Contractor Tips Blog

Feb
26

The Blue Carbon Paper History

Many young people will never know the frustration of getting blue carbon paper ink all over their hands when trying to copy a document or create a credit card slip. Blue carbon paper was used extensively in typewriters and documents where several copies were needed for many decades, but it is no longer a staple of the business and retail world. However, for over 150 years, blue carbon paper has been used in one way or another and is still used in limited applications today.

The first version of blue carbon paper was produced in 1823 by Cyrus Dakin, but the idea had been around for some time. As early as 1779, James Watt, a Scottish engineer, was trying to create an inked tissue paper to be used to copy correspondence. Even the version made by Dakin in 1823 was not well-received by the business community, that is until the typewriter was invented in 1867, and a clean, readable copy could be made with carbon paper.

Early blue carbon paper was made by placing a sheet of paper on a slab and covering it with oil, soot and a liquid hydrocarbon. Eventually a machine was created to add a layer of hot wax that eliminated the need to manually brush on the carbon mixture. Although the materials and technology changed over the years, the main concept for blue carbon paper was kept the same for a century or more.

Today, most sales receipts, credit card slips, and other duplicated papers are printed, not copied with blue carbon. The messy blue carbon paper is rarely used in business transactions. However, it still has its uses in industrial applications. Machinery suppliers sell giant rolls of blue carbon paper that are used for machinery calibration and stenciling on glass, keeping this long-standing invention alive and well in some industries.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Jan
25

HDPE vs UHMW Polyurethane Products

Polyurethane is a popular material for many industrial products, but there are many different variations on this material. Two common options you will find are High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Ultra High Molecular Weight (UHMW). While both may look the same, to determine which is right for your application, it is important to know the differences and best uses for these types of polyurethane.

HDPE Basics

HDPE is high density, which means it the polymer chains are packed tightly, making it a harder material that can withstand high impact. The molecular structure is great for resisting liquid absorption, chemical reactions and impact. Some of the more common applications for HDPE include:

  • Pipe fittings
  • Containers for liquids, both chemical and food-grade
  • Cutting surfaces
  • Trays

UHMW Basics

UHMW polyurethane has the highest molecular density of thermoplastic polymers. It is very durable, resisting cracking, impact, water absorption and chemical reactions. One of the differences in this material versus other polymers is its smoothness to allow easy sliding. Products that are often made from UHMW include:

  • Rollers
  • Screws
  • Sliding plates
  • Gears

The main difference between HDPE and UHMW is how they are made and the molecular structure. UHMW has high molecular weights and long polymer chains versus HDPE which is known for having a high strength-to-density ratio. Each has its benefits and is better suited for different applications.

If you are looking for polyurethane products, it is important to have a supplier that can choose the best material for your needs. Discuss the virtues of both HDPE and UHMW with your industrial material provider to determine which is best for your application.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Jun
3

High Density Polyethylene

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a polyethylene thermoplastic made from petroleum. HDPE is one of many types of polymer products and is used in the production of many popular items including plastic bottles, plastic lumber, and corrosion resistant piping. High density polyethylene can withstand high temperatures, and it is a very hard product. High density polyethylene was first experimented with in the 1930s during World War II. It was used in the application of high frequency radar cables during the war, and because of its success it gave way to commercial production. Polyethylene is one of the most widely uses plastics world wide, with production in the billions of pounds each year. 

There are many advantages of high density polyethylene. It is impact and wear resistant, it is flexible, and it can have a very high elongation before breaking. Because of these properties it is a favorite choice when wrapping and shipping food. Plastic milk jugs are one of the most common items produced from high density polyethylene. The product can sustain cold temperatures, and high density polyethylene lends itself particularly well to blow molding for forming milk jugs. 

For companies that are in the business of manufacturing plastic bottles, piping, or plastic lumber it is important to find a reliable source for purchasing high density polyethylene. Because HDPE is an industrial product, it must be bought in bulk from reliable companies with the license to manufacture and sell it. High density polyethylene is a product that is needed and used world wide, therefore pricing can be very competitive. By shopping around and doing your research, you can find the most reputable and budget friendly source. 

Posted on behalf of The King Group, Inc.

Nov
21

Industrial Polymer Products

Polymer is used in a great number of products that are used daily by every person and company in theUnited Statesand beyond.  Examples of the uses of polymers include plastics, which need to be strong, as well as coatings that prevent sticking and nylon.  Examples of polymer products include High Density Polyethylene and Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene. 

High Density Polyethylene or HDPE, as it is also known, is used to manufacture products such as pipe, plastic bottles, plastic lumber, hard hats and fuel tanks for vehicles.  The nature of the product makes it very resistant to high temperatures and much harder than polypropylene products.  The product has a high strength to density ration and is also recyclable. 

Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene or UHMW, as it is also known, is the strongest product of its type available in the marketplace.  The benefits of the material include its lack of odor and that it is non toxic.  In addition, it is highly resistant to strong chemicals and abrasion.  In fact, the product is six times more abrasion resistant that steel.  The product does not become brittle at extreme temperatures and is usable in temperatures ranging from -155°F to +200°F!  

An experienced industrial product company will be able to provide expert guidance on the best polymer product available at the best possible price, to meet the needs of the manufacturer.  The manufacturer’s representatives are highly trained in the subject and can assist in the selection of the best polymer products available in the marketplace!

Posted on behalf of The King Group

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