023169   Verma G R;Pradhan M;Bhattacharjee P K (Min Engng Dep, Govt Engng Coll, Raipur-492 010) : Use of site mixed emulsion explosives in captive limestone mines. Indian Min Engng J 2005, 44(9), 22-6.

In the fast decade limestone mines of cement plants have undergone dramatic modernization when compared to its past. In line to this, introduction of SME (site mixed emulsion) explosives have proved to a major breakthrough in opencast limestone mines. Trials with ANFO and SME explosives were carried out in two limestone mines to assess the economic viability of site mixed emulsion explosive in limestone mines. The paper deals in detail the need for switching over the conventional system of blasting with ANFO explosives to SME and the benefits derived there upon.

9 tables, 9 ref

023168   Venkateswara Reddy V;Sudarsana Rao H; Jayaveera K N (Dep of Civ Engng, J.N.T.U Coll of Engng, Anantapur-515 002) : Influence of strong alkaline substances (sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate) in mixing water on strength and setting properties of concrete. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2006, 13(2), 123-8.

Quality of mixing and curing water plays a vital role in production and application of concrete. The effect of strong alkaline substances like sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) on setting time and strength development of concrete is assessed under the laboratory conditions. The results indicate that Na₂CO₃ in deionised water accelerates the initial as well as final setting times whereas the other compound NaHCO₃ retards the initial and final setting times in all concentrations. Na₂CO₃ and NaHCO₃ in deionised water decrease the compressive and tensile strength of concrete specimens significantly at 28 days and 90 days. Comparison of the results of strong alkaline compounds with those of the control mix reveals that both Na₂CO₃ and NaHCO₃ decrease the compressive and tensile strength significantly. The rate of decrease is increasing with the increase in concentration. Work analyses the hydration characteristics of concrete using the technique of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and useful conclusions are obtained regarding the influence of strong alkaline substances.

4 illus, 12 ref

023167   Vaid R;Padha N (Dep of Phys & Electron, Univ of Jammu, Jammu-180 006, Email: rakeshvaid@gmail.co.in) : Investigation of a power FLIMOSFET based on two-dimensional numerical simulations. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2006, 13(1), 55-61.

Numerical simulation results for a power FLIMOSFET structure with up to eleven vertical floating islands, designed using PISCES-IIB, a 2-dimensional advanced device simulator. The novel structure is based on the FLI-diode concept, which helps in lowering the maximum electrical field in the N~epitaxial region of the device to reduce the effective on-resistance without degrading device performance. Extensive simulations were performed to understand the device physics through various internal electrical quantities like potential distribution and electric field in different regions of the device both in on/off states. The effect of drift region doping on the device performance has been discussed. It is shown that the decrease in the drift region doping tends to decrease the electric field distribution and intermediate potential in this region thereby making its on resistance lower than the value given by the conventional silicon limit. The device structure does not require any precise control of the boron implantation dose in the P⁺ floating islands for charge balance as essential in case of super junction (SJ)/COOLMOS^tm devices. The process flow mechanism required to fabricate FLIMOSFET structure using multi-epitaxial technology has been discussed, which is less complex and less expansive than the super junction (SJ) devices technology.

10 illus, 1 table, 27 ref

023166   Trifunac M D (Civ Engng Dep, Univ of Sth Calif, Los Angeles, California 90089-2531, U.S.A.) : 70-th anniversary of Biot spectrum. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2003, 40(1), 19-50.

Concept of the response spectrum method was formulated and proposed in 1932 for use in the analysis and design of earthquake-resistant structures. To commemorate the 70th anniversary of this event, this paper reviews Biot's seminal contributions, which created this method, and then briefly outlines the milestones in the general evolution of the response spectrum method. The techniques for computation of spectral amplitudes and the studies of spectral shapes are described for the period preceding the modern digital computer age. The role of response spectrum in influencing the development of design codes, and their transition from the use of static to dynamic methods of analysis are illustrated, using the examples from code development in California. Finally, the limitations of the linear response superposition method are considered, and future directions for the development of the earthquake-resistant design tools are suggested.

12 illus, 120 ref

023165   Sudhakar K V;Singh V P (Dep of Mechanical Engng, Universidad de las Americas-Puebla, Puebla 72820, Mexico) : Evaluation of tensile and corrosion properties in duplex steel for use in agricultural machineries. Res Crop 2004, 5(2 - 3), 287-9.

Describes the tensile and corrosion properties of duplex steel containing martensite (40%) and ferrite (60%) structures. Tensile and general corrosion tests were carried out as per the relevant ASTM standards, E8 and G31, respectively. Tensile properties, namely, tensile strength, 0.2% proof stress, % elongation and also corrosion properties were evaluated for the duplex steel. Based on the tensile and corrosion test results, the investigated duplex steel is suggested as a potential cost effective material with outstanding tensile and corrosion properties.

3 tables, 5 ref

023164   Sudhakar K V;Singh V P (Dep of Mechanical Engng, Universidad de las Americas-Puebla, Puebla, CP 72820, Mexico) : Fatigue properties of a duplex steel and its suitability in horticultural and agricultural tools. Res Crop 2004, 5(2 - 3), 284-6.

Investigates the suitability of duplex steel for use in horticultural and agricultural tools based on its fatigue properties. The fatigue properties of duplex steel containing 60% martensite and 40% ferrite structures were studied. Fatigue characterizing properties, namely, fracture toughness and endurance limit were determined as per the relevant ASTM standards. The investigated duplex steel is considered as a cost effective material with excellent fatigue properties based on the results obtained in the experiments.

2 tables, 3 ref

023163   Srivastava R K;Dhabal R L;Suman B M;Saini A; Panchal P (NO, Cent Bldg Res Inst (CBRI), Roorkee-247 667) : Estimation of correlation on thermo-acoustic properties of mineral wool. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(3), 232-6.

Presents thermal and acoustical properties of mineral wool, a class of building material available in the form of blankets and acoustical tiles. Thermal conductivity and sound absorption coefficient of materials have been determined at CBRI, Roorkee. For measurement of sound absorption coefficient. Standing Wave Method is used and for thermal conductivity, Guarded Hot Plate Apparatus was used. Describes regression equations correlation between noise reduction coefficient (NRC) and thermal conductivity (K) for mineral wool material. The equation is useful to determine NRC value by knowing the K-value and vice versa for indoor design purposes.

5 illus, 3 tables, 8 ref

023162   Sriram G;Krishna Mohan N;Gopalasamy V (NO, SCSVMV Deemed Univ, Enathur, Kaachipuran-363 156, Email: gopalasamyv@yahoo.com) : Sensitivity study of Gaussian dispersion models. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(4), 321-4.

Over the last three decades, strict environmental regulations and the availability of personal computers have fueled an immense use of mathematical models to predict the dispersion of air pollution plumes. Discusses how the propagation of seemingly small errors in the Gaussian model parameters can cause very large variations in the model's predictions.

2 illus, 3 tables, 7 ref

023161   Singhal S K;Singh B P (Div of Engng Mater, Natn Phys Lab, Dr K S Krishnan Road, New Delhi-110 012, Email: bpsingh@mail.nplindia.ernet.in) : Sintering of boron carbide under high pressures and temperatures. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2006, 13(2), 129-34.

Sintered compacts of boron carbide were prepared by subjecting fine powder of boron carbide to high pressures and temperatures (5-6 GPa. 1000-1500°C) in the presence of a suitable binding material, namely TiC (5wt.%) or Co (5wt.%). The composites prepared by this method showed a microhardness of about 2800 kg/mm² which is very close to the microhardness of pure boron carbide. The compacts were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction techniques. SEM study showed that the grains of boron carbide were uniformly distributed throughout the binding material and no grain growth was observed in the composites. Although composites of diameter 6.0 mm and 2-3 mm thickness are synthesized in this method, the process can be up-scaled for producing large size (12 mm diameter) composites required in various cutting tools and other applications.

6 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

023160   Singh K K K (NO, Cent Min Res Inst, Dhanbad-826 001, Email: kkksingh@yahoo.com) : Application of ground penetrating radar for hydro-geological study. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(2), 160-4.

Aims to highlight the significance of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey prior to excavation in areas where impervious clay layers occur as underlying strata. GPR will he very helpful to check groundwater depletion in open cast mines indirectly after exploring the subsurface geological scenario. Hydrological regime of the mining areas will be saved with the help of GPR by distinguishing between groundwater and clay.

5 illus, 7 ref

023159   Senthil Kumar M;Vijayarangan S V (Dep of Mechanical Engng, PSG Coll of Technol, Coimbatore-641 004, Email: msenthil_kumar@hotmail.com) : Linear quardratic regular controller design for active suspension system subjected to random road surfaces. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(3), 213-26.

Work aims at developing an active suspension for a passenger car by designing a controller using linear quadratic optimal control theory, based on two different control approaches [conventional method (CM), acceleration dependent method (ADM)]. Performance of the active suspension system of a quarter car model with 3 degrees-of-freedom with two control approaches has been compared with that of passive one. Active suspension system had a better potential to improve both the ride comfort and road holding, since the passenger acceleration has been reduced for active CM system (19.58%) and for active ADM system (34.08%) compared to passive one. Also suspension travel has reduced (37.5%).

16 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

023158   Sathiya P;Aravindan S.;Haq A N;Panneerselvam K (Dep of Mechanical Engng, J.J. Coll of Engng & Technol, Tiruchirappalli-620 009, Email: paulsathiya@yahoo.co.in) : Optimization of friction welding parameters using simulated annealing. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2006, 13(1), 37-44.

Friction welding is a solid state bonding technique which utilizes the heat generated by rubbing of two faying surfaces for the coalescence of material. Friction welding process is normally considered as a multi-input and multi-output process. Optimization of friction welding parameters is required to get good quality joints. Relationship between the input variables and output variables has been established. Heating pressure (HP), heating time (HT), upsetting time (UT) and upsetting pressure (UP) are the input variables. The flash features such as flash thickness (FT), flash height (FH) and flash width (FW) are considered as output variables. The relationship between these input and output variables is established through artificial neural network (ANN). ANN is suitably integrated with the optimization algorithm in order to minimize the metal loss without sacrificing the tensile strength of the joints. The variation between theoretical and experimental values of flash features is also analyzed.

10 illus, 8 tables, 11 ref

023157   Sarva Jit Singh;Anil Kumar;Jagdish Singh (Dep of Math, Maharshi Dayanand Univ, Rohtak-124 001) : Deformation of a monoclinic elastic half-space by a long inclined strike-slip fault. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2003, 40(1), 51-9.

Closed-form analytical expression for the horizontal displacement due to a long inclined strike-slip fault situated in a monoclinic elastic half-space is obtained. The fault is of infinite length in the strike-direction and of finite width in the down-dip-direction. The effect of the anisotropy on the displacement field is also studied.

5 illus, 7 ref

023156   Roy S S;Karmakar S;Mukherjee N P;Nandy U; Datta U (NO, Cent Mech Engng Res Inst, Durgapur-713 209, Email: ssroy_cmeri@yahoo.co.in) : Design and development of indigenous cricket bowling machine. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(2), 148-52.

Presents details of a cricket bowling machine, developed at CMERI, Durgapur, which includes a pair of adjacent ball ejecting wheels, each provided with a groove or concave surface formed in a body of an visco-elastic material. These wheels are mounted on a base for axial rotation in a common plane, the spacing between the wheels being less than the diam of a ball to be thrown and the rotational speed of each wheel being adjustable independently of the other. This machine transfers the kinetic energy to the ball by factional gripping of the ball between two rotating wheels. The base is supported on a tilting assembly, which is mounted on a bracket in such a way that the required angular adjustment of the rotational plane of the wheel about axis parallel to direction of delivery of ball and its perpendicular axis is possible. Electronic controls are provided for controlling the speed of rotation of the wheel. These adjustments of relative rotational speeds and plane of rotation of the wheels afford wide variations in the bowling speed, spin and direction.

5 illus, 1 tables, 8 ref

023155   Roy S S (NO, Cent Mech Engng Res Inst, Durgapur-713 209, Email: csioamod@yahoo.com) : Adaptive network-based fuzzy approach for prediction of surface roughness in CNC end milling. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(4), 329-34.

An Adaptive Network-based Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) has been designed for modeling and predicting the surface roughness in end milling operation for set of three given milling parameters (spindle speed, feed rate and depth of cut). Two different membership functions (triangular and bell shaped) were used during the hybrid-training process of ANFIS in order to compare the prediction accuracy of surface roughness by the two membership functions. The predicted surface roughness values obtained from ANFIS were compared with experimental data and multiple regression analysis. The comparison indicates that the adoption of both membership functions in ANFIS achieved better accuracy than multiple regression model.

7 tables, 7 ref

023154   Rajasekaran S (Dep of Infrastructure Engng, PSG Coll of Technol, Coimbatore-641 004, Email: drrajasekaran@gmail.com) : Optimal mix for high performance concrete by evolution strategies combined with neural networks. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2006, 13(1), 7-17.

There is a growing interest in the application of non-traditional methods such as simulated annealing (SA) and genetic algorithm (GA) and evolution strategies (ES) for optimization of structural systems. Evolution strategies (ES) is used to find the optimal mix design for high performance concrete (HPC) comprised of cement, sand, coarse aggregate, water, silica fume and super pasticizer. It is required to get the optimal mix for strength for 120 MPa and slump of 120 mm. In order to get the equation for strength and slump, the sequential learning neural network (SLNN) proposed by Zhang and Morris is used. The cost function to be minimized is the cost of HPC/unit weight of HPC subjected to strength and slump constraints. It is concluded that the method proposed is highly suitable for getting the optimal mix for high performance concrete in practice.

7 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref

023153   Rai P;Singh B;Nath R (Dept of Min Engg, BHU, Varanasi) : Lateral spreading of the blast on high sandstone benches. Indian Min Engng J 2005, 44(9), 27-31.

The paper highlights the importance of modifications in the blast design parameters for desired results. Four trial blasts were conducted on a high (22-25 m) sandstone bench to be excavated by 10 cu.m. rope shovel having a maximum digging capacity of 14 m only. Hence, it was desired to lower down the blasted muck pile by laterally spreading it. To this end, the blasts were designed with requisite delay between the rows and increased powder factor. The post blast assessment of the fragmented muck pile revealed that the vertical lowering and horizontal spreading of the muck pile helped inefficient and safe mining by the shovel.

6 illus, 1 table,

023152   Punyani S;Narayana P;Harpal Singh;Vasudevan P (NO, Cent for Biomed Engng Indian Inst of Technol Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi-110 016, Email: harpal2000@yahoo.com) : Iodine based water disinfection. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(2), 116-20.

Often bacteriological quality of groundwater or surface water does not meet the prescribed standards. Iodine has been for its germicidal action and has been used since 1920 for water disinfection. NASA, USA has used iodine-based disinfection in its space flights. In the review water disinfection by different formulations incorporating iodine and the mechanisms of germicidal action has been discussed.

^iia1 table, 33 ref

023151   Pillai P S (NO, M.T.I. Associates, 509 Fairwood Dr, Tallmadge, Ohio, 44278, USA) : Inflation pressure effect on whole tyre hysteresis ratio and radial spring constant. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2006, 13(2), 110-16.

The basic equation for rolling loss R in terms of the whole tyre hysteresis ratio h is modified by incorporating tyre radial stiffness K and rewritten as R =L² (h/K). (w/A), where w and A are footprint dimensions. Tyre inflation pressure p influences the magnitude of h and K. The primary objective of the study to obtain quantitative expressions relating h versus p and K versus p. Three P195/75R14 size radial tyres are selected for the present investigation. The h and K values of these tyres are measured as a function of p and analyzed by invoking two limiting structural terms, viz., structural hysteresis ratio h(0) and structural radial stiffness K(0). The empirical relation between h and p is found to be inversely related as h = k (1/p^x). The h(0) values are about 0.38, 0.27 and 0.28 for tyres 1, 2 and 3. The hysteresis ratio reduction factor h(ƒ) is normalized with respect to h(0) and is found to be about 78% of h(0) value of the respective tyre. The K term is partitioned into structural stiffness K(0) and inflation pressure stiffness K(a). The K(0) values are about 60, 25 and 67 N/mm respectively. The K versus p relation can be expressed as K = K(0) + m.p. = K(O) + K(a). The pressure stiffness K(a) is directly proportional to p as K(a) = 0.56.p. These empirical equations with experimentally determined fitting coefficients k, x and m for the three P195/75R14 tyres are presented. This study indicates that the tyre size primarily controls the magnitude in reduction of h, through h(ƒ), and the increase in K, through K(a), with p. The total tyre load of 5337 N is separated into structural load and pressure load; the former load has a direct relationship with R while the latter has an inverse relation. This is a new analytical approach relating tyre load and rolling loss.

3 illus, 5 tables, 7 ref

023150   Park G;Shin J;Park Y (NO, Electron and Telecommunications Res Inst, 161 Gajong-dong, Yuseong-gu, Daejon, 305-700, Korea, Email: parkyt@cybernet.snu.ac.kr) : Measurement of depreciation rate of technological knowledge: Technology cycle time approach. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(2), 121-7.

New method has been proposed for estimating the depreciation rate of technological knowledge based on the analysis of technology cycle time (TCT). Patent citation data are used in an empirical analysis. The following features characterize the proposed TCT-based method: i) Estimation of the depreciation rate is measured by using the entire set of patents: and ii) The current approach generates the sector-specific depreciation rates for individual industrial sectors, Overall, the results of empirical analysis are in accordance with expectation. The average depreciation rate (13.3%) is rather higher than other estimates of previous research. At the same time, consistent upward trends are found over time. Regarding the sectoral variation among industries, emerging and high-tech sectors show faster pace of technical progress but at the same time higher rate of technical obsolescence, vis-a-vis traditional manufacturing sectors or light industries.

2 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref

023149   Ozcoban M S;Tufekci N;Tutus S;Sahin U;Celik S O (Fac of Civ Engng Dep of Geotechnics, Yildiz Tech Univ, Istanbul-Turkey, Email: ozcoban@yildiz.edu.tr) : Leachate removal rate and the effect of leachate on the hydraulic conductivity of natural (undisturbed) clay. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(3), 264-9.

Hydraulic conductivity (HC) is perhaps the most important unique parameter determined in the laboratory for predicting mobility of leachates through clay liners. Typically, HC must be <60> or = 1x10^-9 m/s for soil liners and covers used to contain hazardous waste, industrial waste, and municipal solid waste (MSW). Soil samples used in the study were obtained from the Kemerburgaz landfill in Istanbul. The study presents change in clay HC brought about by the chemical reactions between clay and a permeant. Any change induced by such a reaction in the microstructure (microfabric) of the clay was studied by scanning electron microscope. In order to determine the removal capability of the natural clav, COD, SS, VSS, Total P, TKN, Cu, Mn, Fe are also measured in the influent and effluent of the lab-scale reactor.

4 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

023148   Ozcan H Kurtulus;Ucan O N;Sahin U;Borat M; Bayat C (Envir Eng. Dept. 34 320, Istanbul Univ Engng Fac, Avcilar, Istanbul, TurKey, Email: hkozcan@istanbul.edu.tr) : Artificial neural network modeling of methane emissions at Istanbul Kemerburgaz, Odayeri, landfill site. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(2), 128-34.

Study reports on Istanbul Kemerburgaz-Odayeri (Turkey) solid waste landfills, models CH_<4>, CO_<2>, CO, atmosphere temperature parameters of this area, and predicts CH_<4> using Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). Here, ANN structure employs 4 input, 10 hidden and i output neurons. In order to evaluate performance of ANN model, statistical performance indices between real and estimated data have been measured and the correlation is found as 0.983 and 0.806 for training and testing respectively.

5 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

023147   Oktem Y;Tufekci N (Engng Fac Dep of Envir Engng, Istanbul Univ 34320, Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkey, Email: oktemy@istanbul.edu.tr) : Treatment of brewery wastewater by pilot scale upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor in mesophilic temperature. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(3), 248-51.

Treatment of brewery wastewater by pilot scale upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor in mesophilic phase was investigated. UASB reactor was achieved with brewery wastewater to an organic loading rate (OLR) of 7 kg COD/m³-d at 12 m/d upflow velocity with a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 3.5 day, and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency of 95% with a methane yield of 0.30 m³ CH₄/kg COD_removed. At an OLR 0.20 kg COD/m³-d, sludge concentration was increased and reached even 70000 mg/l at the end of 6th month. At the end of experiment, a granular sludge with good settling properties was produced.

3 illus, 13 ref

023146   Natarajan U;Arun P;Periasamy V M (Dep of Mechanical Engng, A.C. Coll of Engng and Technol, Karaikudi-630 004) : A decision fusion algorithm for tool condition monitoring in drilling using Hidden Markov Model (HMM). Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2006, 13(2), 103-9.

Industries are very much concerned about reducing down-time and increasing the productivity as well as the quality. To increase the product quality, the tool should have good performance. Drilling process is widely used in the manufacturing operations in all the manufacturing industries. Two Hidden Markov Models (HMM) such as bar-graph method and the multiple modeling methods have been used to determine the tool wear states in drilling operations. Cutting speed, feed rate, drill diameter and torque are taken as input parameters for the HMM bar-graph method. Cutting speed, feed rate, drill diameter, thrust force and feed-motor power are taken as input parameters for the HMM multiple modeling methods. In order to increase the reliability of these outputs, a Decision Fusion Center Algorithm (DFCA) is proposed which combines the outputs of the individual methods to make a global decision about the wear status of the drill tool.

4 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

023145   Mukhopadhyay S K;Basu J;Chaulia P K (NO, Cent Mech Engng Res Inst, Durgapur-713 209, Email: smukherjee999@yahoo.co.in) : Strength analysis of an aluminium-alloy component of circular geometry developed by cold forming and friction welding method. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(3), 227-31.

To meet the requirements of modern manufacturing of automotive components of near net shape and high strength to weight ratio at lower cost, a 6061 Aluminium-alloy bicycle hub (rear) was produced by a newly proposed method combining cold forming and friction welding processes. As the process involved joining of two cold formed halves by friction welding to get the final component (rear bicycle hub), knowledge of the stress distribution over the component under the simulated loading conditions was felt very important to examine its strength. The finite element method, used for the analysis of the component using ANSYS Code, revealed that in the middle portion of the hub-stem (friction welded zone), the stress magnitude is of very low order. The maximum value of stress observed at the junction points of flange and spokes, is within the allowable stress of the material. Thus the structural integrity of the component during use is established.

5 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

023144   Mishra A;Chakravarty M N;Kaushika N D (NO, IEC Coll of Engng and Technol, Greater Noida, Email: ndkaushika@yahoo.com ) : Thermal optimisation of solar biomass hybrid cogeneration plants. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(4), 355-63.

Thermal optimization and performance matching of subsystems in solar biomass hybrid plant are investigated. The plant incorporates solar collector field, multiple fuel boiler, steam turbine, deaerator and economizer units. The solar field consists of line focus parabolic trough collectors. The thermal model is used for comparative study of various variations of parabolic trough collectors; LS3, Euro Trough (ET) and Duke solar excel over others. The matching of the output heat Q_u and the temperature to the feed water conditions indicate that E,T is the most suitable for the application; its inlet temperature requirement also matches the energy balance of the deaerator.

4 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

023143   Mandavgane S A;Subramanian D (NO, Priyadarshini Inst of Engng and Technol, Nagpur-440 019, Email: mandavgane@rediffmail.com) : Settling and filtration characteristics of carbonated black liquor from agro based paper mill. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(2), 169-73.

Chemical pulping of agricultural residues poses no problem however major difficulty arises in recovery of heat and chemicals from cooking chemical (black liquor) due to presence of silica in it. At every stage of chemical recovery. Desilication of black liquor is achieved by carbonation effecting delignification. Filtration is a key unit operation in successful desilication technology. Low temperature and low flocculent dose is found to favor sedimentation rate. Filtration of carbonated black liquor using leaf filter shows that temperature favors rate of filtration. Co-precipitation of lignin makes filtration difficult.

6 illus, 19 ref

023142   Majumdar S;Adhikari B (NO, Mater Sci Cent Indian Inst of Technol, Kharagpur-721 302, Email: ba@matsc.iitkgp.ernet.in ) : Taste sensing with polyacrylamide grafted cellulose. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(3), 237-43.

Research work covers polymer membrane preparation, morphology study, and structural characterization of the membrane and study of the taste sensing characteristics of membrane for five different taste substances. FTIR spectroscopic analysis, UV spectroscopic analysis and SEM were carried for the structure and morphology of polyacrylamide (PAM) grafted cellulose membrane. Sensor characteristics (temporal stability, response stability, response to different taste substances, and reproducibility of sensing performance) were studied using PAM grafted cellulose membrane. Sensor device prepared with this membrane showed distinct response patterns for different taste substances in terms of membrane potential. Threshold concentrations of PAM grafted cellulose membrane are below human threshold concentrations and are as follows: HCl, 0.008; NaCl, 0.05; Q-HCl, 0.001; sucrose, 0.008; and monosodium glutamate (MSG), 0.05 mM. Membranes also showed characteristic response patterns for organic acids (acetic acid, citric acid, formic acid etc.), mineral acids (HCl, H₂SO₄ HNO₃), salts, bitter substances, sweet substances and umami substances. Sensor device prepared with this membrane has excellent shelf life.

7 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

023141   Loganathan M;Manivannan P V;Ramesh A (Internal Combust Engines Lab Dep of Mechanical Engng, Indian Inst of Technol Madras, Chennai-600 036) : Investigations on performance and emissions of a two-stroke SI engine fitted with a manifold injection system. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2006, 13(2), 95-102.

Simple and cost effective electronically controlled injection systems have to be developed to combat the problem of urban pollution. In this work an electronically controlled fuel injection system developed in the Internal Combustion Engine Laboratory of Indian Institute of Technology Madras has been tested in detail on a two-stroke SI engine. The system is fitted on the intake manifold of a single cylinder, air cooled two-stroke scooter engine. Tests have been done at 3000 rpm and 4000 rpm at different throttle positions. The optimum injector pulse widths for thermal efficiency, lowest HC emissions and highest power are all different. The maximum brake thermal efficiency values are 22.6% and 23% at 3000 and 4000 rpm respectively. At a power output of 3 kW and 4000 rpm the brake thermal efficiency is about 21% for the carbureted engine. It increases to 23% with the fuel injection system. HC emissions are considerably lower than the carbureted version at all operating conditions and speeds. The engine can work with leaner mixtures with the injection system in general as compared to the carburetor. The maximum power increases with the injection system. The developed system can be used for mapping the engine for the development of software for injection system control.

17 illus, 12 ref

023140   Loganathan C;Narayanasamy R (Dep of Production Engng, Mookambigai Coll of Engng, Kalamavur-622 502, Email: narayan@niit.edu) : Effect of die profile on the wrinkling behaviour of three different commercially pure aluminium grades when drawn through conical and tractrix dies. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2006, 13(1), 45-54.

Experiments have been carried out to evaluate the onset of wrinkling behaviour in three grades of annealed commercially pure aluminium sheets namely ISS 19000. ISS 19600 and ISS 19660 having thickness 2 mm, while drawing them through conical and tractrix dies. The deep drawing of circular blanks of different diameters of the previously mentioned sheet metals has been carried out using flat bottom punch. The analysis of the experimental data has revealed that the onset of wrinkling takes place when the ratio of the plastic strain increments (dε_<1>/dε_<74>) reached a critical value. It has been also found that the measured strains followed non-linear paths in the wrinkling limit diagrams. Further, it has been observed that the aluminium grade having high strain hardening index value, low yield stress and high normalized hardening rate shows better resistance against wrinkling. Drawing with the tractrix die shows better resistance against wrinkling as compared to drawing with the conical die.

8 illus, 4 tables, 21 ref

023139   Karaman S;Ersahin S;Gunal H (NO, Gaziosmanpasa Univ Agric Fac, 60250 Tokat-Turkey, Email: skaraman@gop.edu.tr) : Firing temperature and firing time influence on mechanical and physical properties of clay bricks. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(2), 153-9.

Effects of firing time and temperature on compressive strength, water absorption, bending strength, weight loss, firing shrinkage and densities of clay bricks were determined. For a given clay and method of manufacture, higher compressive and bending strengths, higher density and lower absorptions are associated with higher firing temperatures. Increasing firing time only slightly altered the mechanical and physical properties of clay bricks. However, firing temperature significantly affected the physical properties. The results suggested that firing temperature was the key factor to modulate the physical properties in clay bricks. However, the effect of firing time was not significant. The results obtained in this study can only be compared to the properties of bricks produced under similar conditions with similar raw materials.

7 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

023138   Kalia A K;Singh S P (Dep of Agric Engng, C.S.K.H.P. Agric Univ, Palampur-176 062) : Development and evaluation of slurry filtration unit for family size biogas plants. Himachal J agric Res 2005, 31(1), 69-75.

To effectively use the biogas plant slurry as a manure in a semi-solid form, a design of slurry filtration unit suitable for family size biogas plants was developed and drying cum filtration parameters of slurry in it were evaluated with respect to identical kuchcha pit without filtration assembly. The filtration unit suitable for 1, 2 and 3 m³ capacity biogas plants including the cost of filtered water collecting masonry pit costs Rs. 810, Rs. 1174, and Rs. 1386 respectively. In summer, with loading rate of 75 l/day, a total of 3825 kg slurry having 7.4% TS was fed to the unit and a total of 1254 kg ( i.e. 33% of the fed slurry) de-watered slurry (manure) with uniform 12-13% TS content and 1.6% nitrogen was obtained along with recovery of nearly 20% of water rich nutrients and micro-organisms for re-feeding to the plant. The unit was found to be equally effective in the rainy season and helped to improving environment near the plant. Hence, it is recommended for propagation in the field.

1 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

023137   Jagdev Singh;Nirmal Singh;Sharma J K (Dep of Mechanical and Production Engng, Beant Coll of Engng & Technol, Gurdaspur-143 521, Email: bks19701967@yahoo.co.in) : Design of fuzzy system for vapour compression refrigeration system. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(2), 135-41.

Presents fuzzy modeling of multi-input single output (MISO) control of vapour compression refrigeration cycles. Fuzzy model of two input parameters, mass flow rate, and evaporating temperature was developed to describe the significant dynamic of vapour compression cycles. To develop an effective model, fuzzy rule base was designed for MISO control in vapour compression system. The effect of input parameters on superheat through the developed fuzzy model was studied. Comparison of fuzzy and mathematical modeling showed that the MISO control could significantly improve the performance and energy efficiency of vapor compression refrigeration cycle.

5 illus, 10 ref

023136   Hanamane M D;Mudholkar R R;Jadhav B T;Sawant S R (Dep of Electron, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur-416 004, Email: srs600112@yahoo.com) : Implementation of fuzzy temperature control using microprocessor. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(2), 142-7.

Fuzzy Logic has been employed to control temperature by varying ON-time of heater through PPI 8255. Thermister is used as a temperature sensor forming the resistive component of RC-Timer of 1C 555 operated in novel Astable mode. The actual temperature is read as a function of frequency and compared with corresponding count of set-point temperature. The error-count is used to trigger the Fuzzy Inference process. This develops an overall duty for heater control that maintains the temperature of furnace to the set value. The hardware implementation followed by flow chart depicting the software approach has been given. The results are satisfactory when the duty cycle is around 50%.

10 illus, 6 tables, 12 ref

023135   Gul R;Demirboga R;Guvercin T (Dep of Civ Engng Engng Fac, Ataturk Univ, 25240-Erzurum, Turkey, Email: ramazan@atauni.edu.ir) : Compressive strength and ultrasound pulse velocity of mineral admixtured mortars. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2006, 13(1), 18-24.

Ultrasound pulse velocity is used to evaluate the compressive strength of mortar with mineral admixtures. In addition, the relationship between ultrasound velocity and destructive compressive strength are evaluated. Silica fume (SF), fly ash (FA) and blast furnace slag (BFS) are used as mineral admixtures for the replacement of Portland cement (PC) up to 30%, 50% and 70%, respectively, by weight. The maximum compressive strength and ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) have been observed with the samples containing BFS. Both compressive strength and UPV are very low for all the levels of mineral admixture at an early age curing, especially for samples containing high volume FA. However, with the increase of curing period both compressive strength and UPV pf all the samples are increased. Ten percent of SF increased both compressive strength and UPV at 7, 28 and 90-day curing period, but the other SF replacement decreased. At 28 and 90-day of curing periods, BFS increased UPV for all levels and increased compressive strength for 10% and 20% BFS replacement. In addition, reductions due to BFS at early ages are decreased for the other level of BFS, even at 28-day of curing period and for 10%, 20%, 30% and 50% increased compressive strength 36%, 24%, 22% and 8%, respectively. The increment in the compressive strength due to curing period is higher than that of UPV. The relationship between UPV and compressive strength is exponential for SF, FA and BFS.

13 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

023134   Garg M;Manjit Singh, (NO, Cent Bldg Res Inst, Roorkee-247 667) : Strength and durability of cementitious binder produced from fly ash-lime sludge-Portland cement. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2006, 13(1), 75-9.

Investigations have been undertaken to produce cementitious binders by blending 60-70% fly ash with calcined phosphogypsum, hydrated lime sludge, Portland cement and chemical activator in different proportions. The results show that strength development of binders takes place through formation of ettringite, C-S-H and wollastonite. The durability of cementitious binder has been studied by its performance in water and by accelerated aging, i.e., alternate wetting and drying as well as by heating and cooling cycles at temperatures from 27 to 50°C. The results indicate that the strength of the binder decreased with increasing cyclic studies at different temperatures. The maximum fall in compressive strength has been noted at 50°C.

7 illus, 5 tables, 19 ref

023133   Desale R;Deshmukh N K (NO, Crompton Greavds Ltd, R&D, Mumbai, Email: rajgopal.desale@cgi.co.in) : Prediction of air delivery, noise and power consumption of fan for TEFC electric motors. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(4), 344-8.

Method for estimating air ielivery, noise and power consumed by fan for TEFC (Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled) motor at deign stage itself have been described. It is a program based on semi-empirical relations with constants derived from extensive experiments. Program (in C++) is provided with inputs with regard to fan geometry, rotational speed and system resistance, the programme gives necessary output for air delivery, noise and power consumed. Optimisation is done based on the weightage factor provided by the user. Fans for different frame size were designed, developed, tested and results compared with predicted values and found to be within 10% for air delivery and noise. However, power consumption results were within 15%.

5 illus, 3 tables, 4 ref

023132   Datta T K (Dep of Civ Engng, Indian Inst of Technol Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi-110016) : A state-of-the-art review on active control of structures. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2003, 40(1), 1-17.

An updated state-of-the-art review on response-triggered structural control system is presented. The review mainly focuses on the active control of structures for earthquake excitations, and covers theoretical backgrounds of different active control schemes, important parametric observations on active structural control, limitations and difficulties of their practical implementation, and brief descriptions of three actively controlled tall buildings in Japan. A brief introduction of more promising semi-active control of structures is also presented.

5 illus, 75 ref

023131   Chatterjee P;Basu B (Dep of Civ Engng, K.U. Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium) : Wavelet analytic non-stationary seismic response of tanks. ISET J Earthquake Technol 2003, 40(1), 61-75.

Wavelet analytic technique has been developed for the non-stationary seismic response of fixed-base liquid storage tanks. The ground acceleration has been characterized through estimates of statistical functionals of wavelet coefficients generated from a single accelerogram of a ground motion process. The tank-liquid system has been modeled as a two-degree-of-freedom (2-DOF) system. Both sloshing and impulsive actions of the tank liquid are considered. The wavelet domain dynamic equations have been formulated and solved to find out the coefficients of hydrodynamic pressure on the tank wall, base shear, and overturning moment at the tank base. Closed form expression for the instantaneous power spectral density function (PSDF) of the response quantities in terms of the functionals of the input wavelet coefficients has been obtained. The moments of this PSDF are used to estimate the expected largest peak coefficients of the hydrodynamic pressure, base shear and base moment developed in the tank. Parametric variations are carried out to study the effects of the height of liquid in tank and the ratio of liquid height to tank radius on the tank responses.

16 illus, 26 ref

023130   Bustos M;Echaveguren T;Solminihac H D;Caroca A (Dep of Constr Engng and Mgmt, Sch of Engng Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, P.O. Box 306, CP 6904411, Vicuna Mackenna 4860, Santiago, Chile, Email: hsolmini@ing.puc.cl) : Development of correlation equations between different measurements of skid resistance in pavements. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2006, 13(2), 117-22.

Friction is an indicator of the safety level supplied by a pavement. It is obtained by skid resistance and texture measures performed with static and high performance devices. Because the physical principle applied by each equipment differs from one another, it is necessary to harmonize measures in order to compare them. From literature review different harmonization procedures are identified: equipment direct correlations, high scale harmonization experiments and statistical analysis of skid resistance measures. Harmonization based on direct correlations and statistical analysis has the disadvantage that they do not consider texture as a variable, making them applicable only under certain conditions. A harmonization methodology is proposed based on the PIARC (the World Road Association) harmonization procedure. The proposed methodology has the advantage that a reduced amount of data is needed and also texture measures are considered. From the application of the methodology under data simulation it is concluded that under a certain texture range the correlation is almost linear. This range depends on the texture measurement device; as, when using accurate equipments non-linear distortions are deduced under low texture levels.

4 illus, 5 tables, 13 ref

022156   Reddy V B (Cairn Energy India Pty. Ltd, , Chennai, Email: challa_vbreddy@hotmail.com) : Incineration of wastes in cement kiln. J Indian Ass Envir Mgmt 2005, 32(3), 148-54.

The cement kiln with its significant characteristics such as high gas temperatures (at 1400-1500°C), long retention times (20-30 seconds) and high turbulence in the cement kiln can be effectively used for ensuring the complete destruction of variety of wastes including hazardous and non-hazardous wastes. A study has been conducted to look into the comparative combustion zone condition in cement kiln verses conventional incinerator. The study concludes that the hazardous wastes including waste oil, organic solvents, used tyres, petroleum and refinery wastes, wood wastes and rice husk etc., can be safely destroyed in cement kilns without any appreciable environmental effects while utilizing the energy from the wastes. The industrial wastes of iron and steel, thermal power plants, carbide, paper and fertilizer plants can be utilized as raw material in cement manufacturing. Tank Bottom Sludge (TBS) is a hazardous waste generated in refinery plants. The waste is presently filled in drums and sent for land filling. A case study has been conducted to estimate the reduction of fuel requirement and emission of pollutants with various proportions of TBS substitution by coal.

5 tables, 11 ref

022155   Ray A K;Singh S R;Kailath A;Roy P K;Das S K; Ghosh R N (Natn Metall Lab, , Jamshedpur-831 007) : Fatigue and creep damage and its correlation with microstructure of a service exposed first stage turbine blade in a power plant. J Metall Mater Sci 2005, 47(2), 59-69.

Deals with assessment of high temperature load controlled fatigue and creep properties of as received and 31,325 engine operating hours service exposed first row gas turbine blade in a power plant. High temperature fatigue and accelerated creep properties were evaluated from various regions, namely root portion (bottom portion), middle region or the airfoil region and the top region of the blade. The root portion showed superior fatigue and creep properties compared to the aerofoil region which is considerably narrow and brittle. The microstructural assessment of as received service exposed gas turbine blade of first row of gas turbine have been interpreted, which is required for developing process & technology for rejuvenation of turbine blades. The mechanical properties of each region were correlated with its corresponding microstructural characteristics. The blade is made of nickel base superalloy Udimet-520. Significant coarsening of γ precipitates in hot zones, e.g., root and mid sections, as compared to the base microstructure of below platform region was observed. The coarsening occurred in the aerofoil region and was maximum in the top region of the blade. The original thin and nearly continuous distribution of grain boundary carbide precipitates became discontinuous with little increase in size in the root section whereas it changed to thick continous precipitation enveloped by γ phase in mind section.not obseved, Therefore, Hipping is not essention for rejuvenation. In addition, the usual distribution of intragranular MC carbide precipitates in below platform section is nearly dissolved in mid section while smaller size is observed in bottom or root section. But the blocky MC precipitates at grain boundaries or close to grain boundries are degenerated into needle shaped sigma phase in the mid and top sections.

5 illus, 6 tables, 17 ref

022154   Raghava Chari S (NO, , USA) : Modren pressure measurement, transmission and seals. Indian J Fertil 2006, 2(2), 11-16.

Pressure and Differential Pressure measurements and transmission have moved far from the days of the Bourdon tube pressure gauges to various devices using relationship between pressure and electrical quantities. Such instruments have several advantages like capability to read vacuum to very high pressures of 3500MPa, absence of errors from failure and friction prone mechanical links. Hence, they serve very long periods reliably for safe and economical operation of modern complex and capital intensive CPI plants, power plants and gas transmission lines, etc., that run across the length and breadth of countries. Any type of pressure instruments used for liquids that congeal at atmospheric temperature needs seals, which are very expensive, problem prone and non-field repairable. The article describes simple in-house developed and fabricable seals of very high reliability which can save crores of rupees annually in a fertiliser complex, besides assuring reliable automatic process control using readings from reliable pressure and level transmitters.

16 illus

022153   Mehta B P S (Indian Farmers Fertil Cooperative Ltd., , Kalol Unit, Distt. Gandhinagar-382 423, Email: bpsmehta@iffco.nic.in) : Waste water minimisation using pinch technology. Indian J Fertil 2006, 2(2), 19-22.

Environmental impact of industrial waste water and much higher cost of raw water are the serious challenges to chemical process industries. "Pinch Concept" i.e. Linnhoff March's approach of energy integration is well established all over the world in process industries. Water Pinch Analysis (WPA) is analogous to Pinch Analysis for waste water reduction in process industries. WPA is a systematic technique for analysing water networks and identifying the areas for waste minimisation. Efforts have been made to illustrate the use of water pinch technology along with the heuristic procedure for waste water minimisation with help of an example. From the focus on the end-of-pipe treatment in the 1970s, now emphasis is increasingly on the waste minimisation policies where pollutants are mitigated at the sources.

5 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

022152   Jeyakumar S;Balachandran P;Indira S;Thill Aiarasu P (Dept. of Mechanical Engg., Dr. Sivanthi Aditanar Coll of Engng, Tiruchendur-628 215) : Supersonic combustion studies using cavity. Int J chem Sci 2005, 3(4), 721-6.

Supersonic combustion of kerosene in coaxial high speed streams using cavities as the potential device has been investigated in a blow-down type co-axial jet facility. The cavities are all open type and are axisymmetric. The results indicate that cavities provide higher combustion efficiency than no cavity configuration.

4 illus, 8 ref

022151   Harmain G A (Dep of Mechanical Engng, Natn Inst of Technol, Srinagar, Kashmir-190 006) : Numerical investigation on constant amplitude loading. J Metall Mater Sci 2005, 47(2), 103-17.

The crack length a versus the number of loading cycles N is required by the designers for life predictions based on the damage tolerance philosophy. Described a computational method for determination of errors which occur if the fatigue crack growth is computed on the basis of an assumed crack extension. Calculations have been compared with cycle-by-cycle method of crack extension. It is shown that for assumed crack extension method to give meaningful results there is an optimal value of assumed value of crack extension below and above which fatigue crack growth rate (FCGR) calculations do not agree with experimental data. There is an excellent agreement between optimal value of crack extension based life predictions of test components and experimental data available in the literature.

5 illus, 7 tables, 18 ref

022150   Brar T S;Jain R K;Khare D (Architecture and Plan Dep, IITR, Roorkee) : Decentralized wastewater treatment system: technological and economic viability for small and medium towns. J Indian Ass Envir Mgmt 2005, 32(3), 171-80.

Reviews and analysis the availability, accessibility and quality of physical infrastructure i.e. water supply and sewage disposal system in small and medium towns to propose a viable and acceptable strategy to formulate the rational approach of providing infrastructure through viable technology in small and medium towns.

9 illus, 4 tables, 21 ref

022149   Baveja B M (Dep of Inf Tehnology, , ) : Tetra mobile radio technology. Elect Inf Plann 2006, 33(5-6), 107-16.

2 tables

022148   Anand Vashi (TIFAC-Centre of Relevance & Excellence in Envir Engng, SCET, Surat, Gujarat, Email: environ@satyam.net.in) : Bio methanation of sewage by UASB reactor for small community. Res J Chem Envir 2005, 9(4), 63-6.

A pilot-scale Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) reactor was operated over 250 days treating part of sewage from existing sewage treatment plant at Singanpore site, Surate, The reactor was designed to handle sewage flow of about 350 PE. The average influent organic pollution of sewage amonted to 679.67 (134.93) mg COD_tot/L with extreme values for the minimum and maximum, i.e. 432 and 1224 mg COD_tot/L respectively. The average removal efficiency (with standard deviation in brackets) of COD_tot, and TSS was 63.12(9.33)%, and 70.47 (9.67)% respectivley. The temperature range of the sewage was typical for tropical regions, viz. 25-30°C. The average biogas yield was obtained about 0.27 NM³CH₄/kg COD rem.

5 illus, 9 ref

021235   Yurdusev M A;Kumanlioglu A A;Solmaz B (Civ Engng Dep, Celal Bayar Univ, Muradiye, Manisa, Turkey) : Assessment of retention basin volume and outlet capacity in urban stormwater derainage systems with respect to water quality. Sadhana 2005, 30(6), 723-34.

The quality of river water or other surface waters is detrimentally affected by the contaminants carried by the rainfall runoff in urban areas. The control of pollution moved by rainfall runoff is achieved by installing outlets and small retention basins in stormwater collection systems, thereby allowing only a certain amount of rainfall water to overflow and leading the remaining to treatment plants. This study analyses the effect of concentration time on surface water pollution caused by rainfall runoff. For this purpose, a linear S- curve is assumed for the flow hydrograph arising from the collection system, based on parameters of rainfall considered and the catchment area. An independent code is developed to analyse such a system and this is applied to an urban area using nine-year single-discrete rainfall records of Izmir Station, Turkey. The system is capable of tackling situations where there is only a basin or a basin with outlet.

6 illus, 3 tables, 6 ref