CNC Machines (Computer Numerical Control)

CNC machines are automated tools controlled by computer programs to perform precise machining operations.

Subtypes include:

• Mills: Used for cutting, drilling, and shaping solid materials.
• Lathes: Used for turning cylindrical parts and creating symmetrical shapes.
• Grinders: Used for precision grinding and surface finishing.
• EDMs (Electrical Discharge Machines): Used for shaping materials using electrical discharges.
• Machining centres: Versatile machines capable of performing multiple machining operations.

3D Printers

3D printers create three-dimensional objects from digital models by depositing materials layer by layer.

Subtypes include:

• FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling): Uses thermoplastic filaments melted and deposited layer by layer.
• SLA (Stereolithography): Uses a UV laser to solidify liquid resin layer by layer.
• SLS (Selective Laser Sintering): Uses a laser to fuse powdered material layer by layer.
• MJF (Multi Jet Fusion): Uses agents and heat to fuse powder material layer by layer.

Milling Machines

Milling machines remove material from a workpiece by rotating a cutting tool.

Subtypes include:

• Vertical Mills: The spindle is perpendicular to the worktable.
• Horizontal Mills: The spindle is parallel to the worktable.

Welding Equipment

Welding equipment joins materials together using heat or pressure.

Subtypes include:

• MIG (Metal Inert Gas) Welding: Uses a wire electrode and inert gas shield.
• TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) Welding: Uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and inert gas shield.
• Spot Welding: Joins metal sheets by applying pressure and electrical current.
• Laser Welding: Joins materials using a focused laser beam.

Metals and Alloys

• Iron ore: Used as the primary source for steel production.
• Aluminium ore (bauxite): Essential for producing aluminium, widely used in construction, transportation, and packaging.
• Copper, zinc, and lead ores: Used in various industrial applications, including electrical wiring, plumbing, and batteries.

Plastics and Polymers

• Crude oil: Acts as a source material for petrochemicals, which are then processed to produce various types of plastics and polymers.
• Polyethene, polypropylene, PVC, and other polymers: Versatile materials used in packaging, construction, automotive, and consumer goods industries.

Chemical

• Petrochemicals: Derived from crude oil and used as raw materials in the production of plastics, synthetic fibres, and various industrial chemicals.
• Industrial chemicals: Includes sulfuric acid, ammonia, and other chemicals used in manufacturing processes.
• Speciality chemicals: Tailored for specific applications such as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and speciality coatings.

Semiconductors

Semiconductors are materials with electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator. They are used to make electronic devices like diodes and transistors.

Passive Components

Passive components do not require a power source to function and include resistors, capacitors, inductors, and transformers. They are used to control the flow of electricity in a circuit.

Active Components

Active components require a power source to operate and include diodes, transistors, and thyristors. They are used to amplify signals or control the flow of electricity.

Integrated Circuits (ICs)

ICs are miniaturized electronic circuits consisting of interconnected electronic components on a semiconductor wafer or chip. They include various types of specialized circuits such as operational amplifiers, microcontrollers, and voltage regulators.

Motors and Actuators

Motors and actuators convert electrical energy into mechanical motion. DC motors, stepper motors, servo motors, and solenoids are examples of electromechanical devices used in various applications.

Electromechanical Components

Electromechanical components convert electrical energy into mechanical motion or vice versa. They include relays, switches, connectors, wires, cables, and crystals.