Guides

Engineering guides that open real tools

Short, practical notes on materials, manufacturing, and machine elements — each one linked to a live AluCalc module so theory never sits alone.

MaterialsMass

Why 2.70 g/cm³ is wrong for production

5083 and 7075 differ by ~5.6% in density. How the freshman rule-of-thumb breaks weight quotes, shipping, and BOM cost.

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ManufacturingCost

Kerf loss & bar nesting

Laser, plasma, waterjet, and saw kerf widths — and how many parts fit on a 6 m stock with remnant waste.

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MaterialsCompare

6061-T6 vs 7075-T6

Strength, weldability, corrosion, and density trade-offs. When aerospace strength is the wrong pick for fabricators.

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Fasteners

Bolt preload (VDI 2230 overview)

Preload, friction, and proof load — open the VDI-oriented bolt torque calculator for numbers, not just theory.

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Bearings

Bearing L10 life (ISO 281)

Dynamic load rating, equivalent load, and life modification — jump to the ISO 281 module for L10h.

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Structural

Beam deflection basics

Simple supported and cantilever cases — validate hand calcs against the interactive beam module.

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Start from data, not slogans

Browse alloy datasheets with real densities, compare grades side-by-side, or jump into the full calculator hub.

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