000592   Naresh R;Sharma J (Electl Engng Dep, Natn Inst of Technol, Hamirpur, H.P.) : Neural network based multiobjective hydro scheduling assessment. Wat Energy int 2005, 62(1), 32-9.

New approach based on the multi-layer perceptron in cascade with the two-phase optimization neural network for objective satisfaction assessment in the multi-objective hydro-scheduling problem has been presented. The objectives are to maximize the annual hydropower generationa and to satisfy the irrigation requirements as far as possible. Scheduling indicators are introduced to help the reservoid operators in making a judicious compromise between the conflicting objectives. In the proposed method the multi-layer perception is adopted for identifying the input parameters of the two-phase optimization neural network, which is turn provides the desired scheduling result. Results so obtained demonstrate the promise of this approach for providing the flexible assessment of the multi-objective operation schedule for the multi-reservoid systems.

6 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

000591   Monicha A K;Goyal M;Pankaj kumar (Envir Sci and Technol Div, Cent Bldg Res Inst, Roorkee-247 667) : Effects of mercury (II), nickel (II) and zinc (II) metal icons on the setting time on ordinary portland cement. Indian J envir Prot 2005, 25(11), 1001-5.

Reports the results of the studies exhibiting the effect of addition of varying concentrations of mercury (II), nickel (II) and zinc (II) metal ions on the initial and final setting time of 43 grade ordinary portland cement. Concentration ranges of these metal ions were selected keeping in view their concentrations generally present in inorganic wastes generated by various industries. Nitrate salts of mercury (II), nickel (II) and zinc (II), respectively have been used to prepare the standard solutions of these metal ions. The efforts have also been made to establish a quantitative co-relation between the concentrations of added metals and the intensity of any effect on the above properties of the cement. The results of these investigations exhibited that mercury (II), nickel (II) and zinc (II) work as retarders as all these ions caused a decrease the initial as well as final setting time to a considerable extent in certain concentration ranges although the intensity of effect varies for each metal ion.

3 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

000590   Mazumder D (Civ Engng Dep, Bengal Engng Coll (Deemed University), P.O. Botanic Garden, Howrah-711 103) : Hydrodynamic modelling of shaft-type hybrid biological reactor. Indian J envir Prot 2006, 26(1), 14-24.

One shaft-type hybrid biological reactor is developed to improve the treatment capacity of the conventional activated sludge process by introducing the inert bio-carrier materials. These carriers would support attached biomass, resulting in better performance of the reactor. To understand the hydraulic regime of such a reactor, tracer study was conducted using methyl orange as a tracer. The operating parameters were varied with their possible range and a tracer sludge was injected to have response profile (C-curve) in terms of C/C₀ vs t/t₀. The C-curves have been analyzed using the standard technique followed by evaluation of dispersion number for different sets of operating parameters. All the parameters have been coupled together to evolve a dimensionless parameter Reynolds number. Consequently, the values of dispersion number are plotted against the Reynolds number presenting a linear relationship, from which a model equation is developed. The said dispersion model predicts the value of dispersion number (d) for a given set of operating parameters with a good accuracy.

14 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

000589   Kuppuswamy N;Rudramoorthy R;Mayilsamy K (NO, Maharaja Prithvi Engng Coll, Avinashi, Coimbatore-641 654, Email: kuppuswamynks@yahoo.co.in) : Stress analysis on the major parts of bulb turbine using FEA. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(5), 402-9.

In the bulb turbine, main shaft and stay column play important role. Main shaft is positioned horizontally. More stress concentration occurs near the junction of stay column with concrete at the top and bottom, since the entire load is being taken care of by stay columns at the top and bottom. A finite element analysis (FEA) has been made using ANSYS software to find out structural stability with stress distribution for bulb turbine and the reasons for high vibration and vertical cracks in the concrete structure of the powerhouse. Results from FEA analysis show that the bulb turbine operation is safe when the stay columns are fitted with pipe jacks. This method reduces stress concentration at the junction of stay column with concrete.

12 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

000588   Kar S;Meena R S;Manoj Kumar;Babu S;Krishnan S A;Chowdhury A;Chacko J;Antony J;Dutta T S (NO, Inter-University Acclerator Cent, New Delhi) : Vacuum performance studies for the 1st LINAC module in superconducting linear accelerator at IUAC. Bull Indian Vacuum Soc 2005, 8(4), 11-15.

High Vacuum is a very stringent requirement for any particle accelerator. For superconducting accelerator, the performance of accelerating element i.e. the Niobium resonator is highly dependent on high vacuum. Describes the vacuum technology involved in the 1st accelerating module for the IUAC superconducting LINAC program and its performance studies in details.

9 illus, 5 ref

000587   Hussain S;Pal Chowdhury M;Roy R K;Pal A K (Mater Sci Dep, Indian Ass for the Cultivation of Sci, Calcutta-700 032) : Beryllium doped polycrystalline GaN films : optical and grain boundary properties. Bull Indian Vacuum Soc 2005, 8(4), 17-20.

Be-doped polycrystalline GaN films were deposited by radio frequency sputtering of a GaN/Be composite target onto fused silica substrates. Grain boundary parameters like density of trap states (Q₁) and the barrier height (E_b) at the grain boundaries were estimated from the broadening of the absorption tail. Photoluminescence measurement at 80 K exhibited two strong transitions located <126>2.1 eV and <126>2.7 eV along with lower intensity peaks for band edge luminescence at <126>3.47 eV and 3.28 eV for films deposited at T = 423 K and 623 K respectively.

5 illus, 14 ref

000586   Chaudhary H;Saha S K (Mechanical Engng Dep, IIT Delhi, New Delhi-11 016, Email: himanshubhl@rediffmail.com) : Optimal design of an Indian carpet weaving loom structure. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(5), 410-15.

Present looms to weave the carpets in India are made of wood, which are susceptible to termite attacks and low service life. Besides, the high tensionin the warps is generated manually through the pull of a rope by 2-3 persons. In order to avoid the above difficulties, an improved metallic loom was developed at IIT Delhi in 2001, which made weaving easy but the cost of loom is high. Optimisation of the metallic loom is carried out resulting in relatively lightweight and reduced cost. The design is verified using the Finite Element Analysis software, ANSIS.

9 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

000585   Chandraju S;Prathima B K (Dep of Stud in Sug Technol, Univ of Mysore Sir M. V. P. G. Cent, Tubinakere, Mandya-571 402) : Ethyl ester of soyabean and sunflower oil blends with diesel as an ecofriendly fuel in heavy duty vehicles. Chem envir Res 2004, 13(3-4), 259-67.

Blends of ethyl esters of soyabean and sunflower oils are prepared by blending/mixing esters directly 10-20% by volume with diesel (HSD) and the results were quite encouraging leading to 23% mileage improvement in soyabean oil ester diesel (SBOED) blend compared to 16% in sunflower oil ester diesel (SFOED) blend. But both are the selective improvement blends compared to diesel. Thus, SBOED (20%) shows 74% improvement and considerable reduction in exhaust emissions compared to 63% improvement in SFOED (10%). The best performance blend compared to HSD is SBOED, and it has high calorific value, one of the oil derivatives leading to smooth drive of the vehicle engine causing less wear and tear.

8 illus, 4 tables, 25 ref

000584   Ahmad F J;Khar R K (Dep of Pharmaceutics, Fac of Pharmaceutics, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi) : Nanotechnology: a revolution in the making. Pharma Rev 2005, 4(19), 49-56.

Recent past there have been dramatic developments in the field of nanotechnology. These are in various fields like nanomaterials, nanoelectronics, nanomedicines etc. History of nanomaterials is goes back to the early 20th century with the production of carbon black and fumed silica in the 1940s. However, it has only been with the development of high-speed computing, and hence modeling; advanced characterization techniques, such as atomic force microscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy; and synthesis routes, such as sol-gel processing, that it has been possible to design nanomaterials. Now exciting thing about nanomaterials is the availability in large variety that was not there earlier with unique properties and wide range of applications. The potential applications for nanoparticles are growing and cover an extremely broad range of markets. Analysts have estimated that the size of the market will be $900 million in 2005 and $11 billion in 20101. Despite-the attention that has been focused on this Meld, it is widely understood that many of the trends in nanotechnology, such as molecular computers and nanomachines, will not lead to commercial products for several years but nanomaterials and nanomedicines are the areas where maximum development has taken place and shown the maximum promise.

2 illus, 1 tables, 36 ref

000583   Abhaya S;Amarednra G (Mater Sci Div, Indira Gandhi Cent for Atom Res, Kalpakkam-603 102) : Silicidation in Pd/Si, Co/Si and Ni/Si thin film junctions investigated by Auger Electron spectroscopy. Bull Indian Vacuum Soc 2005, 8(4), 3-9.

Silicide formation in Pd/Si and Co/Si thin film junctions has been investigated using Auger Electron spectroscopy (AES). AES measurements show characteristic signatures due to silicide formation, brought about by elevated temperature annealing. From the deduced concentrations of the metal and silicon species as a function of annealing temperature, the silicide phases are identified and these results are corroborated with other techniques.

10 illus, 11 ref

008525   Wixson D (TMS Metalizing Systems Ltd, , Silverdale, Washington, USA, Email: davew@tmsmetalizing.com) : Thermal sprayed deposits shield structures from corrosion. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(4), 67-9.

3 illus, 4 tables, 6 ref

008524   Visagavel K;Srinivasan P S S (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Knowledge of Technology, Salem-637 504, Email: visaagavelu@yahoo.com) : Experimental investigation on solar air heater assisted natural ventilation in single-sided ventilated room. Indian J Sci Technol 2010, 3(7), 802-6.

Presents an experimental study of solar air heater for natural ventilation in single-sided ventilated room (SSVR). This is a way to increment natural ventilation and as a consequence to improve indoor air quality. In the experiment, a flat plate collector with the length of 1.2 m, width 0.6 m and air gap 0.08 m is used. It is found that the temperature distribution of air and the induced natural air flow rate depend highly on heat input and the area of solar air heater. Experimental research indicates that the air change per hour (ACH) of room varies from 1 to 4 according to the solar incident radiation. The readings were compared with available published experimental and theoretical data. There was an acceptable trend match between experimental and published results. Instead of having a traditional solar chimney, the above approach of introducing a solar air heater method will give better solution for natural ventilation in multistory buildings.

6 illus, 4 tables, 12 ref

008523   Truex M;Seme J P (NO, , , Email: mark.truex@semtorq.com) : The role of tip dressing in modern auto body construction. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(1), 67-70.

Tip dressing offfers auto manufacturers flexibility in metai combinations, weld joint design, and material selection, as well as rapid setup and verification of new processes.

8 illus, 1 table

008522   Suhane S K;Haridas G;Nayak M K;Verma D; Banerjee R S;Chouksey S;Gurnam Singh (NO, Raja Ramanna Centre for advanced Technology, Indore, Email: suhane@rrcat.gov.in) : Engineering design and development of shielding door and safety shutter for transfer line-3 tunnel of indus accelerator complex. Indian J pure appl Phys 2010, 48(11), 794-7.

Indus accelerator complex houses two synchrotron radiation sources, Indus-1 and Indus-2. Electron beam from booster synchrotron is injected into Indus-2 through transfer line-3 (TL-3). In order to reduce the radiation coming from TL-3 through the door opening to Indus-1, to safe limit, a sliding shielding door has been developed. It is a close welded frame of mild steel with required thickness of shielding material in the form of interlocking lead bricks stacked inside. The door is suspended from an overhead I-beam attached to welded wall brackets, which are fixed to RCC wall using anchor fasteners. I Pneumatic drive is used for moving the door. Radiation measurements carried out after the installation show substantial reduction in the radiation field at Indus-1 experimental hall. Another safety concern is the inadvertent transmission of I electron beam from booster synchrotron to TL-3. For this purpose a safety shutter has been made. It comprises of a beam absorber made of high density alloy DENSIMET which can be moved in and out of electron beam path. Design, fabrication, installation and testing of sliding shielding door and the beam shutter have been described.

4 illus, 1 table, 1 ref

008521   Subramanian K G;Raja S;Panigrahi B S (Reactor Operations & Maintenace Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, Email: bsp@igcar.gov.in) : Estimation of CTAB in water by ion chromatography. Indian J Sci Technol 2010, 3(7), 718-19.

Surfactants are used in cooling water systems to keep the precipitating chemicals in dispersed condition and thus to deter the scale formation. The choice of using cationic or anionic surfactant as dispersants depends on the chemical nature of the raw water. At the same time, estimation of surfactants at trace level has always been a challenge. In the present study, Cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB), a cationic surfactant, is estimated at ppm level using high pressure ion chromatography in water medium. The CTAB is estimated here in raw water, domestic waste water and cooling water.

2 illus, 4 ref

008520   Sreenikethan G;Maheesan P M;Harikumar P S (NO, Swami Nithyanada Polytechnic College, Kanhangad-671 315) : Tertiary treatment in a vertical flow reed bed system. J Ind Pollut Control 2009, 25(1), 79-81.

A constructed wetland having vertical flow bed reed bed system (Gravel/sand) was chosen as a treatment plant for tertiary treatment of domestic waste. The surface of the vertical flow pilot plant amounts to 0.60 m² and depth of bed is about 0.60 m. The application of the conventional plant effluent is carried out in intermittent flushes. Final nitrification and partial de-nitrification and elimination of phosphorus are the main goals to be achieved. In the framework of the present research work the efficiency and operational reliability will be determined by loading the different kind of secondary effluent. Results, of the study indicate that NH₄-N removal efficiency of 97% to 99%, COD removal efficiency of 50 -60 % and phosphate removal efficiency of 60 - 73 % can be achieved using the constructed wetland.

3 tables, 9 ref

008519   Sood R;Bedi A;Jha A (NO, , Reclamation Shop, Bhilai Steel Plant-490 001) : Reclamation of main drive spindle of blooming & billet mill of Bhilai steel plant. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(4), 34-7.

Blooming and Billet Mill is the mother mill of Bhilai Steel Plant. Yearly about 2.5 MT ingots are rolled in to blooms in the Blooming Mill & these blooms are further rolled in to billets in continuous Billet Mill. Billets are fed to Wire Rod Mill & Merchant Mill as raw material. The main drive spindle gives drive to main stand roll. Due to continuous working, the slide block seating and the bearing seating on the journal portion of spindle gets worn out. The average working life of spindle is around 6 months. The estimated cost of a new spindle assembly is approx. Rs. 5 Crores. Weight of spindle is 32.63 T. The present Russian units & also other units around the world are reluctant to supply such massive spare. Hence it was decided to reclaim slide blocks seating & as well as bearing seating of main drive spindle. This paper deals with the reclamation technology adopted to revive this vital spare. This paper includes selection of -welding consumables, preheat & post heat treatment, welding parameters, preparation & precautions for reclamation procedure.

3 illus, 1 ref

008518   Singh R (Central soil and materials Research Station, Olof Palme Marg, Hauz Khas, New Delhi-110 016, Email: rajbal_s@yahoo.co.in) : comparison of modulus of deformation of rock mass by different methods. J Rock Mech Tunnelling Technol 2009, 15(1), 37-54.

The modulus of deformation of rock mass is an important engineering parameter required for the stability analysis and design of underground structures. Different equipment and techniques are used to arrive at the design modulus value. Since any error in the estimation of modulus values results in multiplication of its effects in the analysis, it is necessary to know about the reliability of testing equipment and procedures. The different procedures used for direct measurement provide values that often differ from one another by as much as 2 to 3 times depending mostly on the loading area used for a particular test and deformation measured at the surface or inside drillholes. This is inevitable, due to the fact that the rock mass volume stressed differs from one test to another. Also, the parameter is notably sensitive to a scale effect because of the discontinuities. Part of this may arise from the deformation characteristics of discontinuities, which are difficult to analyse. This paper deals with a comparison of deformability of rock mass from different methods by conducting plate loading, plate jacking and Goodman jack tests on a particular site.

9 illus, 7 tables, 18 ref

008517   Singh K;Sunil P (Mechanical Engineering Dep, SLIET, Longowal, Punjab) : Recycled slag consumption in submerged arc welding and its effect microstructure of weld metal. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(4), 46-51.

Slag generated during conventional submerged arc weld was collected and processed by replenishing it with suitable alloying elements/deoxidizers by agglomeration. This replenished slag is referred to as recycled slag. Recycled slag in combination with EL-8 filler wire was used in these investigations. The effect of welding parameters on flux (recycled slag) consumption has been investigated. Mathematical model has been developed from the data generated using two level factorial technique. The significance of coefficients and adequacy of developed model have been checked by Students 't' test and F test respectively. The main effects of welding parameters on recycled slag consumption have been presented in graphical form for better understanding. The developed model is useful for controlling and predicting slag consumption in submerged arc welding. The physical behavior of recycled slag during welding was also observed. Microstructure of weld metal was analyzed.

5 illus, 5 tables, 12 ref

008516   Singh B;Shanker D;Singh M (Civil Engineering Dep, IIT Roorkee, Roorkee-247 667, Email: singhfce@iitr.ernet.in) : Control of Earthquakes by lakes in Himalayas and vicinity. J Rock Mech Tunnelling Technol 2009, 15(1), 55-68.

The basic concept of this article is to dissipate the strain energy of earth plates near the active faults frequently in form of many earthquakes of lower intensity, rather than the uncontrolled release of strain energy as a shallow earthquake of high intensity. This appears economically feasible by building a series of large lakes at suitable distances along the active faults. The seismic data is compiled here to show that expected earthquakes of high intensity have not occurred in Himalayas in neighbourhood of dam reservoirs in India since 1970. The coefficient of friction against incremental shear stresses is negligible at the great depths along faults. The shear resistance along fault near ground surface may also be reduced by seepage pressure of lake water and deposition of clay particles along the same during the life time of lakes only. The highest seismicity may thereby be reduced by about 1 M in 40 years. More research is needed in other regions.

4 illus, 4 tables, 21 ref

008515   Sharpe M (NO, , Robotics Hills Michigan, USA, Email: Michael>Sharpe@fanuc robotcs.com) : Robotic fabrication of wing turbine power generators. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(4), 62-6.

7 illus

008514   Senthil Kumar A P;Prabhu Raja V;Karthikeyan P (Mechanical Engineering Dep, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore-641 004, Email: apsenthilkumarme@yahoo.com) : Estimation of effective thermal conductivity of two-phase materials using line heat source method. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(11), 872-8.

This study presents fabrication of an experimental setup based on line heat source method and automate data acquisition software (Lab VIEW) was used to measure thermal conductivity (TC) of two-phase materials (TPMs) with various temperatures. TC measurement of various TPMs has been carried with a minimum value (0.178 W/m°C) for saw dust and maximum value (0.64 W/m°C) for iron powder. Reliability tests were conducted on glycerin to validate experimental set-up. Using TC values at different temperatures, thermal diffusivity can also be found out. Thermal probe method of determining TC is one of the best methods available owing to its simplicity and ease of construction and usage.

5 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

008513   Saurav D;Bandyopadhyay Asish;Pal P K (Mechanical Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela-769 008, Email: sdattaju@gmail.com) : Effect of slag reclaiming on weld microstructure in submerged arc welding process. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(1), 33-7.

Slag formed during SAW process has been collected and processed for using further in subsequent runs of Submerged Arc Welding of mild steel material. The mixture of fused flux (slag) and fresh flux has been used as an alternative of fresh flux. The percentage (by volume) of slag in the mixture of fused flux and fresh flux has been termed as slag-mix%. The aim is to observe whether any noticeable adverse effect occurs on weld microstructure while consuming increasing percentage of slag-mix in SAW process. The present investigation leads to the idea that reconsumption of slag in SAW process does not impose any alarming adverse effect on parameters of the desired weld quality in terms of weld micro structure.

6 illus, 37 ref

008512   Sarda V K (NO, North West Institute of Technology, Dhudike, Dist. Moga, Punjab) : Protection of bridge abutmints from scour. J Indian Wat Resour Soc 2010, 30(1), 1-9.

The failure of bridges due to excessive abutment scour causes high maintenance cost or even the bridge collapse resulting in interruption of traffic as well as casualties to life. Hence ability to protect bridge abutment from scour is critical to bridge safety. Review showed that there are two approaches to scour mitigation viz. bank hardening and flow-altering. Selection of a countermeasure involves life cycle cost assessment for the particular site along with social and environmental issues. However, their application for mobile bed and in compound channels is still to be established.

6 ref, 1 table, 70 ref

008511   Saravanan G;Mohanraj K;Anbarasu V;Jayabalan K (NO, Sakthi Engineering College, Thiruninravur, Chennai-602 024, Email: saran13_g@yahoo.co.in) : Synthesis and characterization of the Y_1.5Ca_0.5Ba₃O_9-y crystal. Int J chem Sci 2010, 8(1), 189-96.

In the present investigation, synthesis and characterization of the Y1.5Ca_0.5Bi₂Ba₃O_9-y compound has been reported. This compound is synthesized by solid state reaction technique. Crystallizing nature and surface morphology of the compounds are investigated by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) image and X-ray analysis. Crystallizing and melting temperature of the Y_1.5Ca_0.5Bi₂Ba₃O_9-y compound is studied by thermal analysis and band gap was also analyzed by DRS. Single phase formation of the compound Y_1.5Ca_0.5Bi₂Ba₃O_9-y is also confirmed by XRD analysis. Result of the investigation show that the newer compound, Y_1.5Ca_0.5Bi₂Ba₃O_9-y, behaves as a semiconductor at room temperature.

5 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

008510   Saha S C;Dutta P;Saha S (NO, National Institute of Technology, Agartala) : Challenges in Welding - Indian center. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(1), 22-4.

The industries related to automobile, railways, ports and ship building, oil gas and refinery, nuclear, power, water supply and sanitation rely heavily on welding for mass production of various types of components. The higher production rates encountered in the mass production have led to very higher degree of automation and mechanization associated with special purpose processes. It is highly essential and important that India becomes a major manufacturing unit to increase the G.D.P. Growth from 9% to 12%. This requires high quality skills in the manufacturing technology which can be ensured with a continued supply of quality manpower. Universally, short supply of welding technologists and welders are being felt. The problem can be minimized through vocational education, training, up gradation of curriculum and public-private partnership. An integrated approach in this line may a good solution to the problem of unemployment and to meet the shortage of manpower in this profession.

2 tables, 6 ref

008509   Sabiruddin K;Das S;Bhattacharya A (Mechanical Engineering Dep, IIT Kharagpur-721 302, , Email: sdas_me@rediffmail.com) : Application of the analytic hierarchy process for optimizatopm of process parameters in GMAW. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(1), 38-40, 41-6.

Among the arc welding processes, gas metal arc welding (GMAW) is a popular process to the present-day fabrication industries. Controlling process parameters of GMAW is very important to obtain the desired product quality. In the present work, parametric optimization has been done in GMAW using CO, gas through applying the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). This technique shows quite close estimates with the experimental results.

12 tables, 15 ref

008508   Roy T R (NO, Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research, Dhanbad-826 001) : Development of a new methodology for evaluation of spontaneous fire risk potential and rating of underground coal mine panels in bord and pillar method of mining in India. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(12), 435-49.

This is an innovative user-fhendly prediction model developed for evaluation of spontaneous fire risk potential and rating of underground coal mine panels in bord and pillar workings. It is based on qualitative effect of fire risk parameters on underground panels, and to some extent dependent on experience of the user: Here, major fire risk parameters associated with spontaneous heating of panels are short-listed and divided into three broad groups in accordance with the nature of their contribution. The paper describes vividly the procedure for estimation of fire risk rating of individual groups using separate objective type models developed for this purpose and then it evaluates the overall fire risk potential and rating of the concerned panel by combining the fire risk ratings of all the three groups. This model may be applied to a panel where extraction is carried out using any of the techniques. (i) depillaring with formation of small pillars as final operation, (ii) extraction by broadening of galleries, (iii) depillaring with hydraulic sand stowing, and (iv) depillaring with caving. The model is tested with the field data collected from different collieries spreading across the country and the laboratory data for critical assessment of fitness. Some results showing the validity of the model are also cited here.

8 ref

008507   Ravisankar R;Senthilkumar G;Kiruba S; Chandrasekaran A;Prince Prakesh Jebakumar (PG & Research Physics Dep, Govt. Arts College, Tiruvanamalai-606 601, Email: ravissn@gmail.com) : Mineral analysis of coastal sediment samples of Tuna, Gujarat, India. Indian J Sci Technol 2010, 3(7), 774-80.

Qualitative analysis was carried out to determine the major and minor constituent minerals present in sediment I samples collected at the coastal area of Tuna, Gujarat by FT-IR and XRD technique. From the IR absorption band or I the locations of the different peaks, the minerals were identified with the available literature. In addition to the band positions, the sharpness or diffuseness of bands was helpful in the identification of mineral components. The IR study on sediment samples was highly useful in identifying the various minerals in sediments. Further, the representative sediment samples were analyzed by XRD technique to yield more information about the minerals. Both of these methods were non-destructive and can be used in the identification of mineralogical composition. These results confirmed that the applied techniques are relatively quicker and more reliable in mineral analysis.

3 illus, 6 tables, 37 ref

008506   Ravisankar R;Kiruba S;Chandrasekaran A; Senthilkumar G;Maheswaran C (Physics Post Graduate & Research Dep, Government Arts College, Tiruvanamalai-606 601) : Analysis of ancient potteries of Tamil Nadu, India by spectroscopic techniques. Indian J Sci Technol 2010, 3(8), 858-62.

Reports the spectroscopic investigation of ancient potteries excavated in Tamilnadu. Qualitative analyses were carried out to determine the major and minor constituent minerals present in the samples based on the band position or location of IR absorption peaks. From the prominent i.r. absorption peaks, the minerals were identified from the available literature. The constituents of minerals present in the potteries are further confirmed by XRD technique. Both FT-IR and XRD techniques reveals the mineral composition of ancient potteries. Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (XRF) was used to determine the major, minor and trace element composition of potsherds of ancient potteries. The concentration of trace elements is helpful for the characterization of pottery produced in a given region. The combined techniques are very much useful for the characterization of potteries.

2 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

008505   Ramulu M;Sigharam T G;Choudhury P B;Raina A K;Chakraborty A K (NO, Central Institute of Mining & Fuel Research Regional Centre, Nagpur-440 006, Email: cmrirc@dataone.in) : Effect of repeated blast vibrations on rock mass damage at a penstock tunnel of a hydroelectric power project-a case study. J Rock Mech Tunnelling Technol 2009, 15(1), 17-36.

The detonation of explosive charges releases large quantities of energy that can produce rock and soil deformations in the vicinity of blasting site. Extensive data are available on blasting in general and on the behavior of surface structures subjected to blast vibrations. However, only limited information is available on the effect of blast induced dynamic forces on underground structures like tunnels and caverns. This paper deals with the research work carried out at Koldam Hydroelectric Power Construction Project (KHEPP) on the effect of repeated blast vibrations on the jointed rock mass. Multiple rounds of blasts were conducted at the penstock tunnels and at the excavation site for powerhouse foundation. The damage caused by blast induced vibrations can be categorized into two types: (i) near-field damage due to high frequency vibrations when the blast is occurring in the close proximity and (ii) far-field damage due to low frequency vibrations when the blast is occurring relatively at farther distances. The near-field damage was assessed by Holmberg-Persson model by means of monitoring ground vibrations and by borehole camera inspection surveys. The far-field damage was assessed by measuring deformations of borehole extensometers and by borehole camera inspection surveys. Peak particle velocities (V_max) generated by blast rounds were recorded by installing triaxial geophones near the borehole extensometers and borehole camera inspection holes. Damage assessment instrumentation was carried out at both the sides of penstock tunnel wall as another objective of the study was to compare the extent of rock mass damage with different joint orientations. The study reveals that repeated dynamic loading imparted on the jointed rock mass from subsequent blasts, in the vicinity, resulted in damage even at 22-26% of critical peak particle velocity (V_cr). The far-field damage due to the repeated blast loading, after 36-42 rounds, was more than 70% of the near-field damage. The results of the study indicate that vibration levels, even at less than critical V_max, can cuase safety and stability problems to the structures in jointed rock mass, when exposed to the repeated blast loading. The paper stresses the need for consideration of the effect of repeated blast loading for fixing the threshold limits of V_max to avoid the blast induced damage.

11 illus, 4 tables, 55 ref

008504   Rajebhosale C M (Sandvik Mining and Construction Materials Handing, Sandvik Asia Ltd, Dapodi, Pune-411 012, Email: chetan.rajebhosale@sandvik.com) : In-pit crushing and mine conveying systems. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(12), 429-34.

This paper brings into focus the technology and application of in-pit crushing, mine conveying, dumping and conveying. This paper also weighs the pros and cons of conveyor system at mine sites and justifies the need of the belt conveyor system for higher productivity, safety and reliability of the mining operation.

14 illus, 7 ref

008503   Raghavendra M V;Vara Prasad P L H (Instrument Technology Dep, College of Engineering, Andhra Univ, Vishakapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, Email: miriampally@gmail.com) : Driver circuit implementation for source in optical commuication. Indian J Sci Technol 2010, 3(7), 831-36.

There are many techniques in designing the driver circuit for the sources such as laser and LEDs in optical fiber communication. However, in this paper, we discuss different types of driver circuits with the help of MESFETs, HFETs, BJTs, HBTs and CMOS technologies.

^iia10 illus, 2 ref

008502   Qian J Q;Qin D H;Xie X M;Zhou W W (College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Technology Univ, Hangzhou-310 014, Email: qiq@zjut.edu.cn) : Enzyme-assisted aqueous extraction of oil from soybean. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(11), 860-65.

This study presents enzyme-assisted aqueous extraction (EAAE) method for oil extraction from soybean. Parameters for EAAE of oil with 1398 neutral protease were optimized through single-factor and orthogonal test. Soybean oil (yield, 80.2% w/w) was achieved under following optimized conditions: enzyme (conc., 840 IU/g soybean; pH, 7.0); enzymatic hydrolysis (temp., 45°C; time, 1.5 h); ratio of petroleum ether to soybean oil, 4:1 (v/w); extraction (temp., 30°C; time, 15 min; pH, 4.5); and centrifugation force, 1400 x g.

2 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

008501   Pugazhvadivu M;Sankaranarayanan G (Mechanical Engg. Dep, Pondicherry Engg. College, Puducherry-605 014, Email: pv_pec@yahoo.com) : Exprimental studies on a diesel engine using mahua oil as fuel. Indian J Sci Technol 2010, 3(7), 787-91.

In this work mahua oil was used as an alternative fuel for diesel engine. The properties of mahua oil were determined. The performance and emissions of a single cylinder, stationary diesel engine was evaluated using mahua oil and compared with standard diesel operation. Mahua oil was preheated to 130°C and the effect of preheating on the engine performance and emissions were determined. The heat release rate of mahua oil was enhanced with preheating. The engine performance improved and smoke, CO and HC emissions decreased while the engine was running with preheated mahua oil. A marginal increase in NO_x emission was noted. It is concluded that Mahua oil preheated to 130°C can be used as diesel substitute under emergency situations.

9 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

008500   Prasanthi G;Sumalatha V;Sudheer A (Mechanical Engineering Dep, JNTUA College of Engineering, Anantapura-515 002, Email: dr.smt.g.prasanthi@gmail.com) : Optimum design of boost converter for charging the battery by non-conventional energy source. Indian J Sci Technol 2010, 3(7), 724-6.

The utilization of battery can be improved by designing an appropriate charger capable of fast charging. Photovoltaic panel is used as input source for converter. The objective of this paper is to investigate the converter topologies and control techniques for fast charging of a battery which are required for its optimum design. A charging monitoring system is implemented based on converter technologies. Experimental simulation work is carried out in MATLAB-7.7b. A Pi-gain controller feedback is used with reference voltage of 15 V for the ripple free output voltage.

10 illus, 6 ref

008499   Prasad G K (NO, Defence Research and Development Establishment, Jhansi Road, Gwalior-474 002, Email: gkprasad@1ycos.com) : Decontamination of 2 chloro ethyl phenyl sulphide using mixed metal oxide nanocrystals. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(11), 835-40.

Decontamination reaction of 2 chloro ethyl phenyl sulphide (2-CEPS), a surrogate of sulphur mustard, was studied on nanecrystals of AP-A1₂O₃, AP-Al₂O₃-Fe₂O₃, AP-A1₂O₃-V₂O₅ and AP-Al₂O₃-CuO by using gas chromatography, gas chromatog-raphy-mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy techniques. Decontamination of 2-CEPS resulted via hydrolysis, oxidation and formation of surface bound alkoxides on AP-A1₂O₃-V₂O₅, whereas on AP-A1₂O₃, AP-Al₂O₃-Fe₂O₃ and AP-Al₂O₃-CuO, decontamination of 2-CEPS resulted by hydrolysis and formation of surface bound alkoxides. Reaction of 2-CEPS on AP-A1₂O₃, AP-Al₂O₃-Fe₂O₃, AP-A1₂O₃-V₂O₅ and AP-Al₂O₃-CuO exhibited pseudo first order behavior. AP-Al₂O₃-Fe₂O₃, AP-A1₂O₃-V₂O₅ and AP-Al₂O₃-CuO nanocrystals exhibited superior decontamination properties than AP-A1₂O₃.

4 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

008498   Pawan Kumar;Kolhe K P;Som Ashutosh;Datta C K (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Delhi College of Engineering, Delhi) : Optimisation of bead geometry of pulsed GTAW proces for aluminium alloy 7039 using Ar - He gas mixtures. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(4), 26-8,29-33.

The present paper depicts the application of pulsed gas tungsten arc welding (pulsed GTAW) for aluminium alloy (AA7039) using various Ar + He (Argon + Helium) mixtures as a shielding gas with sinusoidal AC wave. In this investigation, Taguchi method is used to formulate the experimental layout, to analyse the effect of each process parameter on the bead geometry, and to predict the optimum setting for each welding process parameter. The pulsed GTAW process is employed for a high rate of current rise and decay at a high pulse repetitive rate, which is Widely used in the joining of precision parts. Zinc is usually added to improve mechanical properties through formation of hard intermediate phase, such as Mg₂Zn. The main aim of pulsing is to achieve maximum penetration without excessive heat built-up. The use of high current pulses is to penetrate deeply and allow the weld pool to dissipate some of the heat during a proportionately of longer arc period at a lower current. AA7039 is employed in aircraft, automobiles, high-speed trains and high-speed ships due to their low density, high specific strength and excellent corrosion resistance.

7 illus, 8 tables, 8 ref

008497   Pandian P S;Singh M (Biomedical Engeering Div, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai-600 042, Email: mingh_iitm@yahoo.com) : Localization and characterization of tissue changes by laser backscattering imaging and Monte Carlo simulation. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(10), 993-1001.

Laser backscattering from biological tissues depends on their composition and blood flow. The onset of the tissue abnormalities is associated with the change in composition at a specific location which may affect laser backscattering. The objective of the present work is to detect the compositional changes in tissue-equivalent phantom of fat, prepared by mixing paraffin wax with wax colors, and to characterize these in terms of their optical parameters. For this purpose these phantoms are scanned by a multi-probe non-contact automatic laser scanning system and images of the normalized backscattered intensity (NBI) are constructed. By scanning the background subtracted image of the phantom the location of the abnormality and its size from the full width at half maximum (FWHM) are determined. The data obtained by ultrasonic technique for localization of the abnormalities are in agreement with that as obtained by the present method. The optical parameters of the abnormality are obtained by matching the measured surface profiles of the abnormality with that of the profile obtained by Monte Carlo simulation. This analysis shows the possibility of detection of changes at the onset stage in tissues as required for planning of the photodynamic therapy.

7 illus, 2 table, 39 ref

008496   Palanivasan R;Warkhedkar R M (Mech. Engg. Dep, Govt College of Engg., Aurangabad, Maharashtra-431 005, Email: rpalanivasan@gmail.com) : Optimizing influence of process parameters on induction hardening for IC engine valve. Indian J Sci Technol 2010, 3(7), 795-7.

Fatigue behavior of induction hardened part is largely dependent on the correct combination of hardening depth and the magnitude. The objective of this work is to optimize the process parameters of the Induction Hardened End of SH-5395 tuff pattern in which experimentations have been conducted, the process parameters of IHE were varied to give a constant hardness penetration depth in both spiral and flat coils.

2 illus, 4 tables, 2 ref

008495   Pal S K;Rao G S;Panda S;Tripathi A K (Mining Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur-721 302) : Slurry transport in blind backfilling. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(12), 450-4.

The main aim behind the filling of abandoned underground mine workings is to avoid subsidence, which is posing threat to the life of the people residing over such mine workings. Owing to the similarity of the process of blind backfilling with sediment transport in canals and rivers, three widely used empirical relationships in sediment transport were compared with model filling data of bord and pillar working. Subsequently, experimental studies were carried out on a different bigger transparent model of bord and pillar working and the filling process was closely observed. Blench method was modified to produce an acceptable matching between the actual and computed pressure losses. The main consideration in this research was given to reduce the hydraulic pressure loss per meter length of the channel (i.e. hydraulic path resistance). By controlling the sand and water flow rates, it was observed that the hydraulic path resistance can be considerably reduced. An empirical relationship using multi-variable regression analysis was also developed during the research to predict the hydraulic pressure loss under varying conditions of sand concentration and water flow rate.

6 illus, 9 ref

008494   Padmanaban G;Balasubramanian V (Centre for Materials Joining & Research, Manufacturing Dep, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Email: visvabalu@yahoo.com) : Effect of tool materials on tensile properties of friction stir welded AZ31B magnesium alloy. Indian Weld J 2009, 42(1), 25-8,29-32.

In this investigation, an attempt was made to study the effect of tool materials on tensile properties of friction stir welded AZ31B magnesium alloy. Tools made of five different materials were used to fabricate the joints. Tensile properties of the joints were evaluated and correlated with the weld zone microstructure and hardness. From this investigation, it is found that the joint fabricated using the tool made of high carbon steel exhibited superior tensile properties compared to their counterparts. The absence of defects in weld region, presence of very fine equiaxed grains in the weld region and higher hardness in the weld region are the main reasons for superior tensile properties of these joints.

4 illus, 5 tables, 14 ref

008493   Nandwana Mahesh K;Pokhrel N;Singh S N;Kumar J (Electrical & Electronic Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur-831 014, Email: mahesh.nandwana@gmail.com) : Fuzzy logic control implementation in a PVC extruder for temperature control in a cable manufacturing industry. Indian J Sci Technol 2010, 3(7), 798-801.

A number of steps are involved in manufacturing process of an insulated wire. One of the most significant steps of all is controlling the temperature of the poly vinyl chloride (PVC) material which we are going to control using fuzzy logic. The required temperature is set in accordance to the grade of the PVC material available, with no need of manual surveillance. The purpose of this paper is to implement fuzzy logic in wire manufacturing and thus make it autonomous.

11 illus, 2 tables, 4 ref

008492   Naga Malleswara Rao J;Chenna Kesava Reddy A; Rama Rao P V (Mechanical Engg. Dep, VR Sidhartha Engg. College, Vijayawada-520 007, Email: jnmr15827@yahoo.co.in) : Design and fabrication of new type of dynamometer to measure radial component of cutting force and experimental investigation of optimum burnishing force in roler burnishing process. Indian J Sci Technol 2010, 3(7), 737-42.

In this work, an attempt has been made to design and fabricate a new type of dynamometer to measure radial component of cutting force using strain gauges. Dynamometer is required to measure the components of cutting force in any metal cutting process. The dynamometer has been calibrated and tested for performance. It is used in roller burnishing experiment on aluminum work piece under various conditions. In roller burnishing, a hard roller is pressed against a rotating cylindrical work piece and parallel to the axis of the work piece on lathe. Optimum values of burnishing force and the corresponding surface roughness value (R_a) are obtained for different lubricant applications in roller burnishing operation. This dynamometer can be manufactured at a low cost and it can be used for tests on lathe in metal cutting laboratories and engineering colleges.

17 illus, 8 ref

008491   Murthy T E G K;Bala Vishnu Priya M; Satyanarayana V (Pharmaceutics Dep, Bapatla College of Pharmacy, Bapatla-522 101, Email: gopalakrishnatalasila@yahoo.com) : Performance of CFC free propellant-driven MDI of fluticasone propionate. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(11), 866-71.

Metered dose inhalers (MDIs) of fluticasone propionate were developed for treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive polmonary disease. MDIs with hydrofluoroalkanes based propellants were formulated with various doses, overages and various concentrations of alcohol. Optimum requirements were found as follows: effective valve delivery, overdoses (15%); 100% drug delivery, overages (20%); and emitted dose and fine particle fraction, alcohol content (5-10%).

5 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

008490   Mohite N M;Narulkar S (Civil Dep, Applied Mechanics S.G.S.I.T.S., Indore) : Single reservoir optimization using hybrid genetic algorithm. J Indian Wat Resour Soc 2010, 30(1), 46-53.

A hybrid genetic algorithm approach is proposed wherein the GA acts as a base level search algorithm that generates the initial values for solving the problem with a constrained optimization algorithm. The adaptation of the hybrid approach has eliminated the problems associated with the GA as well as the constrained optimization. The hybrid method proves to be superior to the pure GA in finding a good solution quickly. The problem is applied to a single reservoir planning problem for Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal Interlinking Project in India.

1 illus, 4 tables, 35 rer

008489   Meng F;Chen L;Sun F (Postgraduate School, Naval Engineering Univ, Wuhan 430033, P.R. China, Email: lgchenna@yahoo.com) : Multivariable optimization of two-stage thermoelectric refrigerator driven by two-stage thermoelectric generator with external heat transfer. Indian J pure appl Phys 2010, 48(10), 731-42.

The finite time thermodynamic model of a combined thermoelectric device, two-stage thermoelectric refrigerator driven by two-stage thermoelectric generator with heat transfer irreversibility is built by combining non-equilibrium thermodynamic theory with finite time thermodynamics theory. The solution procedure of optimal performance and the corresponding optimal variables are given and the cooling load and COP of the combined thermoelectric device are optimized. The control equation of the combined thermoelectric system is obtained. For fixed total number of thermoelectric elements and fixed total external thermal conductance of the device, the allocations of thermoelectric elements and thermal conductance are optimized for maximum cooling load and COP, respectively. The effects of the heat source temperature of the two-stage thermoelectric generator and the heat source (cooling space) temperature of the two-stage thermoelectric refrigerator on the optimal performance and optimal variables selection are analyzed by detailed numerical examples. The numerical simulation results show that the optimization is necessary and effective. By optimization, the performance is improved. When the two-stage thermoelectric generator works at a difference of 150 K, a cooling temperature difference of about 60 K could be reached. When the two-stage thermoelectric refrigerator works at a difference of 20 K, a COP of about 0.10 could be reached. These are considerable for application in a wide-scale for specific purposes.

9 illus, 4 tables, 46 ref

008488   Manoharan V K;Sindhuja S;Deepak Ram Prasath S;Raju S;Abhaikumar V (NO, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, Email: vkmanoharan@ece.psgtech.ac.in) : Novel miniaturized loaded line phase shifter. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(11), 823-9.

This study proposes a novel design of phase shifter for WLAN applications, by using Koch fractal curves to reduce size of conventional loaded line phase shifter (PS). Proposed PS provides an area reduction (41.88%) in comparison with conventional PS.

9 illus, 6 tables, 18 ref

008487   Lu Y;Tian X;Liang J (Control Sciences and Engineering Dep, Zhejiang Univ, Hangzhou, 370 027, China, Email: txch@sdu.edu.cn) : Track control in automated welding of saddle curve. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(11), 811-17.

This study establishes trajectory model and welding torch pose model, and presents a four-axis (θ, y, r and η) interpolation algorithm for saddle curve (SC) automatic welding. Algorithm is simulated to verify its feasibility by simulating SC with MATLAB and open GL tool software.

9 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

008486   Lanjewar A M;Bhagoria J L;Sarviya R M (Machanical Engineering Dep, M.A.N.I.T., Bhopal-462 051, Email: lanjewar_atul@yahoo.com) : Heat transfer enhancement in solar air heater. Indian J Sci Technol 2010, 3(8), 908-10.

Presents results of an experimental investigation of heat transfer in rectangular duct with repeated ribs in W-continuous pattern. The ribs in W-pattern have been tested for both pointing upstream (W-up) and downstream (W-down) to the flow. The duct has width to height ratio of 8, relative roughness pitch of 10, relative roughness height of 0.03375, angle of attack of ribs in W-pattern is 45° and Reynolds number ranges from 2300-14000. Roughened wall of the duct is uniformly heated while the remaining three walls are insulated. These conditions correspond closely to those found in solar air heaters. The heat transfer results have been compared with those for smooth ducts under similar flow and thermal boundary condition. Enhancement of heat transfer by providing W-shape roughness is 2.39 times to that of smooth plate for W-down ribs and 2.21 times to that of smooth plate for W-up ribs respectively.

5 illus, 1 table, 13 ref