DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

WASHINGTON, D. C.

COMMERCIAL STANDARDS MOHTHLT

Monthly News Bulletin of Commercial Standards Group, Bureau of Standards.

April 15, 1929. S. F. TILLMAN, Editor No. 49

TABLE QE CONTENTS m&mm

Appendix 46

building and housing

Plumbing Requirements 32

Zoning Idea Spreads 33

COMMERCIAL STANDARDS

Commercial Standards Unit.. 13

DISTRIBUTION

Abreast of Competition 19

Cash Basis Adopted by Merchants. 20

Changes in Distribution 25

Cleveland Industrial Census 22

Mass Movement by Trailers 21

Return of Goods Costly 24

Time Credit Accounts Outstanding. ... 23

ELIMINATI ON OF WASTE

Vice President in Charge of Waste 41

Fire Waste 42

Engineering Economy 45

Industrial Waste 44

Standard Markings 43

MARINE STANDARDS

Committee News 12

NEW PUBLICATIONS 47

Research

Debunking Research 29

Future of Railroads 28

RESEARCH (Cont'd.)

Information on Medicinal Preparations 30

Photographs of Waves -27 Strength of Bricks 26

To an Anxious Father 31

2IMELLEIED PRACTICE

Are Narrow Profits Margins Permanent 10

Cast Iron Pipe Report 7 Cooperation with A.S.T.M 9 Division of Simplified Practice 2 Manufacturers' Interest in S. Practice 6

Personnel for Committee 11

Profitable Management 8

Rapid Turnover 3

Results and Benefits 1 Simplification Achieves Economy 4

What Is Rationalization 5

SPECIFICATIONS

Application of Certification Plan.. 14

Construction Specifications 17

Savings from Standardization 15

Value of Specifications 16

Willing-to-certify Lists 18

UTILIZATION OF WASTE

Checking Railroad Waste 36

Fabricator's Edition 40

Lumbermen to Meet 34

Making Profits 35

New Members Elected to Committee 37

Preserved Wood Subcommittee Formed 39

Wood Report Issued 38

SIMPLIFY LINES AND STANDARDIZE KINDS"
Commercial Standards Monthly No. 49—2.

1. RESULTS AMD BENEFITS .

Results and. B enefits of Applying Simplified Practice to Steel B arrels

an d Drums .

By - H. P. Dalzell

Research Section.

Notwithstanding the fact that some manufacturers of steel barrels and drums are finding

it necessary to make certain special sizes, the degree of adherence to the Simplified Practice Recommendation covering these commodities is quite high and on the upward trend. In 1925, 84% of the total steel barrels and drums produced by the acceptors of the recommendation v^ere in accordance with the simplified list of sizes. In 1926 the percentage increased

to 89.

This satisfactory performance, in an industry highly competitive within itself and serving others no less so , is a splendid example of the efficacy and practicability of voluntarycooperation and self-government in business.

The steel barrels and drums industry came to the division for assistance in 1924. A general conference was held on March 26th of that year, and the Simplified Practice Recommendation, now known as No. 20. - Steel Barrels and Drums, adopted. The original recommen- dation listed 24 sizes, eliminating 42. At the request of the standing committee of the

industry, a second general conference was held on December 7, 1927, and one size of drum

added to the list.

The Division of Simplified Practice wished to determine what benefits the industry had

derived from these recommendations during the four years of operation. An inquiry was, therefore, addressed to each acceptor asking for his individual experience and whether or not he had observed any reduction of inventory, of capital investment, or other improvements

traceable to Simplified Practice.

Among the eleven, manufacturers, two distributors and forty-five users of steel barrels

and drums who answered our inquiry, there was not a single instance of dissatisfaction. One

manufacturer said, "Simplified Practice in the manufacture of steel barrels and drums enabled

us to materially reduce our inventory, and also reduce selling expenses." Another gave a complete itemized list showing the ways in which this Simplified Practice is saving his firm

$45,000 annually.

A distributor of general supplies for all classes of mining and industrial operations

said: "We are please to advise that we have benefited greatly by the Simplified Practice,

due to the fac - L.hat a number of the manufacturers who we represent have adopted this practice. It has enabled us to reduce our capital investments and inventory, reduce warehousing

and storage, freight requirements, reduce handling expenses, which includes clerical, in- surance and packing."

A user said: "We are small users ana our impression is that cutting down the number of

sizes and types gives us better service and better delivery than we could obtain when there were so many different varieties manufactured." An oil company credits a saving of approximately $1,000 during 1928 to better service effected by the adoption of simplified Practice

by -he manufacturers of steel barrels and drums.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—3.

It can readily be seen that the application of Simplified Practice in this field is

producing results. The fact that some speicial sizes are being made is not on the whole

operating to offset its benefits. An outstanding advantage of the program has been its success in preventing th9 introduction of more unnecessary sizes and varieties.

The foregoing is an abstract of a more detailed report on this subject. Those desiring

further information may obtain a mimeographed copy of the report by addressing a request to

the Division of Simplified Practice, Department of Commerce Building, Washington, D, C.

SIMPLIFIED P RACTICE

Edwi_n W . Ely .

Address all inquiries regarding Simplified Prazctice to Mr. Edwin W. Ely, Division of

Simplified Prac5ice, United States Department of Commerce, Washingon, D. C.

2. DIVISION of simplified practice.

B i tumi no us Coal: A general conference on simplification of sizes and terminology will be

held at St. Paul, Minnesota, on April 10, 1929. This project covers high volatile bituminous

coal handled over the docks at the American head of the Great Lakes, and distributed in the

States of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska and Montana. The

coal dock operators have recommended the adoption of a simplified list of six sizes of screened coal, together with standard terminology for each. The recommendation will be presented

at the general conference to wholesalers, retailers, and individual larger users in the

territory covered.

Tpack To o ls : The manufacturers of hand tools used in construction and maintenance of railroad tracks have prepared a simplified list of sizes and varieties, representing an elimination of more than 80% of present variety. This list has already been approved by the

American Railway Engineering Association, and the Division of Simplified Practice expects to arrange a general conference of manufacturers, distributors and users in the near future, at which time the recommendation will be acted upon.

Indu stri al Tru ck Tires: A committee of experts from the various tire manufacturing companies

recently prepared a tentative simplified list of sizes to be recommended as standard. A preliminary conference of manufacturers was held on March 29, 1929, and a simplified list

agreed upon for presentation to all manufacturers of this equipment. In view of the effect

upon the tire industry of simplification work already under way in connection with lift

trucks, trailers, and similar equipment, the Division of Simplified Practice will cooperate

on the tire simplification program. As soon as the present recommendation has been approved

by all the tire manufacturers, it will be presented to a general conference of manufacturers,

distributors and users for final action.

Ind us trial Casters: The Division of Simplified Practice is now arranging a preliminary con- ference of manufacturers of large casters used on industrial trucks and trailers. Suggestions have been received from a large number of users, regarding the possibility of establishing a simplified list of over-all heights, together with standard bolt hole spacing for

each

.

Tight Coope ra ge : A general conference of manufacturers, distributors and users of tight

wooden barrels and kegs will be held in St. Louis on May 16, in conjunction with the con- vention of the Associated Cooperage Industries of America. The tentative recommendations

worked out by the Standardization Committee of the association will be used as the agenda
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—4.

for discussion as well as the basis for adoption of a Simplified Practice Recommendation

covering lengths, and thicknesses of staves, diameter and thickness of heads, bilge circumference anl distance from croze to finished end of stave for 5, 10, 15, 30, 45, 50 and 57/58

gallon sizes. The members of the association have been asked for suggestions or recommendations for consideration at the general conference in May.

i' os p i

al Plumb ing Fixtur es: Plans are under way for a general conference of manufacturers

hospital consultants and architects, and others interested to meet at Atlantic City , the week

of June 17 to 21, to adopt a Simplified Practice Recommendation for hospital plumbing fixtures. This conference is being arranged at the joint request of the American Hospital Association and the manufacturers and will be held in conjunction with the annual convention of

the American Hospital Association.

Luggage : At the request of the National Luggage Dealers Association the Division will con- duct a survey among luggage manufacturers covering variety in sizes of luggage now Leing

produced. This information will supplement data already prepared by the National Luggage

Dealers Association ail of which will be used as a basis for the development of a list of

tentative recommendation for consideration at a general conference which is being planned

for the month of August to be held in Mew York City in conjunction with the conventions of

the retailers and manufacturers.

Carbon a ted Be ve ra ge Bottl es: The Glass Container Association and the Joint Simplified Practice Committee of the carbonated beverage industry have requested the f9w manufacturers of

bottles who have not replied to survey questionnaire to furnish data as soon as possible to th« incorporated in a consolidated report showing the percentage of production on the various

capacities, heights, dimaeters and weights of bottles sold. The report will be used by the

Joint Simplified Fractice Committee in preparing a tentative Simplified Fractice Recommendation for adoption at a general conference to be held under the cooperative auspices of the

Division

Buff in g Whee ls : The Division is advised by the Chairman of the Simplified Practice Committee

of the buffing wheel industry that a survey will be made in the near future to ascertain the

demand for various types of buffing wheels being produced. The information thus obtained

will be used by the committee in developing a tentative simplified practice recommendation

for discussion at a subsequent general conference of all interests.

Forms for Conc re te Ri bbe d F loo r Con strue tlon : A sufficient number of acceptances for Simplified Practice Recommendation number 87. Forms for Concrete Ribbed Floor Construction having

been received the Division has announced that the recommendation is effective. The program

as approved provides for a reduction in the number of widths and depths used for the average

job and further lists certain recommended widths for special filler forms.

Wheelbarrows: The Wheelbarrow Association of America through their simplified practice

committee has drafted a tentative simplified practice recommendation based on the recent

survey of the industry. It is expected that a general conference will be called during

April to consider the recommendations for aporoval

Safes : Representatives of the National Association of Safe Manufacturers visited the Division lately and have asked that one of the staff address the ne t general meeting of their

association. This association plans to take up as one of their activities during the ensuing

year the simplification of safe sizes with particular reference to overall dimensions.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—5.

Capi Sizes : At the recent meeting cf the National Canners Association a simplification and

standardization committee composed of F. A. Wilder, Pratt-Low Preserving Company, Chairman.

Sidney Steele, Continental Can Co., and H. A. Baker American Can Co., was appointed. Copies

of the recent survey of the canning industry made by the National Canners Association under

the auspices of the Division of Simplified Practice have been furnished the members of this

committee and it is expected that progress will be made during the coming year looking toward

the establishment of a simplified list of sizes.

SLil-.S Contai ners for Preserv es , J ellies and Aopl e Putte r: The Division cf Simplified Practice has received a sufficient number of signed acceptances for Simplified Practice Recommendation No. 91. - Glass Containers for Preserves, Jellies and Apple Butter, to insure the

general adoption of the program by the industry as a whole. The Simplification is therefore

announced as effective at once.

Pho * o graphi c ? ape

r

: The Division of Simplified Practice, having received a sufficient number

of signed acceptances from the industry, announces that Simplified Practice Recommendation

No, 98 - Fhotographic Paper is now in effect. As soon as printed copies of the simplification are available, they may be purchased from the Superintendent of Documents, Government

Printing Offic, Washington, D. C t) at a cost of five cents each.

Gove rnmental Aids : American business turns to the Government for help in certain matters of

fundamental importance relating to stability and improvement in business, stated Dr. George

K. Burgess, Director of the Bureau of Standards, in an address delivered last month before

the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Burgess outlined some of the activities which the Federal

Government has undertaken to aid the business of the Country and discussed the study of distribution which the Bureau of Foreign and Domestic Commerce of the Department of Commerce,

is making; and pointed out that the promotion of simplified practice and the adoption of

commercial standards, (the two latter representing activities fostered by the Bureau of

Standards) are reacting to the advantage of commerce and industry. Dr. Burgess indicated

in his address that these activities are directed to the general welfare of the nation and

that the farmer, industrialist and tradesmen are aided alike.

E arphone Batterie s ; At the suggestion of the National Carbon Company, an inquiry has been

addressed to manufacturers of earphones, asking for an expression of opinion in regard to the simplification of batteries used in connection with their instruments. It is expected

that a preliminary meeting of manufacturers of batteries and of earphones will be held in

the near future to discuss simplification in this field.

T extile Machinery P ar ts : The Universal Winding Machine Company, manufacturers of textile

machinery, has suggested the need in the industry for simplification of such parts as wooden

filling bobbins, quills and taper paper cap cones and spindles. As a result of our inquiry

among manufacturers of these components, regarding Mr. Parks' suggestion, it has been determined that others are in accord, and that simplification should result in benefits to all

concerned. It is planned to hold a meeting ir, the near future as the first step in the

solution of some of the problems ir. this field.

Shipping Tags : The Simplified Practice Committee for this program has been actively engaged

in completing the tentative program since the last meeting of manufacturers. Differences

regarding the textative schedule adopted at that meeting have been adjusted and the progras

is new before manufacturers for final approval. In case no further changes are necessary,

a general conference of all interests will be held the latter part of April to develop the

final recommendation.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—-6.

Hypodermic Ne edl es : The Simplified Practice Committee for this project has been re- ceiving comments and suggestions on the tentative schedule which was

- drafted at a meeting of

manufacturers some time ago. It is expected that a final meeting of the committee will be

held in the near future at which time the textative schedule will be completed.

S implification and Purchasing: The important position of the purchasing agent in industry

today is outlined in this brief discussion, which will be mailed gratis by the Division of

Simplified Practice upon request. Simpl if ication and purchasing are related. Two must be

understood, and when they are effectively coordinated, it is hard to foretell or realize the

beneficial effect they will have in the elimination of waste. Purchasing agents can cause

the program to be more successful if they will make a definite effort to confine their purchases to the simplified practice recommendations whenever there is a choice offered. Mr,

Roger Babsou has said that "the get-to-gether spirit of the Purchasing Agent Associations is

already bearing fruit and purchasing is regarded today as one of the direct functions of

management .

Pape r : Simplified Practice Recommendation No. 22 - Paper - has been reaffirmed by the Standing Committee, without change, for another twelve months. A survey conducted by the Committee, prior to reviewing the program, indicated that the degree of adherance to the simpl if ication was 65 per cent.

Edini and Varn ish B ru sh es : According to the report just rendered the Division of Simplified

Practice by the standing Committee of Simplified Practice Recommendation No. 43, Paint and

Varnish Brushes, this program has a degree of adherence of approximately 80 per cent. The

committee reaffirmed the existing schedule of the program, without change, for another year

Slip ml i Tied Invoice League- One large company reports the following:

"The simplified invoice was adopted to the necessity of issuing invoices on special

forms furnished by the purchaser.

"As our order entry and billing is a ’pre-billing’ system, it was to our advantage to adopt this form as it eliminated, in about 75 per cent of the cases, the necessity of issuing

invoices on special forms furnished by customers. This change in addition to decreasing the

amount of typing, also makes it possible for us to mail invoices more promptly than before

adoption of the form.

Considerable changes in our order forms were necessary, due to issuing orders on a duplicating machine, but the time spent in making the changes has been more than offset in

the time gained due to the elimination of special invoices,

If all purchasers would adopt this form it would save considerable time on the part of

vendors, and also assist in expediting the mailing of invoices. We believe it is only a matter of time before all vendors will be issuing invoices on the standard (simplified) form.

This should automatically eliminate the special invoice evil."

We shall be glad to furnish further information regarding this form. The National Association of Purchasing Agents, 11 Park Place, Yor, , New York, will also be glad to discuss

this important subject with you.

The Division of Simplified Practice invited all firms and associations to review their

incoming invoices over a period of ten (10) to fifteen (15) days and then .inform the Division

as to the number which conform in all respects to the simplified invoice form. Invoices

which only partly conform to this standard should not be counted.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—7.

Our intention is to publish these reports in succeeding issues of the Commercial Standards Monthly. Our purpose is to promote the general adoption of this form wherever possible

and practicable, in the economic movement for elimination of waste.

The New England Purchasing Agent's Association still leads in number of reports furnnishes. {See Appendix for Table.)

Accountants Hear Hoy; They A re A Factor In Simpli fication : Over one hundred members cf the

Pace Alumni Association listened to a talk on "Simplification and the Accountants" on March

16, 1929, in Mew York, New York, by Mr. George A. Cooper of the Division of Simplified Practice. It was brought out in the discussion that accountants due to their strategic position

in Industry, can render judgments and advice clients as to how simplified practice can be

intelligently applied to their business with redounding benefits and advantages.

Manufac turers ' Rese ar ch, Ass oc ia tion Continues Si tnpl if ica 8 ion Activities : Members of this

Association set in Boston on March 21, 1929 and discussed "The Modern Trend of Simplification."

Many of the member companies have already reported savings due to the application of simplified practice within their organizations and strongly recommended that all industries should

investigate the inherent advantages accruing through its proper use. Quite a few stated they were already investigating the simplified practice recommendations already established, and

would adhere to the sizes, dimensions, etc., in their purchases insofar as it is possible

and practical. It was also brought out that manufacturers could render a valuable service

by advertising and identifying their simplified lines as such in catalogs, trade literature

and other obvious outlets. George A. Cooper, of the Division of Simplified Practice, Department of Commerce, was the speaker at this meeting.

Boston and Maine Railroad Employees Dls ucss S implification : Over 200 employees of the road,

together with employees of the New York, Hew Haven and Hartford Railroad, the Boston and

Albany Railroad and others met the night of March 22, 1929, and discussed "Simplification

and the Railroad." The general discussion was divided into 6 parts.

1. Early recognition by the railroads of the value of simplification in t.he 19th century.

2. Present recognition by the railroads of simplification in the 20th century.

3. Accomplishments of foreign roads through simplification.

4. Present extent of simplification work throughout the United States.

5. The Boston and Maine Railroads opportunity to derive the maximum benefits

from simplification.

6. The railroads position today as a consumer of materials to cause the simplification program to be more successful by concentrating their purchases on the simplified lines, whenever possible and practicable.

The discussion was illustrated by a number of lantern slides depicting the work of the

Division of Simplified Practice, and was led by George A, Cooper, of the Division.

3 • RA?iD TURNOVER

"We discarded thirty shades and secured ten paint turnovers a year," writes C. C. Sapp,

Manager, Paint Department, Brown-Rogers-Dixson Company of Winston-Salem, N. C. in The Hardware
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—8.

Age. In his article, Mr. Sapp said that thirteen years ago the company was seriously con-1

' sidering discontinuing the paint department, since it was not paying for itself, and the

salaries of the personnel in the paint department were paid from the profits of other departments .

"Before taking any definite steps toward abandoning the department, a survey was made to determine why this line - usually very profitable for the hardware dealer was making such a poor showing in this store," stated Mr. Sapp in his article, adding that "of the forty-eight

shades handled, excluding black and white, it was found that the majority of sales were made

from about one-third of the stock. The remaining shades were known as "show movers," some remaining on the shelves for an indefinite period of time. There is no thought now of discontinuing the paint department. In thirteen years, by eliminating slow moving stock, displaying paint to the best advantage and intelligently merchandising it, we have made this

department one of the most profitable departments in the store, realizing from eight to ten

turnovers a year."

4. SIMPLI FI CATION ACHI EVES ECONOMY

In giving seven reasons why industry favors centralized purchasing, Mr. Walter N. Kirkman Purchasing Agent for the State of Maryland, lists the first as:

"Permits commodity standards to be established by all using agencies, thus reducing the

number and variety of articles purchased."

Although the term simplification is not used in the wording, the principle is certainly

implied. Centralized purchasing expedites simplification by revealing needless duplication

and opportunities to reduce inventory by eliminating superfluous varieties.

Mr. Kirkman says centralized purchasing permits the development of commodity standards.

We go a little further and say that centralized purchasing emphasizes the need of simplifying

varieties as a means of arriving at commodity standards.

5. WHAT IS RATIONALIZATION ?

Under the heading of "What Is Rationalization," NET RESULTS, published by H . A. Hopf

and Company, Management Engineers, 40 Rector Street, New York City, says "What we think, of as scientific management is known in Europe as 'rationalization.' At the World. Economic

Conference held in Geneva, in May, of 1927, this definition was given of rationalization.

'The methods of technique and of organization designed to secure the minimum waste of either

effort or material. It includes the scientific organization of labor, standardization both

of material and products, simplification of processes, and improvements in the systems of

transport and marketing."

6. M ANUFACTURERS^ INTEREST IN SIMPLIFIED PRACTICE .

In our bulletin of September, 1928, we reported that "46% of 212 producer-accepters

behind Simplified Practice Recommendations Nos. 6, 8, 18, 29, 33, 35, 42, 46, 49, and 57 are capitalized at $500,000 and over; 26% between $100,000 and $500,000; and 14% below $100,000."

Analysis of their published credit ratings shows 41% rates at $500,000 and over; 32% between

$75,000 and $500,000; 12% between $3,000 and $75,000 and 15% "not reported."

A review of the 173 producer-accepters behind Simplified Practice Recommendations Nos.

1, 3, 9. 10, 11. I37~43. 48. 51 and 52 shows 35% capitalized at $500,000 and over; 31% between $100,000 and $300,000; 14% between $5,000 and $50,000; and 20% "not reported." A.nalysis
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—9.

of their published credit ratings shows 30% ra+ed at $500,000 and over; 38% between $75,000;

and 500,000; 15% between $5,000 and $75,000; and 17% "not reported."

The second ten recommendations reviewed are:

S . P . R . No Commod ity

Reduction

Fro m To

Per Cent

Re duction

Per Cent of

Adheren ce

1 Vitrified Paving Brick 5 92 79.8

3 Metal Lath 29 75 99.0

9 Woven-Wire Fencing 69 87 99.0

Woven Wi re Fence Packages .. . 2072 138 93

10 Milk Bottles and Caps.

Bottles 4 92 * Caps 10 1 90

11 Bed Blankets (sizes).. .. 78 12 85 90.5

13 Structural Slate for Plumbing and Sanitary

Purposes 827 138 83 85.0

43 Paint and Varnish Brushes 480 143 70 80.5

48 Shovels, Spades and Scoops 5135 2178 57 95.6

51 Die Head Chasers (for self-opening and

adjustable die heads) (Original total

not known) 75 80.7

52 Staple Vitreous China Plumbing Fixtures 441 58 87 * 88 . 8%

* No adherence figures available for this project.

Since the Division of Simplified Practice does not endorse and publish any recommendation until it has been accepted by 80% of the industry according to volume of output, the

figures above cited indicate that the smaller as well as the larger companies are cooperating

in simplification.

The relative high adherence, viz., 90.3% for the first ten, and 88.8% for eight of the

second ten indicates that manufacturers, large and small, are finding simplification beneficial. The adherence figures are based on actual production records submitted by the manu- facturers to the Division of Simplified Practice, which is the only organization engaged in

this field that makes a statistical review of the extent of adherence accorded its projects.

7. CAST I RON PIPE REPORT.

The American Standards Association, 29 West 39th Street, New York, New York, has re- leased a progress report dated December 20, 1928, on the work of the Sectional Committee on Specifications for Cast Iron Pipe and Special Castings. This is project A-21, functioning

under the American Standards Association. In the wo rk. of preparing new Standards for cast

iron pipe and special castings, the Sectional Committee lays down the scope and program for the

work, dividing it among the Technical Sub-Ccmmittees , who in turn prepare their part of

the Specifications and submit them back to the Sectional Committee for a review, criticism,

changes and adoption. There are three Technical Committees; No. 1, on Dimensions; No. 2 on metallurgy; Processes and Tests; and No. 3, on Corrosion and Protective Coatings.

8. PROFITAFI.E MANAGEMENT .

In a recent address delivered before the fifteenth national convention of the Society of

Industrial Engineers, Mr. H. S. Person Managing Director of the Taylor Society, discussed

"Conditions of Profit-making Management," in the following trend.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—10,

"And today the practical conception of profits is being extended to include an even greater range of factors. The first simple concept looked at money income and money outgo • the second concept looked at money income, money outgo and preservation of the integrity of

the capital investment; the third concept which is developing looks at all of these, but also

at the preservation of the status and good will of the enterprise as a going concern - at obsolescence, conceived not only in physical but also in social and ethical terms. That

enterprise which has invested five, ten, twenty-five or fifty millions of capital in highly

specialized forms of plant and equipment which must be amortized over a period of fifty years

or more, and which instantly lose their value - because highly specialized - if the product

becomes obsolescent in actual use value or in consumer esteem, can not ocnsider its management as profit making management, on the basis of this year's and next year ’s, surplus of

money income over money outgo, but can consider its management as profit making only if it so manages as to establish the highest degree of probability of a similar surplus in 1935,

1940 and 1950 and many years later.

"Conditions of profit-making management today and tomorrow involve study of industrial

tendencies, including social customs, technology and consumer demand; of relations of industry to the state; of relations between capital and enterprise, and between employers and

employees; and all of the detail processes of meeting the requirements of future demand and

future technology. These are the conditions of profit making maagement in the huge enterprises and consolidations of enterprises in the twentieth century, and competing smaller

enterprises must fall into line."

9 . C OOPERATION WITH S^. TV

The Committee C-8 on Refractories of the American Society for Testing Materials, 1315

Spruce Street, Philadelphia, has voted to append Simplified Practice Recommendation No. 79,

Malleable Foundry Refractories, to its specifications for "Clay Fire Brick for Maleable Fur- naces With Removable Eungs and For Annealing Ovens" (C 63-2S) as information, according to information received by the Division of Simplified Practice. In transmitting this information to the Division, the A. S. T. M., stated that they were "pleased that this particular

recommended practice (S. P. R. #79) which relates so directly to one of our specifications,

will hereafter appear as information in connection with it, as we think, this will be of

value to the users of the specifications."

10- AEE NARROW PROFIT MARGINS PERMANENT?

That narrow profit margins are becoming an accepted feature of business practice is the

verdict of practical business men and expert investigators who have made a most careful study

of trade and industry during the post-war years.

Furthermore, the main conclusion reached is that narrow profit margins are not a passing

phase of our economic life. They are here to stay because they are a part of the modern trend

toward large-scale business units, mass production and new buying habits of the public.

This does not necessarily mean a lower return on invested capital. Experience has shown

that very low profits on sales often bring about a greater volume of business accompanied by

a much higher turnover of capital. In this news scheme of things profits are made by volum

rather than by individual sales.

Some producers and traders will fall by the wayside. The old cut-throat competition,

which resulted in the restraint of trade, is going. In its place has come a much keener and

cleaner form of compre'tition.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 42—11.

The acid test for survival, under this new competition, will be the alertness and

efficiency of industrial and mercantile management.

The wise merchant or manufacturer will of course do what he has always done whenever

changing conditions brought about a new and permanent situation. He will learn all there is

to be known about this new problem, and then adjust his particular business to the new

business t rend .

It does not profit a man to ignore the stern laws of economic necessity, concludes the

above message in "Trade Winds," of March, the monthly publication of the Union Trust Company

of Cleveland.

1 1 . personnel FOR COMM ITTEES .

The American Standards Association has just announced the personnel of sectional com- mittees on Standardization of Electric Motor Frame Dimensions; on Standardization of Speeds

of Driven Machines; and on the Standardization of Plumbing Equipment.

The Scope of the committee on Standardization of Electric Motor Frame Dimensions is as follows: A series of standard dimensions for the distance from the base to center of shaft

(shaft height); a series of standard distances between bolt holes, at right angles to the

shaft; a series of standard distances between bolt holes parallel to shaft; certaindef ini ta combinations of a shaft height with any or both of the distances between bolt holes parallel

and perpendicular to the shaft for sliding ba.se or rails; horizontal distances from end of

shaft to the bolt holes; bolt hole sizes for various sizes of motors; a series of standard

distances between bolt holes parallel and perpendicular to the shaft forsliding base or rails;

dimensions of the foundation bolt holes of the sliding base or rails; maximum diameter and

length of the motor; shaft sizes and keyways . The National Electrical Manufacturers Association and The American Society of Mechanical Engineers, are the sponsors for this project

Mr. Walter F. Dixon, Works Manager for the Singer Manufacturing Co., Elizabeth, N. J,, is

the chairman of the Committee and Mr. L, F. Adams, Commercial Engineer, General Electric

Company, Schenectady, New York, is the secretary.

The scope for the Standardization of Sp#eds of Driven Machines is the standardization

of such elements of mechanical power transmission as are functions of the speeds of driving

and driven machinery. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers is the sponsor for this

project. Mr. Allen E. Hall, Manager, Milling Machinery Department, A.llis-Chalme rs Manufacturing Company, Milwaukee, is the temporary Chaiman of the Committee, and Mr. W, S. Hays,

Executive Secretary, Power Transmission Association, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is the

temporary secretary.

Scope of the project for standardization of Plumbing Equipment is the standardization

of plumbing equipment, including materials, uniformity of roughing in dimensions .efficiency

of operation and other performance specifications. The American Society of Sanitary Engineering and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, are the sponsors for the project.

Mr. William C. Groeniger, Consulting Sanitary Engineer of Columbus. Ohio, is the chairman.

In pursuance with the suggestion of the American Standards Association, the standing committees concerned with revisions of simplified practice recommendations and commercial standards projects on plumbing equipment, will serve as subcommittees of this sectional committee,
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—12.

MARINE STANDARDS

A. V. Bouillon.

All inquiries for information pertaining to the work of the American Marine Standards

Committee, should be addressed to the Secretary, Mr. A. V. Bouillon, United States Department

of Commerce, Washington, D. C.

12. COMMITTEE NEWS.

The Executive Board of the American Marine Standards Committee, met on March 21 and

approved the following standards for promulgation:

Rules for des ign and cons t ru e

ion of marine boilers and non- fi red pressure vessels.

The design of boilers and non-fired pressure vessels for American marine installations has heretofore been complicated by having to comply in a single design with

several rules and regulations requiring different thicknesses of material or features

of construction for any given pressure. The prime purpose is to establish single

standard rules for American marine practice. The rules embody what the committee

that was charged with their development deemed to be the best of prevailing marine

practice in America and abroad.

Specif icatio n for Marine boile r st_eel p late s

This specification was developed in cooperation with the American Society for Test-

_ng Materials. Appointed a standing committee on Interpretation of Marine Standards

composed of members of the present Executive Board as follows:

Captain Charles A. McAllister, Chairman; Chaptain R. D. Gatewood (CC), U.S.N., Vice

Chairman; Mr. Theodore E. Ferris; Mr. Henry C. Hunter; Mr. S. D. McCorab; Mr. H. B. Walker; Captain John F. Milliken. This committee is to decide cases of diarrangement that may arise among users of the standards as to their meaning.

Proposed standard specifications for wire rope for marine uses were submitted to the

Technical Committees on "Hull Details," Engineering Details," and "Ship Operation Details

and Supplies." They are approved by these committees subject to minor modifications and a revised draft is to be submitted to the membership and others interested in the near future.

Frogress has been made towards organization of a technical committee on Port Facilities.

The following publications have been ordered printed:

AMSC-50-Fittings for Tubular Steel Cargo booms; AMSC-52-Medical Equipment for Ocean

Going Vessels; AMSC-53-Medical Equipment for Coastwise Freighters; AMSC-54-Medical Equipment

for Small Vessels; AMSC-55-Speci f ication for Ship Propellers; AMSC-56-Ship Scupper and Drains;

AMSC-57-Chinaware for Ship Equipment - Maximum list of kinds and sizes; AMSC-58-Li feboat

Disengaging Apparatus - Ceneral specification; AMSC-59-Rat Proofing of Ships - General In- structions ,
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—13.

COMMERCIAL STANDAR DS

I. J. Fairchild.

Address all inquiries on the subject of Commercial Standards to Mr. I. J. Fairchild,

Commercial Standards Unit, Bureau of Standards, Washington, D. C.

13. COMMERCIAL STANDARDS UNIT.

COMMERCIAL S TANDARDS DISTINGUISHED from SPECIFICATIONS .

"Purchase specifications," as the term is generally used, applies to detailed descriptions and tests of commodities purchased in quantities under conditions justifying com- plete inspection and tests. Such specifications are employed regularly by large organizations, such as railroads, public utilities, great industrial corporations and the like. The

small industrial or individual consumer is barred from using specifications by economical

considerations such as, insufficient quantities to justify expense of laboratory tests, delays due to tests and lack of specific data on relative merit of conflicting specifications.

The establishment of a given specification as a commercial standard removes the above

drawbacks by (a) indicating the specification favored above all others by the entire industry,

(b) indicating grades and varieties always immediately available, (c) announcing willingness

of producers to certify conformity thereto, and (d) thereby removing immediate necessity for

tests

.

The chief distinction then, between the two, lies in the fact that commercial standards

are recognized as the daily or constant basis for marketing and purchase whereas specifications supply an occasional basis for purchase, seldom if ever, for marketing.

THE RI SINC TIDE OF ESTH ETICISM.

In an article under this title in the January issue of the Magazine of Business, Adolph

Zukor says "At least a score of trends are plainly visible from our corporation's administrative offices: These trends show what conditions will be even 20 years from now." Some

of the significant statements of Mr. Zukor are reproduced here as a matter of general interest to industries considering the establishment of Commercial Standards:

"The United States will increase as a national market. National wealth has

grown steadily and rapidly. It will continue to grow. Somebody will own the

additional wealth. Somebody will buy additional goods.

More people than now will possess any stated level of purchasing power.

Practically every citizen will buy more than he buys now. We will be a leisure people.

We will have more time to consume and pay more attention to consuning.

The accent will shift from production, Ihis country's forte in the past, to consumption. But production will be greater in volume than ever, more skillful and more economical.

We will have an esthetic market. People will buy physical possessions with

much better taste for form and color.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—14.

Color and form, harmony and fine design, will be indispensable aids to selling. The day of the artist in industry is at hand.

The market will be more sophisticated and more educated.

The same improvements, to a lesser extent, will characterize foreign markets.

Manufacturers and dealers must catch up with these trends and keep with them, or better, anticipate them by just enough to retain leadership.

Leisure does not mean less production. It means more. For the people who

are to enjoy luxuries will work more intensely to obtain the money to buy them.

These time-consuming commodities fill an economic gap. They keep the cycle of industry going, and speed it up. They help productive industry, by giving workers

something new to work for.

True. "My business is different." But our customers are alike. Your consumer

and mine is the same man. He will make similar demands of every dealer.

If a business gets in line with future trends, it is often carried forward

by the trend without much additional effort of individuals.

Certainly it requires much more strenuous personal effort by executives to get

back into the trend after falling out of it or falling behind. Nor does every one find out soon enough how to get back into step. Many heads fall by the wayside

during efforts to recover lost ground, especially if the loss could have been avoided by foresight."

B0YJ.S BLOUSE AND SHIRT MEASUREMENTS

The National Boy's Blouse and Shirt Manufacturer's Association, a Division of the International Garment Manufacturers Association, has submitted a Proposed Commercial Standard for

minimum key measurements of boy's blouses, waists, shirts and junior shirts, which has been

transmitted to manufacturers, distributor's and consumers for comment and criticism accompanied by an invitation to attend the general conference to be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday

April 17th in Room 704 Commerce Building, Washington, D. C. All who may be interested in

this subject are invited to attend this conference in order that the Commercial Standard as finally established may be acceptable to all those directly concerned, whether producers,

distributors or users. Copies of the Proposed Commercial Standard are available upon re- quest.

DI AMOND DRILL FI TTI NGS.

The Diamond Core Drill Manufacturers Association has prepared a proposed Commercial

Standard covering dimensions for diamond core drills, casings, core barrel bits, casing

couplings and rods. From present indications it is expected that the remaining details of

this recommendation will be completed promptly and a general conference of all interests

arranged in the near future. Organizations desiring to receive information on this project

may be assured of obtaining information at the earliest practical moment by notifying the

Commercial Standards Unit of their interest in the subject.

BUILDERS’ HARDWARE

Subcommittees on^Locks, Shelf and Miscellaneous Hardware and Butts have been actively at work considering suggestions and drafting proposed revisions to Builders' Hardware, Simplifi
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—15.

Practice Recommendation No. 18. These revisions have teen referred to interested manufacturers for comment and criticism and after approval by the Advisory Committee on Standardization of Builder's Hardware will be submitted to the Standing Committee with the suggestion that the next revision of the pamphlet be printed as a Commercial Standard since the

primary purpose of the work is standardization more than simplification.

WALL PAPER

A recent meeting of the Standardization Committee of the Wallpaper Manufacturers Association drew up tentative specifications, which were presented the following day to the

manufacturers. This meeting was attended by members and non-members of the Wallpaper Manufacturers Association, and represented all the wall paper manufacturers in the entire United

States except four. The opinion was overwhelmingly in favor of some definite basis enabling

the consumer to recognize quality and serviceable wall paper through the adoption of Commercial Standard grades indentified by a self-certifying label.

These proposed specifications will be mimeographed and sent to all wall paper manufacturers, wholesalers, decorators, consumer groups, and others generally interested,

together with an invitation to a general conference at Washington sometime in May to consider

their adoption as standards for every day trade in the industry.

FUEL OIL

The Recommended Commercial Standard for Domestic and Industrial Fuel Oils is being en- thusiastically received as indicated by the ever increasing list of acceptors who are anxious

to have some common basis on which they can understand and be understood by the turner manufacturer, oil refiner, fuel distributor and individual consumer. Gravity, meager and meaningless reference to color and other vague criteria of quality in fuel oils will be replaced

by six distinct grades any of which turner manufacturers can recommend with safety and oil

companies can refine with confidence because of the anticipated demand by the consumer.

The oil turner manufacturers and oil refiners have teen well circularized regarding this

important matter, but if there are any consumers of fuel oil interested in these specifications, a copy will be mailed, upon request to the Commercial Standards Unit, Eureauof Standards. Washington, D. C.

HICKORY C- OLD SHAFTS .

At a meeting on March 21st the joint committee of the Coif Shaft and Golf Club Manufacturers Associations decided upon definite specifications for hickory golf shafts. Several

details of the mechanical testing method were referred to the Eureau of Standards for final

approval .

A general conference will be held on May 3rd at White Sulphur Springs, W. Va., to consider the adoption of these standard grades. To this conference, will be invited manufacturers, of golf shafts, manufacturers of golf clubs, professional and amateur golfers, and

all others generally interested in the sporting goods industry.

GOVERNMENTAL DE PARTMENTS COOPERATE.

Admiral H. H. F.ousseau, U. S. N., Chief Coordinator, has issued a bulletin to all departments and establishments of the Federal Government, (Eulletin No. 109, Supplement Ko . 1 , March 5, 1929) entitled "Procurement: Coswercial Standards and their application to Government Purchases." In this bulletin, Adsiiral Rousseau said "the Federal Specifications Board
Commercial Standards Monthly - Nc. 49—IS.

gives full consideration to existing Commercial Standards in the writing of new or revised

U. S. Government Master Specifications and adopts their provisions whenever practicable.

This procedure obviates the necessity of considering Commercial Standards when departments

and establishments order materials in accordance with Master Specifications. However when

material is procured for which there is no Master specification, consideration of the appropriate Commercial Standard should be given by those concerned in order that the benefits of

this movement may be obtained by the Government.

"The several departments and establishments of the Government participate in the adoption of Commercial Standards either through their own representatives or those of the Federal

Specifications Board. In order that the Government may lend its full support to this valuable movement, and, at the same time, enjoy its benefits, it is recommended that heads of

departments and establishments issue appropriate instructions to insure acceptance of Commercial Standards whenever feasible and to require the purchase of materials and supplies,

not covered by Government Master Specifications, in conformity with the Commercial Standards,

except when such action would be prejudicial to the Government's interests."

SPECIFICATIONS

A. S. McAllister.

Address all inquiries on matters pertaining to Specifications and the Certi f iaation and

Labeling Plans, to Dr. A. S. McAllister, Division of Specifications, Bureau of Standards,

Washington, D. C.

14. / PPLICATION OF CERTIFICATION PLAN.

A recent analysis of the lists of willing-to-certify manufacturers of commodities covered

by the 103 United States Government Master Specifications to which the certification plan has

recently been applied, shows that 4,426 separate requests for listing have been received from

these manufacturers, an average of 42 willing-to-certify manufacturers per specification, as compared with 23 per specification for the earlier 146 lists of manufacturers.

It has been found that every one of the lists of wi lling-to-certi fy manufacturers which

exceeds 100 (running to as high as 182) is that of paint manufacturers. The average number

of manufacturers on the 30 paint lists is 100; that on the 15 lists for mixed paints is 148

manufacturers. Arrangements are being made for applying the certification plan to Commercial

Standards for clinical thermometers, surgical gauze, stoddard solvent, porcelain plumbing

fixtures, steel pipe nipples, and brass pipe nippies.

15. SAVINGS FROM ST ANDARDIZATION .

"The standard specifications put into practice through the American Institute of Steel

Construction have saved builders in the United States approximately 113,000,000 a year,

estimated on the average yearly contracts," stated Mr. Charles F. Abbott, executive director

of the American Institute of Steel Construction, when addressing the Institute meeting in

Fort Worth, Texas, last February. Mr. Abbott continued, "When we standardize selling practices, which we are now endeavoring to do through the adoption and application of a definite

code, 1 venture to say we will be able to save as much again by changes in the methods of

distribution .
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—17.

16. value OF SPECIFICATIONS.

he economic value of the standardization of materials by the use of standard specifications embodying standard methods of tests when tests are required, and standard packages,

is in itself quite obvious, writes Mr. G. M. Richardson, Purchasing Agent of the Southern

California Edison Company in the March issue of "Public Utility Purchasing."

According to Mr. Richardson, not only does it broaden the sources of supply but it permits the manufacturer to reduce the cost of production of sales and of distribution, and to pass along part of the saving to the user of the material. The specific advantages to be

secured by the consumer include: (1) He can secure truly competitive bids on the same quality of materials; (2) The details of purchasing are simplified and standardized, a matter

of especial importance in large organizations, such as the modern municipality; (3) Standard

methods of test and inspection are of particular value in establishing a routine procedure

for acceptance of material; (4) The greater uniformity and reliability of material purchased

under standard specifications, and the fact that its properties are more thoroughly understood, make possible its more economic use.

IV . CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS

.

The "American Contractor," of recent date editorially discusses a standard outline for

specifications in the following words: "The need of standardizing and clarifying both nomenclature and practice in specifying the various subdivisions of work under proper headings

which will be uniform throughout the country, has long been recognized by the leading elements in the construction industry, A start was made last year by the Associated Building

Employers of Michigan, in conjunction with the Michigan Society of Architects, in issuing a Standard Specification Outline which places under the proper headings all the subdivisions

entering into building construction.

"The need for such standards will hardly be questioned by anyone that is well acquainted

with modei'n building practice. More than one contractor and sub-contractor has found himself

in difficulties because the practice of architects varied in this respect. Not only architects in the different communities, but architects in the same community will have different

ideas as to whether finish flooring is included in carpentry, or under a heading by itself;

whether stairs are included in millwork or under carpentry; whether hardware on millwork

items is included under millwork or whether this hardware should be under a separate heading.

These and many similar items have contributed no little amount to the difficulties of the

building contractor.

"Why not a national outline for standard headings and standard practice in specifications?"

18- WILLING-TO-CERTIFY LISTS (Typ ical. Examples).

Specification

Number Commodities Cov ered

la Cement, Portland S7

4b Oil, linseed, raw 29

5 Lead, white, basic, carbonate, dry and paste 45

6 Lead, white, basic, sulphate, dry and paste 3S

7b Turpentine (gum spirits of turpentine and steam distilled

wood turpentine.)

Oxide, zinc, dry and paste

Willing-to-csrtl

f

v Manufacturers .

8
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—18.

Specification

Nuakei £e$M.diii§s Covered

Wi 11 ing-to - certify manufac tu re rs .

9

10b

Oxide, leaded zinc, dry and paste

Paint, white, and tinted paints made on a white base, semi48

111213b

14b

15

16

17

paste and ready mixed

Lead, red, dry and paste

Ocher, dry and paste

Paints, iron oxide and iron hydroxide

Paint, black, semi-paste and ready mixed

Paint, gree, semi-paste and ready mixed

Spirits, volatile mineral, for thinning paints.

Vehicle, composite, for thinning semi-paste paints when the

180

59

111

143

17

168

41

18b

19

20a

2 lb- 22

53

66

67

use of straight linseed oil is not justified

Varnish, spar, water resisting

Varnish, asphalt

Drier, paint, liquid

Paint, lithopone, flat interior white and light tints

Varnish, interior

Duck, cotton, numbered

Enamel, red, water-resisting

Paint, lithopone, gloss interior white and light tints

105

138

124

122

182

141

19

140

175

Readers interested in the complete list, as per above may secure the same upon request,

for which there will be no charge,

19. AEPEART OF CQMPE1I1IQN

According to the Wisconsin Retail Bulletin, every day new goods are brought to the

attention of customers through the radio, newspapers, magazines or even by word-of mouth advertising. Manufacturers and their trade associations tell us that a 'steady stream of inquiries' come to them from the public, asking, 'Where can I get these things?' Here is a clear case of the customer seeking the merchant, rather than the usual procedure of the mer- chant seeking the customer. The alert retailer constantly watches the markets for new things

that will meet the approval of his trade. In doing so he is rendering the customer a service, keeping abreast of competition, and increasing his own volume and profits."

The Division of Simplified Practice points out, in connection with the above expression,

that merchants who advertise that they carry simplified lines are in position to cash in on the nation wide interest in simplified practice, partly created by various articles appearing

in the leading publications.

20. CASH BASIS ADOPTED BY MERCHANTS.

The experiment of merchants in a Nebraska town of 1.500 inhabitants in effecting a transsition from credit to cash sales is described in "The National Retail Clothier," for December

20, 1928. Thirty business concerns including stores, a newspaper office, and seve ral professional men signed an agreement to go on an absolutely cash basis on and after a certain date,

announced over a month in advance. The delivery system, in effect previously was continued

with the understanding that all orders sent would be paid for in cash in advance, and all

orders mailed sent C.O.D. The Plan was not 100 per cent in Scope; Beauty shops, plumbing

companies, and p-rcrduce stations not all entering into the voluntary agreement. It is

DISTRIBUTION
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—19.

reported that no signer has withdrawn from the agreement. Although business was rather dull

the first month, the general business volume is reported to be about the same as under the

old system, with the added advantage of cash for stock replacement and elimination of bad

feeling from overdue accounts.

21. MASS MOVEMENT BY TRAILERS .

A present-day trend in motor truck transportation is reported to be the growing practice

of attaching a string of trailers to a truck, described in DISTRIBUTION ECONOMY for January.

One manufacturer of radio equipment is said to have shipped by trucks and trailers, in a single day shortly before the Christmas holidays, approximately $500,000 worth of his products. Interplant hauling by means of truck tractors and semi-trailers is estimated to have

saved one unit alone of a large automobile concern $12,760,000 in a single year, as compared

with previous hauling costs.

22. CLEVELAND INDUSTRIAL CENSUS .

Preliminary analysis of findings in the Cleveland census of industrial purchases, indicates that industrial purchases in 1927 for the manufacture of food preparations and kindred products totaled $71,816,566. This total represents approximately 90 per cent of industrial purchases for this group of industries, although only plants manufacturing products

with a value of $100,000 or more were included in the survey.

Raw materials represented 68.27 per cent of all industrial purchases; semi-finished

products 24.54 per cent; mill supply, fuel, packing materials, etc., 5.34 per cent; and equipment, maintenance, etc., 1.85 per cent. A break-down of the raw materials total shows it made

up as follows: Livestock, 74.02 per cent; coffee, 8.67 per cent; grain, 5.75 per cent; milk, cream and butterfat, 5.02 per cent; nuts 3.11 per cent; fruits, fresh, 1.69 per cent; eggs

1.41 per cent; and miscellaneous raw materials, 0.33 per cent.

Semi-finished products purchased were made up of meats fresh and cured, 21.43 per cent; flour, 17.44 per cent; sugar, glucose, and sirups, 10.25 per cent; dairy products, 7.71 per

cent; fruits, canned, dried, and preserved, 5.98 per cent; lard and shortening, 4.72 per

cent; "poultry and stock feed materials, 4.53 per cent; nuts, shelled, 3.86 per cent; chocolate and cocoa products 2.93 per cent; sausage casings 2.44 per cent; salad and other

edible oils, 1.65 per cent; spices, 1.4 per cent; yeast, 1 per cent; flavoring extracts,

0.58 per cent; chemicals and chemical products ,0.39 per cent; and miscellaneous food prod

ducts, 13.69 per cent. The last item includes considerable amounts of some of the commodities shown separately, as it was necessary to put under that heading items grouped in the

accounts of some reporting firms, on which separate figures were not available.

Purchases of mill supplies, fuel, packing materials, etc., have been broken down into

packing and shipping, 56.72 per cent; fuel and power, 24.34 per cent; gasoline and oil, 2.58

per cent; and miscellaneous mill supplies 16.36 per cent. Repairs and additions to buildings,

and repairs to equipment, represented 40.17 per cent of expenditures for equipment, maintenance, etc., factory equipment (unclassified) 25.72 per cent; office stationery, supplies,

furniture, and equipment 13.4 per cent; machinery (new), 10.74 per cent; automobiles, trucks,

repairs, and maintenance 8.22 per cent; and miscellaneous and unclassified expenses 3.75

per cent.

23. TIME CREDI T ACCOUNTS OUT STANDING .

The National Retail Credit Survey which the Department of Commerce is conducting is ex- pected to bring out, among other items information of value to retail merchants, the length of
Commercial Standards Monthly - Wo, 49—-20

time credit accounts are outstanding . Questionnaires ask for balances due when books are closed

for the month and collections for eaoh month for both open and installment credit accounts . By

checking the collections of the month against the balance oustanding at the end of the previous month it is expected to secure a collection percentage which will indicate the time

credit accounts are outstanding. This factor is important because interest upon capital re- quired to finance accounts constitutes such a large part of the cost of credit extension.

The lower the collection percentage, of course, the more money is required to finance the

business and the higher the costs, all other things being equal, the less the profits.

24 RETURN OF GOODS C OSTLY

"For a number of years there has been much talk about waste in retail distribution,"

said Mr. Daniel Bloomfield, Manager of the Retail Trade Board of Boston, Massachusetts, in a recent address delivered before the convention of the National Reta.il Dry Goods Association

in New York City, adding that "The growth of a scientific approach to the great profession

of retailing has helped focus attention on some outstanding problems, and definite, substantial economies have resulted.

"But one of the problems on which too little success has been achieved is that of mer- chandise return's by customers. Many stores a.nd merchants' groups have made intensive studies

of this subject. Such studies have pointed to faults, both on the part of stores and of

customers

"Perhaps failure has been due to more fundamental reasons, namely that merchants are

not a.ware of the tremendous economic wastes accompanying the returns of merchandise by

customers; that merchants are indifferent to the results of this practice; that some even believe it to be sound merchandising to encourage a very liberal policy on returns One answer to the problem is the development of consumer support in abolishing abuses of the

return privileges."

25 . CHANGES IN DISTRIBUTION

"Where do you stand in the distribution picture?" asks the Union Trust Company of

Cleveland in their publication "TRADE WINDS," and then answers their question with the following statement. "Sweeping changes are occuring in methods of distribution. The chain

stores are forging rapidly ahead, entering new territories, increasing volume of sales,

offering the public attractive prices yet maintaining excellent profits.

"Some independents are dropping out of business. Others are joining buying associations

to enjoy a mass purchasing power comparably to that of the chain stores. Others are developing specialties and personalized service to offset the price attractions of the chain stores.

Manufacturers in many lines, following the lead of the chain stores, are going into a directto-consumer business through factory-owned retail outlets. Conversely, chain stores are in some cases going into the manufacturing of some of their lines.

"Many wholesalers are endeavoring to adapt themselves to this situation by curtailing

number of lines carried, reducing sales territory, shifting from staples to specialties, or other devices, each one trying to solve the problem in accordance with his own particular

position in his own field. Furthermore according to experts who are studying the distribution field, changes .in. distribution methods have only just begun, The United States Department of Commerce is making exhaustive studies along this line. They suggest that it may

be possible to govern distribution costs and methods with the same degree of accuracy

economy, and efficiency as now obtained in the case of factory production They feel that

there is a tremendous—economic waste in distribution as it is done today. a,nd that the near
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—21.

future may bring about a still greater revolution in distribution practices. Where does

your business stand in this picture."

RESEARCH

26. STRENGTH CF FP ICK S.

Results of experiments to determine the compressive strength, flat and on edge, and the

transverse strength of 27 makes of bricks, varying in manufacture and degree of burning, will

be set forth in a report soon to be announced by the Bureau of Standards. The attempt was made to correlate the variation of ratios of these different measures of strength with the

various structural features of the brick. The entire story will be told in the April, 1329,

Journal of Research, of the Bureau of Standards.

27. PHO TOGRAPHS OF WAVES.

Pictures of the actual traveling of sound pressure waves dispersing from an explosion

have been taken by the Bureau of Mines of the United States Department of Commerce, by a special photographic arrangement, as part of its program to study the effect which an ex- plosion has toward inducing the ignition of another explosive substance nearby. The purpose

of the work is to throw more light on the factors affecting sensitivity of explosives to detonation and to produce safer explosives for use in coal mines.

28. FUTURE OF RAI LROADS .

Although in recent years the American railroads have attained the highest standard of

performance in their history, railroad men are the first to realize that these standards

must be continually improved upon in order to meet successfully the future transportation

requirements of the country, remarks "The Index," published by the New York Trust Company.

This not only involves improvements in railroad service itself, but the adaption of such

auxiliaries as the airplane and the motor bus. Under the supervision of the American Railway

Association and the individual railroads, research is being carried on to an intensive degree,

particularly in such matters as electrification, air and motor transport, and traveling

safety and comfort.

29. PER UNWIND RESE ARCH .

Dr. Charles M. A. Stine, Chemical Director, E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, writing in the February issue of Nation's Business, on the subject of research, says "the fallacy

in the public and business attitude towards research in this country today is found in tho

failure to recognize that these processes must be kept in balance. If they are not, tho

wnole effort is doomed to eventual failure. We are utilizing the basic raw material of re- search - the common fund of information about nature's laws-faster than we are adding to it.

The raw material to which I have reference is comparable to the national supply of Currency.

Under this analogy the practical application of scientific discoveries would compare with

credit

.

"Many great corporations already find the»selves unable to go ahead in some lines today

because of a lack of fundamental scientific information. They can see human needs and

therefore markets for the products they have in mind. But before they can begin to supply

those needs they must have more general and basic information."
CoBiffierciai Standards Monthly - No. 49—22.

30. INFORMATION ON MEDICINAL PREPARATI ONS

The Chemical Division of the Bureau of Foreign and Domestic Commerce is undertaking a compilation of information sources, relative to the production, distribution, and consumption

of medicinal and toilet preparations usually marketed through retail drug stores, and analogous establishments. The compilation, which will probably be available in about three months,

will .include production figures for 1925 and 1927, based on reports of the Bureau of the

Census, and a list of associations of manufacturers of these products, together with a bibliography of recent articles in trade journals pertaining to the subject. Tentative plans

include also a financial section in which security houses as sources of information on chain

drug stereo will be listed. The compilation is intended to furnish, in readily available

form, statistical information on toilet preparations, drugs, and patent medicines.

31. JO &tj ANXIOUS FATHER.

An anxious father writes that the coming 25 years will not afford his sons the opportunity for big things which be has had in the last 25 years. "Everything seems to have been

clone." he laments.

So it seems. Since father started out, we have built the Panama Canal laid the first

Pacific Cable, made the tungsten lamp available. Father saw the first trans—continental

telephone line in 1915, the first air mail in 1918. and trans-Atlantic radio telephony in

1927, He saw rural free delivery in 1903. parcel post in 1913, and commercial photographs

by wire in 1925.

Since father started out. telephone exchanges have added mechanical switchboards, and

powsr stations have mechanical attendants; elevators have become self-stopping and selfleveling; while street cars are fitted with automotive brakes and ball and roller bearings.

Railroads have been electrified for intercity transport, the Pullman berth has evolved into

a comfortable room with a full-sized bed, ships are driven by electricity.

The present generation has seen radio broadcasting become a national institution, and

commercial television rise above the horizon. It has forgotten the advent of the Photoplay - only 15 years ago - in its enjoyment of the photoplay's new dimension, the talking picture

It has seen skyscrapers grow two stories a year for each of its 25. and observes welding

beginning to compete with riveting. It reads in the morning paper of the discovery of a new alloy which will cut steel as a knife whittles wood, and at enormous speed, and on the same front pag9 it gets word of a discovery, "the greatest since steel." by which cardboard, wood

and silk can be given the strength of iron.

Our anxious correspondent may well inquire. Chemistry has added to his vocabulary such

words as celotex, celophane, celanese , rayon, velox, duco, and pyrex, while science was providing him with mechanical refrigeration, oil heat, and direct incineration of garbage.

"Everything seems to have been done."

So it seemed in 1833 to the head of the Patent Office, who wanted to resign because he

felt the limit of hurna*. invention had been reached and that there was no further need of his

services. By 1860 there were less than 43,000 patents recorded; by the end of the century.

640.000. Today - the applications for patents have risen to 90,000 a year.

When our sons look back in 1950, they will doubtless chuckle over our anxieties, as w

r e smile over the anxietry"of an earlier patent commissioner.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No, 49—23.

For he must be of little faith indeed, who can not feel the tremendous creative impulse

of the day, which, led by business, has as its goal the supply and distribution of more and more material comforts on which can be built a cultural and spiritual life such as the world

has never seen. (Reprinted by special permission from an article in "Nation's Business by

Merle Thorpe")

BUILDING AND HOUSING

James S. Taylor.

All inquiries on this subject should be addressed to Mr. James S. Taylor, Division of

Building and Housing, United States Department of Commerce, Washington, D. C.

32, PLUMBING RECUIREMENTS

.

Recommended requirements for plumbing in all types of buildings are presented in a report just issued by the Sub-Committee on Plumbing of the Department of Commerce Building

Code Committee. The report is comprehensive, treating such questions as the size of pipes

to be used, where venting should be installed, and the most efficient and sanitary types of

traps. Precautions necessary to protect drinking water from pollution, and many other matters that directly affect health are emphasized. Tests made by experts at the Bureau of

Standards and experience with actual plumbing installations form the basis for the committee's

conclusions .

The report is entitled "Reocmmended Minimum Requirements for Plumbing." It contains

nearly 300 pages of text and 1C7 illustrations, chiefly in connection with the report of

experiments at the Bureau of Standards . Copies may be obtained from the Supreinter.dent of

Documents, Washington, D. C., for 35 cents currency, or money order.

33. ZONING IDEA SPREADS.

The extent to which the municipal zoning idea has spread through the United States in

recent years is revealed in a survey just completed by the Division of Building and Housing

of the Department of Commerce. In 1916, the survey shows, zoning regulations were in force

in only eight cities. The number increased slowly until 1920, after which the progress was

rapid. At the end of 1928, 754 cities, towns and villages in all parts of the country,

having a total population in excess of 37 millions, had regulations designed to promote con- struction and use of buildings so as to conserve the interests of home owners and other

property holders, in conformance with the public welfare.

During 1928, 87 municipalities passed zoning ordinances, while 101 either adopted more comprehensive zoning ordinances or amended existing regulations to make them more effective.

An analysis of the 87 new zoning ordinances which were passed shows that 44 were comprehensive; that is, the use, height and area of buildings were regulated; 27 merely controlled

the use of buildings; seven regulated the use and area of buildings; and two were merely

temporary ordinances, pending the preparation of a zoning ordinance to suit local requirements

.

Zoning activity is evident in pradtically all states, the report shows. New York led

in the number of municipalities zoned during 1928, with 23 cities, towns and villages. Ohio

and Pennsylvania tied for second place with six each. Youngstown, Ohio, Waterbury, Connecticut; and Altoona, Pennsylvania were three of the largest cities which adopted zoning

legislation last year. South Dakota and Idaho were added to the states having zoned municipalities when four cities in the former and three in the latter adopted zoning ordinances during the year.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—24.

New York is the foremost State in the Union in the number of its municipalities having

zoning ordinances in effect, with a total of 131. New Jersey is second with 84; California,

third with 73; Illinois fourth with 71 and Massachusetts fifth with 62. Pennsylvania, Ohio,

Michigan, Wisconsin, and Kansas follow in the order named.

UXILIZAIIOM QI waste

34. LUMBERMEN TO MEET.

Subjects of vital interest to those engaged in the wood-utilization field will be discussed by the chairman of project sub-committees at the annual meeting of the National Committee on Wood Utilization of the Department of Commerce, to be held in the Commerce Building, April 29, 1929. Discussions will be presented on subjects pertaining to the seasoning

and manufacture o.f lumber; the utilization of wood waste and the degree of elimination of

waste made possible by the surveys now being carried on in several states; the standardization of wood products; wood preservation; and the results already achieved in the field

of wood utilization.

35. MAKING PR OFI TS.

Profitable merchandising of cut-to-length and fabricated lumber presents an opportunity

to every progressive retailer in industrial centers, says Mr. Reding Putman, of the Southern

Fine Association, in charge of industrial research. He cited as an example, a retail plant

that utilized its planning mill during slack periods and turned rejects into profitable

items. This plant uses short lengths and lumber that otherwise might be scrapped, with a resultant, profit to the yard and a saving t® the industrial user. The use of waste lumber

and items of degrade meets the current demand for the industrial items and the manufacturing

is carried on in periods during which the planing mill would normally be idle.

36. CHECKING RAILROAD W ASTE .

The story of how the Chicago Rock Island and Pacific Railroad keeps an eye on material

waste is told in The Railway Age, The railroad has made a special business of reclaiming

waste materials for nearly a quarter of a century. An unusual feature of the road's reclamation work, however, lies in the fact that consistently for 13 years, this work has not been

promoted, but at the same time has been controlled jointly by all departments concerned,

through committees of responsible officers who have made it their business to comb the property for waste at least six times a year and to settle controversial questions in the interest of all concerned.

37. NEW MEMBERS ELgCTED TO COMMITTEE.

Announcement was made late in February of the election of eight new members to the

National Committee on Wood Utilization of the Department of Commerce, which was organized in

1925 to bring about a more complete utilization of timber through the encouragement of

efficient wood-using practices. The new members will devote their attention to such phases

of the Committee's activities as the development of the wood by-products , paper and pulp,

plywood and wood package fields.

Cne of them, who will act as adviser on research projects applying to the wood utilization field, is research professor of engineering materials at an eastern university. Another

member, the president of a firm of engineers and contractors, is a nationally known authority

on construction engineering in the mining field, who has for many years taken a keen interest

in wood conservation_vw<erk . He has been dssignated to serve on the executive committee. A
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—25.

third member, the president of a railroad tie company, will devote his services on the Committee particularly to the development of the by-products field. A director of a state

association of retail lumber merchants is another newly elected member. He will be called

upon to aid in the Committee's project involving the retail distribution of treated lumber,

in which he has taken keen interest. The principal interest of another member who represents

the American Veneer Package Association, is in the elimination of waste. The two remaining

members represent, respectively, the Douglas Fir Plywood Institute and the Western Door

Manufacturers' Association. The former will be indentified with the Committee's veneer and

plywood group, and the latter with its millwork group.

38, WQfiD REPORT ISSUED

.

The survey of uionutilized wood stocks in Virginia, conducted by the National Committee

on Wood Utilization in cooperation with the State Government and the industry, has been com- pleted and publshed. The bulletin, entitled, "Survey of Nonutilized Wood in Virginia," is

available from the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, for 20 cents a copy. Tie bulletin points out the importance to the Committee's waste elimination and

commercial reforestation program of the conversion of nonutilized wood, of which 28,000 car- loads are annually available in Virginia, as raw material for wood-using industries. This

surplus material, which is exclusive of the waste occurring in the woods and of wood used

for fuel, is equivalent to the production in board feet of lumber from 93,000 acres of average stands of timber,

A series of tables gives names and locations by counties and towns of the plants in the

State reporting nonutilized wood, and lists the quantity of each species of wood available

at these plants, whose location is shown on a detailed map.

The report contains suggestions, not only for reducing to a minimum the waste in the

manufacturing of wood, but also for the use of the irreducible minimum of waste material.

The wider use of small dimension stock in the further manufacture of wood, the disposal of

..onutilized wood to other industries which can use it to advantage, and its utilization as raw material for pulp and wood chemical manufacture, are proposed solutions for the woodusing industries. Possibilities of sawdust utilization in the manufacture of such varied

products as dynamite, moulded articles, composition beads, and dolls are suggested.

The foreword expresses the hope tnat the treatise will aid in the establishment of woodby-products industries in Virginia, thereby laying the foundations for a sound nnd practical

policy of wood utilization in this country.

The Virginia Survey is the first of a series the National Wood Utilization Committee is

conducting. It is announced that a similar survey in North Carolina, will be completed in

a few weeks, Georgia, Maryland, New York, Tennessee and other States have requested the

Committee to make surveys for them, which will be done as soon as arrangements can be made.

39. PRESERVED W00n SUBCOMMITTEED FORMED.

The National Committee on Wood Utilization recently selected a subcommittee to develop sources of supply and distribution facilities for preserved wood, i.e., wood so impregnated

with chemicals as to be resistant to decay and to the attacks of wood-destroying insects.

The present aim of the subcommittee is to make it possible for the small consumer to take

advantage of the use of preserved wood and to purchase it as does the large consumer. It is

explained that, heretofore, this material has been available only to these who ordered in

large quantities for such uses as railroad ties, pol s and piling.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49--26.

40 . FABRI CATOR 'S EDI TI ON

The fabricators' edition of "Seasoning, Handling and Care of Lumber" prepared by the

Fabricators' Subcommittee of the National Committee on Wood Utilization has just been issued.

This bulletin is the third in a series of four reports. The fourth edition, the manufacturers', is to be issued later. All three editions are available from the Superintendent of

Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, D. C., or from the District Offices of the

Department of Commerce, the consumers' for fifteen cents, the Distributors' for twenty cents,

and the fabrictor's edition for twenty-five cents a copy.

The fabricators" edition represents the best practices in handling lumber in the woodfabricating field and was prepared with the need of fabricators in mind. It brings together

the latest information on actual wood-seasoning practice and the literature resulting from

surveys and experimental work carried on by public and private laboratories. The bulletin is

very comprehensive, no phase of air or kiln-drying practice having been omitted in making

the survey. The subjects treated range from kinds of pile foundations used in air seasoning

to types of kilns used in drying, and from moisture content determination to the proper spacing of stickers in the pile. A bibliography on kiln drying and air drying lumber, moisture

content determination, and of miscellaneous publications on wood seasoning is appended.

ELIMINATION 2E waste

41. VICE PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF WASTES:

"Nearly 20 years ago Harrington Emerson "made" the front page of newspapers and excited

the ire of railroad men by declaring that the railroads could easily save $1,000,000 a day,

"says the Magazine of Business editorially. "Within five years of his declaration, savings more than equaled his figure. Then appeared the American Engineering Council's report on "Waste in Industry" made under the inspiration of Herbert Hoover. We realized then that Mr. Emerson had been talking about the "small change" of business. In succession came the simplification work of the Department of Commerce (showing the wastes of excess varieties), and our awakening to the enormous wastes in distribution.

"These are the wastes in what might be called the normal avenues of busines. Even in

them we are not at an end - as witness W. H. Lef fingwell ' s statement that while we are reducing our man-hours per unit of production our clerical forces are increasing abnormally and

threatening to make serious inroads on our profits.

"In these avenues alone the wastes reclaimable by known methods can add billions to our annual wealth production. But the area of waste reclaimation is still wider. The American

Arbitration Association has awakened us to the wastes in litigation. The bankruptcy disclosures at New York show that there is a well-organized procedure for diverting to receivers'

pockets enormous sums in assets rightly belonging to creditors. The National Association

of Credit men has demonstrated that by sympathetic assistance to businesses under financial

stress, bankruptcies and the losses normal thereto can be entirely avoided.

"These categories, out of the run of normal business, hold additional billions of

wastes. Out of these two classes along - reclaimable by present methods - we could easily

make a new and astounding prosperity. Added thereto will be the great increment of wealth

that will flow from new processes and new products.

"Which suggests that, in addition to a vice-president in charge of development, large

businesses might well have a vice-president in charge of waste elimination. He would nave e dual job; on the inside-, to hunt out and eliminate wastes; on the outside, to cooperate with

agencies for eliminating wastes that impinge on businesses from without.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 43—27.

"Hail the vice-president in charge of waste elimination! Hard job, but necessary and

profitable .

42 . FIRE WASTE .

President William Butterworth, Chamber of Commerce of the United States, opened the

meeting here on March 26 1929. of the National Fire Waste Council, with an appropriate

address on the need of the work that is being carried on by the council on fire prevention.

Various committee reports were read and approved. In addition to the address of Mr. Butterworth, the outstanding subject presented to the meeting was the address by Mr. C. A. Tudlum,

Vice-President of the Home Insurance Company, New York, N. Y., on the subject of "Fire Prevention - An Individual Matter."

43. STANDARD MARKINGS

Is there any shop where bars of steel of different composition do not occasionally become mixed, editorially inquires MACHINERY for March, in a discussion on mark bar steel

plainly. In outward appearance there is little or no difference in bars of steel of different grades, and even experienced shop men often can not tell them apart. For this reason, bars are kept in separate racks; but when one is removed and a part cut off, it may be re- turned to the wrong rack if there is no marking to identify it. In some shops the bars are identified by merely painting the end of the bar with a certin color, tut this has the disadvantage that if the bar is cut off and the end piece removed, the marking is lost and must

be renewed.

44. INDUSTRI AL WASTE .

Questionnaires returned in connection with the industrial traffic management survey

being conducted by the Transportation Division of the Bureau of Foreign and Domestic Commerce

cite specific examples of waste resulting from failure of other departments to cooperate with

the traffic departments of establishments reporting. Not giving the traffic department com- plete information as to their activities is claimed to prevent it from rendering the maximum

assistance. Among instances cited are changing the sources of supplies of raw materials

without notifying the traffic department and having the rates checked to ascertain whether

or not they were out of line with rates paid by competitors in other communities. The use of express service when freight service should be used, and vice versa; failure to furnish

consignors with specific routing instructions; allowing consignors to forward shipments ir. less than carload lots when they could have been consolidated in carload lots; using larger

cars then necessary in forwarding carload lots, resulting in consignees' paying charges on

a higher minimum weight than necessary.

Another company cites the promiscuous transmitting of lumber, especially surfacing or kiln drying, at points too far removed from the origin of the shipment. As through rates are protected on the net outbound weight from the transit point, whether 10 or 100 miles

from the point of production, exorbitant freight amounting on occasion to 20 to 25 per cent

is sometimes paid on the waste, if transit service is sought at the more distant points.

Consultation with the traffic department it is claimed would obviate this difficulty.

45 . ENGINEERING ECONOMY

In a discussion of "Power Transmission Engineering As An Economy," which recently

appeared in the S.A.E. Journal, Mr. W. W ; Nichols, offers the following study. "To summarize

some of the requirements of testing and maintaining belting, I will make several definite

recommendations. Provision - juld be made for a suitable storage and maintenance department
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—28.

for belting. Lacing machines, belt-cutters and repair equipment should be provided, and

plans should be made to inspect all belting upon receipt. Supervision should be under a man

who is familiar with shop conditions and tools, selected also for his ability to manage men without friction. Reports should be made on the condition of pulleys and machinery, including those that are out of line, and on oily or sloppy conditions and any other factors affecting th® efficiency of operation. Belts having excessive tension should be reported.

"Records should be made in connection with daily inspection of test belts, including

watt-meter readings under running and starting conditions. Records should also be made of the

amount of metal being removed per minut9 by machines that are operated by test belts; also

specifications of the materials and observations as to the condition and grinding of the

tools. Time and cost of maintenance should be recorded and also any changes in belt length.

All forms used for records and reports should be standardized. Records should be kept of

all belts and pulleys in service, including their speed. Any serious troubles found should

be eliminated immediately.

"Foremen should report to the maintenance department any improper conditions existing

in their own departments, such as belts rubbing on guards; shifter forks set too close or badly worn by belts; belts on cone pulleys that have a tendency to climb, and all belts

tending to run off the pulleys; splashing of oil or cutting compounds upon belts; onditions

where guards are needed to prevent injury to operators in case of belt breakage; and any

condition where belts need to be run so tight that a rope is necessary to put them on the

pulleys, Splashing of cutting compound sometimes occurs where it discharges into the tank.

This can be prevented by means of a long nipple carrying the discharge down near the bottom

of the tank, well below the level of the compound.

"In closing, I wish to warn those who are interested in this subject that they will not

be successful in the application of these methods unless care is taken to apply them under

the direction of a capable man. The person selected must be an analyst and capable of

studying the problem from other than the power-transmission viewpoint. Many variables enter

into an investigation of this kind; shold one or two be omitted, a false result will be

obtained. Neglect may have caused conditions to grow to an extent such that some time will

be required for their correction, but in the end their correction will be a great economy."

46. APPENDIX.

Simplified Invoice League - Reports received from February 25 to April 1, 1929.

Company Period

Invoices

Checked

On

Simplified

Form

Per Cent

of

Adherence

M. A. Hanna Company.

Duluth , Minn.

- - - 100.00

A. C. Spark Plug Company,

Flint. Mich.

12 days - - 70.00*

Purchasing Agents' Assn, of Baltimore,

Baltimore, Md.

- - - 50.00*

Magnolia Petroleum Corporation,

Dallas. Texas.

5 days 2545 930 36.54
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—29.

Simplified Invoice League - Reports received from February 25 to April 1, 1929. (Cont's.)

Company Period Invoices

Checked

On

Simplified

Form

Per Cent

of

Adherence

Clyde Iron Works,

Duluth, Minn.

- - - 36.00*

Duluth Street Railway,

Duluth, Minn.

- - - 36.00*

Sewell Paint & Varnish Co.,

Kansas City, Mo.

- - - 30.40*

Zenith Furnace Company,

Duluth, Minn.

Consolidated Cement Corporation,

Kansas City, Mo.

28.50

26.60

Gogebic Steam Boiler Works,

Duluth, Minn.

- - : 25.00

(Name with-held by request),

Columbia, S. C.

1 month 1000* 250* 25.00*

Utah Idaho Sugar Company,

Salt Lake City, Utah.

7 days 165 41 24.73

Lehigh Coal & Navigation Co.,

Philadelphia, Pa.

2 weeks - - 22 . 50

Wallace Barnes Company,

Bristol, Conn.

10 days 407 87 21.38

Hirschy Company,

Duluth, Minn.

- - - 20.00

American La Francd & Foamite Corporation,

Elmira, New .York.

2 weeks 1293 242 18.72

General Box Company,

Louisville, Ky.

30 days 527 82 15.56

Pur. Agents Assn, of New Orleans,

New Orleans, La.

2 weeks 20,000* 2500* : 12.50*

Gustin Bacon Manufacturing Co.,

Kansas City, Mo.

- - : 11.00

Duluty Show Case Company, : : : : 10.00

Duluth, Minn.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—30.

Simplified Invoice League - Reports received from February 25 to April 1, 1929. (Cont's.)

Company Period Invoices

Checked

On

Simplified

Fo rm

Per Cent

of

Adhe rence

Louisville Railway Company,

Louisville, Ky

30 days 650 65* 10.00*

Wood Conversion Company,

Cloquet, Minn.

- - - 10.00

Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company,

Milwaukee, Minn.

10 days - - 8.00

W . S. Dickey Clay Mfg, Co.,

Kansas City , Mo

- - - 7 .70

Seidlitz Paint & Varnish Co.,

Kansas City, Mo.

- - - 5.00

Sanitary Milk Company,

Louisville , Ky

30 days 650 28 4.31

Dallas Gas Company,

Dallas. Texas.

3 weeks 188 8 4.15

Standard Sanitary Mfg. Co.,

Dallas. Tex.

1 week 164 5 3.05

Kentucky Utilities Company,

Louisville, Ky

30 days 13,500 - 2.00

Patrick Garment Factory,

Duluth, Minn.

- - - 2.00

* Approximate.

47. NEW BUREAy PUBLICATI ONS.

Send orders for publications under this heading with remittance only to the Superinten

dent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, D. C.

of S ta n da rds Journal of Research, Vol 2, No. 3. March, 1929 - by subscription

only $2.75 per year (United States and its possessions. Canada, Cuba, Mexico, New Foundland,

end Republic of Panama); other countries $3.50.

Res earc h Papers ( repr in ts from Journal); - RP45 . Apparatus and methods for the separation, identification, and determination of the chemical constituents of petroleum; E. W. Washburn, Johannes H. Bruun, M. M. Hicks; price, 10 cents. RP 46. Recombination spectra of

ions and electrons in caesium and helium; F. L. Mohler, and C. Boeckner; price, 5 cents.

RP47 . The spectral absorption of certain sonoazo dyes; W. R, Brode; price 15 cents. RP 48

Transmission of sound through wall and floor structures; V L. Chrisler and W. F. Snyder,

price 10 cents. RP49 . Discharge coefficients of square-edged orifices for measuring the

flow of air; H. S. Bean, E. Buckingham, and P. S. Murphy: price 20 cents.
Commercial Standards Monthly - No. 49—31.

Si mplifi ed Pract ice Re commendat ions . RX-28 Organization of the American Marine Standards Committee and its constitution and rules as revised in 1928; price 10 cents. R47-28

Cut tacks and small cut nails; price 10 cents. R92-28. Hard fiber twines (ply and yarn

goods); price 5 cents.

B uilding and Housing . - BH13 - Recommended minimum requirements for plumbing Report of

subcommittee on plumbing of the Building Code Committee, revised August 30, 1923, price 35

cents

Mi§£2ildll£2ii2 Publicat ions : M86 Tables of spectral energy distribution and luminosity

for use in computing light transmissions and relative brightnesses from spectrophotometric

data; J. F. Skogland; price 10 cents.

Zschnical. News Bullet in No. 144, A.pril 1929, - by subscription only, 25 cents per year

(foreign, 40 cents.)

In addition to the new publications announced during the past month by the Bureau of

Standards, there is available upon request, without charge, a complete list of all completed

simplified practice recommendations, American Marine Standards and Commercial Standards.

This list, which is revised monthly, may be secured upon request, from the Division of Simplified Practice, Bureau of Standards, United States Department of Commerce, Washington, D. C.

STANDARDS YEARBOOK .

The Standards Yearbook for 1929 is the third issue of an annual which has proved indispensable to all interested in any phase of standardization in America and abroad. It is a standardization reference book, summarizing and bringing up to date current standardization

activities and accomplishments in this country and elsewhere, since the 1928 edition of the

Yearbook. The keen and world wide interest in standardization is shown by the suprisingly

large sale of previous issues, of which repeated reprinting has been necessary to meet the

demand

The 1929 edition is full of suggestion and data for all engaged in standardization. The

many aspects of the subject call for a concise summary for busy men who most need to keep in

touch with the latest advances in the standards field. The Standards Yearbook is designed

to meet this need. A special chapter (1) tells how the various countries standardize com- mercial weights and measures used in daily trade in the countless transactions of everyday

life

A brief account of international cooperation in standardization is followed by a synoptic summary of the activities of the national standards associations of the various countries. The Standards Yearbook should be in the personal library of all engaged in work on standards or concerned with their application in standardization.

-0 -
i

i

!

f

i

.