Hello. Have you ever wanted to speak like a highly skilled tradesperson but could never quite find the right words? Conversational Tradespeak 101 will help you talk-the-talk with no trades experience necessary. Each week we will look at some common, and not so common, trade terms. We will define the term before putting it to use in everyday conversation. We will also misuse the term for no particular reason other than a mild form of entertainment.
Term: Frog
Trade: Masonry
Definition: A perforation or hole on the long face of a brick made with the object of forming an indentation for the mortar. This hollow depression also reduces the weight and makes it easier to handle. The depth of the frog is usually between 10 to 20 mm. Frogged bricks should lay with the frog upward and fill up with mortar. The reason is to obtain higher strength, stability, and sound insulation.
Proper Usage: “Frog bricks are the only way to go. I’ve always said that, way before it was trendy.”
Improper Usage: “I built a pond recently and made sure I used only frog bricks to not disturbs the frogs. I want them to enjoy the pond as well. That’s just how I am.”
Term: Bun Foot
Trade: Cabinetry
Definition: A round, decorative furniture foot.
Proper Usage: “Those bun feet really make that armoire stand out. It’s the perfect touch.”
Improper Usage: “We all know Wayne has trouble walking long distances or anywhere in a shopping mall because of his bun foot.”
Term: Double Pole
Trade: Electrician
Definition: Double pole: A electrical switch with two blades allowing simultaneous opening or closing both sides of a circuit.
Proper usage: “Hey Randy, you got it all wrong. A double-pole switch is like two separate single-pole switches that are mechanically operated by the same lever, knob, or button. A double-throw switch connects an input terminal to one of two output terminals. Pretty cool if you take the time to really consider the implications of this.”
Improper Usage: “It’s been a crazy day mister bartender. I’ll have a tall cold pole and make it a double. Double pole. Neat with no ice.”
Term: Knurling
Trade: Tool and Die Maker
Definition: Knurling is a manufacturing process, typically conducted on a lathe, whereby a pattern of straight, angled or crossed lines is rolled into the material.
Proper Usage: According to the patterns produced, the knurled portions are called straight knurling, cross knurling or spiral knurling.
Improper Usage: “Knurling is like curling but only on your knees.”
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