010644   Ramadoss R;Rajadurai A (Mechanical Engg Dep, St.Josep's College of Engg, Chennai, Email: ramdesur@yahoo.co.in) : Predictions of forming limit diagram for AISI 316LN-austenitic stainless steel. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(7-8), 20-9.

Many of the stainless steel components are manufactured through forming. Therefore an understanding of formability sheet metal is essential for successful prediction of quality stamping. In the present work, the forming limit of AISI 316LN stainless steel has been evaluated using the hemispherical punch forming test. The experimental forming limit diagram is compared with theoretical models of Swift, Hill and Sing Rao for validation. Sheet metal forming simulation was performed using the finite element software. The solution methodology was based on explicit time integration. A failure criterion has been introduced based on localized necking for the prediction of forming limit. The finite element predictions seem to be in good correlation with experimental results of AISI 316LN stainless steel. An error analysis on the FE-predictions was performed and the percentage deviation was found to vary between 0.28 and 12.24%. Theoretical models are not predicting well with the experimental forming limit diagram.

10 illus, 4 table, 21 ref

010643   Rakesh N;Kamalakar D;Kalpana P;Rajendra Prasad P (Chemical Engineering Dep, R. V. R. and J. C College of Enineering, Guntur-522 019) : Controlled release of fertilizer zin, sulphate made with super phosphate as inert matrix. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2009, 8(4), 807-16.

The paper presents controlled release of zinc sulphate fertilizer made with super phosphate as inert matrix. Pellets were made from the mixture and the release rate of zinc sulphate with time was studied. The parameters covered are fractional zinc sulphate, fractional silicate lime, fractional super phosphate and diameter of the pellet. The parameters also measured with naphthalene coating pellets and compared. The release rate expression was obtained and represented as: -r_A = 5.85 f_ZnSOr19 f_s 4.23 f_sl^-0.72 (d_p/d_s)^1.2. The study is useful to identify the controlled release of zinc sulphate fertilizer and also to predict the release rate at any instant of time.

18 illus, 2 tables, 36 ref

010642   Pradeep Kumar J;Dhanasekar R (Producation Engg Dep, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, Email: jpk.pro.psgtech.ac.in) : Invastigation of cutting parameters effects on surface roughness in turning en353 using taguchi method. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(9-10), 23-8.

In this, the Taguchi method is used to find the optimal cutting parameters for surface roughness in turning. An orthogonal array, the signal to noise ratio and analysis of variance are employed to study the performance characteristics in turning operations of EN353 steel bars using tungsten carbide cutting tools. Through this study, not only can the optimal cutting parameters for turning operations can be obtained, but also the main cutting parameters that affect the cutting performance in turning operations can be found. Experimental results are provided to confirm the effectiveness of this approach.

3 illus, 7 table, 11 ref

010641   Pradeep Kumar J;Bhuvanashekaran G (Prod Engg Dep, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, Email: jpkumartheni@yahoo.com ) : Prediction of weld bead width using artificial neural network and regression models in laser beam welding. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(3), 13-19.

In this paper, a neural network modeling approach is presented for the prediction of weld bead width in Nd:YAG Laser welding process. The data used for the training and checking of the Artificial Neural Networks' performance are derived from experiments conducted according to the principles of design of experiments (DoE) method. The influential factors considered in the experiments are the laser beam power, the laser beam angle, and the welding speed. Using feed forward back propagation artificial neural networks (ANN) with supervised training a 3_5_1 neural network is developed and is able to predict the laser bead width and tends to be consistent throughout the entire range of values. The experimentally determined weld bead width values are compared with predicted values obtained from regression and ANN model.

5 illus, 5 tables, 13 ref

010640   Prabhu S;Vinayagam B K (School of Mech. Engg., SRM Univ, Chennai, Email: prabhume@yahoo.co.in) : AFM analysis of AISI D3 tool stell with multi wall carbon nano tube using taguchi analysis. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(9-10), 13-22.

Carbon nano tube has high mechanical and electrical properties specifically high electrical conductivity. By using this property the multi wall carbon nano tube mixed with dielectric solution in EDM process can analyse the surface characteristics like surface roughness in D₃ tool Steel work piece materials. Carbon nano tube will absorb the heat from electrical discharged material and minimized the white layer formed in the work piece. Experimental results indicate that the surface texture after EDM is determined by the discharge energy during processing. An excellent machined nano finish can be obtained by setting the machine parameters at low pulse energy. L.9 orthogonal array was used to optimize the machining parameters in Taguchl method. The predicted surface roughness was estimated using S/N ratio and compared with actual values and parameters are optimized. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and F-test were used to determine the significant parameters affecting the surface roughness.

10 illus, 10 table, 10 ref

010639   Prabhu S;Murugesan R;Vinayagam B K (School of Mechanical Eng., S. R. M. Univ, Chennai, Email: prabhume@yahoo.co.in) : Modelling the machining parameters of lapping process with single wall carbon nano tube using response surface methodology. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(2), 3-12.

In this paper regression model were developed to predict surface roughness in lapping machining process. In the development of predictive empirical models, machining parameters of speed, machining time were considered as model variables. The collection of experimental data adopted Box-Behnken central composite design (CCD). The single wall carbon nano tube mixed with abrasive powder and micro powders used in lapping process to analysis the surface characteristics like surface roughness, micro cracks. The parameters are optimized using MINITAB 15 software and empirical models are compared with micro powder and single wall carbon nanotubes Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and F-test were used to check the validity of regression model and to determine the significant parameter affecting the surface roughness. The statistical analysis showed that the speed and machining time was an utmost parameter on surface roughness.

4 illus, 8 tables, 16 ref

010638   Phillips D C (NO, Hobart Brothers Co, Troy, Ohio) : Know the keys for matching filler metals to your base material. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(3), 78-80.

1 table

010637   Parthiban K;Jeyachandran K (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Thanthai Periyar Government Institute of Technolgy, Vellore-632 002) : Pollution control in multi-cylinder S.I. engines using metal oxide pellets. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2009, 8(4), 677-82.

Internal combustion engines generate undesirable emissions during the combustion process. The emissions exhausted into surroundings not only pollute atmosphere but remains harmful to human beings. The emissions are mainly CO, HC, NO_x, CO₂, etc. The major causes of the emissions of pollutants are non-stoichiometric combustion, oxidation and reduction of nitrogen and the impurities in the fuel and air. Several approaches to control the emissions are being pursued like post-treatment of exhaust gases and in-cylinder combustion control, etc. Thermal or catalytic converters and particulate traps are used in case of post-treatment of exhaust gases. In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to control the engine exhaust emissions by using metal oxide pellet catalytic converters. The pellets are being made by using special die and Compression Testing Machine (CTM). The results obtained from the experiments using the pellets of ferric oxide, magnesium oxide, cobalt oxide, and the combination of these were analysed. The emission control achieved by adopting this technique was found effective.

6 illus, 10 tables, 6 ref

010636   Pardhi Y U;Ghosh P K;Kosteas D (Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Uttarakhand) : Analysis of fatigue design recommendations for aluminum weldments with imperfections. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(3), 31-42.

Available fatigue data on weld imperfections regarding weld toe angle (WTA) and linear misalignment (lM) in the joints of AI-alloys reported by several workers has been mathematically and statistically analyzed to derive the sets of fatigue design curves for quantitative comparison with those recommended by the Eurocode. It is envisaged that as reference the newly derived design curves can assist in designing under dynamic loading with better understanding of the recommendations compared to the design curves of recommended standards. Further, for the defects like lack of penetration (lOP) and lack of fusion (lOF) the validity and shortcomings of the recommended limits of imperfection of Euronorm are evaluated with respect to the analysis put forward by the newly derived design curves. The critical analysis has proposed certain more preferable logical recommendations on economically acceptable limits of weld defects especially for the high cost intensive structures at high cycle range of 5x10⁵ to 5x10⁶, which should be verified further with more experimental data in this area prior to its practical implementation.

12 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

010635   Pachauri P;Falwariya R;Vyas S;Maheshwari M; Vyas R K;Gupta A B (Chemical Engg. Dep, Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur-302 017) : Removal of amoxicillin in wastewater using adsorption by powdered and granular activated carbon and oxidation with hydrogen peroxide. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2009, 8(3), 481-8.

Antibiotics disposed into wastewater reach wastewater treatment plants and surface waters and act as micro-pollutants. As antibiotics pose various problems related to treatment and reuse, it is imperative to remove them from wastewater. In the present paper, adsorption studies have been carried out for removal of amoxicillin using powdered activated carbon (PAC) in a batch mode and granular activated carbon (GAC) in a continuous packed bed column. Removal of antibiotics has also been made using oxidation by H₂O₂. The techniques used for detection of antibiotics require elaborate analytical instrumentation. Being inexpensive and simple technique, monitoring of concentration during removal has been made using COD determination in the present work. It has been found that concentration of amoxicillin has a straight line relationship with COD. Batch adsorption using PAC shows that a maximum of 70% removal can be obtained for a 200 mg/L solution of amoxicillin using a dose of 600 mg/L of PAC. Maximum removal of 60% was obtained for a concentration of 200 mg/L of amoxicillin with a constant dose of 500 mg/L of PAC. In continuous packed bed adsorption using GAC, 90% COD removal was obtained at saturation. A maximum removal of 80% is obtained at a concentration of 200 mg/L of amoxicillin and 24.2% at 1000 mg/L through GAC column. Furthermore, oxidation removes a maximum of 90% COD using a dose 441 mM/L of H₂O₂(30% w/v). Removal of COD increases from 10% to 60% on increasing dose of H₂O₂ from 44 mM/L to 220 mM/L. Considering removal efficiency, both oxidation and adsorption techniques have their advantages and limitations. Nevertheless, adsorption using activated carbon and oxidation using H₂O₂ provide simple and satisfactory methods to remove antibiotics from wastewater.

7 illus, 1 table, 33 ref

010634   Nigam A K;Deshwal A (Civil Engineering Dep, Bundelkhand Institute of Engineering & Technology, Jhansi, Email: anjani_k_nigam@mailcity.com) : Selection of suitable site for SEZ in Jhansi using GPS. Indian Surveyor 2010, 64(1), 88-93.

6 illus, 6 ref

010633   Narayana B;Veena K (P.G. Studies and Research in Chemistry Dep, Mangalore University, Mangalagangotri-574 199, Email: n_badiadka@yahoo.co.uk) : New method for the spectrophotometric determination of fexofenadine hydrochloride. Indian J chem Technol 2010, 17(5), 386-90.

Novel, sensitive and selective reaction has been proposed for the assay of fexofenadine hydrochloride (FFH) in bulk and dosage forms using chloramine-T (CAT) and two dyes malachite green (MAG) and xylene cyanol FF (XFF). Spectrophotometric method entail the addition of a known excess of chloramine-T to fexofenadine hydrochloride in hydrochloric acid medium followed by the determination of residual oxidant by reacting it with a fixed amount of malachite green, measuring the absorbance at 615 nm (method A), or xylene cyanol FF, measuring the absorbance at 612 nm (method B). The apparent molar absorptivities are calculated to be 4.09x10⁴ L mol^-1 cm^-1, 3.07x10⁴ L mol^-1 cm^-1 for method A and B respectively. Both methods are of comparable accuracy and precision. There is no interference from common additives and excipients. The method has been applied to the determination of fexofenadine hydrochloride in pharmaceutical samples and the results are statistically compared with those of literature UV-spectrophotometric method by applying student's t-test and F-test.

2 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

010632   Murali G;Gopal M;Rajadurai A (School of Mechanical Engg., S R M Univ, Chennai, Email: gmurali69@gmail.com) : Effect of draw bead profile and location in sheet metal drawing process-finite element analysis and experimental validation. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(6), 18-26.

Drawbeads are often applied in the deep drawing process to improve control of the material flow during the forming operation. Drawbeads restrain the sheet from flowing freely into die cavity. Deals with analysis of effect of draw bead geometry in sheet metal drawing process. Finite element analysis of drawing of circular blanks into axi-symmetric hemispherical cup is done. Circular and rectangular drawbeads are introduced into the finite element models and their influence in distribution of strain and thickness are investigated. DYNAFORM and LS-DYNA, a commercially available explicit FEA code were used to model and analyze the forming process respectively. These outcomes are compared with experimental results. The results show good agreement between numerical method and experiment. On comparison, rectangular drawbeads restrain the material more than circular drawbead due to their geometry.

13 illus, 5 tables, 12 ref

010631   Messiry M E;Youssef S (Textile Engineering Dep, Faculty of Engineering, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt, Email: mmessiry@yahoo.com) : Apparatus for measuring the sub-nozzle efficiency of air-jet weaving machine. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2010, 35(4), 358-60.

Simple apparatus for measuring the efficiency of sub-nozzle has been developed by checking the air velocity at the nozzle outlet at the predetermined pressure. The testing set-up can also be used for the comparison of different types of nozzles, either main or sub-nozzles. It is observed that sub-nozzle with 19 holes gives less air velocity than that of one circular hole sub-nozzle. This is because of the possible contamination due to which the holes of used sub-nozzles get blocked and remain not so smooth, thus giving less air velocity, and hence the lower efficiency. Based on the above, continuous measuring of sub-nozzle efficiency has become a necessity. The design of the suggested apparatus is simple and reliable.

^ssc5 illus, 7 ref

010630   Mathure S (NO, Mathure Metal Works Pvt. Ltd, ) : Introduction of low cadmium brazing alloys. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(3), 27-30.

Silver brazing alloys are generally divided in TWO categories, one with Cadmium where Cadmium contain is about 8 to 24% & other without Cadmium. In India, the practice was to use Cadmium Containing alloys, however, in order to comply with RoHS directives, many industries shifted for without Cadmium alloys. In this case either they have to increase Silver percentage to match the melting range with there existing alloys or train operators to work with high melting range without Cadmium alloys of same silver percentage. For such industries we have designed an alloy with Cadmium percentage of 2 to 4% which is much less toxic. This alloy worked extremely good as far as flow & wet ability was concern. Some companies, who do not have RoHS constraints have even adopted these alloys for regular brazing, as ill effects of Cadmium is reduced drastically. From the manufacturing point, these alloys can be hot rolled, unlike without Cadmium alloys and gives faster production rates. They melt at moderate temperatures and it becomes extremely easy to switch from high Cadmium alloys to without Cadmium alloys by using these as step or practice alloys to smoothen the process of change over.

8 illus, 6 ref

010629   Mahomed A;Lhukins D W;Kukureka S N (School of Mechanical Enginnering, Birmingham Univ, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom, Email: a.mahomed@bham.ac.uk) : Viscoelastic properties of silastic® medical grade silicones: lmplications for finger joint replacement. J Polym Mater 2009, 26(4), 389-99.

Cylinders (29 mm in diameter and 13 mm thick) of medical grade silicone elastomers intended for medium-term implantation (up to 90 days), were immersed in physiological saline solution at 37°C, and investigated by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). A sinusoidal cyclic compression of 40 N ±5N was applied over a range of frequency, f, values of either 0.02-50 Hz or 0.02-100 Hz. Values of the storage, E', and loss, E", moduli for the cylinders were found to depend on f. There was no significant difference (at the 95% level) of the moduli obtained from silicones intended for short (29 day) and medium-term (90 day) implantation; the assumption, in previously published work, that silicones intended for short-term implantation can be used as models for silicones used for long-term implantation appears reasonable. Although E' increases with f, the ratio E'/E" suggests that this increase does not lead to excessive storage of deformation energy, that could lead to fracture, at the higher f values likely to be encountered in vivo.

2 illus, 3 tables, 42 ref

010628   Mahomed A;Hukins D W L;Kukureka S N (School of Mechanical Engineering, Birmingham Univ, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kinddeom, Email: a.mahomed@bham.ac.uk) : Viscoelastic property of medical grade silicones in tension. J Polym Mater 2009, 26(2), 199-206.

Storage, E', and loss, E", moduli of three medical grade silicone elastomers were measured, in tension, in the frequency, f, range 0.02-2 Hz. The materials were tested when immersed in physiological saline solution at 37 °C. The dependence of E' and E" on log ₁₀f was represented, for each of the three grades of silicone, by second-order polynomials. These results were compared with published results for the same elastomers tested in compression. For each silicone tested, there was a very small, but statistically significant, difference between the E' values measured in tension and compression. However, overall for the three silicones tested, there was no systematic difference observed, since for only two of the three silicones was the value of E'greater when measured in tension. E'increased more rapidly, with increasing log₁₀f when measured in compression than when measured in tension. Graphs of E" plotted against Iog₁₀f were shallow curves passing through a minimum at frequencies in the range 0.17-0.21 Hz, when measured in tension; when measured in compression, E" increased steeply, but non-linearly, in this frequency range.

2 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

010627   Lin T W;Wang C H (Power Vehicle and Systems Engineering Dep, Chung Cheng Institute of Technology, National Defense University, Taiwan 335, ROC) : New approach to minimize non-periodic preventive maintenance cost using importance measures of components. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(9), 667-71.

Based on unit-cost extended life (UCEL) measure, the study developed an optimization algorithm to minimize total maintenance cost subject to a threshold value of system reliability for non-periodic preventive maintenance (PM) model in a series parallel system. An importance measure of UCEL components is developed to facilitate determining maintenance policy. A case study showed that developed algorithm obtains satisfied results easily and quickly in comparison with earlier studies.

2 illus, 3 tables, 6 ref

010626   Leska M (NO, , ) : Proper preparation: the key to successful pipe welds. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(3), 76-7.

2 illus

010625   Khan I A;Reddy R;Kumar A C S;Narander (NO, JNTUH College of Engg., Hyderabad) : Finite element analysis of friction welding process for AI 6061 and SS 304. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(3), 20-4.

The welding of A1 6061 and SS 304 is susceptible to intermetallic layer formation. The interface properties are degraded as intermetallic thickness increases and the formation of intermetallic compounds strongly depends on local temperature attained during the welding process. The formation of intermetallic layer is responsible for brittle failure of components. In the present study a thermo mechanical model was developed to predict temperature distribution and stress during friction welding process of Al 6061 and SS 304. Temperature dependent material properties are taken into account for analysis. The FE analysis results are compared with experimental results.

6 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

010624   Kandasamy J;Govindaraju M;Hussain M M; Rajesham S (Mechanical Engg Dep, M V S R Engg College, Nadergul, Hyderabad, Email: kandan_kandan@yahoo.co.in) : Experimental investigations on the influence of the position of plates in FSW for dissimlar aluminium alloys. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(7-8), 3-10.

Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is an innovative and promising solid state joining process invented by The Welding Institute (TWI). It is considered to be one of the most significant developments in metal joining technology over the last two decades, FSW experiments were conducted on 6mm thick AA6061 and AA7075 aluminum plates by changing the position of the plates on advancing and retreating sides of the joint. Characterisation of the mechanical and metallurgical properties shows a strong influence of the plate positions in the weld joint strength. An in-depth analysis of the results indicates the difference in mechanical and metallurgical properties of the weldments due to the intermetallic compound (IMC) formed, with change in position of plates.

11 illus, 8 table, 19 ref

010623   Kachhwaha S S;Prabhakar S (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Delhi Technological University, Bawana Road, Delhi-110 042) : Heat and mass transfer study in a direct evaporative cooler. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(9), 705-10.

Presents a simple and efficient methodology to design a household desert cooler, predict performance of evaporative medium and determine pad thickness and height for achieving maximum cooling. Inputs for formulation include inlet air DBT and humidity ratio, air velocity, water temperature and flow rate, and geometrical properties of evaporative medium. A test rig was designed and fabricated to collect experimental data. Predictions of air condition at cooler outlet for given input conditions agree satisfactorily for air exit temperature (±15%) and humidity ratio (±10%). Results are useful for size selection of medium geometry required for an evaporative cooler design.

3 illus, 16 ref

010622   Josephine P;Doloi B;Bhattacharyya B (Production Engg. Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata, Email: bdoloionline@rediffmail.com) : Present status of ND: YAG laser marking process. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(5), 16-26.

Laser marking is one of the emerging technologies in the field of laser processing. Laser marking is the best and most applied technique to make permanent marks on a wide range of materials. Nd: YAG laser beam can be used for marking on various materials such as ceramics, metals and composites etc. This paper includes the review on research activities in the area of Nd: YAG laser marking process. The present status of Nd: YAG laser marking process will obviously generate further scope of research and development in the field of laser marking.

13 illus, 25 ref

010621   Jayabal S;Natarajan U (Mechanical Engineering Dep, A C College of Engineering and Technology, Karaikudi-630 004, Email: jayabalsubbaian@rediffmail.com) : Regression and neuro fuzzy models for prediction of thurst force and torque in drilling of glass fibre reinforced composites. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(10), 741-5.

Study presents drilling of glass fiber reinforced composites with HSS drill bit to evaluate thrust force and torque under different cutting conditions, by using models developed using regression analysis & Neuro fuzzy system.

3 illus, 4 tables, 8 ref

010620   Janaki R (Mechanical Engg Dep, R V College of Engineering, , Email: janakirayasam@gmail.com) : Design & development of automated digital indenter for microhardness measurement. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(2), 13-16.

Micro hardness testing of materials is widely used in industry, since, in many cases, hardness values have been found to correlate with other physical properties such as wear, fatigue and tensile strength. Currently, the dedicated hardness testers are too expensive with limited features. Thus this paper discusses the designing of a PC-based, real-time hardness measurement system and integrating the same with the existing Vision Inspection System for rapid dimensions measurement and online metal characterization, at the manufacturers' site.

7 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

010619   Ilaiyavel S;Venkatesan A (Mechanical Engg Dep, Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering, Pennalur, Sriperumbudur, Email: ilaiyavel@svce.ac.in) : Wear characteristics of manganese phosphate coated HSS turning tool on machining En 24 steel. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(4), 8-13.

In metal-cutting quality of machined surface is normally affected by the contact condition at the tool and work piece interface. Tool wear affects the dimensions and surface quality of the work pieces. It is also one of the important criteria in determining tool life. This paper presents the performance of 12-15 microns thickness of manganese phosphate coated tools on continuous turning of En24 steel work piece. Manganese phosphate coating is created by chemical conversion and the main component of the film is Hureaulite (MnFe)₅ H₂(Po₄)₂. Manganese phosphate coating is observed to have the best wear resistance, intrinsic lubricant properties and very low coefficient of friction. The machining tests are conducted using coated and uncoated High Speed steel (HSS) cutting tools on En 24 steel work piece at different cutting conditions. The tool wear is measured by using the tool-maker's microscope and Images of the Wear pattern is Compared by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The surface roughness is measured by surf test at each cutting speed. An attempt is made to compare the tool flank wear and crater wear of coated and uncoated cutting tools under wet and dry condition. The Characteristics of coated cutting tool is found to be superior in all aspects than uncoated tools.

8 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

010618   Holko K H (NO, , , Email: kholko1@san.rr.com) : Induction soldering gets maglev vehicle on track. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(3), 71-5.

18 illus, 3 ref

010617   Harish M (NO, Office of the Natural Resource Data Management System, Zilla Panchayat, Chamarajanagar, Email: amoghait@gmail.com) : Irrigation projects in Chamarajanagar district: a report. Rasayan J Chem 2010, 3(4), 705-9.

For the long history the irrigation is the foremost important for agriculture in rural areas. This paper discuses the situation in which knowledge of community irrigation systems, useful for policy makers for the welfare of the people in the district. While the instance of national policy that includes the development of new small scale irrigation systems. Today the Chamarajanagr economy is facing a severe crisis on water for irrigational land use and imbalance in water supply among the water users. Some of the reasons for the crisis are that there is a river flow in the district where low rainfall and failure in planning. Using rain water as a resource for micro level planning of water bodies as alternative use of irrigation in the village levels, instead of depending on irrigational projects is required for sustainability in irrigation.

1 table, 17 ref

010616   Haragopal G;Ravindra Reddy P V R;Chandra Mohan Reddy G (Mechanical Engg Dep, CBIT, Gandipet, Hyderabad, Email: ravindra_cbit@yahoo.com) : Parameter design for TIG welding of AL-65032 alloy using taguchi technique. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(9-10), 3-12.

AI-65032 is an Aluminum alloy used for construction of aerospace structures such as wings. This alloy can be welded by Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) or Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding. Hence establishment of welding parameters and their optimization for good quality weld is utmost important factor. In this work, Taguchi parameter design is used to design the process parameters that optimise the mechanical properties of weld specimen. The process parameters of the TIG welding setup considered are gas pressure, current, groove angle and pre-heat. Assigning the process parameters to L-9 orthogonal array, experiments are conducted and the optimization condition is obtained along with the identification of most influencing parameters using S/N analysis and mean response analysis. ANOVA is also carried out to reaffirm the same. A confirmation test is conducted to ascertain the optimized condition.

12 illus, 18 table, 12 ref

010615   Gopi Krishna S;Prakash Vinod;Shashi Kumar P V (Micro-Engineerng and Nanotechnology Dep, Central manufacturing Technology Institute, Bangalore, Email: mnt@cmti-india.net) : Design considerations of nanometer resolution aerostatic spindle bearing for ultra precision machining. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(1), 3-7.

The paper addresses the key design considerations for aerostatic bearings for ultra precision machines requiring nanometer precise spindle rotation and moderate axial and radial stiffness. The development in optical & opto-electronic industry, defence, space and nuclear research demands for high form less than o.1μm and surf ace finish in the order of 2-5nm components to be used as optics. Aerostatic bearing spindles with nanometric accuracy are required to manufacture such high precision optics. Many research and developmental work has been carried out for the past three decades in the field of aerostatic bearing design and performance testing. The selection of suitable bearing type and configuration plays a critical role in achieving the spindle running accuracy in nanometre range. This paper focuses on the selection criteria of bearing film thickness, air bearing types and configurations, air inlet feeding media, and the material selection. The errors associated with the aerostatic bearings and its effect on the surf ace finish and form accuracy of the component is also discussed in the paper. This gives a clear and basic insight to designers to begin with the aerostatic bearing spindle design for ultra precision machines.

3 illus, 6 ref

010614   Garg P K;Ghosh S K;Garg R D;Agarwal R (Civil Engg. Dep, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee-247 667, Email: gargpfce@iitr.ernet.in) : Development of a bridge & culvert information system in GIS. Indian Surveyor 2010, 64(1), 65-71.

The paper discusses the role of GIS and GPS in collecting the data for assessing the condition of bridges and culverts in Ghaziabad district on National and State highways. It describes how GPS, GIS and satellite image help to know about the condition of the bridges and culverts on highways required for maintenance purpose. This information is required for planning, construction, maintenance and processes, and vehicles tracking through GIS-enabled client applications.

8 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

010613   Gangadhara Shetty B;Prasad P S S (Mechanical Engg Dep, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, Email: gangadhara.shetty@yahoo.com) : Development of magnetorheological fluid based flexible work holding fixture. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(5), 7-15.

Surface roughness measurement of a complex geometry has been one of the challenging tasks of a precision component manufacturing industry. Holding such components of complex and irregular geometry in conventional methods is difficult and sometimes impossible too. In this context, flexible work holding fixtures may come to the rescue of users to hold the component in a desired position and orientation with respect to the measuring device. In the present work, a flexible work holding fixture using Magnetorheological (MR) fluid has been proposed. This fixture is capable of holding all regular, irregular and complex shaped components of any material and constrains all degrees of freedom (DOF), during measurement. A mathematical model has also been developed to evaluate the holding strength of the MR fluid, based on the various forces acting on the component while holding. The efficiency of proposed device/method was demonstrated to hold the component during surface roughness measurement and then measuring time was determined to compare with conventional one.

9 illus, 6 tables, 11 ref

010612   Diwakar Reddy V;Jayachandra Reddy G; Ravindranath K (Dept of Mech Engg, Sri Venkateswara Univ, College of Engg., Tirupati, Email: vdiwakarredy@gamil.com) : Static and dynamic performance of short spiral hydrodynamic journal bearing. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(4), 14-22.

Hydrodynamic journal bearings with circular cross section, when used in high speed rotating machinery such as Turbines, Compressors, Pumps, Engine Cranks and Large Milling Systems, etc., often face the problem of instability. In such high speed machinery non-circular bearings are widely used to support the oil whirl. The present paper focuses on one of the non-circular bearings called Spiral Bearing. Out of the two forms of spiral bearings i.e., convergent and divergent types, the study is done on static performance characteristics of short convergent spiral hydrodynamic journal bearing. After evaluating the fluid film thickness for the convergent spiral bearing, Reynolds equation is used to find the fluid film pressure and then in turn load carrying capacity, attitude angle and friction parameter are calculated. To obtain a closed form solution, the short bearing approximation is considered. Theoretical investigations on stability characteristics of hydrodynamic spiral journal bearing are also presented and then comparing with circular bearing. The results show that the effect of preload factor on bearing performance is significant. Compared to the narrow circular bearing, short spiral bearing has more load carrying capacity and stability towards oil whirls.

7 illus, 20 ref

010611   Dhanasekaran R;Senthil Kumar P;Santhi K (NO, K.S. Rangasamy College of Technology, Tiruchengode, Email: dhanaksr@gmail.com) : Stress and failure analysis of a second stage sun gear in planetary gearbox. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(4), 3-7.

Sun gear is one of the most important elements used in planetary gearbox. This paper describes the detailed bending and contact stress analysis and failure analysis on the failed second stage sun gear. The possible failure reasons were analyzed. Insufficient heat treatment of the sun gear could have also resulted in a lower endurance limit of the sun gear case region than that possible in the chosen sun gear material. Chemical analysis was found that the alloy is 15 Ni Cr1 Mo 12. The hardness distribution across the sun gear tooth thick ness at the pitch line was measured with 100 gm load. The carburized case depth was found to be about 0.7 mm where hardness reaches a value of 632.1 HV. The presence of retained austenite is higher near the surface. This retained austenite may weaken the surface. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) result indicates the critical pitting area is located in the surrounding area of the pitch line.

4 illus, 3 tables, 5 ref

010610   Datta S;Bandyopadhyay A (Mechanical Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Orissa) : Research trends for simulation modeling, parametric optimization of bead geometry and mechanical-metallurgical characteristics of submerged arc weld. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(3), 43-4, 45-57.

Submerged arc welding (SAW) is a useful metal joining process in fabrication industry. The process is characterized by the use of granular flux blanket that covers the molten weld pool during operation. This arrangement avoids atmospheric contamination to the weld bead, facilitates slower cooling rate and, thereby, enhancing mechanicalª-metallurgical characteristics of the weldment. It is well-known that several process control parameters influence (directly or indirectly i.e. factorial interaction) various quality features of the weldment. Work, to a far extent, has already been done to study the effects of the parameters (as well as their interactions) like voltage, current, electrode stick-out, wire feed rate, traverse speed etc. on bead geometry, weld quality and performance attributes in terms of mechanical-metallurgical-chemical characteristics of the weld produced by submerged arc welding on structural steel. But the search is still being continued and results thereof are being reported which indicate the necessity of acquiring in depth knowledge in this regard. Control of the above parameters, in a more precise manner, can essentially improve weld quality, enhance the possibility of increased deposition rate and economize the overall process. In consideration of the above, the study outlines the trends of research on various aspects of prediction-modeling, simulation and optimization of submerged arc weld. The application feasibility including relative merits as well as demerits of various modeling-optimization methodologies proposed and adopted by previous investigators in examining the process behavior of SAW has been illustratively highlighted. It is felt that the information provided may definitely give an insight to the young researchers especially to identify the root locus of the past research progressed in the said field and, thereby, helping them in selection of proper direction of work towards value added outcome for the benefit of both academic fraternity as well as industry personnel.

107 ref

010609   Creed Darling (NO, , ) : Brazing: an important joining option. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(3), 68-70.

3 illus

010608   Chattopadhyaya S;Soni A;Priyesh A;Sidhanth Raj;Mukherjee S;Bhatia S;Ghosh A (Mechanical Engineering and Mining Machinery Engineering Dep, Indian School of Mines University, Dhanbad) : Indepth investigations into the capability of plazma arc cutting of mild steel tubes. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(3), 58-64.

Plasma Arc cutting (PAC) is a process of cutting steel and other metals (or sometimes other materials) using a plasma torch. In this method, an inert gas (in some units, compressed air) is blown at high speed out of a nozzle. At the same time an electrical arc is formed through that gas from the nozzle to the surface being cut, turning some of that gas to plasma. The plasma is sufficiently hot to melt the metal being cut and moves sufficiently fast to blow molten metal away from the cut. Plasma can also be used for plasma arc welding and other applications. In Plasma Arc Cutting (PAC), the plasma gas flow is enhanced so that the intense and deeply penetrating plasma jet cuts through the material and molten material is removed as cutting dross. PAC differs from oxy-fuel cutting in that the plasma process operates by using the arc to melt the metal whereas in the oxy-fuel process, the oxygen oxidizes the metal and the heat from the exothermic reaction melts the metal. Unlike oxy-fuel cutting, the PAC process can be applied to cutting metals which form refractory oxides such as stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum, and other non-ferrous alloys. The deviations in the thickness of the cut profile of the square tubes are critically analyzed for assessment of the deviations in the cut surface of the square tubes of structural steel due to the phenomena like top edge rounding, dross, cut surface bevel angle, top spatter and extended kerf width etc.

12 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

010607   Chandrasekaran M;Amresh Kumar;Gupta R K;Gauri Shankar;Roy O P;Rana N K (Mechanical Engg. Dep, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST) Ni, Arunachal Pradesh, Email: mchse1@yahoo.com) : Design of PLC controlled pneumatic operated box segregation system. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(11-12), 31-6.

Pneumatic system and its control are commonly used in industrial automation and rationalisation. The automation, integrated control system and mechanism are becoming popular in every field and packaging industries are no exception. Micro computer based control mechanism, control sensor, measurement and mechanical drives, and pneumatic/hydraulic actuation system together forms highly flexible form of automated control in the field of mechatronics. In this work, the feasibility design of a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) based box segregation system is aimed to segregate boxes of different sizes/heights moving on a flat bed conveyor. Proximity sensor is used to distinguish box sizes and sends signal to the PLC controller which in turn energizes solenoid controlled DC value to actuate pneumatic actuator system to segregate the boxes. The system developed is much of industrial importance and can be modified for different other applications too.

6 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

010606   Basavarajappa S;Chandramohan G;Joshi A G (Studies in Mechanical Engg Dep, Univ BDT College of Engng., Davangere, Email: basvarajappa@yahoo.com) : Investigation on the effect of graphite reinforcement on drilling of AL/SICP metal matrix composite - a statistical approach. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(4), 23-9.

An attempt has been made in the present investigation to study the effect of graphite incorporation in Al2219/15SiC_p composite. This study evaluates the influence of independent parameters such as cutting speed and feed rate on Thrust force and surface roughness. Taguchi design of experiments is used to collect the data in a controlled way and a linear regression model was developed. This paper aims to model thrust force and surface roughness with drilling parameters using a statistical approach. The results obtained in this work enable influence and significance of various parameters on drilling characteristics of Al2219/15SiC_p graphite to be better understood. It was found that SiC_p-Gr reinforced composites exhibit less thrust force but detrimental effect on surface roughness compared to SiC_p composite. Feed rate is the most significant factor affecting the drilling parameters followed by cutting speed.

2 tables, 18 ref

010605   Banerjee S;Chaurasia G;Pal D;Ghosh A K;Ghosh A;Kaity S (NO, College of Pharmacy, Institute of Foreign Trade and Management, Lodhipur Rajput, Delhi Road, Moradabad-244 001, Email: banerjee.subham@yahoo.co.in) : Investigation on crosslinking density for development of novel interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) based formulation. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(10), 777-84.

Interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) based formulation, consisting of sodium alginate and poly vinyl alcohol, were prepared by water-in-oil emulsion crosslinking method. IPN based formulation was cross-linked with glutaraldehyde, and loaded with diclofenac sodium (DS) as a model drug. Scanning electron microscopy revealed spherical nature of microspheres (size, 472-157 μm). Drug entrapment efficiency (72%) was obtained depending upon concentration of cross linking density. Novel formulation can be a potential carrier for controlled delivery of short half-lived drugs.

5 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

010604   Balamurugan K;Kanagasabapathy N;Mayilsamy K (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Institute of Road and Transport Technology, Erode-638 316, Email: drkbalamurugan@yahoo.co.in) : Soya bean oil based lubricant for diesel engines. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(10), 794-7.

Transesterified soya bean oil (SBO) was tested for lubrication, wear, corrosion, thermal and oxidation properties. Biodegradable additives [palm oil methyl ester (POME), castor oil (CO)] were added to soya bean methyl ester (SBME) to improve wear resistance and oxidation stability. Various SBO formulations (crude SBO, SBME, SAE 40+SBME, SBME+POME+CO) were used as lubricants in diesel engines and sump oil temperature was measured and compared with SAE 40. SBOs showed physico-chemical properties similar to those of commercial mineral oil. Engine performance and lube oil temperature were not significantly different for SBO forms as compared to manufacturer's recommended oil. SBME blends (SBME+CO+POME, SAE 40+SBME) were observed to be used as crankcase oils.

2 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

010603   Bala Chennaiah M;Nanda Kumar P;Ranga Janardhana G;Mohan Rao N;Hema D (Mech. Engg. Dep, V R Siddhartha Engineering College, Vijayawada, Email: chennai1515.jntu@gmail.com) : Determination of weld loads and throat requirements using finite element analysis with shell element models- a comparison with classical analysis. Mfg Technol Today 2010, 9(3), 3-12.

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) has become a practical method of predicting stresses and deflection for loaded structures. FEA accurately identifies the load path, which can be difficult using Classical Analysis with complex structures. FEA shell element models are effective for predicting loads in weldments fabricated from plate, sheets, structural shapes and tube. The formulation used for a finite element shell model is that of full penetration welds at every joint. Here a method to derive the loads at weld joint from stress results of FEA shell element model is presented. Apart from these loads, twisting moments is also introduced and twisting load is calculated. Hence the total effect of all these loads is considered. The weld loads, weld throat size requirements are calculated using classical methods. The FEA and Classical method results are compared and the importance of FEA is justified.

24 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

010602   Azadeh A;Saberi M;Anvari M;Moghaddam M (Industrial Engineering Dep, Engineering Optimization Research Dep, Research Institute of Energy Management and Planning, and Center of E, PO Box 11365-4563, Iran) : Integrated ANN-K-Means algorithm for improved performance assessment of electricity distribution units. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(9), 672-9.

Study proposes a non-parametric efficiency frontier analysis method based on artificial neural network (ANN) and K-Means algorithm for measuring efficiency of electricity distribution units (EDUs). Effect of return to scale of EDU on its efficiency is included and EDU used for correction is selected based on its scale. K-Means algorithm is used to cluster EDUs to increase their homogeneousness by handling outlines and noise. Proposed approach was applied to 31 EDUs in Iran. The study using integrated ANN-K-Means algorithm for improved performance assessment of EDUs. ANN-K-Means algorithm is compared with earlier models to show its advantages and superiorities in prediction and forecasting.

2 illus, 4 tables, 33 ref

010601   Ashok Kumar L;Vigneswaran C;Ramachandran T (Electrical and Electronic Engineering Dep, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore-641 004, Email: lak@ee.psgtech.ac.in) : Design and development of signal sensing equipment for measuring light transmission efficiency of POF fabrics. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2010, 35(4), 317-23.

Attempt has been made to design the light signal sensing equipment with microcontroller AT89C52 based circuit using 02n5777 optical receiver for measuring the light transmission efficiency of poly(methyl methacrylate) based plastic optical fibre (POF) and then to develop POF integrated woven fabrics using three different methods, namely sequential work, handloom and powerloom using 0.25 mm, 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm POF. The signal transferring efficiency of the handloom, powerloom and sequential integrated woven POF fabrics is analysed using the microprocessor designed with optical receiver for bullet wound detection. The signal loss percentage of these fabrics has been studied and reported using the red LED, white light LED (SPL) and laser light LED with input voltage of +5 V. These POF integrated woven fabrics are having good scope for the development of signal transferring garment for defence personnel, telecommunication and data transferring purpose.

9 illus, 15 ref

010600   Ajantha Devi;Siddiqui M J;Tangri A K;Bhargava D S (Planning Dep, State Planning Commission, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh) : Use of remote sensing for monitoring of gaseous air pollutants. Indian Surveyor 2010, 64(1), 53-64.

1 table, 43 ref

010599   Agarwal S;Swami B L (Civil Engineering Dep, Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur-302 017) : Development of road transport fuel consumption model for Jaipur city - a case study. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2009, 8(3), 597-602.

The object of this study is to develop an empirical, mathematical energy consumption equation for the estimation of energy consumption at two highly busy commercial corridors of Jaipur city. This equation incorporates traffic volume, average traffic speed, passenger loading, length of roads and type of fuel used under heterogeneous traffic flow conditions. Monitoring and modelling were carried out at both of the selected locations. Further, a comparative study was also done by introducing a new theoretical concept of Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) in the study. It was found that 80-90% fuel consumption can be reduced, replacing personalized vehicles by BRTS.

3 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

009720   Zhang H;Zhang J;Gao R (Institute of Water Conservancy and Hydroelectric Power, Heibei Engineering Univ, Handan, 056021, China, Email: hj810515@163.com) : Radial force reduction for switched reluctance motor with skewed slot stucture based on FEW. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(8), 594-9.

This study presents designing of rotor with skewed slot structure and reduction of radial force and vibration of switched reluctance motor (SRM). Finite element method (FEM) analyzed static structural and electromagnetic problems. Simulated results showed that electromagnetic radial force was reduced (23.3%).

8 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

009719   Vasantha Rao B V T;Khare B P (Geology Dep, University College of Engg., Kothagudem) : Distribution of major elements under backwater creeks at Suryalanka area, Andhra Pradesh, east-coast of India. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(7), 183-7.

Studies were conducted in Suryalanka area of Guntur district in coastal Andhra Pradesh. The area is famous for prograded coast in the Bay of Bengal. The lagoonal waters are partly saline and brakish. In this combination of fresh and brakish environment the deposition of sediments took place. The distribution of major elements in the bottom sediments of lagoonal environment and their selective preferences are discussed.

5 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

009718   Varma N K;Sahay N;Ahmad I;Sinha A (NO, Central Institute of Mining & Fuel Research, Barwa Road, Dhanbad-826 001) : Singnificance of ventilation system design on fire with special reference to extensive and fire affected mine. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(11), 413-17.

In a coal mine when sealed off area having connection with atmosphere (surface) and intake airways only the condition becomes more worsen when active fire in such sealed off area creates sufficient drought due to fire. In such situation sometimes pressure created by the fan may not be sufficient to neutralize such suction pressure created by the fire. In this case continuous feeding of fresh air to the fire takes place through cracks and fissures and weak zones around the boundary, which guides the fire to propagate in mines. Continuation of such phenomena for longer period may lead to loss of huge property as well as the mine itself. To control the leakage of air under such situation some modification in ventilation system is definitely required. In this paper the ventilation arrangement to neutralize the drought created by the fire in one of the mine of BCCL without affecting the ventilation of other part of the mine followed by thorough monitoring of status of fire have been discussed.

7 illus, 4 table

009717   Upadhyay S R (NO, Mahanadi Coalfields Limited, Jagriti Vihar, Sambalpur-768 020) : Surface miner technology at Mahanadi Coalfields limited. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(3-4), 55-7.

Surface miner technology is going to stayu in MCL. MCL has decided to puchase 8 more surface miners for its own use.

2 tables, ref