When two different types of metals are joined together, a process called ELECTROLYSIS can occur. Also known as galvanic corrosion, electrolysis happens when two dissimilar metals are directly connected, causing the lesser of the two metals to corrode. For the process to occur, the two metals must also come into contact with a conductive electrolyte. Ultimately, this can result in damage to the joint, causing the metals to fail.

The Differences Between VMI and CMI

Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) and Customer Managed Inventory (CMI) are inventory management programs that differ in responsibility for managing inventory. 

In a VMI program, the vendor (supplier) is responsible for managing the customer's inventory levels. The vendor collects customer usage data from sales forecasts, inventory levels, or other key metrics to determine when and how much product to deliver. In a VMI program, the vendor takes on the responsibility, and subsequent risk, of maintaining appropriate stock levels to balance inventory with costs for optimal cash flow. The customer benefits from a more streamlined supply chain and reduced inventory holding costs while having to invest less time and personnel resources into inventory management.  

Specific benefits of a VMI program include but are not limited to the following: 

• - A completely hands-off approach to inventory management 

• - Vending technology can be used to track usage and reduce cost 
• - An overall reduction of in-house inventory means less cash is tied up in inventory 
• - Vendor consolidation means a reduction in transactions and invoices 
• - Point-of-use inventory and in-house tool crib management streamline your production processes, saving additional time and money. 

Big Solutions for Tiny Houses

In the last decade, thanks to social media, we have been able to follow the rise of the tiny house movement. This tiny living lifestyle, which includes tiny homes, van conversions, and other mobile housing alternatives, has grown in popularity.  

If you want to go tiny, you are entering a vast world of possibility. Tiny living is a great choice for young people, retirees, digital nomads, and families looking to simplify their day-to-day life or hit the road for big adventures and a roaming lifestyle. 

The possibilities are endless. Live wherever you want to save money and space, simplify your lifestyle, and see the world from your front door.

Whether you're going off-road, off the grid, or off to work, you want to be sure your vehicle has the right gear for the day's adventure. We know how important it is to have a reliable, safe ride and one well-equipped for the day's journey- whatever that may be. You work hard, and your truck should work equally as hard for you.

With the costs of fuel and products rising – you want to be sure your truck is in it for the long haul. Protecting your vehicle with the right products not only preserves the life of your truck but it gives you peace of mind. There are several easy ways to ensure your truck is in top shape. Most manufacturers have a recommended list of maintenance items at mileage intervals to help make sure your vehicle is working correctly and has a long life span.

One of the best ways to take care of your vehicle is to stay up to date on routine maintenance – Staying up to date on recommended factory maintenance is crucial to the longevity of your vehicle. A preventative maintenance schedule keeps you from dealing with costly repairs down the line.

A simple maintenance checklist will help you stay on track for repairs and maintenance for commercial vehicles, trucks, and vans, or your adventure vehicle or pickup truck. Below is a list of five easy things you can do to take care of your vehicle.

We're always looking for ways to improve our lives through the products we use. We seek products that make tasks easy, work better and faster, last longer, cost less, feel good to use, and make us feel good.

In business, manufacturers look to add components to their end products that improve their customers' lives and solve problems, adding value and giving them a competitive advantage. But that search can be complicated as many affordable, readily available components are highly commoditized, making those unique, differentiating products a challenge to find.

The answer could lie in the design of custom components that can solve your unique problem, help your end product stand out, and give you a competitive advantage. 

The Genesis™ Power Plate from Austin Hardware® – A Green Solution for Your Business.

Austin Hardware® is excited to introduce an eco-friendly solution for your vehicle– the Power Plate by Genesis™. Our new line of products includes an inverter charger and lithium-ion batteries. With these products, you can power tools, equipment, and accessories, including air-conditioning, on any utility vehicle without idling the engine.

If you want to extend the life of your vehicle and save on fuel costs with an easy, greener energy source, keep reading below.

Welcome to the 7th Annual Austin Hardware Charity Football Pool UPDATES Page

Check back here every week during the season for a recap of the week's action and to see how many of our players advanced.

Updates are usually posted on Tuesday.

Registration is now open for the 7th annual Austin Hardware Charity Football Pool.