristics compared to gasoline engines. They typically deliver more low-end torque, providing better acceleration and towing capabilities. Diesel-powered engines also tend to operate at lower revolutions per minute (RPMs), resulting in a smoother and quieter ride.
However, it’s important to note that these engines may have slower throttle response when compared to gasoline engines, which can impact their overall responsiveness in certain situations. Understanding these performance differences is crucial, especially if you’re transitioning from a gasoline-powered vehicle to a diesel-powered one. It’s recommended to test drive diesel vehicles or consult with experts at your local vehicle dealership to ensure the performance characteristics align with your specific needs and preferences.
Environmental Impact
While diesel engines offer advantages in terms of fuel efficiency and power, it’s also important to consider the environmental impact of this vehicle type. Diesel exhaust emissions contain particulate matter and nitrogen oxide (NOx), which can contribute to air pollution. However, technological advancements, such as diesel particulate filters and selective catalytic reduction systems, have significantly reduced these emissions in newer diesel engines.
It’s important to understand the emission standards and regulations in your region, as they may affect the availability and usage of diesel engines. Additionally, the availability of ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel is essential, as modern diesel-powered engines require this cleaner fuel to meet emission standards. When you visit your local vehicle dealership, talk to an expert about the potential environmental impact and how to ensure you’re meeting the emission standards for your area.
Diesel engines can provide significant benefits for vehicle owners. It’s vital that you take the time to consider all the factors that can be impacted by choosing to purchase a vehicle of this type by talking with professionals who understand diesel engines. Being knowledgeable about these key aspects will help you maximize the advantages of diesel power while ensuring proper maintenance and compliance with regulations. If you are in the market for a new vehicle with a diesel-powered engine, reach out to Associated Fuel Systems Inc today! Our team can help you find the one that’s right for you and your needs.
3 Questions to Ask Truck Shops During Repairs
Truck shops specialize in truck repair. Some of the shops offer machining services, while others don’t. According to Statista, by 2024, the machine shop industry will be valued at about $37.4 billion. Likewise, some shops can work on some trucks but can’t work on all types of trucks. You should ask your local truck shops three questions before you leave your truck in their care.
1. How Much Will the Repair Cost?
Shopping around for a good deal when you need truck repairs is fine but keep this in mind. The lowest cost is not always the best value. You should consider the experience of truck shops, the reputation of the shop, and the services they provide as part of the price quote. Don’t get stuck on the lowest price possible or you risk getting the quality repairs you need. It’s better to consider the big picture to find the best deal.
2. How Long Will the Repairs Take?
Once you find a shop that meets the right criteria with the right experience in making the repairs you need and a strong reputation for delivering the work as promised, you need to ask how long the repairs will take. Reliable truck shops are in high demand. Knowing how long you can expect to be without your truck is important. A solid ballpark estimate of the time it will take to make the repairs will help with planning.
3. What Happens if Something Else Goes Wrong?
Let’s say you take your truck to the truck shop for diagnostics, and the mechanic diagnoses the problem. You come to terms with repairs, but what if something else is wrong with the truck? How is that handled? Typically, truck shops know what they’re doing. They’re usually right on target if they say that something specific is wrong with your truck. However, there are rare occasions when one thing is repaired, only to find that something else is wrong. Always trust a professional’s judgment when it comes to repairs. They are professionals for a reason!
Asking the right questions is essential to being on the same page. The right shop will be happy to answer all your questions and be transparent with the answers. Contact us today at Associated Fuel Systems Inc.
What Is a Hydraulic Hooklift Hoist?
Have you ever wondered how heavy machinery is loaded onto the back of a flatbed truck? A hydraulic hooklift hoist is the answer! A hydraulic hooklift hoist is a device that can be used to quickly and easily move large and heavy items, such as construction equipment, onto the back of a truck. It works by using hydraulic cylinders to lift and lower a metal platform, which is equipped with hooks that can then be used to easily attach the equipment. Below is everything you need to know about these hoists, and where you might use them for your projects.
High Capacity for Loading and Dumping
Hydraulic hooklift hoists usually have a large capacity for loading and dumping. According to some estimates, this can be as high as 8 thousand to 68 thousand pounds. Loading and dumping have two distinct processes. When loading, the heavy object is lifted off the ground and hooked onto the platform. Then, hydraulic cylinders are used to raise the platform so that the item can be loaded onto the flatbed. For dumping, the platform is lowered and the hooks are used to unhook the heavy object and deposit it into the desired location.
Flexible and Versatile Design
Hydraulic hooklift hoists are designed to be flexible and versatile. They can be used in a variety of settings and applications, such as construction sites, industrial yards, and agricultural areas. Additionally, they are not limited to just one type of vehicle; they can be mounted on a variety of trucks and trailers, making them extremely versatile. They can also be used to load and dump various items. For instance, shipping containers are a common type of item that can be easily loaded and unloaded using these hoists. Flatbeds on trailers can also be used to transport large, heavy items such as vehicles. Yet another use for them is loading and dumping large dumpsters. These dumpsters can range up to 40 tons, making them extremely heavy and difficult to move without the help of a hydraulic hooklift hoist.
Safety Considerations
Hydraulic hooklift hoists also come equipped with various safety measures to ensure the safe and secure loading and dumping of heavy items. For instance, they typically have an emergency stop button to ensure any accidental movement is stopped immediately. Hoists are also equipped with cab controls, which can help control the movement of loading and dumping. Cab controls can be controlled by cables, air, or electronic systems. According to Industrial Quick Search, electric hoists should only be operated for one minute before shutting off for 99 minutes. On the other hand, cable controls can be used in various conditions, including during winter and cold extremes. Other safety considerations include using fall protection, wearing safety glasses, and observing all forklift operation guidelines.
Single and Dual Cylinder Designs
There are two different types of hydraulic hooklift hoists available: single-cylinder and dual-cylinder. Single-cylinder hoists use one large hydraulic cylinder to lift and lower the platform, while dual-cylinder hoists use two cylinders. Generally speaking, the single-cylinder design is cheaper and does a good job at basic loading and dumping functions. However, these designs are a bit unstable on uneven ground, which is why you won’t typically see them on newer construction sites. Dual load and dump cylinder designs are far more stable and, although a bit more expensive, remain a good choice for those with extensive renovation and construction projects ahead.
Where to Find Hydraulic Hooklift Hoists
Hydraulic hooklift hoists can be purchased from a variety of retailers, both online and in person. It’s important to consider the size and capacity you will need for your project when choosing one. For instance, you can find hoists with low capacities of 4 thousand pounds, or you can shop for those with higher capacities for bigger shipping containers. Additionally, you can rent a hoist, which is often the most cost-effective option for short-term projects.
Hydraulic hooklift hoists are an invaluable tool in many industrial and construction settings. They can be used to quickly and safely load and dump heavy items onto the back of a flatbed truck, making them incredibly useful for a variety of projects. By understanding the key features and safety considerations associated with this type of equipment, you can make an informed decision when purchasing or renting one. If you’re looking for a hydraulic hooklift hoist, Associated Fuel Systems Inc offers a wide range of options to meet varying needs. Contact us today to learn more!
The Unique Qualities of Working with a Diesel Engine
There’s a reason only a certified diesel mechanic should work on your diesel engine. Gas-powered engines and diesel engines are similar but not the same. It could be argued that these two types of engines are more different than they are alike. Here are a few unique qualities you’ll find in a diesel engine that should convince you to hire only a certified diesel mechanic to work on yours.
Diesel Fuel is More Economical Than Gasoline
Diesel engines are designed to extract more energy from the fuel. Diesel engines have a much higher compression rate. According to the Department of Energy, you can expect to get 10-15% more energy out of diesel fuel compared to gasoline. Vehicles outfitted with diesel engines can go about 35% further on the same amount of fuel as a gas-powered engine. In other words, one gallon of diesel fuel will get you much further than one gallon of gasoline.
One of the unique characteristics of a diesel engine that requires the care of a certified diesel mechanic is the compression ratio of the engine. Of course, that’s not the only factor that a mechanic has to be aware of when it comes to the unique characteristics of a diesel engine.
There are No Spark Plugs
If you’re looking for a diesel engine tune-up and want to change the wires and plugs, you’re out of luck. Diesel engines don’t have spark plugs. As a matter of fact, diesel fuel isn’t easily ignited. If you drop a match into a puddle of diesel fuel, the flame of the match will be extinguished.
As previously mentioned, a diesel engine has high compression. A diesel engine relies on a compression ignition and glow plugs to heat the combustion chamber. A gasoline engine depends on spark plugs to ignite the compression of the engine. Both compression ignitions and glow plugs are characteristics unique to a diesel engine.
There’ll Be Dual Thermostats
Large diesel engines have two thermostats. In almost every gasoline-powered engine, there’s only a single thermostat. Large diesel engines, the types you find in trucks and farm equipment, use a dual thermostat system to keep the engine cool.
This dual thermostat system is a unique feature of diesel engines. Diesel engines run hotter than gasoline-powered engines. The dual thermostats are an added safety feature to protect the diesel engine. The primary thermostat and the secondary thermostat work together to ensure that the engine is cooled properly.
There’ll Be a Water Separator
Another unique characteristic of the diesel engine is the water separator system. Diesel fuel is not hygroscopic, which means it doesn’t repel water the way gasoline does. The water separator system helps to protect the engine from water and other contaminants that may be in the fuel.
The water separator system needs maintenance. A certified diesel mechanic can perform that maintenance. This part is an essential part of any diesel engine.
There Will Be Some Similarities
There are many different and unique characteristics of a diesel engine that a certified diesel mechanic will know how to address, but there are some things that are true for any type of fossil-fueled engine. For example, both gas-powered and diesel engines need regular maintenance.
Both a gas and a diesel engine need to have the oil regularly changed. In both types of engines, engine oil serves as a lubricant. However, oil in your diesel engine does more than lubricate the engine, it lubricates the turbocharger, which means it’s critical that you have regularly scheduled oil changes for your diesel engine.
Both engine types need fuel filter maintenance, but it’s critical that you change both of the fuel filters on your diesel engine every 10,000 miles under normal driving conditions. You’ll have to do this more frequently if you’re towing heavy loads.
Air filters also need to be changed on both types of engines. On a diesel engine, your air filter should be changed every 10,000 miles or when the filter gets dirty. There are maintenance needs for a diesel engine and a gas engine that are similar, but how those needs are carried out is unique.
If you own a diesel engine vehicle, you should have a certified diesel mechanic manage your maintenance and repairs to ensure that your engine gets the best possible service. That’s where we come in! Don’t risk the health of your engine. Contact Associated Fuel Systems Inc today to learn how we can help you.
Pursuing a Mechanic’s Career in the Modern Market
Pursuing a career as a mechanic is an excellent way to secure a stable and rewarding job. This profession requires technical knowledge and mechanical skills, but it also offers plenty of opportunities for those who are willing to learn. In the modern market, there is an increasing demand for mechanics and machine shops. Let’s learn more about the career opportunities that come with being a mechanic and what it takes to succeed in this field.
1. Education Requirements
To become a professional mechanic, an individual must have a certain level of education and training. The most common path is to complete an apprenticeship or join a two-year technical college program. During this time, mechanics will learn about the various components of machines and their uses, as well as how to diagnose and repair them. They will also gain experience in problem-solving and troubleshooting. After completing the educational or training program, mechanics can take certification tests to become certified in the fields of automotive and heavy equipment service.
2. Job Opportunities
Mechanics have plenty of job opportunities available to them in the modern market. They can work in automotive repair shops, machine shops, or even be employed by large corporations. They also have the option of opening private businesses or becoming a freelancer. With the right qualifications and certifications, these professionals can even find employment in areas like aerospace engineering or robotics.
3. Increased Demand for Mechanics
The demand for these experts is on the rise due to the increasing complexity of machines and the need for maintenance and repair. According to Statista, the revenue of machine shops in the U.S. will amount to approximately $37.4 billion by 2024. A skilled and certified mechanic will continue to be in high demand as companies look to meet the growing need for mechanical devices. Those interested in pursuing a career as a mechanic should prepare for the increase in job opportunities. The chance to make a solid income in this field is extreme.
The modern world needs mechanics like never before. Those willing to learn the necessary skills and qualifications can find plenty of job opportunities in this field. With the right education, certifications, and experience, mechanics can look forward to a rewarding and stable career. Contact our team at Associated Fuel Systems Inc. today for more information.
Choosing the Right Fuel for Your Vehicle
The internal combustion engine has been a truly revolutionary mechanical creation. Many engine designs have proven to be nearly perfect for mechanical efficiency and have been used for decades. The V8 and inline 6 are just two obvious examples. No matter what type of engine you might have, it requires fuel to run. More importantly, it requires the right fuel to run well. There are more possibilities for choosing the right fuel for your vehicle than many people realize. Here is a look at some of the types of fuel that you might consider.
Different Types of Fuel
Most people drive vehicles with motors that burn gasoline. The octane rating might vary, but gasoline is the type of fuel that most people must use in their vehicles to get the greatest efficiency and power from the engine. The vast majority of private passenger vehicles and many commercial vehicles require gasoline of varying octane ratings.
A diesel engine is similar to most gasoline-fueled engines, but it requires diesel fuel to run. If you are driving a big rig or a pickup with a heavy-duty hauling rating, it likely has a diesel engine. You can’t run diesel through a gasoline-fueled motor without it stalling and needing a lot of mechanical work to get running right once again. You also cannot run gasoline through a diesel motor for long without causing serious problems. So if you drive a diesel-fueled vehicle, you need to stay away from the gasoline pumps when filling up. Likewise, motorists with engines that require gasoline need to make sure they do not top off with diesel.
A third option is to use a mix of ethanol and gasoline. It still will not work in a diesel engine, but it can run in a vehicle that burns gasoline. Ethanol is potentially damaging to rubber seals, lines, and hoses inside engines. It also might cause one or more fuel injectors to go bad. Generally, a small amount of ethanol is perfectly fine for modern vehicles.
Octane Ratings and Engine Performance
Every vehicle owner should have a very good idea of what kind of fuel makes their engine run. Some still might have issues with octane rating and what they mean for engines. Most gasoline pumps offer three octane ratings that are usually 87-, 89-, and 91-octane. The higher the octane rating, the better the fuel. Some pumps also offer fuel with an 85-octane rating.
Motors with higher compression ratings typically require gasoline with higher octane ratings. If your vehicle is rated for 87-octane fuel, you can run 91-octane fuel through it. You also could run 87-octane fuel in a motor rated for 91-octane fuel, but you might experience spark knock, engine stumbling, and other performance effects. The higher the octane rating for the engine, the more important it is to use fuel with that octane rating.
Diesel Octane and Cetane Ratings
Diesel fuel has a relatively low octane rating. Most diesel fuel has an octane rating that could be anywhere from 25 to 40. That’s significantly lower than the minimum octane rating required to burn gasoline and make gasoline-fueled vehicles run.
The relatively low octane rating is a primary reason why you cannot make a gasoline engine run with diesel in the tank. It just doesn’t produce the power needed and will lead to engine failure.
Diesel fuel typically isn’t sold based on its octane rating like gasoline is. Instead, it has a cetane rating, which varies from 40 to 55. The higher the cetane rating, the better the quality of diesel fuel. A diesel engine will run on virtually any diesel fuel, but a higher cetane rating should give it a bit more power.
Diesel Engines and Heavy Hauling
Because diesel fuel produces about 30% more energy per gallon than gasoline, a diesel engine is preferred much more in medium and heavy trucks than in cars, vans, or SUVs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, nearly three-fourths of trucks with gross vehicle weights topping 10,000 pounds that were sold in the United States in 2013 have diesel engines. The greater energy produced by diesel fuel enables a truck with a diesel engine to haul more cargo and get better fuel economy than one that runs on gasoline.
Whether you need to upgrade your commercial truck, invest in diesel engine maintenance, or have a serious mechanical issue, we are Georgia’s best service provider. Call or contact us online to learn more. Associated Fuel Systems Inc. also is the only certified Stellar Products dealer in Atlanta and throughout Georgia.
What Is a Cable Hoist and How Can You Use One?
With uses in the mechanical, shipping, transportation, and construction sectors, cable hoists are extremely versatile pieces of equipment that have applications in a vast array of projects. If you suspect that you could benefit from a cable hoist, read on to better understand how they operate and the benefits they offer. This will empower you to make an informed choice if you decide to add one to your arsenal.
Cable Hoist Basics
A cable hoist is a form of overhead mechanical system consisting of a cable and a hoist system. When a weighted object is suspended from the cable, it moves vertically up and down and can be controlled by the operator. The hoist system can also be automated, allowing for fast and accurate movements of heavy loads. Since the cable hoist doesn’t use any kind of power source, it’s a completely manual system. The operator controls the hoisting motion by using pulleys and winches. A powered cable hoist uses a steel cable that is connected to a drum and pulley system.
Working Principles Behind Cable Hoists
When the cable hoist is operating properly, the hook will move vertically up and down, transferring motion from the cable to the hook and load. The hook moves up and down as the cable winds around it, depending on the amount of force applied by the operator. As the hook rotates, it connects to a pulley. The pulley is connected to the drum, which moves it horizontally. The drum is connected to the load, so when the operator activates the hoist, the load moves in response to the operator’s motion.
Uses for a Cable Hoist
No matter how high you’re working, you can save time and effort by using a cable hoist. These systems are designed to provide reliable lifting and transferring of loads that would be difficult or impossible with conventional hand tools. For example, a cable hoist can be used for hauling and moving construction materials, moving and installing electrical or plumbing fixtures, or retrieving items that are out of reach, like garden tools or firewood. It can also be handy for working on your car. This makes them an ideal solution for doing big rig repairs, installing exhaust systems, or even changing a tire.
Moving Heavy Loads With Cable Hoists
A lot of jobs involve moving heavy objects, like building materials and parts. When you need to move these items over long distances, a cable hoist can come in handy. Typically, the items are put on a trolley, which is then pulled along with the cable hoist. This can be a time-consuming process, especially if you have a large distance to cover. A cable hoist, however, can make this process much easier. Instead of pulling the trolley, you can simply pull the hoist along with the load. The hoist can also be used to move objects from one location to another. It’s a great way to cut down on time and increase efficiency.
Cable Hoist Safety Considerations
Most cable hoist systems come with safety features like emergency stop buttons, emergency shut-off switches, and warning lights. Make sure these are in place and operating properly before using the system. It’s important that you’re following all recommended safety procedures. For example, according to Industrial Quick Search, electric hoists should only be operated for one minute before being shut off for 99 minutes. Additionally, there are potential hazards that might be present when working near power lines, so cable hoist operators should be aware of them before beginning to work. If you’re working near a power line, you must use a specifically approved cable hoist. It’s a good idea to consult your local authority to ensure you are utilizing the appropriate equipment. To avoid personal injury or damage to property, always use the right load for the job and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Types of Cable Hoists
There are several types of cable hoists on the market. A pendant cable hoist is the simplest type and is often used for moving small loads or for minor repairs. This style is suspended from an overhead hook or pole. A lifting beam cable hoist is a more powerful version of the pendant type, with two large wheels that propel it through the air. This type is often used for moving heavy loads and is frequently selected for construction jobs. A belt-driven cable hoist is the most expensive type. It uses a pulley and belt system to lift the load and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Belt-driven hoists are generally rated to operate at a maximum speed of six to eight feet per second, which is comparable to a jackhammer.
If you have questions regarding cable hoists or want to learn more, contact our team at Associated Fuel Systems Inc. As an authorized Stellar Industries dealer, we’re the perfect fit for your project. We look forward to hearing from you!
3 Great Uses for a Stellar Industries Container Carrier
There are many ways to use Stellar Industries container carriers. They’re perfect for all your delivery, switching, and dumping needs. According to Stellar Industries, their range of container carriers can lift, dump, and move up to 8,000 pounds of materials, which makes them suitable for a variety of industries. Here are some of the uses to consider.
1. Moving Bulky Items
As mentioned before, Stellar Industries container carriers can carry loads of up to 8,000 pounds. As such, they are the perfect tool for moving bulky items. For instance, you can use them to move construction debris, metals, and even garbage. These trucks have many uses across all kinds of industries. If you’re in the waste, roofing, scrap metal, or forestry industry, a Stellar Industries container carrier can be a powerful tool. They even come in various sizes, with several hook heights and capacity ratings.
2. Dumping
Looking to use a hook-lift system equipped commercial container carrier as a dump truck? All you need to do is roll on a dump container. These container carriers are perfect for this job. If you’re planning to travel a long distance and need to use a tanker for the job, then the container carrier will do the trick as well. All you need to do is use the hydraulic hoist to roll off the container and then roll on the tanker body. It’s a very simple and fast process. For dumping, you just need to make use of the continuous rotation feature. This enables you to dump from either side. It also has a better ability to distribute a bit more weight to the carrier’s front axle than other models.
3. Container Delivery
Looking to deliver a container? Stellar Industries container carriers can help you deliver items as well! Boasting an 8,000-pound lifting and transporting capacity, the carrier will make an easy job of your container delivery task. They are also perfect if you’re working in tight spaces. These container carriers can connect to a container up to 30 degrees off-center when picking it up. This means you won’t struggle to drop off a container if you’re working on small construction sites.
These are just a few of the ways you can use Stellar Industries container carriers. Are you looking for a truck to use as a dump truck or something to transport and deliver large containers with? Get in touch with Associated Fuel Systems, Inc. We are an authorized Stellar Products Dealer in the state of Georgia, and we’d love to hear from you.
8 Popular Services Offered by Machine Shops
When people hear of a machine shop, they immediately assume it’s a facility where machines are produced. But a machine shop is actually a place where machining is carried out. Machining is a process where parts are fabricated, cut, and finished before being used. These shops can either create new parts or repair existing ones. The people working in these facilities have received special training needed to work in machine shops.
Because of the important role that these shops play, a lot of industries heavily rely on these facilities. This has led to an increase in the number of machine shops in the United States. According to Statista, it’s projected that by 2024, the revenue from these shops will have amounted to about $37.4 billion. With such a huge contribution to the economy, just what services do these shops offer? Here are just a few of them.
1. Field Machining
At times, dismantling a piece of equipment can be uneconomical and impossible. This is where field machining comes in. It allows one to repair equipment without taking it to a repair facility or dismantling it. This process saves money and time. So, instead of the client going to the machine shop, the repairmen go where the equipment is. This service is ideal for emergency repairs, planned shutdowns, and modifications. And since different equipment will need different approaches, find a shop that will formulate a procedure that reduces downtime but still produces results.
2. Maintenance and Repair
For your business to remain competitive, you have to increase equipment efficiency, minimize part replacement, and extend the equipment lifecycle. This can be done through maintenance and repair. Find a machine shop that resolves critical issues in a timely manner, using specialized technology. This will save you time and money.
3. Pressure Testing
Pressure testing usually happens after assembly, machining, or vacuum impregnation. This process is to investigate the integrity of a workpiece to ensure it’s not leaking gases or fluids.
4. Drilling
Perhaps one of the most straightforward services offered by machine shops is drilling. Drilling is all about creating a cylindrical hole in a workpiece. When drilling a workpiece, the waste metal produced is called chips. The drill’s shape allows those chips to fall away from the workpiece, keeping it free from debris.
5. Deep Hole Drilling
This is the machining of holes with a significant depth to diameter ratio. Normal drilling techniques can only give you holes where the depth is five times the hole’s diameter. In deep hole drilling, the depth to diameter ratio can be as much as 150 times the hole’s diameter. Any hole that’s 10 times deeper than the diameter is considered deep. As such, it needs special drilling techniques. The two main methods used in deep hole drilling are gun drilling and BTA Drilling.
6. Jig Boring
Jig boring is a machining process used to enlarge existing holes accurately. The process involves centering, reaming drilling, contouring, counter boring, step boring, etc. A jig boring machine can be used to produce tools, fixtures, jigs, or any other part that requires a high level of accuracy. Jig boring machines resemble jig grinders because they use boring tools while jig grinders use grinding wheels. Also, note that jig boring machines have to be used in a temperature-controlled room. Keeping that temperature constant is what ensures accurate work is done.
7. Broaching
This is a type of machining process involving the use of a toothed tool. Broaching is used when one wants to precisely cut odd shapes like splines, holes, and keyways. This process can shape, smooth, or enlarge a drilled or bored hole. One of the advantages of broaching is that the rate of production is high. It also allows for accuracy, enabling one to achieve a clean and neat surface.
8. Turning
Turning is a machining process performed on a lathe to reduce the diameter of a workpiece to the desired dimension. This operation can be done either manually or automatically. The main disadvantage of doing this manually is that one has to constantly be there for supervision. Automatic turning needs no supervision. With CNC (Computer Numerical Control), you program all the speeds, movement, and tooling changes into your computer. Those instructions are then sent to the machine, and you can focus on other things. CNC allows for efficiency, accuracy, and consistency.
If you have an upcoming project that requires any of the services mentioned, get in touch with Associated Fuel Systems, Inc today. You’ll get quality materials, custom parts, and excellent service.
Steps to Take When Your Diesel Engine Needs Repairs
Diesel engines are well known for being heavy-duty and durable. According to Oak Ridge National Laboratory, diesel engines are commonly found in medium and heavy trucks compared to passenger cars in the US. For example, over 70% of trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating higher than 10,000 that were purchased in the United States in 2013 were diesel-powered, which was an increase from 69% in 2009. That said, diesel engines are not invincible, and if you have a diesel-powered car, you might find the engine requires repairs from time to time. Here are the steps to take when your diesel engine needs repairs.
Troubleshoot the Issue
Whenever you encounter a problem with your diesel engine, there’s standard advice you can apply to diagnose your engine. For starters, you can start by checking the engine oil level. Pull the dipstick to ensure there’s enough oil. Otherwise, if there’s not enough oil, your vehicle might not start. In that case, getting the issue fixed might be as simple as topping up the oil.
In another instance, the oil level might be overfull, which is a good indicator of a high-pressure leak. If the engine oil level seems fine, you can perform further diagnosis, depending on your skill level and knowledge of the diesel engine. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to seek repairs immediately from a professional. You can also check your owner’s manual to see if you can get any helpful insights concerning proper repair procedures and when to schedule routine maintenance.
Your diesel engine is what keeps your vehicle moving, but, as mentioned, it can still become faulty. Common repairs that are often diagnosed include oxidized oil, lack of power, oil leakages, exhaust gas recirculation valves, and more. Some components of your diesel engine, like the injection pump, glow plugs, and fuel injectors, may need fixing or replacement to get your engine functioning smoothly. You may not know that this is the issue, but you can watch out for symptoms, such as a diesel engine running at lower RPMs or difficulty in starting your engine.
Search Around for Diesel Mechanics
The next step is to search around for a reputable diesel mechanic that can work on your engine. This is something you should do as soon as possible because professional repair helps increase the life of your diesel engine system, and it’s good for the overall maintenance of your car. A good diesel mechanic can save you from expensive repairs and keep your diesel vehicle running smoothly. When searching for a trustworthy mechanic, a good starting point is to do your research, which you can do online in the comfort of your own home. You can find many mechanics near you and check Google reviews to identify the ones that have a good track record.
Besides the internet, another good starting point is asking your friends and family for recommendations. The people close to you are usually reliable and are more likely to point you in the right direction because they have your best interests at heart. Once you have narrowed down your options, the next step is heading out to discuss your engine. Be sure to ask your mechanic as many questions as possible, such as how many years of experience they have working on diesel engines and whether they have the right training and certification to work on them. Another sign that you have found an experienced mechanic is when they quickly diagnose the problem and suggest the best fix to prevent bigger issues down the line.
Get as Many Quotes as Possible
Diesel engine repairs can get pretty expensive if your vehicle’s engine has developed a serious problem. Fortunately, there’s a way to reduce the costs, and that involves shopping around to get as many estimates as possible. You can then compare the estimates to see which mechanic has the most competitive pricing. That said, price should not be the only determiner when choosing a mechanic. You should avoid estimates that are below the average as this could mean the mechanic uses old or substandard parts. At the same time, you should also avoid estimates that seem to be ridiculously high. Generally, reviewing as many estimates as possible can be a huge eye-opener as it helps you understand the best price to pay to get your engine repaired.
These are the steps you can take to get your diesel engine repaired. Contact Associated Fuel Systems today to get your engine replacement parts from the only certified Stellar Products Dealer in Atlanta and all of Georgia.