Salisbury now has a shelter capable of housing hundreds of people during disasters resulting in widespread power outages.
"Hopefully, we'll never need it," said Frank Thomason, Rowan County's director of emergency services. But just in case the county is hit by another disaster like the ice storm of 2002, people without power for extended periods could take shelter at the J.F Hurley Family YMCA on Jake Alexander Boulevard.
Thanks to a communitywide effort, the Y now has an emergency generator and can house 700 people, probably more, providing them with heat and water in a disaster situation. Over the past five years, Thomason said, community leaders have been going through various preparedness surveys to determine if Rowan County is ready for a disaster.
As part of that process, he said the Y was identified — because of its large size and central location — as a primary disaster shelter site. "One of the things that it lacked and needed, particularly in a disaster situation, was some form of emergency power," he said.
That's where Rowan Regional Medical Center officials stepped in, he said, offering to donate two 750-kilowattt emergency generators that were replaced as part of their building/renovation projects.
Rick Parker, vice president of clinical and support services for the medical center, said larger generators were needed to support the modern imaging equipment being used to diagnose patients.
Even though the generators are 20 years old, he said they were used very little. The last time was during the 2002 ice storm. "I think we ran three straight days before our power came back on."
Parker said the generators, worth about $50,000 each, were tested monthly while in place at Rowan Regional.
After accepting the generous donation, Thomason said community leaders working on preparedness still had to come up with the money to install them at the Y.
Jamie Morgan, chief executive officer of the YMCA of Rowan County, said the Y received two separate grants from the Philip Morris Employee Fund to cover the $40,000 installation cost for each generator. The cost of filling the generators with diesel fuel — almost $7,000 — was funded by a grant from the Rowan County United Way to the Elizabeth Hanford Dole Chapter of the American Red Cross.
The city of Salisbury, Rowan County, Salisbury-Rowan Utilities and Duke Energy also contributed to the project.
"It was a big community effort," Morgan said, "a partnership between a lot of different groups to make this happen. It's a great example of how when you get several people working together for one good common cause, something great can happen."
The generators are in working order, he said. They've both been tested and will continue to be tested on a monthly basis.
Thomason said everything is in place for the Y to serve as a primary emergency shelter. "If we had a situation that we needed to use it tonight, we certainly would be able to do that."
A dedication of the generators is scheduled for Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the Y. "We are just taking a moment to formally recognize all the entities that were involved," he said, "and to thank them for their continued participation in our preparedness program."
Parker said a lot of work went on behind the scenes to get the generators in place, including electrical engineers volunteering their time to get them up and working. "The YMCA would have never been able to raise the money, I don't think, to purchase something like this and get it installed."
The timing couldn't be more appropriate, he noted, with Hurricane Gustav approaching the United States. "Now that we've had (Hurricane) Katrina and all, we know the value of having emergency power," Parker said. "You can't wait until an event occurs to do something about it."
Though the Y has served as a shelter in the past when it was located in the old facility on North Fulton, Morgan said it did not have an emergency generator and was not able to provide heat or water. With the new generators, he said it will be a place where people can go in a disaster situation.
"I'm just thankful for us to be able to serve the community in a different way than how we traditionally serve with the YMCA," he said.
Thomason said preparedness planning is an ongoing process in Rowan County. There are presently about 20 designated emergency shelter sites at different locations throughout the county.
"We are working toward being able to have identified shelter space for 10 percent of our population," he said. "We're reaching out to the communities across the county to continue to identify shelter locations now and into the future."
Friday, September 26, 2008
Petrol pumps get extra diesel, put strike on hold
Petrol pump dealers have put on hold their proposed strike after oil companies increased their diesel supply marginally in the last week. “They have been supplying about 15-25 per cent additional diesel. This has eased the shortage slightly,” said Baba Dhumal, president of the District Petrol Pump Dealers’ Association.
Last week, Dhumal had said pumps were running losses because oil companies were not supplying enough diesel. On Monday, pump dealers and oil companies will meet to discuss further ways to bridge the demand-supply gap.
A number of factors, such as preparations for the Commonwealth Youth Games, have spiked he demand. “Also, load shedding was responsible for additional demand in the last few months. IT and other companies were buying a lot of diesel to keep their generators running. This has reduced in the past few weeks,”
Last week, Dhumal had said pumps were running losses because oil companies were not supplying enough diesel. On Monday, pump dealers and oil companies will meet to discuss further ways to bridge the demand-supply gap.
A number of factors, such as preparations for the Commonwealth Youth Games, have spiked he demand. “Also, load shedding was responsible for additional demand in the last few months. IT and other companies were buying a lot of diesel to keep their generators running. This has reduced in the past few weeks,”
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Industrial Cable Suppliers of electrical cables
Industrial Cable Suppliers is the top supplier and manufacturer of electrical cables for which you have been searching for, offering the very best in quality cables, and world class customer services. Industrial Cable Suppliers, operating now for many a year, are the electrical cable experts as chosen by many, offering:
• Largest stockholding of electrical cables and wire products
• Urgent response at the best price
Contact Industrial Cable Suppliers for the best in electrical cables.
Contact Details of Industrial Cable Suppliers:
Telephone: 011 683 3203
Fax: 011 434 1956
• Largest stockholding of electrical cables and wire products
• Urgent response at the best price
Contact Industrial Cable Suppliers for the best in electrical cables.
Contact Details of Industrial Cable Suppliers:
Telephone: 011 683 3203
Fax: 011 434 1956
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Why You Need Hard Milling in Plastic Injection Mold Making
One of the best ways to save time and money in injection mold making is by using hard milling techniques. In fact, if you are not already hard milling, you will soon find yourself at a distinct competitive disadvantage.
Why use hard milling?
* To save time
* Reduce set ups
* Eliminate a great deal of EDM work
* Eliminate hand fitting, especially of contoured shut-off surfaces
* Produce a surface that is much more true to the CAD model
* Eliminate a great deal of stoning and polishing
* Move work through the shop more quickly
* Eliminate many grinding steps
* Shorten delivery dates
Those are some pretty compelling reasons to use hard milling! After all, who doesn't want to achieve any or all of the above benefits?
Do you need specialized CNC milling machines?
Yes, and no. No, you don't have to go out and buy a half million dollar vertical milling machine, in fact, you can do a lot on a basic Bridgeport type of machine. But, if you are serious about hard milling, you should definitely invest in a machine that is designed for this purpose.
You need a CNC milling machine that is rigid enough to withstand the forces generated by the high spindle speeds, rapid feed rates and the vibrations caused during machining. Nowadays there are many high quality machines that are specifically designed for high speed milling and hard milling.
A CNC milling machine used for hard milling should have
* A column and base that is heavy
* Box ways with linear roller bearings
* A spindle that is core cooled
* Ball screws that are dual supported
* Thermal stability and structural rigidity
Do you need specialized software?
Again, yes and no. No, you don't need CAD/CAM software that is engineered specifically for hard milling. But your quality will suffer as a consequence.
This is because the requirements for hard milling are different than conventional milling of soft steel. The typical software will cause the cutter to move in a jerky manner, which will shorten tool life dramatically and fail to achieve the desired accuracy and surface finish.
Some other tool path requirements are
* The need to control how the cutter enters and exits the cut
* The need to maintain a steady, constant chip load
* Ensure that the shock conditions for each roughing and finishing pass are maintained
The idea is to produce a surface that is true to the model, dimensionally accurate, has a good surface finish and do it quickly! Sounds like a lot to ask, but it is done everyday by progressive mold making shops around the world. Having the right software is essential.
What about the spindle?
The cutting tool and the tool holder act as one unit. The spindle must be able to protect the integrity of this unit. Therefore, it must be designed for the high speeds that are necessary. Direct drive spindles are called for in hard milling applications. Gear and belt driven spindles are not advised. The control of heat and vibration is also extremely important.
The importance of the spindle cannot be overlooked because it is the link between the machine tool and the cutter. If the spindle is inadequate, the entire process will suffer greatly.
Do you need special CNC tooling?
Shrink fit tool holders and an HSK interface are mandatory for hard milling. Sure, you can use other methods, but this combination has proven to be very effective. These tool holders are the most accurate available today and they are very easy to use.
The HSK interface is simply the most accurate, secure and stiff type in use today. Failing to use the proper tool holders will shorten tool life dramatically because the chip load will fall on on flute and quickly cause premature wear.
Why use hard milling?
* To save time
* Reduce set ups
* Eliminate a great deal of EDM work
* Eliminate hand fitting, especially of contoured shut-off surfaces
* Produce a surface that is much more true to the CAD model
* Eliminate a great deal of stoning and polishing
* Move work through the shop more quickly
* Eliminate many grinding steps
* Shorten delivery dates
Those are some pretty compelling reasons to use hard milling! After all, who doesn't want to achieve any or all of the above benefits?
Do you need specialized CNC milling machines?
Yes, and no. No, you don't have to go out and buy a half million dollar vertical milling machine, in fact, you can do a lot on a basic Bridgeport type of machine. But, if you are serious about hard milling, you should definitely invest in a machine that is designed for this purpose.
You need a CNC milling machine that is rigid enough to withstand the forces generated by the high spindle speeds, rapid feed rates and the vibrations caused during machining. Nowadays there are many high quality machines that are specifically designed for high speed milling and hard milling.
A CNC milling machine used for hard milling should have
* A column and base that is heavy
* Box ways with linear roller bearings
* A spindle that is core cooled
* Ball screws that are dual supported
* Thermal stability and structural rigidity
Do you need specialized software?
Again, yes and no. No, you don't need CAD/CAM software that is engineered specifically for hard milling. But your quality will suffer as a consequence.
This is because the requirements for hard milling are different than conventional milling of soft steel. The typical software will cause the cutter to move in a jerky manner, which will shorten tool life dramatically and fail to achieve the desired accuracy and surface finish.
Some other tool path requirements are
* The need to control how the cutter enters and exits the cut
* The need to maintain a steady, constant chip load
* Ensure that the shock conditions for each roughing and finishing pass are maintained
The idea is to produce a surface that is true to the model, dimensionally accurate, has a good surface finish and do it quickly! Sounds like a lot to ask, but it is done everyday by progressive mold making shops around the world. Having the right software is essential.
What about the spindle?
The cutting tool and the tool holder act as one unit. The spindle must be able to protect the integrity of this unit. Therefore, it must be designed for the high speeds that are necessary. Direct drive spindles are called for in hard milling applications. Gear and belt driven spindles are not advised. The control of heat and vibration is also extremely important.
The importance of the spindle cannot be overlooked because it is the link between the machine tool and the cutter. If the spindle is inadequate, the entire process will suffer greatly.
Do you need special CNC tooling?
Shrink fit tool holders and an HSK interface are mandatory for hard milling. Sure, you can use other methods, but this combination has proven to be very effective. These tool holders are the most accurate available today and they are very easy to use.
The HSK interface is simply the most accurate, secure and stiff type in use today. Failing to use the proper tool holders will shorten tool life dramatically because the chip load will fall on on flute and quickly cause premature wear.
Modern Era Molding Machines and Industrial Machines
Molding
Molding is the process of manufacturing shaping pliable raw material by using a rigid frame or model called a mold. The manufacturer who makes the mold is called moldmaker. Mold maker use different kinds of machine in molding process.
Types of Molding Machines
Blow moldingis a manufacturing process by which hollow plastic parts are formed. There are main types of machine use for blow molding. Extrusion blow moulding machine adopts high quality components with both pneumatic and mechanical systems, and it is suitable for producing PE, PP and PC container products. Blow injection molding machine are widely used in medicine packing, the cosmetic packing, making up chemical industry, gifts & toys and so on. Stretch blow molding machine three steps in one from raw material to bottle finish product no more loss in damaged perform. Pet blow molding machine is used in bottling process of mineral water, soft drinks, edible oil and farm chemicals.
Mould machines manufacturer makes different kind of machine for molding process like candle moulding machine for make candles, pulp moulding machine for make egg trays, fruit trays and pallets. In-mold labeling machine is perfect equipment of many industries, such as lubricating oil bucket, dressing bottle, civil packing industry, etc.
China Molds
China is the largest producer of injection mould machines in the world and in fact it ranked 1st in the world. In the past few years injection mould machine producers have got greatly improved on technology. However compared with those in developed countries injection mould machines in China still have a way to catch up on technology and varieties. In detail there is still not little blank on such varieties as super-large or special precision injection mould machines; meanwhile self-support rate of home-made injection mould machines for products processing, most adopt imported injection mould machines. Totally research and manufacturing of injection mould machines cannot still satisfy demands brought by development of plastics industry in China.
Molding is the process of manufacturing shaping pliable raw material by using a rigid frame or model called a mold. The manufacturer who makes the mold is called moldmaker. Mold maker use different kinds of machine in molding process.
Types of Molding Machines
Blow moldingis a manufacturing process by which hollow plastic parts are formed. There are main types of machine use for blow molding. Extrusion blow moulding machine adopts high quality components with both pneumatic and mechanical systems, and it is suitable for producing PE, PP and PC container products. Blow injection molding machine are widely used in medicine packing, the cosmetic packing, making up chemical industry, gifts & toys and so on. Stretch blow molding machine three steps in one from raw material to bottle finish product no more loss in damaged perform. Pet blow molding machine is used in bottling process of mineral water, soft drinks, edible oil and farm chemicals.
Mould machines manufacturer makes different kind of machine for molding process like candle moulding machine for make candles, pulp moulding machine for make egg trays, fruit trays and pallets. In-mold labeling machine is perfect equipment of many industries, such as lubricating oil bucket, dressing bottle, civil packing industry, etc.
China Molds
China is the largest producer of injection mould machines in the world and in fact it ranked 1st in the world. In the past few years injection mould machine producers have got greatly improved on technology. However compared with those in developed countries injection mould machines in China still have a way to catch up on technology and varieties. In detail there is still not little blank on such varieties as super-large or special precision injection mould machines; meanwhile self-support rate of home-made injection mould machines for products processing, most adopt imported injection mould machines. Totally research and manufacturing of injection mould machines cannot still satisfy demands brought by development of plastics industry in China.
Safety Comes First
Mobile cranes are responsible for a large portion of accidents, injuries, and fatalities. An organization should be aware of the hazards involved in mobile crane operations. It is the employer's responsibility to provide training for all phases of safe crane operations and load handling. It is an employer's responsibility to ensure that all proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are utilized in crane operations.
Loads that are dropped by mobile cranes pose a severe hazard to any personnel involved in crane operations. The manufacturer's rated capacity shall never be exceeded, no matter what the reason. A mobile crane operator has the authority to refuse to lift any load if there is any question as to safety, the weight of the load, or any other reason. Per ASME B30.5-2007, it is the operator's responsibility to consult with the person in charge of the lift, or the site supervisor, and not lift until safety is assured. A load indicating device is a tool that is meant to assist an operator in not exceeding a crane's rated capacity, but is not meant to replace the operator's common sense and judgment. An organization should insure they are calibrated annually. A mobile crane operator should insure that the loads are rigged correctly and that the load hook is placed over the center of gravity of the load prior to lifting it. The person in charge of the lift shall inspect all sling and rigging hardware that is to be used.
When two or more cranes are used to lift one load, one designated person shall be responsible for the operation. That person shall analyze the operation and instruct all personnel involved in the proper positioning, rigging of the load, and the movements to be made. Decisions such as the necessity to reduce crane ratings, load position, boom location, ground support, and speed of movement shall be in accordance with this analysis.
Cranes coming into contact with energized overhead power lines are the number one killer of ground personnel in the United States. Prior to beginning work, a site safety analysis should be conducted where all potential hazards are identified and marked..
All lines should be considered energized unless the owning utility has provided written documentation stating that they are indeed de-energized. Always maintain the required clearances from electrical lines and sources as specified by ASME B30.5 and the applicable OSHA Regulation.
Operators should use an audible warning and operating signal device to notify workers of crane movement. If the operator has a limited view, a trained, qualified signal should direct the crane operations. No one shall be permitted to ride on the load or load hook. The load hook shall be secured when the crane is in transit to prevent side loading on the boom and possible boom damage. Lack of proper training is a major cause of accidents. Mobile crane operator training, in accordance with ASME B30.5, is required for all operators.
Loads that are dropped by mobile cranes pose a severe hazard to any personnel involved in crane operations. The manufacturer's rated capacity shall never be exceeded, no matter what the reason. A mobile crane operator has the authority to refuse to lift any load if there is any question as to safety, the weight of the load, or any other reason. Per ASME B30.5-2007, it is the operator's responsibility to consult with the person in charge of the lift, or the site supervisor, and not lift until safety is assured. A load indicating device is a tool that is meant to assist an operator in not exceeding a crane's rated capacity, but is not meant to replace the operator's common sense and judgment. An organization should insure they are calibrated annually. A mobile crane operator should insure that the loads are rigged correctly and that the load hook is placed over the center of gravity of the load prior to lifting it. The person in charge of the lift shall inspect all sling and rigging hardware that is to be used.
When two or more cranes are used to lift one load, one designated person shall be responsible for the operation. That person shall analyze the operation and instruct all personnel involved in the proper positioning, rigging of the load, and the movements to be made. Decisions such as the necessity to reduce crane ratings, load position, boom location, ground support, and speed of movement shall be in accordance with this analysis.
Cranes coming into contact with energized overhead power lines are the number one killer of ground personnel in the United States. Prior to beginning work, a site safety analysis should be conducted where all potential hazards are identified and marked..
All lines should be considered energized unless the owning utility has provided written documentation stating that they are indeed de-energized. Always maintain the required clearances from electrical lines and sources as specified by ASME B30.5 and the applicable OSHA Regulation.
Operators should use an audible warning and operating signal device to notify workers of crane movement. If the operator has a limited view, a trained, qualified signal should direct the crane operations. No one shall be permitted to ride on the load or load hook. The load hook shall be secured when the crane is in transit to prevent side loading on the boom and possible boom damage. Lack of proper training is a major cause of accidents. Mobile crane operator training, in accordance with ASME B30.5, is required for all operators.
Thermal Shock in Industrial Ceramics
There are many reasons for thermal shock failure in industrial applications of ceramics. On analysis they usually come down to one or more of the following factors.
* Material selection
* Material processing
* Design of component
Application/use of the product
It is often possible to improve the performance by changing one or more of these but as with all ceramic applications thermal shock is only part of the equation and changes must be looked at in context of all the performance requirements.
When designing any product in ceramic it is necessary to look at the overall requirement and often then to find the best compromise that will work.
In high temperature applications, thermal shock is often the main cause of failure. It is comprised of a combination of thermal expansion, thermal conductivity and strength. Rapid changes in temperature both up and down cause temperature differentials within the part, not unlike a crack occurring by putting an ice cube against a hot glass. Movement through differing expansion/contraction leads to cracking and failure.
There are no simple answers to the thermal shock issue however the following guidelines do tend to be beneficial.
* Select a material grade that has some inherent thermal shock characteristics but meets the needs of the application. Silicon carbides and silicates are excellent. Alumina based products are less good but can be improved with the right design.
* Porous products are generally better than impervious and will take larger changes in temperature.
* Thin walled products perform better than thick wall. Also avoid large transitions in thickness throughout the part. Sectional parts may be better as this provides less mass and offers a Pre cracked design alleviating stress raisers.
* Minimise the use of sharp corners as these provide ideal starting points for cracks.
* Avoid tension loading of the ceramic. Parts can be pre stressed through design to help alleviate this problem.
* Where possible look at the application process to see if it is possible to provide a more gentle change in temperature. Pre heating the ceramic or reducing the rate of temperature change.
The above points will help alleviate thermal shock problems but it is always best to discuss the situation with experts in the field.
* Material selection
* Material processing
* Design of component
Application/use of the product
It is often possible to improve the performance by changing one or more of these but as with all ceramic applications thermal shock is only part of the equation and changes must be looked at in context of all the performance requirements.
When designing any product in ceramic it is necessary to look at the overall requirement and often then to find the best compromise that will work.
In high temperature applications, thermal shock is often the main cause of failure. It is comprised of a combination of thermal expansion, thermal conductivity and strength. Rapid changes in temperature both up and down cause temperature differentials within the part, not unlike a crack occurring by putting an ice cube against a hot glass. Movement through differing expansion/contraction leads to cracking and failure.
There are no simple answers to the thermal shock issue however the following guidelines do tend to be beneficial.
* Select a material grade that has some inherent thermal shock characteristics but meets the needs of the application. Silicon carbides and silicates are excellent. Alumina based products are less good but can be improved with the right design.
* Porous products are generally better than impervious and will take larger changes in temperature.
* Thin walled products perform better than thick wall. Also avoid large transitions in thickness throughout the part. Sectional parts may be better as this provides less mass and offers a Pre cracked design alleviating stress raisers.
* Minimise the use of sharp corners as these provide ideal starting points for cracks.
* Avoid tension loading of the ceramic. Parts can be pre stressed through design to help alleviate this problem.
* Where possible look at the application process to see if it is possible to provide a more gentle change in temperature. Pre heating the ceramic or reducing the rate of temperature change.
The above points will help alleviate thermal shock problems but it is always best to discuss the situation with experts in the field.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
How to Make Portable Welding Curtains
If you don't care about being safe and the safety of others around you while you weld, then you are an inconsiderate Putz and you don't want to read what I have to say here.
But if you are interested in protecting the eyesight of others with a one-time small investment of time and money, then read on.
I am talking about making portable welding curtains out of conduit, square tubing, angle iron, or even PVC pipe. A portable welding screen that will block UV light but still let the welder to see possible dangers like a forklift going by or an overhead crane getting too close.
Most welders make the frames for their portable welding screen from metal because..I mean..hello! they are welders.
The first thing to do is determine the size of the actual welding curtain. Then measure and cut the metal to make a rectangle that is slightly bigger than the welding curtain without the frame.
Then cut 2 pieces for the outrigger legs that support the stand for the welding screen. Square up the rectangle and weld. The attach the bottom outrigger legs. I have seen some portable welding screens that have 4 large ball bearings welded on to let them slide easily in the floor. I have also seen very small casters attached to allow for easy movement. But none of this is necessary. The portable welding blind will be very light and easy to move around.
Once you are done welding, get some zip ties and fasten the welding curtain to the frame.
You are done. In less than one hour you can easily complete a portable welding screen from start to finish.
Now that is a worthwhile investment.
To Learn more about Portable Welding Curtains and the Sizes available, visit http://www.weldingtipsandtricks.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jody_Collier
But if you are interested in protecting the eyesight of others with a one-time small investment of time and money, then read on.
I am talking about making portable welding curtains out of conduit, square tubing, angle iron, or even PVC pipe. A portable welding screen that will block UV light but still let the welder to see possible dangers like a forklift going by or an overhead crane getting too close.
Most welders make the frames for their portable welding screen from metal because..I mean..hello! they are welders.
The first thing to do is determine the size of the actual welding curtain. Then measure and cut the metal to make a rectangle that is slightly bigger than the welding curtain without the frame.
Then cut 2 pieces for the outrigger legs that support the stand for the welding screen. Square up the rectangle and weld. The attach the bottom outrigger legs. I have seen some portable welding screens that have 4 large ball bearings welded on to let them slide easily in the floor. I have also seen very small casters attached to allow for easy movement. But none of this is necessary. The portable welding blind will be very light and easy to move around.
Once you are done welding, get some zip ties and fasten the welding curtain to the frame.
You are done. In less than one hour you can easily complete a portable welding screen from start to finish.
Now that is a worthwhile investment.
To Learn more about Portable Welding Curtains and the Sizes available, visit http://www.weldingtipsandtricks.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jody_Collier
Thinking Thin For the Challenges of Super-Small Technology
Okay, so in the past six months we have had two news stories dealing with new materials that are incomprehensibly thin.
First, there is the breakthrough (also covered on NPR) about a new fabric that is by far the blackest material on earth, absorbing almost all light. This material is composed of nanotubes that are, according to Reuters, 400 times thinner than a strand of hair. The head of the project, Rice University's Pulickel Ajayan, was previously best known for getting in the Guiness of Book of World Records for inventing the world's smallest brush. Which, we guess, would come in handy for dealing with those way-thinner-than-hair fibers.
The second story was an item in Design News about advances in the production of graphenes, which are described as a literally two-dimensional substance, even thinner than the nanotubes Dr. Ajayan is using for his blacker-than-black fabric which, tiny as they are, still have more than one dimension. Being literally two dimensional - a state of being we didn't even know was possible until we saw this story, graphenes are mindbogglingly tiny:
We are surrounded by three-dimensional matter and until three years ago we only knew of three-dimensional materials, even carbon nanotubes; it looks very thin, but itís still a cylinder rolled up,î says [Prof. Andre] Geim. ìWe encountered a sort of paradigm of two-dimensional matter, absolutely single layer of atoms in a very high-quality lattice; this is the thinnest possible material in our universe. Nothing thinner can exist.
That's pretty thin. But so what? Well, it turns out that with great smallness comes great strength.
On the nanoscale itís tougher than any other material we know; its bond is stronger than diamonds, so if you make a thin layer of diamond it wouldn't be as strong as graphene.
On a less mindboggling level, we also of course have the big product from MacWorld, the MacBook Air.
Even this last, relatively prosaic product - like all modern computers - involves really small things doing very big jobs in such a way that very few laypeople can begin to comprehend. Almost everyone these days can use a computer, and more and more of us may be able to program a computer, but how many of us actually understand how they work at the micro level? Lots of people can fix a car, but only a few truly understand the physics and electronics involved in today's automobiles. And how many people can actually fully understand even this blog post on another super-small technology?
And, returning to the nanotubes and graphenes above, these are really just two more examples of the kind of increasingly unimaginable actors that have been discovered over the last 1.5 centuries. Bacteria, viruses, radio waves, microwaves, and the atom - these are all aspects of nature it would be easy for nonscientists to believe were figments of the imagination were the results not so clearly tangible.
So what? Well, the world of design and engineering is inherently a largely technical world, but it still needs to communicate clearly with less technical consumers and businesspeople who may never completely get over their future shock. There's already a communication gap, and it's bound to grow. However, we also now we have an imagination gap as fewer and fewer people can even grasp how a product comprised of difficult to describe objects can work.
Of course, once people are convinced a product is safe and works effectively and/or will make them a profit, they'll gladly use it or sell it without understanding it. Still, with controversies already raging over nanotechnology and genetically engineered foods to name just two examples, we're going to see more and more caution and confusion as the divide between techies and non-techies grows ever wider. Fortunately, we like challenges.
Darren Saravis is president of Nectar Product Development, an award-winning product development consultancy established in 1992 that helps its clients create products that connect to their users and expand their markets. Learn more at http://www.nectardesign.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_Saravis
First, there is the breakthrough (also covered on NPR) about a new fabric that is by far the blackest material on earth, absorbing almost all light. This material is composed of nanotubes that are, according to Reuters, 400 times thinner than a strand of hair. The head of the project, Rice University's Pulickel Ajayan, was previously best known for getting in the Guiness of Book of World Records for inventing the world's smallest brush. Which, we guess, would come in handy for dealing with those way-thinner-than-hair fibers.
The second story was an item in Design News about advances in the production of graphenes, which are described as a literally two-dimensional substance, even thinner than the nanotubes Dr. Ajayan is using for his blacker-than-black fabric which, tiny as they are, still have more than one dimension. Being literally two dimensional - a state of being we didn't even know was possible until we saw this story, graphenes are mindbogglingly tiny:
We are surrounded by three-dimensional matter and until three years ago we only knew of three-dimensional materials, even carbon nanotubes; it looks very thin, but itís still a cylinder rolled up,î says [Prof. Andre] Geim. ìWe encountered a sort of paradigm of two-dimensional matter, absolutely single layer of atoms in a very high-quality lattice; this is the thinnest possible material in our universe. Nothing thinner can exist.
That's pretty thin. But so what? Well, it turns out that with great smallness comes great strength.
On the nanoscale itís tougher than any other material we know; its bond is stronger than diamonds, so if you make a thin layer of diamond it wouldn't be as strong as graphene.
On a less mindboggling level, we also of course have the big product from MacWorld, the MacBook Air.
Even this last, relatively prosaic product - like all modern computers - involves really small things doing very big jobs in such a way that very few laypeople can begin to comprehend. Almost everyone these days can use a computer, and more and more of us may be able to program a computer, but how many of us actually understand how they work at the micro level? Lots of people can fix a car, but only a few truly understand the physics and electronics involved in today's automobiles. And how many people can actually fully understand even this blog post on another super-small technology?
And, returning to the nanotubes and graphenes above, these are really just two more examples of the kind of increasingly unimaginable actors that have been discovered over the last 1.5 centuries. Bacteria, viruses, radio waves, microwaves, and the atom - these are all aspects of nature it would be easy for nonscientists to believe were figments of the imagination were the results not so clearly tangible.
So what? Well, the world of design and engineering is inherently a largely technical world, but it still needs to communicate clearly with less technical consumers and businesspeople who may never completely get over their future shock. There's already a communication gap, and it's bound to grow. However, we also now we have an imagination gap as fewer and fewer people can even grasp how a product comprised of difficult to describe objects can work.
Of course, once people are convinced a product is safe and works effectively and/or will make them a profit, they'll gladly use it or sell it without understanding it. Still, with controversies already raging over nanotechnology and genetically engineered foods to name just two examples, we're going to see more and more caution and confusion as the divide between techies and non-techies grows ever wider. Fortunately, we like challenges.
Darren Saravis is president of Nectar Product Development, an award-winning product development consultancy established in 1992 that helps its clients create products that connect to their users and expand their markets. Learn more at http://www.nectardesign.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_Saravis
A Roll Former Discussion - Talking Business During a Meal
Business and meals have been together for years if not longer. You can picture the mob boss sitting at a restaurant eating with his business associates and somebody says the wrong thing and you can hear a pin drop. Now, assuming you are not in that business, the outcome of a broken unwritten rule may not be as harsh as with those guys but it can be the end of a relationship you have been working on. What are some of the things to avoid?
If you are in the manufacturing business and you form products from steel you may be talking about roll formers and hydraulic presses. Before you sit down to eat there are a few "rules" you should try to follow. The first is picking the right restaurant. If you are sitting down with a client or clients, you want to be in a place that is conducive to talking. If you picked a place where there are kids and/or loud music, the chances of talking with ease is not very good. You also want a place where the service and food is good if not great. Depending on how long you have known the customer, you may have favorite places you both like.
Next, you want to be on time and early if at all possible. It doesn't matter if your client has a reputation for always being late; you need to be there if he happens to show up on time. Make sure you have the right people there also. If you are planning on closing a deal, make sure all those involved are invited. It gives the client an out if you didn't invite all of the players at their end. Also, make sure people on your team don't bring anyone inappropriate. Nothing ends a business meeting quicker than a member of the family that isn't involved in the business, no matter how much you love them. Now if the client brings their kid or significant other, that's another story.
If the discussion is serious and the talk turns to roll forming inspection because there has been an issue, wait a little while before getting to that point. Don't sit right down and get to the point. Remember, this is also about relationship building. Which brings up a point about closing the meeting, be congenial throughout. It might be more appropriate to send a short thank you with a synopsis of the meeting rather than lay everything out when saying goodbye. There is an art to closing and you will know when to put it all out and when to let it continue beyond the meal/meeting.
Whether you are talking about roll formers and hydraulic presses or about a roll forming inspection, look to Samco Machinery to keep you in the know.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alice_Lane
If you are in the manufacturing business and you form products from steel you may be talking about roll formers and hydraulic presses. Before you sit down to eat there are a few "rules" you should try to follow. The first is picking the right restaurant. If you are sitting down with a client or clients, you want to be in a place that is conducive to talking. If you picked a place where there are kids and/or loud music, the chances of talking with ease is not very good. You also want a place where the service and food is good if not great. Depending on how long you have known the customer, you may have favorite places you both like.
Next, you want to be on time and early if at all possible. It doesn't matter if your client has a reputation for always being late; you need to be there if he happens to show up on time. Make sure you have the right people there also. If you are planning on closing a deal, make sure all those involved are invited. It gives the client an out if you didn't invite all of the players at their end. Also, make sure people on your team don't bring anyone inappropriate. Nothing ends a business meeting quicker than a member of the family that isn't involved in the business, no matter how much you love them. Now if the client brings their kid or significant other, that's another story.
If the discussion is serious and the talk turns to roll forming inspection because there has been an issue, wait a little while before getting to that point. Don't sit right down and get to the point. Remember, this is also about relationship building. Which brings up a point about closing the meeting, be congenial throughout. It might be more appropriate to send a short thank you with a synopsis of the meeting rather than lay everything out when saying goodbye. There is an art to closing and you will know when to put it all out and when to let it continue beyond the meal/meeting.
Whether you are talking about roll formers and hydraulic presses or about a roll forming inspection, look to Samco Machinery to keep you in the know.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alice_Lane
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Introduction to Machining Processes
Machining, by definition, is the process of removing materials from excess and unwanted stock by use of machine tools and converting them into usable parts. Different processes like turning, milling, drilling and grinding are used to remove and modify a metal or a plastic into a machine usable part.
Machines have brought a revolution in the industrial world in the last few decades. Earlier, people used to manually extract metals and transform them. But, with the entry of machines in the industry and the invention of first steam engine by James Watt, the whole scenario changed. Today, machines are used in different industries for multiple purposes. The upcoming technology and software have also added to the use of machines. Internet has added to the usefulness especially to machining services and availability of spares via the virtual world.
All the manufacturing industries use variety of machines to meet specific manufacturing requirements and choose the right machining vehicles. Those manufacturing machines comprise of diverse materials like aluminum, steel, stainless steel, copper, polycarbonate, plastic, fiberglass and acrylic among others. To achieve a perfect and finished piece of material, different methods are applied on the piece depending on its final usage. Most commonly used methods for removing and modifying a raw piece are blending, blanking, boring, drawing, polishing, anodizing, grinding, honing, knurling, laser cutting, milling, plasma cutting, reaming, welding, thermoforming, gear cutting, shearing, sawing and the list goes on.. These methods are responsible for providing dimensional accuracy and perfect surface finish to a particular piece of metal.
Machining has various advantages. The process has resulted in greatest efficiency, low cost production and faster delivery. It also gives room to manufacture extensive pieces with more design flexibility, closer tolerance and consistent component properties. Lower residual component stresses and faster turn around time are also the major benefits of machining. Machining as a process is widely used in large industries for producing an extensive and outstanding piece. The process is used in industries like transportation, construction, packaging, electrical, automotive, aircraft, hospitals and medical applications among various others. There are exclusive sites that promote machining solutions and functions as an excellent CNC machine shop. An online manufacturing machine shop allows customers to generate their own manufacturing products using custom parts provided by the online machine shop. Clients also have an access to download various user manuals, help guides and CAD software that can help them design various objects. It is a global gateway to enter into a world of innovative machinery. emachineshop.com is an extensive site for total solutions.
George is a well-known author who writes on the topics related with Injection Molding, Free CAD Software, and CNC Milling for the site http://www.emachineshop.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Ure
Machines have brought a revolution in the industrial world in the last few decades. Earlier, people used to manually extract metals and transform them. But, with the entry of machines in the industry and the invention of first steam engine by James Watt, the whole scenario changed. Today, machines are used in different industries for multiple purposes. The upcoming technology and software have also added to the use of machines. Internet has added to the usefulness especially to machining services and availability of spares via the virtual world.
All the manufacturing industries use variety of machines to meet specific manufacturing requirements and choose the right machining vehicles. Those manufacturing machines comprise of diverse materials like aluminum, steel, stainless steel, copper, polycarbonate, plastic, fiberglass and acrylic among others. To achieve a perfect and finished piece of material, different methods are applied on the piece depending on its final usage. Most commonly used methods for removing and modifying a raw piece are blending, blanking, boring, drawing, polishing, anodizing, grinding, honing, knurling, laser cutting, milling, plasma cutting, reaming, welding, thermoforming, gear cutting, shearing, sawing and the list goes on.. These methods are responsible for providing dimensional accuracy and perfect surface finish to a particular piece of metal.
Machining has various advantages. The process has resulted in greatest efficiency, low cost production and faster delivery. It also gives room to manufacture extensive pieces with more design flexibility, closer tolerance and consistent component properties. Lower residual component stresses and faster turn around time are also the major benefits of machining. Machining as a process is widely used in large industries for producing an extensive and outstanding piece. The process is used in industries like transportation, construction, packaging, electrical, automotive, aircraft, hospitals and medical applications among various others. There are exclusive sites that promote machining solutions and functions as an excellent CNC machine shop. An online manufacturing machine shop allows customers to generate their own manufacturing products using custom parts provided by the online machine shop. Clients also have an access to download various user manuals, help guides and CAD software that can help them design various objects. It is a global gateway to enter into a world of innovative machinery. emachineshop.com is an extensive site for total solutions.
George is a well-known author who writes on the topics related with Injection Molding, Free CAD Software, and CNC Milling for the site http://www.emachineshop.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Ure
Increased Competition - Forcing the Foundries to Reduce Running Costs
During the last decade or so, foundries are facing a big challenge to survive and stay in the business. Companies are striving to find an ever cheaper manufacturing base and are trying to buy the consumables products they require to operate their business as economically as possible.
As the customers are looking to buy at ever lower costs, the crucible business is becoming tougher day by day.
Some companies are adopting innovative approaches to tackle this problem. They are working on methods and practices to optimize the life time of their products. Some of the highlights of the findings are -
* Long and stable service life of products
* Good conductivity of crucible over the use period
* Protection glaze, which can withstand the longer time in use
* Isostaically pressed to give an even and consistent material structure
Some companies have successfully taken up these challenges to reduce their running costs. Generally, these companies include organizations with long experience in foundry industry and have technical teams with extensive knowledge of ceramics. These organizations are backed by sophisticated laboratories that have facilitated the testing and proving of ideas to attain the desired results.
One company has been working with the products for many years now, the biggest zinc alloy plant in the UK, using two ton and one ton capacity crucibles. During this period, the company has achieved highly stable operating conditions. The structural unity of the crucibles is maintained even after the complete service life, ensuring the safe and easy removal of a used crucible.
Improving Energy Efficiency The most energy-intensive process in metal casting is melting. Companies are working on methods and practices to improve melting efficiency as well as to improve yield, thereby reducing the amount of metal that must be melted and hence the production cost.
Energy Use in Metal Casting How to measure success?
* Increased yield and reduced scrap - By improving the yield and reducing scrap, the amount of metal that must be melted decreases and in turn saves energy.
* Melting efficiency - Melting represents 55% of the cost of process energy. Improvement in melting efficiency helps save energy and reduce production costs.
For more articles related to metal casting and manufacturing technology, log on to Manufacturing Technology. A reliable source of vast information on metal casting, The Metal Casting. (Article written by Gary Emerson - A graduate in mechanical and materials engineering with about 12 years experience in manufacturing industry, including - tooling design, casting methods, cast product design, machining initialization, and manufacturing techniques. I've expertise in metal casting, including centrifugal casting, die casting, permanent mold casting, sand casting, and investment casting.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Garry_Emerson
As the customers are looking to buy at ever lower costs, the crucible business is becoming tougher day by day.
Some companies are adopting innovative approaches to tackle this problem. They are working on methods and practices to optimize the life time of their products. Some of the highlights of the findings are -
* Long and stable service life of products
* Good conductivity of crucible over the use period
* Protection glaze, which can withstand the longer time in use
* Isostaically pressed to give an even and consistent material structure
Some companies have successfully taken up these challenges to reduce their running costs. Generally, these companies include organizations with long experience in foundry industry and have technical teams with extensive knowledge of ceramics. These organizations are backed by sophisticated laboratories that have facilitated the testing and proving of ideas to attain the desired results.
One company has been working with the products for many years now, the biggest zinc alloy plant in the UK, using two ton and one ton capacity crucibles. During this period, the company has achieved highly stable operating conditions. The structural unity of the crucibles is maintained even after the complete service life, ensuring the safe and easy removal of a used crucible.
Improving Energy Efficiency The most energy-intensive process in metal casting is melting. Companies are working on methods and practices to improve melting efficiency as well as to improve yield, thereby reducing the amount of metal that must be melted and hence the production cost.
Energy Use in Metal Casting How to measure success?
* Increased yield and reduced scrap - By improving the yield and reducing scrap, the amount of metal that must be melted decreases and in turn saves energy.
* Melting efficiency - Melting represents 55% of the cost of process energy. Improvement in melting efficiency helps save energy and reduce production costs.
For more articles related to metal casting and manufacturing technology, log on to Manufacturing Technology. A reliable source of vast information on metal casting, The Metal Casting. (Article written by Gary Emerson - A graduate in mechanical and materials engineering with about 12 years experience in manufacturing industry, including - tooling design, casting methods, cast product design, machining initialization, and manufacturing techniques. I've expertise in metal casting, including centrifugal casting, die casting, permanent mold casting, sand casting, and investment casting.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Garry_Emerson
Recycled Foundry Sand - Uses & Applications
Recycled foundry sand can be defined as a resultant product of the of the ferrous and nonferrous metal casting industry, where sand has been used for centuries as a molding material because of its superior thermal conductivity. In present day foundries, sand is generally recycled and reused through different production cycles. According to industry experts, approximately 100 million tons of sand is used in production every year. Out of this 100 million tons of sand, 6 to 10 million tons is discarded every year that cane be recycled into other products and industries.
Sand used at foundries is of superior quality, as companies adopt stringent physical and chemical tests to ensure production of defect free castings. Foundries make considerable investments for the quality control of their sand systems with rigorous testing done to ensure consistency.
Though there are several methods of casting, including - die casting, investment casting, and permanent mold casting, sand casting is by far the most preferred casting technique. There are 2 different methods of using sand in metal casting industry -
* As a molding material that forms the external shape of the cast component
* As a core that forms the internal void spaces in products such as engine blocks.
As sand grains do not naturally adhere to each other, binders are used to cause the sand to stick together and retain its shape during the introduction of the molten metal into the mold and the cooling of casting.
Types of Foundry Sand Suitable for Recycling
Generally two types of binders are used in metal casting industry -
* Clay bonded systems (green sand)
* Chemically bonded systems (resin sands)
Both these types of sand are suitable for recycling and beneficial reuse, however they have different physical and environmental properties.
Uses of Recycled Foundry Sand
Sand from ferrous and aluminum foundries comprise more than 90 % of available sand and is usually best suitable for recycling. Ferrous and aluminum foundries are generally big in size in comparison to other nonferrous foundries and because of the nature of their production, they have more uniform sand streams. This type of sand has a history of uses in different types of construction applications.
Some innovative foundries are finding ways to recycle their used sand. Some other type of non-ferrous sand, or mixed sand streams can be recycled if they fulfill the environmental testing requirements of the regulatory agencies and the required performance standards of the industry.
As with other materials, transportation costs are usually the highest cost factor in the recycling of foundry sand. Considering the cost factor, the best option for the recycling of foundry sand will typically match the volume and characteristics of the foundry sand with businesses and construction projects in nearby areas.
Given below are some of the markets that have the potential to absorb recycled foundry sand from different types of foundries -
* Construction Projects
* Cement Kiln Feedstock
* Flowable Fill
* Manufactured Soils
In some other cases, foundry sand can be used to replace a part of the fine aggregate in several other types of applications, most of which exist at a commercial scale in different markets and countries. These applications include -
* Hot Mix Asphalt
* Ready Mix Concrete
* Precast Concrete Products
* Bricks and Pavers
* Grouts and Mortars
* Landill Daily Cover
* Landfill Construction Material
For more articles related to metal casting and manufacturing technology, log on to http://www.manufacturing-technology.blogspot.com - (Article written by Gary Emerson - A graduate in mechanical and materials engineerin with about 12 years experience in manufacturing industry, including - tooling design, casting methods, cast product design, machining initialization, and manufacturing techniques. I've expertise in metal casting, including centrifugal casting, die casting, permanent mold casting, sand casting, and investment casting).
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Garry_Emerson
Sand used at foundries is of superior quality, as companies adopt stringent physical and chemical tests to ensure production of defect free castings. Foundries make considerable investments for the quality control of their sand systems with rigorous testing done to ensure consistency.
Though there are several methods of casting, including - die casting, investment casting, and permanent mold casting, sand casting is by far the most preferred casting technique. There are 2 different methods of using sand in metal casting industry -
* As a molding material that forms the external shape of the cast component
* As a core that forms the internal void spaces in products such as engine blocks.
As sand grains do not naturally adhere to each other, binders are used to cause the sand to stick together and retain its shape during the introduction of the molten metal into the mold and the cooling of casting.
Types of Foundry Sand Suitable for Recycling
Generally two types of binders are used in metal casting industry -
* Clay bonded systems (green sand)
* Chemically bonded systems (resin sands)
Both these types of sand are suitable for recycling and beneficial reuse, however they have different physical and environmental properties.
Uses of Recycled Foundry Sand
Sand from ferrous and aluminum foundries comprise more than 90 % of available sand and is usually best suitable for recycling. Ferrous and aluminum foundries are generally big in size in comparison to other nonferrous foundries and because of the nature of their production, they have more uniform sand streams. This type of sand has a history of uses in different types of construction applications.
Some innovative foundries are finding ways to recycle their used sand. Some other type of non-ferrous sand, or mixed sand streams can be recycled if they fulfill the environmental testing requirements of the regulatory agencies and the required performance standards of the industry.
As with other materials, transportation costs are usually the highest cost factor in the recycling of foundry sand. Considering the cost factor, the best option for the recycling of foundry sand will typically match the volume and characteristics of the foundry sand with businesses and construction projects in nearby areas.
Given below are some of the markets that have the potential to absorb recycled foundry sand from different types of foundries -
* Construction Projects
* Cement Kiln Feedstock
* Flowable Fill
* Manufactured Soils
In some other cases, foundry sand can be used to replace a part of the fine aggregate in several other types of applications, most of which exist at a commercial scale in different markets and countries. These applications include -
* Hot Mix Asphalt
* Ready Mix Concrete
* Precast Concrete Products
* Bricks and Pavers
* Grouts and Mortars
* Landill Daily Cover
* Landfill Construction Material
For more articles related to metal casting and manufacturing technology, log on to http://www.manufacturing-technology.blogspot.com - (Article written by Gary Emerson - A graduate in mechanical and materials engineerin with about 12 years experience in manufacturing industry, including - tooling design, casting methods, cast product design, machining initialization, and manufacturing techniques. I've expertise in metal casting, including centrifugal casting, die casting, permanent mold casting, sand casting, and investment casting).
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Garry_Emerson
Monday, March 17, 2008
Industrial Lubricants Guide
Industrial lubricants are a substance which is used between two moving solid or metal surfaces to reduce friction and wear between them. As we know that friction causes heat. So, use of industrial lubricants also reduces heat by carrying away from the moving parts. They cool the moving parts. Hence they are also sometime termed as coolants. Lubricants can be used in any machinery that has moving parts from a cycle paddle to an aeroplane and beyond. The major consumption of lubricants is in automobile industries. They are also used in other industries like marine, aircrafts, and metalworking industries. They play a vital role for the smooth running of an industry.
Industrial lubricants are found in three physical states - liquid, semi-liquid and solid. Motor oils, turbine oils, farming oils, gas engine oils, brake oils, hydraulic oils, etc are form of liquid industrial lubricants. Greases are the form of semi-liquid industrial lubricants which are widely used as lubrications for the moving metal parts of machinery. Graphite is the most predominant solid lubricant. The powder of graphite is used for lubrication. Now-a-days synthetic lubricants are also in vogue. Synthetic lubricants are specially designed from chemical compound using some additives for the better performance of the lubricants.
Additives are used in lubricants to perform better and some specific tasks and purposes. Use of additives makes increase the performance of industrial lubricants. They help to reduce the friction, wear, and remove heat that is generated by friction. They also increase the viscosity of the lubricants and reduce oxidation and contamination. They also prevent moving parts and components of the machinery against rust and corrosion. Metal deactivators, anti-oxidants, demulsifying compounds, emulsifying compounds, rust & corrosion inhibitors, anti-foaming etc are some of the most common additives which are used in industrial lubricants for the purpose of better performance. Some additives also help to reduce pressure and increase viscosity so that they can better perform in reducing friction and wear from the moving metal parts of the machinery.
Thus we see that use of industrial lubricants play a big role in running smoothly of any industry. One cannot think about smooth running of an industry without using lubricants. For example can any one think about smooth running of a vehicle without using motor oils (also termed as engine oils)? The answer will be surly negative. Motor oils are the biggest application of industrial lubricants. They are used for predominantly used for lubrication of moving parts of in motor vehicles or automobile industry. But they also clean and cool the engine by carrying away heat from moving parts that is caused by friction. They are used in various types of internal combustion engines and provide them better performance and longer life. Gear oils are also the form of motor oils which are used in gear boxes and gear systems.
Marine oils, turbine oils, hydraulic oils, farming oils, gas engine oils, etc are some other examples of industrial lubricating oils which are used in different application and for the different purpose. Some lubricants are also used in agricultural equipments such water pump set, diesel engines, tractors, etc. In metal working industries also lubricants are used for the purpose of better work performance. Coolants (also termed as grinding fluids or cutting fluids) are example of metalworking fluids which are used for the purpose of lubrication during the process of metalworking, grinding, drilling and boring.
Industrial lubricants are found in three physical states - liquid, semi-liquid and solid. Motor oils, turbine oils, farming oils, gas engine oils, brake oils, hydraulic oils, etc are form of liquid industrial lubricants. Greases are the form of semi-liquid industrial lubricants which are widely used as lubrications for the moving metal parts of machinery. Graphite is the most predominant solid lubricant. The powder of graphite is used for lubrication. Now-a-days synthetic lubricants are also in vogue. Synthetic lubricants are specially designed from chemical compound using some additives for the better performance of the lubricants.
Additives are used in lubricants to perform better and some specific tasks and purposes. Use of additives makes increase the performance of industrial lubricants. They help to reduce the friction, wear, and remove heat that is generated by friction. They also increase the viscosity of the lubricants and reduce oxidation and contamination. They also prevent moving parts and components of the machinery against rust and corrosion. Metal deactivators, anti-oxidants, demulsifying compounds, emulsifying compounds, rust & corrosion inhibitors, anti-foaming etc are some of the most common additives which are used in industrial lubricants for the purpose of better performance. Some additives also help to reduce pressure and increase viscosity so that they can better perform in reducing friction and wear from the moving metal parts of the machinery.
Thus we see that use of industrial lubricants play a big role in running smoothly of any industry. One cannot think about smooth running of an industry without using lubricants. For example can any one think about smooth running of a vehicle without using motor oils (also termed as engine oils)? The answer will be surly negative. Motor oils are the biggest application of industrial lubricants. They are used for predominantly used for lubrication of moving parts of in motor vehicles or automobile industry. But they also clean and cool the engine by carrying away heat from moving parts that is caused by friction. They are used in various types of internal combustion engines and provide them better performance and longer life. Gear oils are also the form of motor oils which are used in gear boxes and gear systems.
Marine oils, turbine oils, hydraulic oils, farming oils, gas engine oils, etc are some other examples of industrial lubricating oils which are used in different application and for the different purpose. Some lubricants are also used in agricultural equipments such water pump set, diesel engines, tractors, etc. In metal working industries also lubricants are used for the purpose of better work performance. Coolants (also termed as grinding fluids or cutting fluids) are example of metalworking fluids which are used for the purpose of lubrication during the process of metalworking, grinding, drilling and boring.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Mini Moto Engine
Industrial engines. They are still used by several manufacturers (most notably Blata on their entry level bike) and typically produce between 2.5 and 3.5 horse power (hp). All are air-cooled. Tuning and performance parts are very limited.
The Chinese 47/49cc. These engines are used in the Chinese made mk2, and mk3 minimotos. They are air cooled and produce between 2.5 and 3.5 horse power (hp). This engine is different from the industrial engine that is used in the Blata, as it is specifically created for mini moto use.
Polini 4.2 engine. This is the basic Polini engine and, as it’s name suggests, it produces 4.2 hp in standard form. It is air-cooled and uses the ‘series I’ crankcase with the 3-port cylinder. There is plenty of scope and parts for tuning but few people bother because most racing classes for the 4.2 won’t allow any modifications.
Polini 6.2 engine. The top end of this engine is the same as the 4.2 (3-port) but is available with either water or air-cooling. The bottom end uses the ‘series II’ crankcase. This helps to make it more powerful. Race regulations don’t allow modification to the engine internals but do allow performance parts, the most significant being the exhaust. There are a wide range of alternative exhausts that year after year manage to extract more power from the engine. Consequently the 6.2 ‘tag’ no longer means anything, these little rockets (more often referred to as ‘production’ nowadays) claim power outputs of up to 9hp.
The Chinese made water cooled engine. This engine is very similar to the Polini 6.2 however it is a series 1 crankcase engine. The engine is water cooled and is used in the Origami B1 replica. The engine produces around 7.5/8.5 horse power (hp) Many of the parts on this engine are interchangeable with the Polini.
What’s the difference between the ‘series I’ and ‘series II’ crankcase?. Fuel is drawn from the carb into the crankcase via a one-way valve known as the ‘reed valve’. The intake port (where the reed valve and carb join the engine) on the series I engine will only accommodate a reed valve assembly with one reed ‘petal’ whereas the series II will take a reed valve ‘cage’ that accommodates two reed petals. A two-petal reed valve will allow more fuel mixture to flow into the engine and, therefore, produces more power.
Polini Super engine. The super also uses the series two crankcase but with a 5-port cylinder. It is only available in water cooled now but used to come as air cooled as well. To compete with Polini, Mallossi manufacture an alternative 5-port cylinder. There are no restrictions on tuning supers and with engine ‘porting’, bigger carbs and other performance parts they can be turned into awesome machines (for their size) easily producing 12hp.
What is meant by 3 and 5 port?. This refers to the amount of ‘transfer’ ports built into the cylinder. The transfer ports draw the fuel mixture up from the crankcase and ‘dump’ it above the piston prior to ignition. A five-port cylinder has potential to produce more power.
40cc or 50cc. The 3 port engines are only available in 40cc. The 5 port cylinder comes in both 40 and 50cc. ZPF offer a tuned 5-port polini cylinder with their own ‘special’ cylinder head. The extra cc gives 25% more displacement and, therefore, has the potential for more power. 50’s are more common in the USA but they're catching on fast in the UK. The UK now allows them to race in championships.
The Polini engine components are interchangeable, which can make for some interesting combinations. However, people don’t tend to bother because of class restrictions and it is usually easier to upgrade the whole bike or change the complete engine.
The Chinese 47/49cc. These engines are used in the Chinese made mk2, and mk3 minimotos. They are air cooled and produce between 2.5 and 3.5 horse power (hp). This engine is different from the industrial engine that is used in the Blata, as it is specifically created for mini moto use.
Polini 4.2 engine. This is the basic Polini engine and, as it’s name suggests, it produces 4.2 hp in standard form. It is air-cooled and uses the ‘series I’ crankcase with the 3-port cylinder. There is plenty of scope and parts for tuning but few people bother because most racing classes for the 4.2 won’t allow any modifications.
Polini 6.2 engine. The top end of this engine is the same as the 4.2 (3-port) but is available with either water or air-cooling. The bottom end uses the ‘series II’ crankcase. This helps to make it more powerful. Race regulations don’t allow modification to the engine internals but do allow performance parts, the most significant being the exhaust. There are a wide range of alternative exhausts that year after year manage to extract more power from the engine. Consequently the 6.2 ‘tag’ no longer means anything, these little rockets (more often referred to as ‘production’ nowadays) claim power outputs of up to 9hp.
The Chinese made water cooled engine. This engine is very similar to the Polini 6.2 however it is a series 1 crankcase engine. The engine is water cooled and is used in the Origami B1 replica. The engine produces around 7.5/8.5 horse power (hp) Many of the parts on this engine are interchangeable with the Polini.
What’s the difference between the ‘series I’ and ‘series II’ crankcase?. Fuel is drawn from the carb into the crankcase via a one-way valve known as the ‘reed valve’. The intake port (where the reed valve and carb join the engine) on the series I engine will only accommodate a reed valve assembly with one reed ‘petal’ whereas the series II will take a reed valve ‘cage’ that accommodates two reed petals. A two-petal reed valve will allow more fuel mixture to flow into the engine and, therefore, produces more power.
Polini Super engine. The super also uses the series two crankcase but with a 5-port cylinder. It is only available in water cooled now but used to come as air cooled as well. To compete with Polini, Mallossi manufacture an alternative 5-port cylinder. There are no restrictions on tuning supers and with engine ‘porting’, bigger carbs and other performance parts they can be turned into awesome machines (for their size) easily producing 12hp.
What is meant by 3 and 5 port?. This refers to the amount of ‘transfer’ ports built into the cylinder. The transfer ports draw the fuel mixture up from the crankcase and ‘dump’ it above the piston prior to ignition. A five-port cylinder has potential to produce more power.
40cc or 50cc. The 3 port engines are only available in 40cc. The 5 port cylinder comes in both 40 and 50cc. ZPF offer a tuned 5-port polini cylinder with their own ‘special’ cylinder head. The extra cc gives 25% more displacement and, therefore, has the potential for more power. 50’s are more common in the USA but they're catching on fast in the UK. The UK now allows them to race in championships.
The Polini engine components are interchangeable, which can make for some interesting combinations. However, people don’t tend to bother because of class restrictions and it is usually easier to upgrade the whole bike or change the complete engine.
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