019551   Ziauddin A;Siddiqui N A (NO, , Door Number 1-91-6 MIG63, Sector 5, MVP Colony, Visakhapatnam-530 017, Email: akbar_ziauddin@yahoo.com) : Air quality index AQI- a tool to determine ambient air quality. Pollut Res 2006, 25(4), 885-7.

One way of expressing the ambient air quality is in the form of Air Quality Index. Air Quality Index is a scientific on arbitrary standard on to a prescribed base. The "Environmental Indices" means tools to be used to monitor and quantitatively report, environmental states and trends based on the specified standard. An attempt has been made to collect data of air pollution at a number of places in a growing city and represent it in the form of Air Quality Index. The ambient air quality survey has been carried out in 15 monitoring stations with respect to SPM, RSPM, SO₂, NO_X where sampling has been carried out for 24 hrs period. Pollutant concentrations were used to calculate the Air Quality Index. Five stations showed critical conditions of air quality with AQI values above 100. Seven sites showed AQI values between 76 and 100, representing heavy air pollution. Two sites showed moderate air pollution and one site showed light air pollution.

1 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

019550   Walunj A K;Shaligram A D (Electronic Science Dep, Pune Univ, Ganeshkhind, Pune-411 007) : Improved quality performance robust signal condtitioner for resistive pressure sensor. J Instrum Soc India 2006, 36(3), 203-211.

Research discusses improvement of the current sensitivity of a resistive pressure signal conditioning circuit (RPSCC) using Taguchi orthogonal array (OA) approach. This SCC uses wheat-stone bridge arrangement containing a linear resistive pressure sensor. The performance of the SCC is analyzed using PSpice Circuit simulator. Practically, the circuit performance may get altered due to component tolerances and other environmental noise affecting the values resistors connected in other arms of the bridge. For reliable operation in measurement and control systems, the SCC should be robust and loyal to the variations occurring on the pressure sensor. The present paper reports an attempt to achieve this robustness -despite the above-referred effects. With the availability of CAD software for electronic circuit design, engineers can determine parameter & tolerance values without proving transfer functions for circuit analysis. Taguchi approach of the design of experiments is used to perform the simulation experiments and a statistical data analysis is performed using Microsoft Excel software, or ANOVA software. This paper thus evolves a general methodology applicable to simulated situations as well as physical experiments.

6 illus, 3 tables, 8 ref

019549   Venkatasubbaiah K;Sangeetha V;Rao G Venugopal (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Ant Algorithm for U-shaped line balancing problem. J Instn Engrs-Pt PR 2007, 87(Mar), 9-13.

Ant algorithm has been presented to address a Type I U-shaped line balancing problem. In the U-shaped line balancing problem, the task is assigned to a workstation either after all its predecessors or all its successors have been assigned to workstations. The objectives for the optimisation are to minimise the idle time of the U-shaped line, to minimise the work load deviation among workstations and a combination of both. The proposed Ant algorithm is tested and compared with literature test problems. The comparison shows that the results obtained are satisfactory and this algorithm can be used as an alternative procedure for solving Type I U-shaped line balancing problem.

1 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

019548   Venkat Reddy G;Venu Vinod A;Ravi Shankar (Chemical Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology, Warangal 506 004, Email: vreddy@nitw.ernet.in) : Mass transfer studies on biodegradation of phenolic wastewater in draft tube fluidized bed bioreactor. Indian chem Engr 2006, 48(2), 81-7.

Mass transfer coefficient for transfer of phenol from the bulk phase to the solid particle (bio-particle) in a draft tube fluidized bed bioreactor (FBBR) has been measured experimentally. The mass transfer studies have been carried out on biodegradation of phenolic wastewater using pseudomonas putida in the FBBR. The mass transfer coefficient for phenol has varied between 0.06 and 0.24x10^-5 m/s. It increases with increase in gas flow rate and decreases with increase in the feed flow rate. Increase in the turbulence by way of recirculation of the reactor contents increases the mass transfer coefficient.

8 illus, 4 table, 20 ref

019547   Sreenivasulu G;Reddy S N (Electrical and Electronics Engineering Dep, S.V. Univ, Tirupati-517 502) : Robustness of analog and fuzzy logic controllers for superheated steam temprature system of 500 MW boiler. J Instrum Soc India 2006, 36(3), 195-202.

Presents a study of robustness of analog controller (PI, PID), Fuzzy logic controller in the case of superheated steam temperature system with perturbations in system parameters gain (K), delay(L) and time constant (T). The superheated steam temperature system is of fifth order model. It is reduced into delay plus first order model by minimum area method. The robustness of analog controllers and fuzzy logic controllers is compared with 20% variation in each of the system parameters (K,L, ???T) by using delay plus first order model of Superheated Steam Temperature System. To eliminate the offset between the set point and simulated response, hybrid controllers (analog + fuzzy) are also studied for superheated steam temperature system.

5 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

019546   Sravanthi M;Padma Sree R (Chemical Engineering Dep. Engineering college, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: padvan@rediffmail.com) : Optimum point weighted PI PID controllers for FOPTD systems with an integrator and with/without numerator dynamics. Indian chem Engr 2006, 48(2), 75-80.

Method is proposed for calculating the optimum set point weighting parameter in PI/PID controllers for stable First Order Plus Time Delay (FOPTD) systems with an integrator and with or without numerator dynamics. Optimum value of set point weighting parameter is obtained using the numerical optimization to minimize integral performance, criteria like Integral Square Error (ISE), Integral Absolute Error (IAE) and Integral Time weighted Absolute Error (ITAE). The numerical optimization method is based on least squares technique. Simulation results on various stable FOPTD systems with an integrator and with/without a zero transfer function models are given for the improved servo performance.

8 illus, 3 table, 20 ref

019545   Sitaram N;Thakar R (Thermal Turbomachines Laboratory, Mechanical Engineering, Indian Inst of Technol, Madras, Chennai-600 036, Email: nsitaram@iitm.ac.in) : Performance improvement of a low aspect ratio axial flow compressor rotor by means of turbulence generator. J Aerospace Sci Technol 2007, 59(1), 21-32.

Results of an experimental investigation aimed at improving the performance and operating range of an axial flow compressor using a simple passive means have been reported. A total of four configurations are tested, namely, (i) basic rotor configuration without any, passive means, (ii) rotor with modified partial shroud (MPS), (iii) rotor with MPS and turbulence generator, TG, placed on the casing at the leading edge of the rotor blade and (iv) rotor with MPS aM turbulence generator, TG1, placed on the casing at 44 mm upstream of the leading edge of the rotor blade. The turbulence generators are made of velcro tape. The rotor performance is determined by measuring static pressure on the casing, upstream and downstream of the rotor blade. In addition, five hole probe traverses are made at the rotor exit at five flow coefficients (at, above and below design flow coefficients). From the casing static pressure measurements, stall flow coefficient of rotor (with MPS + TG 1) is found to be decreased. From the five hole probe measurements, rotor (with MPS + TG 1) is found to have improved total and static pressure coefficients compared to rotor (with MPS). Slightly reduced performance of this rotor compared to the basic configuration is attributed to the adverse effects of MPS. The improved performance of the rotor (with MPS + TG 1) is attributed to the energization of the casing wall boundary layer at the rotor inlet, due to vortexes generated by TG1.

8 illus, 3 tables, 6 ref

019544   Sharma A K;Gupta D P (Civil Engineering Dep, MANIT, Bhopal-462 007) : Physico-chemical characteristics of municipal solid waste of Bhopal city-a case study. Pollut Res 2006, 25(4), 871-6.

Physico-chemical characteristics of Municipal solid waste generated in residential and commercial areas of the Bhopal city are determined. The present status of MSW management is critically examined. The forecasting of refuse load shows an increase of 187% in next 30 years. Average density, moisture content, C/N ratio, organic matter of MSW are 329 kg/m³, 42.19%, 25.62 and 38.64% respectively. The determination of energy content shows average LCV as 633 Kcal/kg. Physical composition analysis was done and it shows that MSW contains large quantity of inorganic matter as high as 61.36% (on dry weight basis), 56.125% material was found suitable for composting (on wet weight basis) which indicates that sanitary landfilling and composting may be (the most suitable disposal methods.

7 tables, 9 ref

019543   Schumacher K;Ropy J;Sathaye J;Jung T Y;Lee H (German Inst for Economic Res, , Konigin-Luise Str. 5, 14195 Berlin, Germany, Email: KS chumacher@diw.de) : Productivity trends and technological change in energy intensive industries in Brazil, India and Sourth Korea. Int J Envir Dev 2006, 3(1), 15-34.

Analysis of productivity growth and input trends in energy intensive industries in Brazil, India and South Korea has been reported. Growth accounting and econometric methodologies have been applied. The growth accounting analysis informs about the contribution of input factors to growth of output. A common finding for all countries and sectors is that compared to improvements in factor productivity an increased use of input factors is the relatively greater drivingforce of the growth in output. The econometric analysis estimates factor price biases of technological change as well as substitution elasticities using a translog production model, with an explicit relationship defined for technological change. Estimates of own-price elasticities indicate that raising energy prices would be an effective carbon abatement policy for the three countries. At the same time results regarding the biases of technological change, together with only maderate substitution possibilities, suggest that, as with previous findings on the U.S. economy, pricing policy could reduce productivity and output growth in some sectors.

11 tables, 54 ref

019542   Satyanarayana K;Krishna D (Chemical Engineering Science, Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: dkrishna@iict.res.in) : Estimation of flash points for silane group organic compounds. Indian chem Engr 2006, 48(2), 130-1.

1 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

019541   Saravanan S V;Dhandapani S;Robinson Y (Mechanical Engineering Dep, SNS College of Technology, Coimbatore-641 035, Email: svskavitha@rediffmail.com) : Experimental investigations of LPG-diesel dual fuel IDI compression ignition engine for NO_x emission reduction using urea-SCR technology. Pollut Res 2006, 25(4), 889-92.

Experimental investigations of LPG - Diesel dual Fuel IDI compression ignition engine for NO_x emission reduction using Urea - SCR Technology has been presented. The experiments were conducted in the conventional Indian make four cylinder, four-stroke diesel engine, which is normally used for automotive applications. Without changing the major engine hardware modifications, the performance test was conducted in pure diesel mode and as well as LPG- Diesel dual fuel mode. The LPG was used as a primary fuel and it was inducted during suction stroke through inlet valve. A mixing carburetor was used to mix the air and the LPG fuel. The diesel fuel was injected at the end of the compression stroke as a pilot fuel to initiate the combustion process. The experimental investigation results show that compared to the conventional diesel mode, the LPG mode gave the satisfactory performance. A Urea - SCR exhaust aftertreatment technology was used reduce NOx emissions from the engine. The emission results were relatively low compared to diesel mode of operation.

5 ref

019540   Saravanan S V;Dhandapani S (Mechanical Engineering Dep, SNS College of Technology, Coimbatore-641 035) : Investigation of pollution monitoring and its control for the Indian heavy duty diesel truck applications to meet emission regulations. Pollut Res 2006, 25(4), 821-6.

Automotive engineering globalization has resulted in new challenges to the Indian automotive industry is the stringent exhaust emission regulations. Due to liberalization of the cost-cutting appraise and quick urbanization, the automobile inhabitants in Indian cities is increasing quickly. In India, over the past 50 years, about 37.2 million vehicles have been registered and this quantity can shoot up additional in the upcoming years. The raise in the increase of vehicles consequences in an raise in the claim for the power. The transportation segment in India is a most important energy-consuming segment. The claim for energy is possible to raise exponentially above the next few years. The key dispute in front of India at present, is bottlenecks in power contribute which may establish a limitation for financial development. Ensuring an adequate contribute of energy to the transportation segment should be an instant apprehension taking into consideration that the transportation segment has straight implications for the economic classification. An added interconnected complexity in face of the eal1h at present is ecological contamination. The raise in amount of automobiles would absolutely get inferior the air supremacy in the opportunity. This would result in physical situation troubles as well as reduce in visibility through crest hours in Indian cities giving rise to highway security concerns. It makes sense to find environmentally sociable forms of power to get better the excellence of metropolitan living. To protect the physical condition of the humanity at huge, some major strategy decisions need to be implemented in order to manage the ecological contamination. This paper attempts to investigate, through a simulation model, the emission levels for the heavy dut) Diesel truck. This would be useful for the policy makers to devise a collectively most advantageous transportation and ecological strategy.

6 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

019539   Samaiya N K;Kothyari U C (Civil Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Rorkee-247 667) : Infilitration of cohesive wash material and bed material transport in an alluvial channel. ISH J Hydraul Engng 2006, 12(3), 1-11.

Extensive experiments were performed to study the effect of different equilibrium concentrations of cohesive wash load on the transport of uniform and nonuniform sediments through a loose bed channel. The experiments were conducted under different hydraulic conditions in a 30 m long, 0.204 m wide and 0.5 m deep recirculating tilting flume. The bed materials used in the study consist of two different sediments having uniform sizes distributions and one no uniform sediment. The cohesive wash load used is fine clay having size of 0.0039 mm. Preliminary results obtained on variation of bed load transport in the presence of cohesive wash load and infiltration characteristics of cohesive wash material in the bed layer are presented.

7 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

019538   Ravindra D P N (NO, Bangalore Water supply and Sewerage Board, 272 A 1st Main, Padmanabhanagar, Bangalore-560 070) : Artificial intelligence for activated sludge process control. J Indian Wat Wks Ass 2006, 38(4), 55-62.

The foolproof process control tool, the Innovative Activated Sludge Process (IASP) system was experiencing the constant change in the carbon oxidation rate with low biomass concentration. Technique of artificial intelligence was adopted, which detects process problems, diagnoses the cause of process upsets and or failures and provides both qualitative and quantitative control advices to the operator. The features of the knowledge base system are: prepare turn over sheets, which allow direct data entry files; and prevents data entry errors, thereby warning the user. Process efficiency and stability were enhanced substantially with suitable integration of the knowledge base system with the process model. The integrated knowledge base system was tested and found to be in good agreement with the experts in most cases.

3 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

019537   Rao A R;Bimlesh Kumar (W.R. and Env. Engg. Dep, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore) : Friction factor for turbulent pipe flow. J Indian Wat Wks Ass 2006, 38(4), 29-35.

Nikuradse's experimental data on sand roughened pipes an universal resistance equation relating friction factor (λ), the Reynolds number (R) and relative roughness height (k/r) for the entire range of turbulent flow in pipes covering all the three roughness regimes viz., smooth, transition and rough is derived based on a simple characteristics length concept. With suitable modification such an equation is found to be equally valid for the case of commercially available pipe as well. Comparative analysis is presented on various important equations that are available in the literature with the present universal resistance equation and finally concluded that universal resistance is alone is sufficient to describe pipe resistance.

6 illus, 20 ref

019536   Ramakrishnan K;Selvi S R;R Shubha (Chemical Engineering Dep, S.I.T., Tumkur-572 103, Email: ramkey5@rediffmail.com) : Tannin and its analytical techniques. Indian chem Engr 2006, 48(2), 88-93.

Tannins are phenolic compounds with complex structures. Tannin and tanniferous materials find extensive application in leather processing, medicinal formulations, dyes and ink manufacture. Tannins are present in various plant parts like bark, wood, fruit, fruit pods, leaves and root. Gallnut, teripod, myrobalan and divi-divi are tannin-rich raw materials. The raw materials of tannin give, hydrolysable tannin, used in the preparation of gallic acid. Gallic acid is a drug intermediate used in the production of 'Trimethoprim'. Review of tannin and its various analytical techniques are given which are very much useful for developing food technologies and other research works. The direct analysis of tannins is very difficult due to the peculiar properties of tannin and gallic acid. Since tannin and gallic acid have similar structure, quantification of tannins is also difficult.

3 iilus, 1 table, 14 ref

019535   Ramakrishna S N (Centre for Good Governance, Dr MCR HRD, IAP Campus Road No. 25, Jubilee Hills Hyderabad-500 033) : Water resource accounting as a tool for urban water management: an illustration in NCT-Delhi. J Indian Wat Wks Ass 2006, 38(4), 21-7.

Water is an important resource as well as a constraint to urban development. Given variation over space and time, urban water resource management often calls for an integrated approach towards it. Resource accounting is such prudent method of water management in the urban context. This paper argues for using water accounting as an appropriate tool for decision-making in water resource management through an illustrative case study of NCT-Delhi. This framework of resource accounting shall be adopted by the urban water authority (or the urban local government authority) and implemented to achieve the goals of water management cost effectively. An institutional framework for policy and decision making using water resource accounts is also delineated.

1 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

019534   Rajeevalochanam B A;Kumaar A;Jagadeesan B (Structural mechanics Group, Gas Turbine Research Establishment, CV Raman nagar, Bangalore-560 093) : Perspective on materials, technology and property data base development for aero gas turbine discs. J Aerospace Sci Technol 2007, 59(1), 68-76.

Modern aero engine concepts set very high technology standards for the component design, as they operate in an increasingly hostile thermo-mechanical environment. With rapid advancement in material and manufacturing processes there is a constant demand to upgrade mechanical technologies and design analysis methods. The design complexity of aero engines can be best appreciated by its demands to confirm to stringent design and operational specifications with minimum weight. The complexity of loads and constraints on weight and space has led to search of new materials and mechanical technologies which will play a key role in design of discs in future. Presents perspective on integrated approach to material selection, current material & structural technologies and challenges of material property data base for application to gas turbine engines, with specific focus on rotating discs has been presented.

7 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

019533   Pravendra Kumar;Kumar P;Yadav A (Soil and Water Conservation Dep, Engineering College of Technology, G.B. Pant University of Agricultural and Technology, Pantnagar-263 145) : Infiltration characteristics and modelling in tarai soil of Uttaranchal. Indian J Soil Conserv 2006, 34(1), 24-7.

Infiltration studies were conducted at five locations of Crop Research Farm, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (Uttaranchal). The steady state infiltration rate varied from 0.24 cm h^-1 to 3.61 cm h^-1. The initial, steady state and cumulative infiltration rates were found to be lowest as 17.40 cm h^-1, 0.24 cm h^-1 and 3.91 cm h^-1 in silty clay loam soil and highest as 27.93 cm h^-1, 3.61 cm h^-1 and 63.38 cm h^-1, in sandy loam soil, respectively. Four infiltration models namely; Kostiakov, modified Kostiakov, Philip two-term and Horton models were used to describe the infiltration characteristics. The correlation coefficient and relative error between observed and predicted values of infiltration rate were compared for selecting an appropriate model. Among the models tried, the modified Kostiakov model emerged to be the best in describing the infiltration process of soil.

1 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

019532   Prasad S G;Ashlesha M K;Sumathi P V;Sagayaraj R;Munikrishnaiah K;Krishnapur P P;Padaki V C;Agrawal G P (NO, Defence Bio-Engineering and Electromedical Laboratory, CV Raman Nagar, Bangalore-560 093) : PC based, intelligent and dual purpose test rig, for the functional evaluation of an embedded system. J Instrum Soc India 2006, 36(3), 183-94.

PC based Test Rig, to functionally qualify the Electronic Control Unit (ECU), a microcontroller based embedded system, is designed and developed. The Test Rig consists of a PC with a DAC Card, a DIO Card, a host software on the PC, a qualifying software in the ECU and an interface hardware, with level translators, relays, resistor loads and signal paths. Functions of the ECU are to control, monitor and coordinate the activities related to the selection of the appropriate source of breathing gas, for the pilot, to overcome the physiological problems, which arise due to hypoxia, at high altitudes. The Test Rig, in turn, checks the ECU for its.

5 illus, 10 ref

019531   Prajapat M;Eldho T I (Civil Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, (IIT) Bombay, Powai, Mumbai-400 076) : Theoretical and experiment investigations of multiple inclined jets. ISH J Hydraul Engng 2006, 12(3), 49-62.

Different researchers have investigated turbulent jets with several theories such as Reichardt's theory, point source concept and experimental results. For the case of parallel jets, earlier investigators have proved reliability of these methods with their experimental data, but for inclined jets, not many studies are reported. Verifying theoretical results with experimental data, for different cases of inclinations and holes spacing of two jets have been focused. For theoretical solution, starting from the solution of a single jet given by Reichardt, point source concept is applied and theoretical result for inclined jets is derived. For experimental investigations, a setup existing in Hydraulics Laboratory, IIT Bombay has been modified to make two inclined jets with a blower. A pair of nozzle is made with 2 degrees of freedom -lateral movement and rotation. Initially the setup is checked for parallel jets and results are compared with theory and earlier results. Further experiments with different inclinations and holes spacing are carried out, Experimental and theoretical results are compared and better agreement is observed for closely spaced inclined jets.

12 illus, 8 ref

019530   Navjot Kaur;Chawla P;Sachdeva R;Sangha J K (Food and Nutrition Dep, Punjab Agaricultural Univ, Ludhiana) : Comparative study of fish oil and garlic oil supplementation on anthropometric and lipid profile of subjects at risk of coronary heart disease. J Res 2006, 43(3), 250-55.

Sixty males belonging to middle and high soico-economic status at risk of developing coronary heart disease were selected. The study was conducted in three phases. In phase I anthropometric parameters and blood pressure were recorded, blood glucose and blood lipid profile of subjects was analysed. Subjects were followed for one month and no treatment was given except prescribed medicines and were treated as self control. At one month interval above parameters were again recorded and subjects were divided into two groups of 30 each. In phase II supplementation with fish oil capsules, containing 300mg of cod liver oil (100 mg of EPA and 200 mg of DHA) thrice a day was done in group I and with garlic oil capsules 250 mg having 18 per cent of allicin twice a day in group II was done for a period of two months. In Phase III, all the above parameters were recorded. Data revealed that there was a significant decrease in weight, BMI, W:H, MUAC, TSFT, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, blood glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-C, VLDL'-C and triglycerides and significant increase in HDL-C in both the groups. Percentage decline of 2.7 in total cholesterol was however more in fish oil supplementation group as compared to garlic supplementation group.

4 tables, 1 illus, 19 ref

019529   Natarajan U;Arun P;Periasamy V M (Mechanical Engineering Dep, AC College of Engineering and Technology, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu-630 004) : On-line tool wear monitoring in turning by hidden markov model HMM. J Instn Engrs-Pt PR 2007, 87(Mar), 31-5.

To increase the product quality, the tool should have good performance. Turning process is widely used in the manufacturing operations in all the manufacturing industries. Some methods for on-line tool wear monitoring technique in turning operations are presented. The input parameters for the monitoring techniques are spindle speed, feed, depth of cut, cutting force, spindle-motor power and temperature. Two methods of Hidden Markov Model (HMM), such as, the Bar-graph Method and the Multiple Modelling Methods are used to find out the tool wear. These methods directly use the input parameters to determine the tool (turning tool) life thereby avoiding the failure of the tool performance. In order to increase the reliability of these outputs, a decision fusion centre algorithm (DFCA) is proposed which combines the outputs of the individual methods to make a global decision about the wear status of the tool.

4 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

019528   Nagarajan S;Shanmugam J;Rangaswamy T R (Instrumentation and Control Engng, BSA Crescent Engineering Coll, Vandalur, Chennai-500 048) : Sensor fault detection in a satellite launcher using adaptive neuro-fuzzy observer. J Aerospace Sci Technol 2007, 59(1), 41-9.

Fault detection is performed by estimating the states and comparing them with measured values. A fault is signaled when the difference between the estimated and measured values crosses a threshold value design of adaptive neuro-fuzzy observer based sensor fault detection and fault tolerant control under sensor failure conditions for a satellite launcher has been presented. In this Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS), optimal shape and parameters for the membership functions and effective rule base for the fuzzy system are fixed by a neural network. Three such adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems act as reduced order observers that estimate the system states. Decision functions are built from estimation errors to detect the fault. If any failure is identified, the control law is modified accordingly using the estimated value replacing the failed sensor output to implement the fault tolerant control. In this work, such fault detector is designed and simulated. The individual failures of three sensors in the satellite launcher are considered and the results are discussed. The results show that the system is able to detect any sensor failure situations perfectly.

22 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

019527   Muzammil M;Rizvi S A H;Hasan F;Hasan S N (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh) : Anthropometric data with special reference to the indian needs. J Instn Engrs-Pt PR 2007, 87(Mar), 14-9.

Review of the research publications in the area of anthropometry revealed that the designing of various facilities like tools, equipment, vehicular seats, office and school furniture etc was largely based on the anthropometric data collected from various European and other Western countries. In this hi-tech era, when there is always an emphasis on productivity enhancement, efforts should be made to design seating systems taking into consideration the human body dimensions, since, the working environment has been shown to affect human performance significantly. The need to study this important aspect with reference to Indian population has been highlighted in this paper. The various parameters affecting the anthropometric data tike gender, occupation, age, geographic location etc have been considered here. Many studies conducted in this area have shown that if the seating systems are not designed properly, quite a large number of physical disorders might occur. These studies also revealed that there is a vast variation between Indian population and their European counterparts. Not only this, within India, there exists too much deviation in human body dimensions. There is a great need to generate an anthropometric data bank for different regions of Indian population in order to let the ergonomists develop user-friendly man -machine systems. It has been concluded with observation.

20 ref

019526   Mukherjee P S;Samal S;Chattopadhyay P (NO, Regional Research Laboratory, Bhubaneswar-751 013, Email: psmukherjee@rrlbhu.res.in) : Leachability studies on titania rich slag obtained from plasma melt separation of Metallized ilmenite. Indian chem Engr 2006, 48(2), 103-6.

Thermal plasma technology is emerging as one of the eco-- friendly processes for metallurgical processing due to stringent government restriction on pollution and disposal of effluents, especially in chemical routes. Production of titanium dioxide rich slag from ilmenite by thermal plasma technology followed by its upgradation by leaching has been gaining importance due to increased demand of high grade feed material in the pigment industry. Ilmenite or pre-reduced ilmenite when smelted/melted under thermal plasma gives TiO₂ rich slag and iron metal as products. Preparation of upgraded feed stock from TiO₂ rich slag depends on teachability of TiO₂ rich slag by mineral acids. Leachability of TiO₂ rich slag is a complex phenomenon and needs an in-depth study for characterization. Sytematic work has been taken up to find the leachability of TiO₂ rich slag produced from melt separation of the metallized ilmenite. It has been observed that apart from acid concentration and duration of leaching, leachability also depends on thermal plasma parameters, heat treatment of the slag and additives. The results will have significant impact on production of upgraded feed stock from TiO₂ rich slag.

2 illus, 9 tables, 8 ref

019525   Mohan D S;Ramesh H (Civil Engineering Dep, IIT Madars, Chennai-36) : Pipe network optimization using genetic algorithm. J Indian Wat Wks Ass 2006, 38(4), 11-19.

Genetic algorithms constitute an efficient search method for non-linear optimization problems, liable to be applied easily for complex systems. Describes the development of a Genetic Algorithm (GA) based model for Pipe Network Optimization. The model has been developed with the objective of optimizing the total cost of water distribution networks. The model is based on a binary genetic algorithm approach, although relevant modifications and improvements have been implemented to adopt the model to the specific problem. The model has been tested and validated by applying it to the least cost optimization of a benchmark network.

5 illus, 5 table,

019524   Mehta R C (Aerodynamics Div, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram-695 022) : Transonic flow computation over a heat shield using three dimensional finite elecment method. J Aerospace Sci Technol 2007, 59(1), 14-20.

Three dimensional finite element method is employed for solution of the transonic full polential equation in mass conservation form. The finite element analysis allows the boundary conditions to be treated in simple and exact manner, without the use of a mapping scheme. The full potential equation is based on the assumption of irrotational flow and density of the fluid is calculated using isentropic relation and it is applicable for upstream local Mach number upto 1.6. The nonlinear full potential equation is reduced to a set of nonlinear algebraic equation using Galerkin's formulation. An iterative scheme in conjunction with the artificial viscosity term is used to solve the set of algebraic equations. The artificial viscosity term stabilizes the numerical scheme and captures the shock very well. An appropriate grid arrangement is selected in the algorithm to maintain proper and continuous linkage between upstream and downstream of the flow at the centroid of the hexahedral element. The surface pressure distribution in the freestream Mach number range 0.80 - 0.95 and at an angle of incidence 5 degree shows a fairly good agreement with the experimental data. The present finite element discretization can be coupled with the commercially available software.

7 illus, 23 ref

019523   Mani A;Patvardhan C (USIC, Dayalbagh Educational Institute, Dayalbagh, Agra-5) : A low-cost programmable DC power supply. J Instrum Soc India 2006, 36(3), 212-19.

The design and implementation of a low cost Programmable DC Power Supply is described for undergraduate laboratories. The Programmable DC Power Supply is interfaced to PC using ubiquitous Centronics Parallel Port, also known as Printer Parallel Port. The Power Supply is controlled through program written in LabVIEW. The over current protection is innovative as it is implemented with a reset-able fuse, thus reducing the power dissipation and thermal stress on components in fault condition and also providing the ease of operation. The Programmable DC Power Supply has been successfully tested. It has been used for performing experiments for plotting the characteristics curves of diodes and transistors etc. The design of Programmable DC Power Supply with minor modification has also been used for converting the existing Simple Fixed and Variable DC Power Supplies, which are widely available in Laboratories, into Programmable DC Power Supplies. This provides an affordable and easy to implement alternative for expensive commercially available Programmable Power Supply. Further, the same generic design with some modification has also been used for developing a Programmable DC Power Supply controlled through the analog output voltage signal available in Multifunction Data Acquisition Cards.

8 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

019522   Lohani D;Kamalesh V;Badari Narayana K;Singh G (Structures Group, ISRO Satellite Centre, , Airport Road, Bangalore-560) : Interlaminar stress calculation in composite laminates using an 8-noded brick element based on mixed finite element formulation. J Aerospace Sci Technol 2007, 59(1), 33-40.

Eight-noded brick element is developed for accurate estimation of interlaminar stresses in composite laminates. This element incorporates the three transverse stresses σ_z, σ_yz and σ_xz as the degree of freedoms apart from the three displacements (u, v and w). The displacements are calculated as usual from the principle of virtual work, and the stresses are interpolated independently in the constitutive equation. In composite laminates the shear and normal stresses are continuous across the laminates. This stress continuity can be imposed using continuous shape functions for stress components. Studies are done for various laminates and results are compared with available solutions from the literature.

10 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

019521   Lavanya K;Umamaheswari B (Electrical and Electronics Engineering Dep, Engineering College, Anna Univ, Chennai-600 025, Email: rcpanda@yahoo.com) : Identification of second order plus dead time systems using relay feedback test. Indian chem Engr 2006, 48(2), 94-102.

Identification of unknown model parameters of under damped second order plus dead time (SOPDT) system from single relay experiment is presented. When systems with different ξ and D values are under relay test, oscillatory responses are encountered. Analytical expressions are matched with experimental results to find out the landmark points and estimate the process parameters. The identified model is in close relation with the model considered. Model sensitivity and robustness studies are carried out to find the ranges of bounds of feedback and controller gain. PID controllers are tuned and closed loop responses for set point and load change are presented.

7 iilus, 5 tables, 13 ref

019520   Kumar S;Singh T P (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh-160 012) : A comparative study of the performance of different EDM electrode materials in two dielectric media. J Instn Engrs-Pt PR 2007, 87(Mar), 3-8.

Electrical discharge machining (EDM) has been recognized as an efficient production method for precision machining of electrically conducting hardened materials. Copper and brass are two commonly wed electrode materials in this process with kerosene as the dielectric medium. Performance of copper-chromium alloy with copper and brass as EDM electrode materials for machining OHNS die, steel using kerosene and distilled water as dielectric media has been compared. Keeping all other machining parameters same, the hardened work material was machined with the three electrodes at different values of discharge current. It has been found that copper - chromium alloy shows better results than copper and brass in terms of material removal rate, dimensional accuracy (lateral overcut) and surface finish in both the dielectric media. Tool wear rate of this alloy is lower which results in better accuracy and trueness of the machined profiles because the mirror image of the tool electrode is reproduced in the workpiece. It can be recommended as a good electrode material. Regarding the use of distilled water as a dielectric medium, though material removal rate is low and tool wear rate is high, but hardness and finish of the machined surface show a marked improvement.

5 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

019519   Khatwani K H (Water Works Hydraulic Dep, Surat Municipal Corporation, Surat) : Managing quality water supply during Tapti flood crisis-August 2003. J Indian Wat Wks Ass 2006, 38(4), 43-54.

Surat Municipal Corporation is supplying around 530-550 Million Liters per Day (Excluding industrial water supply) to the Citizens of Surat City. Four water works and thirteen water distribution stations are interconnected via water supply grid system. About 270 pumps (ranging from 50 HP to 350HP), HT/LT panels, PCS, MCS and other panels, starters (starting from old technology resistance type to latest state of art microprocessor based soft starters), ACBs/VCBs, HF6, 11/22 KV equipments etc. have been incorporated in water supply system. Moreover, SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system is being used to operate the various components of water supply system with local and remote operations. River Tapti the only source of water supply system of Surat got affected by record breaking discharge of water from the Ukai Dam. Due to this, more than 60% area of Surat City was submerged in flood water within 12 - 24 hours and remained inundated in flood water from 7th August 2006 to 11th August 2006. The torrential current of water in river created record level rise in water level and surpassed all previous records resulting in the submergence of low lying area to 10-15 ft of flood water. All water works - heart of the water supply system got submerged in flood water and water supply to the city totally collapsed. Water works staff-team of efficient engineers, chemists, wiremen/technicians, fitters and others got activated for facing the emergency situation. Professional approach and good management resulted in restoration of water supply within 48 hours ensuring quality of water. The objective of this paper is to describe how water supply system was restored reliably, safely and efficiently in the face of the calamity that befell the city, ensuring safety and health of the citizens of Surat.

4 illus, 3 table, 4 ref

019518   Khar S;Dhar L N;Thusoo Ramesh Kumar;Dhar S (Division of Agricultural Engineering, SK University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology, Jammu-180 009) : Energy consumption pattern of agricultural sector in Jammu & Kashmir on small farms. Envir Ecol 2006, 24S(3), 687-9.

Energy crisis makes the efficient utilization of energy inputs in agriculture imperative. Energy scarcity and rising costs have led to an intensified research for viable alternate systems. Describes the energy flow pattern in the agricultural sector of the state on small farms. Output-input ratio was more and specific energy requirement was less for mixed farms as compared to bullock operated farms. The total input per annum was 29,293.22, 27, 246.05 MJ/ha and output-input ratio 2.28 and 2.81 for BO and mixed farms respectively.

4 tables, 2 ref

019517   Kartha S A;Srivastava R (Civil Engineering Dep, IIT, Kanpur, Email: kartha@iitk.ac.in) : Nonideal transport in vadose zone due to leaching from a landfill. ISH J Hydraul Engng 2006, 12(3), 12-20.

Numerical model is developed to simulate the flow and transport process in a variably saturated porous medium. Non-equilibrium transport mechanisms, including physical and chemical non-equilibrium, have been incorporated. The model is used to simulate contamination of an aquifer due to rainfall over a landfill. Different scenarios involving heavy and light rainfall have been analysed. The time at which the contaminant concentration rises above the permissible level is noted, since it is useful in the design of the landfill. Breakthrough curves are obtained for observation wells near the landfill. The spatial concentration distribution is obtained for different times showing the movement of the contaminant plume.

4 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

019516   Kalyanaraman S B;Akilandeswari S (Physics Wing, Directorate of Distance Education, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar, Tamil Nadu, India. Pin-608 002) : Physico-chemical analysis of industrial effluents and prediction of COD values by anfis modelling. Pollut Res 2006, 25(4), 779-82.

Physico-chemical characteristic parameters of effluents from a chemical industry are analysed. Statistical regression technique is carried out to obtain the correlations among the parameters and to estimate the COD values using multiple regression procedure. The novel Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System. (ANFIS) modelling is used to predict the Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) values in the effluents. The results of the two methods are compared and discussed.

2 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

019515   Jothiprakash V;Shanthi G (Civil Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai-400 076) : Genetic algorithms for multireservoir system optimization. ISH J Hydraul Engng 2006, 12(3), 72-82.

Genetic Algorithm (GA) model has been developed and applied to derive optimal operational strategies for a multireservoir system in Tamil Nadu, India with the objective of minimizing the square of irrigation deficit. Release for irrigation and other demands (industrial and municipal demands), from the reservoirs are considered as the output variables. The monthly time stepped model was solved with 13 years of inflow data to derive the optimal operational strategies. The sensitivity analysis in obtaining optimal number of population, probability of crossover and number of generation showed values of 150, 0.84 and 275 respectively for the present study carried out. It is also found that the GA model has resulted in better performance when compared to the actual releases.

5 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

019514   Joshi V B;Jagadeesh H B;Chalawadi A S; Purandare U V (NO, Central Water and Power Research Station, Pune-411 024) : Physical modelling studies for development of fisheries harbour. ISH J Hydraul Engng 2006, 12(3), 83-94.

Development of fisheries harbour alongwith major port is one of the requirement of the local fisheries community to provide all weather tranquil area for the landing of the fishing vessels such as trawlers, fish boats, etc., upto the draft of 3 m having sufficient cold storage land facilities and necessary inland road transport to the major market in the vicinity. Normally, these fisheries harbours are located on the down drift side of the main breakwater of the major port or adjacent to it. The requirements of layout of the breakwater for the fisheries harbour are to make the design cost effective by providing navigable access, adequate tranquillity, optimum working area and minimum siltation in the harbour. The physical model play significant role to evolve a breakwater layout by making suitable minor deviations in the alignment of the breakwater to achieve wave tranquilly and minimize the siltation without additional expenditure for longer breakwaters. Efforts have been made to highlight the role of model studies through peculiar cases of fisheries harbours at Kulai, New Mangalore and Chennai where minor deviations in the alignment and length of breakwaters were cost effective during planning as well as in post constructional stages. The significance of advances in modeling techniques in simulation of boundary conditions and data acquisition system on the response and interpretation of data is highlighted.

8 illus, 10 ref

019513   Joshi N G (NO, The Indian Hume Pipe Co. Ltd., ) : Improvement in cement mortar coating of steel pipes. J Indian Wat Wks Ass 2006, 38(4), 63-6.

6 illus, 8 ref

019512   Goel A;Verma D V S (Civil Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology (Deemed University), Kurukshetra-136 119, Email: drarun_goel@yahoo.co.in) : Model study of scour from cantilever outlets. ISH J Hydraul Engng 2006, 12(3), 30-8.

Results of an experimental study of scour hole geometry produced by impinging circular jet of water of a cantilever outlet with variation in discharge intensity, drop height and submergence of soil bed has been presented. Experiments have been performed at three Froude numbers (1.20, 2.40 & 3.60) on 1.50 cm diameter cantilever pipe outlet placed at various elevations above the erodible bed having different submergence conditions. A non-dimensional number called modified discharge intensity (DI) has been used to correlate the scour hole parameters with drop height and submergence conditions. It has been observed that as the elevation of cantilever pipe outlet above the erodible bed increases, the scour hole becomes deeper, wider and shorter. The plan dimensions of scour hole increase with the increase in the depth of submergence.

7 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

019511   Ghoshal K;Mazumder B S (Physics and Applied Mathematics Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata-700 108) : Velocity and concentration distributions in sediment-mixed fluid:an approach with mixing length concept. ISH J Hydraul Engng 2006, 12(3), 21-9.

Mathematical models have been developed to predict the vertical velocity and sediment concentration distributions in a sediment-laden turbulent open channel flow taking into account a modified mixing length based on sediment-induced stratification. The coupled non-linear differential equations for vertical velocity and concentration arising out of the problem have been solved numerically and the results have been compared with the comprehensive exiting data. Comparison shows good agreement with the observed data, which proves the validity of the present model.

3 illus, 17 ref

019510   Gawandi V B;Sawant A D (Ph. D. Research Fellow, Chemistry Dep, Institute of Science, Mumbai-32) : Removal of tri-halomethane precursors from raw water by silica gel adsorption. J Indian Wat Wks Ass 2006, 38(4), 71-5.

Trihalomethanes (THMs) which are believed to have significant carcinogenic and mutagenic properties are formed when chlorine reacts with certain naturally-occurring organic molecules (THM-precursors) during the chlorination of water for disinfection purpose. Aquatic humic and fulvic acids are the main THM-precursors responsible for the formation of THMs during surface water chlorination. Freundlich adsorption isotherm constants K and 1/n for silica gel column were determined as 1.13 x 10^-3 and 0.9927 respectively. The influence of operating variables such as role of contact time, pH, adsorption dose, concentration of humic acid(H.A.), flow rate of influent on silica gel efficiency has been evaluated.

6 illus, 15 ref

019509   Ganapathi M (NO, , A-2 Scion Homes 4th Cross Bhuvaneshwari Nagar, Bangalore-560 093, Email: mganapathi@rediffmail.com) : On the buckling of simply supported anisotropic sandwich plantes. J Aerospace Sci Technol 2007, 59(1), 62-7.

Elastic stability behavior of simply supported anisotropic sandwich flat panels subjecte to techanical in-plane loads is investigated using analytical approach. The formulation is based on first-order shear deformation theory and the shear correction factors employed are based on energy consideration that depends on the lay-up as well as material properties. The governing equations are obtained using the Raleigh-Ritz method assuming a combination of sine and cosine functions in the form of double Fourier series for the displacement fields. The effectiveness of the integrated formulation is tested for global characteristics considering examples related to multi-layered laminates and sandwich panels for which solutions are available.

1 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

019508   Gajalakshmi S;Abbasi T;Abbasi S A (Centre for Pollution Control and Energy Technology, Pondicherry Univ, Pondicherry-605 014, Email: Prof.S.A.Abbasi@gmail.com) : Energy from anaerobic digestion of phytomass: an enduring but unrealized dream. Indian chem Engr 2006, 48(2), 109-11.

1 illus, 13 ref

019507   Gaitonde V N;Karnik S R;Achyutha B T; Siddeswarappa B (NO, B V Bhoomaraddi College of Engineering and Technology, Hubli-580 031) : Genetic algorithm based burr size minimisation in drilling using artficial neural network models. J Instn Engrs-Pt PR 2007, 87(Mar), 25-30.

Burr formation in drilling is a major problem in precision engineering, which degrades the precision of products and causes additional cost of deburring. Since, deburring processes are not yet well automated, understanding the drilling burr formation and its dominant parameters is essential for controlling the -burr size at the production stage. Approach for modelling the burr size in drilling using orthogonal array of experiments and artificial neural network (ANN) has been presented to capture the non-linear drilling process behaviour. A multi-layer feed forward ANN, trained using error back propagation learning algorithm is employed for this purpose. The developed ANN models are then employed with genetic algorithm (GA), which is search algorithm, based on natural selection, efficient for multi-objective problem, to minimise the burr size. Effect of cutting speed, feed, drill diameter, point angle , and clearance angle on burr size, namely, burr height and thickness has been investigated.

3 illus, 4 tables, 14 ref

019506   Durge P V;Nagarnaik P B (Civil Engineering Dep, B.N. College of Engineering, Pusad-445 215) : Flow through 18% Channel bend flocculator. Pollut Res 2006, 25(4), 747-8.

Flow in a channel bend is helical. It is a movement of water particles along a helical path in the general flow direction. It causes more depth of flow at the outer edge and less depth at the inner edge. The phenomenon is known as superelevation in bends which causes loss of energy in bends. Thus velocity gradient can be calculated in the channel bend, which is one of the factors to examine the efficacy of flocculation process. The effectiveness of such flocculator has been tested for which experiments were carried out on 180 degree channel bend in the laboratory, and the results are presented.

3 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

019505   Dravid A N (NO, Jacobs, H & G Pvt Limited, Mumbai) : Evolution of indian chemical industry from independence to twenty first century. Indian chem Engr 2006, 48(2), 118-29.

11 illus, 1 table

019504   Dhar A;Datta B (Civil Engineering Dep, IIT, Kanpur, Email: anirband@iitk.ac.in;bithin@iitk.ac.in) : Chance constrained water quality management model for reservoir systems. ISH J Hydraul Engng 2006, 12(3), 39-48.

Operation of reservoir systems to comply with water quality criteria is becoming an important management goal. A methodology is developed for optimal short term operation of reservoir systems to control the downstream water quality, using Genetic Algorithm based linked simulation optimization. The single objective management model minimizes the deviation of storage at the end of a management time step from the specified target storage, while maintaining the downstream flow requirements. The optimization model incorporates the uncertainties in prediction of inflows to the reservoir. The cumulative distribution functions of inflows are incorporated as an approximated distribution function in the optimization model and are used to define chance constraints with associated reliabilities. Performance of the developed GA based linked simulation optimization model is evaluated for an illustrative application. Performance evaluation results show that the developed methodology is capable of evolving optimal release strategies to satisfy water quality requirements downstream of the reservoir.

4 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

019503   Chandra S;Ramakrishna K N;Harinarayana K (NO, Nation Aerospace Lab, Kodihalli, Bangalore-560 017) : Opportunities for civil aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul in India. J Aerospace Sci Technol 2007, 59(1), 1-13.

Indian airline industry is expected to see double digit growth over the next decade as the economy grows between 8-10% GDP, as structural weaknesses are removed, infrastructure strengthened and much needed capital (domestic and foreign) becomes available. It is now perceived that there is already lack of adequate infrastructure for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO). Much of the engine, airframe and component MRO are presently being carried out abroad. As of now, there are no major independent MROs that can cater for this large fragmented market. It was felt by the Aeronautical Society of India to set up a Committee to study opportunities for MRO in India. The Committee report [I] details the different types of airframe MRO that are required including aircraft C and higher checks, engines and other equipment. The report encompasses a detailed study of manpower requirements, structure of the MRO organisation, training opportunities apart from providing a basic cost and revenue structure for any MRO. This article provides a brief overview of the report.

1 illus, 5 tables, 4 ref

019502   Chakraborty S (NO, , ) : Renewable sources of environment security. J Instn Engrs 2006, 87(Dec), 3-5.

Energy is an essential input for economic development and improving the quality of life. Renewable sources of energy have become important and relevant to today's world. Their use can, to a large extent, reduced chemical, radioactive, and thermal pollution. At present, total renewable source of energy contribute about 18% tot mankind's total energy used. Different renewable energy sources and its impact on ecnomoy of a country as well as on mankind have been focused.

5 illus