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Solar Electricity - A Quick Guide

Photovoltaics (PV) is the conversion of sunlight directly into electricity. This article outlines what it is, what a typical PV system looks like, how it can be used, how much a system costs and other useful hints for those looking to install a PV system.

14 Dec 2001

Glossary of Superconductor Terminology

If you have ever read about superconductors and not understood what you were reading, this is a good article to start with to familiarise yourself with the terminology. From AC to ion-beam magnetics all the way to transformer, the definitions are here!

From American Superconductor 4 Dec 2001

High Temperature Superconducting (HTS) Wires

HTS wires can potentially increase power density, quality and reliability in electrical power systems. The benefits to society are enormous. Benefits, future demands and HTS applications in power generators, power storage are covered.

From American Superconductor 4 Dec 2001

High Temperature Superconducting (HTS) Generators

High temperature superconducting (HTS) generators can provide fast reactive power support and maintain constant power flow across a power grid. The potential savings associated with using HTS generators are enormous and are outlined in this article as are their usage and benefits.

From American Superconductor 30 Nov 2001

Biaxial Testing of Polymer Matrix Composites

Biaxial testing enhances understanding of polymer matrix composites, aiding the design of advanced structures like aircraft and bridges.

From Lloyd Instruments Ltd. 30 Nov 2001

Micro-Impact Testing of Coatings

Micro-impact testing is a repetitive technique for evaluating coating adhesion, toughness and resistance to erosive wear. It is able to simulate actual wear conditions more closely than other techniques and is suitable for microelectronics and any other coating.

30 Nov 2001

The Powder Injection Moulding Process

Powder injection moulding (PIM) and powder co-injection moulding (PCM) are similar to polymer injection moulding. They are used to produce shaped components from powders and are suited to ceramic, metallic and composite materials. PCM can be used to produce parts that are surface engineered in situ.

29 Nov 2001

Ceramic Brazing

Ceramic brazing techniques are used to join ceramics to other materials. Sometimes the use of intermediate layers are required to increase wetting of the materials to enable creation of a suitable join. Brazing, wetting, metallising, joint design and brazing alloys are covered.

29 Nov 2001

Ceramic Joining - An Overview

Although ceramics have many beneficial properties, all-ceramic machines are rare, hence, the joining of ceramics to other materials is a vital technology. Methods vary from simple to mechanical means to adhesive bonding and brazing. These methods and design considerations are covered.

29 Nov 2001

Retread Tyre FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

All the questions you wanted to ask about retread tyres are answered. Aspects like safety, manufacturing standards, which types of tyres can be retreaded, can they be used at highway speeds, life expectancy, where they should and shouldn't be used.

From Tire Retread Information Bureau 28 Nov 2001