bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Application in Remanufacturing Operations
Authors: Nawawi Azli , Lee C.K.M. , Hasnan Khalid
Published: April 2013

Remanufacturing operations deal with numerous types of used products and parts. For that reason, any missing parts will lead to the extension of remanufacturing lead-time because searching for the missing parts is time consuming. In order to detect the real-time locations for used parts, this paper proposes the application of RFID technology. A proof of concept RFID system is developed on SISCOM Assembly Cell-200. SISCOM is assumed as a small scale remanufacturing facility. The RFID system middleware is developed using LabVIEW 9 and the database is built using PHP & phpMyAdmin. With the availability of this system, the location of missing parts can be detected and the remanufacturing labor hours can be focused on value added activities.
The Use of Multi-Agent Systems in Managing Sustainable Supply Chain
Authors: Aarabi Majid , Saman Muhamad Zameri Mat , Wong Kuan Yew
Published: April 2013

The main purposes and challenges in supply chain management are reducing cost and time. Significantly, factors such as the competition of markets in the globe, limitation of energy, raw and virgin materials, environmental protection crisis and increasing of global population dramatically are causing unprecedented issues for the worldwide supply chains for providing goods and services to customers efficiently and effectively. The sustainability approach for Supply Chain Management (SCM) considers the 6Rs principles in four main stages of the supply chains: Pre-manufacture, Manufacture, Use and Post-use. The use of Multi-Agent System (MAS) prepares the most important requirements of an effective sustainable supply chain. At the same time, this agent-based approach provides reliable and agile systems, which will enable enterprises to accommodate ever changing needs of their customers in the future. In this article, the use of MAS for optimal Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) is reviewed and the integrated functioning of certain agents resulting in information sharing is also demonstrated. With this idea, an attempt is made to provide a MAS model for the SSCM. In the proposed model, each agent performs a specific function of the organization and shares information with other agents. In order to describe this multi-agent based approach, a simple case study is given to illustrate the sustainable supply chain operations.
Effect of Gezawa Clay on the Properties of Silica Stone for Refractory Brick
Authors: Rafukka I.A. , Onyekpe B. , Tijjani Y.
Published: April 2013

The investigations centered on how addition of Gezawa clay (GC) affects the refractory properties of the Gezawa stone (GS) (Silica Stone) with a view to finding the optimum percentage of the blend that will give good refractory properties. The samples were crushed, ground, sieved and the chemical compositions were determined. Test samples were produced by blending the Gezawa stone with various proportions of Gezawa clay. The refractoriness of the samples was measured, and the samples were then fired to 1100and standard properties such as thermal shock resistance, cold crushing strength and apparent porosity were determined. The result shows that addition of Gezawa clay to Gezawa stone improves its thermal shock resistance but reduces the refractoriness, while the porosity was found to be within the specified range for fire clay and the cold crushing strength of the samples was high. Compromise could be made in selecting the percentage that would suit certain application.
Geometrical Defect Evaluation of Cold Embossing AA6061 Based on FEA and Physical Modeling Technique
Authors: Abdullah A.B. , Sapuan S.M. , Samad Z. , Khaleed H.M.T. , Aziz N.A.
Published: April 2013

Geometrical defect plays a significant role to inaccuracy of the cold forging part. Defect will harm the assembly tend to affect the performance of the part. Therefore, it must be detected and minimized it as soon as the manufacturing begins. The paper presents an investigation on the geometrical defect of the cold embossing pin based FEA and physical modeling methods. The study focuses on the effect of distance to the edge (DTE) to bulging geometries. The results of both methods show a good agreement.
Suitability of Molasses as a Core Binder Used in Non-Ferrous Sand Casting
Authors: Tijjani Y. , Onyekpe B. , Rafukka I.A.
Published: April 2013

The suitability of blackstrap molasses as a core binder used in non-ferrous sand casting has been investigated. Various core mixture samples were made with molasses varying from 1-5%, soybean oil 1-3%, and Chalawa Sand the balance. The foundry physical properties of the samples; Permeability, Green Compressive Strength, Dry Compressive Strength, Green Shear Strength, Dry Shear Strengths were determined via standard procedure. The sample of 2% molasses, 1% soybean oil, and the balance Chalawa Sand was chosen as the best core mixture based on the highest and optimum Baked Compressive Strength, Baked Shear Strength, and Permeability. Using the optimum mixture, a proto-type aluminium-silicon casting was made. The result revealed that the core has good collapsibility, and the surface finish of the internal cavity of the cast bushing is good.The research work has provided economically cheaper and environmentally friendly organic core binder from locally available raw material for industries as against poisonous and expensive resinous core binders.
Optimization of Parameter for HSS Tool Wear by Using Taguchi Method and Finite Element Method
Authors: Ibrahim M.R. , Abd. Kadir A.R. , Omar M.S. , Sulaiman S. , Osman M.H.
Published: April 2013

This paper presents the combination between the simulation analysis of FEM (DFORM 3D) and Taguchi method approach. The Taguchi method was used to find the optimize parameter design contribute to Flank wear. The parameters were evaluated are coated surface treatment, cutting speed and feed rate. The Usuis model carried out to measure the flank wear size. Furthermore, ANOVA analysis was used out to identify the influence factors contribute to tool wear in the signal to noise ratio. The experiments were conducted on AL6061 by using High Speed Steel Tool (HSS) in face milling cutting. It shown that, the coated surface treatment is the most significant parameter which can reduce the tool wear value.
Review of Relationship between TQM and Business Performance
Authors: Ahmad M.F. , Zakuan N. , Jusoh A. , Takala Josu
Published: April 2013

In todays highly competitive market, the demand for quality is the single most critical factor for companies to survive in the ever-expanding global marketplace. The concept of total quality management (TQM) has been developed as a result of intense global competition. The purpose of this paper is to propose relationship between TQM practices and business performance based on extensive review of the literature. The main contribution of this paper is to identify comprehensive construct of TQM and business performance for improving previous models. Authors also introduce Business ethics as a new construct for TQM practices, which it has not been seen in previous literature as one of the key of sustainability factor. This proposed research will help the academicians and industry players to have better understanding on the importance of TQM implementation and business performance to the company in terms of financial performance, customer satisfaction, quality and production performance.
Application of Modified 4th Order Runge Kutta-TVD Scheme for the Flow Past through Symmetrical Model
Authors: Yusop Fatimah , Basuno Bambang , Omar Zamri
Published: April 2013

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a well known tool to solve the fluid flow problems. In CFD analysis, the models use various types of Partial Differential Equation (PDE). The most common is hyperbolic equation. In order to solve the equation, high-order scheme is very reasonable to be applied due to the accuracy of result. So that, this study use modified Runge Kutta with Total Variation Diminishing (TVD) scheme and the model is half body airfoil (symmetrical airfoil NACA 0012). Firstly, parametric study over the size of suitable flow domain was carried out. If the length of airfoil chord is denoted by c, investigation effects on the size of flow domain is carried over the flow domain in x-direction which is 5c while in y-direction is 6c. Another two size flow domains had been used in this study are 5c×3c and 9c×3c respectively. The result shows a strong influence to the flow field solution occurred if the distance between airfoil surfaces to the outer boundary is relatively small. Through this parametric study, it had been suggested that the best way to solve the aerodynamics problem for the flow past through symmetrical airfoil by using the size of flow domain is 5c×6c. Using the same size of flow domain, it had been found that the developed computer code able to produce the result in a good agreement with ANSYS CFD-FLUENT software.
The Use of Taguchi-Grey-Fuzzy to Optimize Performance Characteristics in Turning of AISI D2
Authors: Soepangkat Bobby Oedy Pramoedyo , Soesanti A. , Pramujati Bambang
Published: April 2013

In this paper, the optimization of surface roughness, cutting force, feed force and tool life in a turning operation was investigated by using Taguchi method and fuzzy logic. The experiment were conducted under varying cutting speeds, feed rates, depths of cut and noses radius. An orthogonal array, the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio, grey relational analysis, grey-fuzzy reasoning grade and analysis of variance were employed to the study the performance characteristics in the turning AISI D2. Experimental results have shown that machining performance characteristics in turning process can be improved effectively through the combination of Taguchi method and fuzzy logic.
Power Consumption Modeling for Indoor Environment Using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Rahman Ahmad F.A. , Selamat Hazlina , Ismail Fatimah S.
Published: April 2013

In this paper, a new Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model that relates human comfort and electrical power consumption of a building with temperature, illumination and carbon dioxide (CO2) level inside the building is developed. The model has been developed using samples of simulated data representing the indoor environment variables. Results have shown that neural network with 14 hidden layer neurons produces outputs that is closest to the actual system outputs.
Effect of Tool Wear on Tool Life and Surface Finish when Machining DF-3 Hardened Tool Steel
Authors: Davoudinejad Ali , Noordin M.Y. , Ghodsiyeh Danial , Ashrafi Sina Alizadeh , Barzani Mohsen Marani
Published: April 2013

Hard turning is a dominant machining operation performed on hardened materials using single-point cutting tools. In recent years, hard turning operation has become more and more capable with respect to various machinability criteria. This work deals with machinability of hardened DF-3 tool steel with 55 ±1 HRC hardness at various cutting conditions in terms of tool life, tool wear mechanism and surface roughness. Continuous dry turning tests were carried out using coated, mixed ceramic insert with honed edge geometry. Two different cutting speeds, 100 and 210 m/min, and feed rate values of 0.05, 0.125 and 0.2 mm/rev were used with a 0.2 mm constant depth of cut for all tests. Additionally scanning electron microscope (SEM) was employed to clarify the different types of wear. As far as tool life was concerned, best result was achieved at lowest cutting condition whereas surface roughness values decreased when operating at higher cutting speed and lower feed rate. Additionally maximum volume of material removed is obtained at low cutting speed and high feed rate. Dominant wear mechanism observed during the experiments were flank and crater wear which is mainly caused by abrasive action of the hard workpiece material with the ceramic cutting tools.
Development of STEP-NC Based Machining System for Machining Process Information Flow
Authors: Kassim Noordiana , Yusof Yusri , Mohamad Mahmod Abd Hakim , Janon Mohd Najib , Mohd Hanifa Rafizah
Published: April 2013

To realize the STEP-NC based machining system, it is necessary to perform machining feature extraction, generating machine-specific information, and creating a relationship between STEP-NC entities. A process planning system of a STEP-NC information flow that starts with constructing a machining feature from a CAD model will be developed. In this paper, a further in-depth study of the implementation and adaptation of STEP-NC in manufacturing is studied. This study will help to understand how the data from CAD/CAM can be converted into STEP-NC codes and the machining process will be based on the STEP-NC codes generated.
Effect of Wall Configuration on Atomization of Rapeseed Oil Diesel Spray Impinging on the Wall
Authors: Sapit Azwan , Yano Takashi , Kidoguchi Yoshiyuki , Nada Yuzuru
Published: April 2013

Fuel-air mixing is important process in diesel combustion. It has been well known that wall configuration of the piston affects spray atomization. Biomass fuel, that is viable alternative fuel for fossil one, needs great help of mixing to atomization because the fuel has high viscosity and high distillation temperature. This study investigates spray atomization characteristics of rapeseed oil (RO) when it impinges on the piston wall. Optical observation of RO spray was carried out using shadowgraph photography technique. The optical images and image analysis show that wall impingement effectively promotes RO spray atomization. Spray atomization is more sensitive to wall configuration for RO than diesel fuel. The wall that has flat floor at the bottom can improve atomization. It is necessary for RO spray to promote spray penetration followed by wall-impingement because long spray path offers wide spray boundary region to form droplets.
Short Review: Effect of UV Light on Precipitation of Hydroxyapatite on TiO2 in Simulated Body Fluid
Authors: Idrus N.H. Mohd , Abdullah Hasan Zuhudi
Published: April 2013

A number of previous studies on titanium dioxide (TiO2) proven the presence of anatase has enhance hydroxyapatite (HAP) precipitation on TiO2surface which beneficial for biomedical usage especially in dental and orthopedics. The anatase phase of TiO2is an ideal photocatalyst agent. It helps to enhance the chemical reaction after irradiating with ultra violet (UV) light. The effect of UV light irradiation to the precipitation of HAP on TiO2surface while soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF) increased the formation of HAP. UV light also can be applied as pre-treatment, where UV light was irradiating before SBF immersion.
Energy Savings and CO2 Reduction through Solar Water Heater Technology in Sindh Pakistan
Authors: Soomro Mujeeb Iqbal , Memon Rizwan Ahmed , Harijan Khanji
Published: April 2013

Pakistan suffers worst energy crises due to unavailability of primary energy sources. One of the solutions to energy problems of Pakistan lies in utilization of renewable energy sources like solar energy. One of the possible uses of solar energy is in the form of water eating. This work explored the availability of solar energy in the Sindh province of Pakistan. Moreover potential fuel savings and reduction in CO2 emission due to the use of solar water heating system is also evaluated. The RETScreen software was used for evaluation of fuel savings and CO2 emission reduction from a solar water heating system. Results show that the annual natural gas supplied to an average household in the three main cities of Sindh i.e., Karachi, Hyderabad and Sukkur could be reduced by 513.5, 409 and 543.5 m3, respectively. Annual reductions in emissions of CO2 for Karachi, Hyderabad and Sukkur were estimated to be 1, 0.8 and 1 tCO2 respectively. It is concluded that the utilization of solar energy for water heating in domestic sector of Sindh Pakistan could save fuel fossil and reduce environmental pollutants that in-turn may help mitigate energy crises in the country.
Effect of Cross Sectional Shape on the Energy Absorbing Characteristics of a Tube under Quasi-Static Loading
Authors: Mohamed Ali Jaffar S. , Abdullah Kassim A. , Aminanda Yulfian
Published: April 2013

In this study, numerical simulation of tubes of various cross section under axial compression is carried out using LS-DYNA. The effect of varying configurations of tube cross-section shape on the deformation response, collapse mode and energy absorption characteristics of tubes under quasi-static axial compression have been studied. The validation of the finite element tube model was made by comparison with the experimental results of the square tube subjected to quasi-static axial compression. Tabulated results are presented and plots have been included for the specific energy absorption for different cross sections. The study provides an insight on ways to increasing energy absorption of light weight aluminium tubes.
A Review: Natural Fiber as Reinforcement in Waste Paper Recycling and its Processing Methods
Authors: Saferi S.K.A. , Yusof Y.
Published: April 2013

As demand for clean and healthy environment, people make many alternate solutions to save the environment. To save trees and overcome landfill of waste material and waste disposal by burning activities issues (cause to losing energy and increase pollution), people nowadays take recycling as a recovery. Recycling waste paper into new product increased over the years. Shortage of wood supply required new sources of natural fiber for papermaking industry. Many researchers have studied new sources of natural fibers from non wood materials, such as oil palm residues, kenaf (Hibiscus Cannabinus), pineapple leaf, banana, and coconut fiber. Kenaf is choose as reinforcement agent for recycled waste paper to maximize the use of kenaf in industry application due its wide range of advantages where pineapple leaf are choose as reinforcement agent because abundantly of these material in Malaysia. Reinforcement of natural fiber into waste paper during recycling process expected to increased strength properties of final product. To understand the right and suitable processing method for kenaf fiber and pineapple leaf leaves previous work from other researchers are studied to investigate pulping procedure of natural fiber and its effect on mechanical strength.
PFI Retrofit-Kit as Green Technology for Small 4-Stroke S.I. Engine
Authors: Hushim Mohd Faisal , Alimin Ahmad Jais , Selamat Hazlina , Muslim Mohd Taufiq
Published: April 2013

This paper presents outcomes of the usage of a developed prototype of PFI retrofit-kit for small 4-stroke gasoline engine. The developed PFI retrofit-kit produced good and high brake power and brake mean effective pressure compared to the carburetor system with over 50% improvement. Exhaust-out emissions such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon have been reduced in the range of 39%, 185%, and 57% respectively. However, brake specific fuel consumption was found to be higher (125%) as compared to carburetor system.
Viability of Some Kano-Nigerian Clays for Refractory Applications
Authors: Rafukka I.A. , Onyekpe B. , Tijjani Y.
Published: April 2013

The physical properties of some materials used by local foundries were investigated with a view to assessing their suitability for use as low heat duty refractory bricks. The samples were collected from Malamai village, Gezawa Local Government, Kano state; they are Gezawa clay and Burji (Clay). The samples were crushed, ground, sieved and the chemical compositions were determined. The clay samples were treated separately as well as blended with Gezawa clay in different proportions and molded in to bricks. The bricks were dried and fired to 1100. Test for refractoriness, thermal shock resistance, linear shrinkage; bulk density, porosity and compressive strength were carried out on each of the specimen. Burji blended with 50% to 90% Gezawa clay gave improved thermal shock resistance with a refractoriness of 1300 and hence could be used for non ferrous melting cupolas.
Evaluation of Noise and Air Flow on a Motorized Adaptive Valve Lift and Timing Engine
Authors: Rasid Ahmad Fuad Abdul , Ghazali Mariyam Jameelah , Wan Mahmood Wan Mohd Faizal , Mohamad Taib Iskandar
Published: April 2013

This paper explains about the evaluation of intake air flow, volumetric efficiency and noise of a motor-driven engine that used an adaptive valve lift and timing mechanism (AVLT) on one intake valve. This system is developed with an aim to produce a more powerful engine through variable valve timing and lift technique. The system made the valve lifts higher without increasing the valve lift duration. Therefore, a dynamic valve lift profile with respect to the engine speed can be achieved thus varies the input and output of an engine. As a result of applying the AVLT on a motor-driven engine, the engine noise, emission noise and the mass air flow entering the engine cylinder was increased. When AVLT is employed to a maximum lift, the mass air flow of default intake valve lift was improved within a range from 8% to 46.64% in 500 rpm to 2000 rpm speed range. Maximum lift produced engine noise within a range of 2.57% to 18.13% higher than the default lift throughout all speed. Also, maximum lift produced emission noise within a range of 2.47% to 19.19% higher than the default lift throughout all speed. The product of this research will be useful to optimise the height and timing of the valve lift and the AVLT mountings on the engine head during operation thus improves the engine performance, fuel economy, emission levels and reduced noise of a modified engine.
Promoting Sustainability through Water Hydraulic Technology – The Effect of Water Hydraulic in Industrial Scissor Lift
Authors: Yusof Ahmad Anas , Mat Shafizal , Din Abdul Talib
Published: April 2013

Sustainability concern has brought the idea of exploring the possibility of using water as the hydraulic medium to transfer energy. The abundant resource of water, and its characteristic involving hygiene, safety and low maintenance cost provides a fascinating perspective of choosing water over hydraulic oil, due to concerns over oil disposal, contamination, costly maintenance and flammability. However, in contrast, its low boiling temperature, low viscosity, and simple molecular structure could pose danger to the operation of the hydraulic system. In order to identify these limitations, an experimental study is carried out to explore the effect of water hydraulic system. A test rig of scissor lift is fabricated and put into test by replacing the hydraulic oil with reverse osmosis water. It is found that the water hydraulic scissor lift managed to lift up to 400 kg of load, with workable water temperature of 41.4°C.
Theoretical Analysis of Close Loop Behaviour of Ideal Cascade Controller Structure for Positioning of XY Table Ballscrew Drive System
Authors: Abdullah L. , Jamaludin Z. , Chiew T.H. , Rafan N.A. , Maidin S.
Published: April 2013

The implementation of Classical Cascade Controller for the purpose of controlling various type of engineering appliances has been vastly utilized by control engineer community. Cascade controller provides a simple structure of controller but yet functional and have the ability to satisfy the control design requirement. In general, the controller consists of two loops, namely velocity loop and position loop. This paper is focused on the fundamental aspect on how to analyzed the close loop behaviour for both velocity and position loop and to extract the mathematical formulation of the controller. The outcome from this paper which is in the form of mathematical formula is useful and very significant in order to validate the theoretical result with the simulation result. To be more precise, the result from this research work are in the form of transfer function for both velocity and position loop of the position output, position error, dynamic stiffness of the controller and the damping ratio of the system which is in this case the XY Table Ballscrew drive system.
Current Reverse Logistic for End of Life Computer in Malaysia
Authors: Chong Siaw Hua , Hasan Sulaiman B. , Kiong Sia Chee
Published: April 2013

High technology and affordable computers are highly demanded currently. Computers are much faster and with very high performance. This however resulted in short life cycle and there is a need for a system to manage used computer that is collected. The volume of end of life computer that will be generated in a developing country has been forecasted to be between 400-700 million units by the year 2016-2018. This paper reviews current the reverse logistic for end of life computer in Malaysia and how it will evolve in the near future.
Modelling of Shockwave Propagation in Orthotropic Materials
Authors: Mohd Nor Mohd Khir , Vignjevic Rade , Campbell James
Published: April 2013

Modelling of shockwave propagation in orthotropic materials requires an appropriate description of material behaviour within elastic and plastic regimes. To deal with this issues, a finite strain constitutive model for orthotropic materials was developed within a consistent thermodynamic framework of irreversible process in this paper. The important features of this material model are the multiplicative decomposition of the deformation gradient and a Mandel stress tensor combined with the new stress tensor decomposition generalised for orthotropic materials. The elastic free energy function and the yield function are defined within an invariant theory by means of the introduction of the structural tensors. The plastic behaviour is characterised within the associative plasticity framework using the Hills yield criterion. The complexity was further extended by coupling the formulation with the equation of state (EOS) to control the response of the material to shock loading. This material model which was developed and integrated in the isoclinic configuration provides a unique treatment for elastic and plastic anisotropy. The effects of elastic anisotropy are taken into account through the stress tensor decomposition and plastic anisotropy through yield surface defined in the generalized deviatoric plane perpendicular to the generalised pressure. To test its ability to describe shockwave propagation, the new material model was implemented into the LLNL-DYNA3D code. The results generated by the proposed material model were compared against the experimental Plate Impact test data of Aluminium Alloy 7010. A good agreement between experimental and simulation was obtained for two principal directions of material orthotropy.
Sliding Wear Properties of near β Titanium Alloy as a Function of β Solution Treatment Temperature
Authors: Setti Srinivasu Gangi , Rao R.N. , Nandy T.K.
Published: April 2013

The present paper describes the effect of β solution treatment temperature on the sliding wear properties of near β titanium alloy (Ti-10V-4.5Fe-3Al) was examined under three different temperatures 800, 900 and 1000 °C, varying applied load 3, 6 and 9 kgf at a fixed rotational speed of 500 rpm for 16 minutes duration. The track diameter is varied 40, 80 and 120 mm in order to vary the sliding distance or sliding velocity. The sliding wear beahviour was studied using pin-on-disc apparatus against steel counter surface giving emphasis on the parameters such as weight loss as a function of sliding distance and applied load. It was observed from the results that the % weight loss is increases with increase in sliding distance and the load. It is also observed that the % weight loss increases with decreasing the β solution treatment temperature. Form the ANOVA analysis, it revealed that the β solution treatment temperature is not influencing that much on % weight loss as compared to that of load and sliding distance.
The Influence of Hot Air Environment and Humidity towards the Performance of Folding Endurance for Polypropylene Hinges
Authors: Othman Mohd Hilmi , Main Nor Mazlana , Hasan Sulaiman , Kamaruzamend Mohd Izuan
Published: April 2013

Folding endurance is very important in terms of the indication for durability and performance of plastics and papers. The objective of this research is to study the performance of polypropylene hinges with the influence hot air in the fabricated chamber and high humidity condition. The performance of this sample was analysed by using folding endurance tester with hot air chamber, adopting the Design of Experiment L9 (34) Taguchi Method for the selected factors which are temperature, relative humidity, breaking time and motor speed. All of these factors were selected with a constant force. Based on the findings, the best combination of parameters which signify the performance of folding endurance test in humidity environment is 70°C for temperature, 60 N for relative humidity, 2 days of breaking time and 850 rpm for motor speed. As for hot air environment, the best setting is 70°C for temperature, 55 N for relative humidity, 3 days of breaking time and 700 rpm for motor speed. For Signal to Noise ratio, the result showed that the temperature was the most influential factor for humidity effects and hot air environment, whereby the Signal to Noise ratio value obtained for the humidity and hot air environment are 129.5 dBi and 130.5 dBi respectively. The conclusion of this research is the polypropylene hinges have performed better with hot air environment as compared with higher humidity environment condition.
Integrated Thermoelectric Power Generator - Wireless Sensor Node for Remote Area Application
Authors: Ishak Mohammad Zulfikar , Muhamad Azman Miskam , Sidek Othman , Murat Muhamad Nazri , Ahmad Mohd Azmier
Published: April 2013

The performance of a thermoelectric power generator for powering wireless sensor node has been studied and evaluated. This study covers the results obtained from two configurations of thermoelectric cell with heat source temperatures range from 40 to 230 °C. It was found that the highest output voltage is 9.08 V belong to configuration B with two parallel thermoelectric cells. This configuration was capable to power up sensor node compared to configuration A with the lowest heat source temperature at about 200 °C. To enhance the capability of the configurations, DC boost converter circuit has been developed and tested. By connecting to the DC boost converter, configuration A can power up the wireless sensor node with heat source temperature at about 220 °C while the minimum heat source temperature for configuration B was reduced from 200 to 170 °C. This study identified the optimum operation condition to power up wireless sensor node by thermoelectric power generator for remote application and make conclusion as to how to increase the performance of thermoelectric power generator by introducing DC boost converter.
Review on Anthropometric Test Dummy and Computational Modelling
Authors: Tam Lina , Omar Badrul , Siswanto Waluyo Adi
Published: April 2013

This paper presents the differences of anthropometric data between Malaysian, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Taiwanese, North American, North African, South Indian, Portuguese and Australian, which can be use in anthropometric test dummy (ATD) and the computational modelling of ATD. The available anthropometric data of stature, sitting height and sitting knee height for male and female are analyzed by weighting them according to their ranking in the corresponding parameters and presented in bar chart. It is found that Australian male and female have the biggest body posture compared with others. The results also indicate that females in Australia, North Africa and South India, when the three parameters are considered, they have bigger posture than male. For the computational model, hybrid modelling combine finite elements and rigid bodies can be an alternative approach.
Development of J-Integral Prediction Model for Surface Cracks in Round Bars under Combined Loadings
Authors: Ismail Al Emran
Published: April 2013

Solid cylindrical bars have tremendous applications in mechanical engineering. However due to several factors such as corrosion, material and design defects, mechanical failure is unavoidable. In the present of mechanical loadings, the crack initiated at such defects and growth. Therefore, this work focuses on a numerical simulation to analyze the behavior of the surface cracks under combined mode-I loadings. Different crack aspect ratios, a/b and relative crack depth, a/D are used and the plastic stress/strain is assumed to follow the Ramberg-Osgood relation. Then, the limit loads were combined with a reference stress method to develop a mathematical model to predict J-integral along the crack front. Referring to the results, the J-integral can be predicted along the crack fronts. However, the capabilities to predict J-integral are reduced when a/b and a/D is increased.
Hand-Arm Vibration of Unskilled Oil Palm Motorised Cutter Operator
Authors: Md Salleh Salihatun , Rahim E.A. , Roslan Mohd Nazrul , Ismon Maznan , Madlan M.A. , Masrol S.R. , Jelani Abdul Razak , Ahmad Mohd Rizal
Published: April 2013

The portable petrol driven oil palm motorised cutter or CANTAS has been identified as a type of machine that generates hand-arm vibration. These vibrations can cause complex vascular, neurological and musculoskeletal disorder known as hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) when over exposure of daily usage. The objective of this study is to investigate the vibration level at different angles during the operational of the CANTAS including idle and full throttle conditions. The CANTAS vibration experiments were carried out at a farm in Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, Johor. A student participated as the unskilled worker and was assisted by two technical staffs to conduct the vibration measurements. The measurement was taken during the operations of cutting first fronds, second fronds and a fruit bunch during idle and full throttle conditions and by varying the inclination angle. The inclinations of cutting angle were varied from 45º, 60º and 75º. The hand-arm vibration value, ahv achieved 10.93 ±1.2 m/s2 and 7.94 ± 1.0 m/s2 for unskilled user during operation of two bunches and one pruning frond for all angles at point 1 and point 2 handle respectively. Mean vibration values at both point of handles resulted in vibration values of 10.12±3.8m/s2 at 450, 9.15±3.0m/s2 at 600 and 9.03±1.8m/s2 at 750. Increasing the angle overall results in decreasing the level of vibration at both handle points.
Characteristics of Electroplated Nickel Layer on Tungsten Carbide
Authors: Wahab Hassan A. , Noordin M.Y. , Hussain Mohammad Sakhawat , Izman S.
Published: April 2013

Diamond coating on tungsten carbide (WC-Co) cutting tools with cobalt binder experiences delaminating failure due to the deleterious effect of cobalt. One of the methods used to reduce this effect is by coating an interlayer onto the substrate surface prior to diamond deposition. Different materials have been used as an interlayer which is normally deposited to the substrate surface using CVD and PVD techniques. Among different materials used as interlayer on WC-Co, nickel is considered as an attractive candidate due its good chemical and physical properties. In this study the potential of the electroplating technique for deposition of nickel interlayer on WC-Co will be investigated. Nickel deposition on WC-6%Co substrate was carried out by electroplating in a standard watts solution at constant plating parameters (Current: 0.1 Amp, electric potential: 1.0 V and pH: 3.5). The gap between anode and cathode was varied (5mm, 10mm and 15mm). The nickel coating formed on the hard metal surface was characterized in terms of the coating thickness, layer uniformity and coating hardness by using SEM and the micro hardness tester. Based on the results, desirable nickel coating properties were obtained when the separation distance between anode and cathode was 15mm.
Dimensional Deviation Affected by Cutting Parameters and Machine Tool Rigidity in Dry Turning of S45C Steel
Authors: Rahman M.A. , Baharudin A.B. , Adi S. , Hussein Nur Izan Syahriah , Isa H. , Elfi R.I.F. , Azureen M.N.
Published: April 2013

Performance of machining processes is assessed by dimensional and geometrical accuracy which is mentioned in this paper as dimensional deviation. A part quality does not depend solely on the depth of cut, feed rate and cutting speed. Other variable such as excessive machine tool vibration due to insufficient dynamic rigidity can be deleterious to the desired results. The focus of the present study is to find a correlation between dimensional deviation against cutting parameters and machine tool vibration in dry turning. Hence cutting parameters and vibration-based regression model can be established for predicting the part dimensional deviation. Experiments are conducted using a Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) lathe with carbide insert cutting tool. Vibration data are collected through a data acquisition system, then tested and analyzed through statistical analysis. The analysis revealed that machine tool vibration has significant effect on dimensional deviation where statistical analysis of individual regression coefficients showed p<0.05. The developed regression model has been validated through experimental tests and found to be reliable to predict dimensional deviation.
Computational Issues in the Simulation of High Speed Ballistic Impact: A Review
Authors: Ibrahim M.N. , Siswanto Waluyo Adi , Zaidi A.M.A.
Published: April 2013

This paper presents a review of recent developments of nonlinear constitutive material models for the applications in high speed ballistic impact of projectile into several types of targets. The objective is to comprehend some numerical approaches that have been proposed and used in the technical literatures especially regarding bullet-target interaction. Attention is given on the application of several types of computational constitutive models and simulations used to represent the projectile characteristic, ballistic penetration, failure modes in target and deformation pattern. This paper serves as a concise source to identify future direction in the area of computational mechanics of high speed collisions and provides brief literatures for those interested in conducting research into the topic.
Hydrogen Embrittlement Susceptibility of Pipeline Steel
Authors: Juliawati A. , Razak Nur Azhani Abd
Published: April 2013

The influence of hydrogen on the fracture morphology and mechanical properties of ASTM A106 Grade A pipeline steel has been studied by tension, bend test and hydrogen charging with combination of variation current density and charging time. The appearance of surface damage and fracture morphology were revealed by using field emission scanning electron microscopy. Under the hydrogen charged, the reduction of strength and ductility of the steel revealed from the ultimate tensile strength value and percent of elongation were observed as the current density increased. While, in bend test, the effect of hydrogen is manifested as a decrease in ultimate strength (maximum load in bend test) and bend ductility (bend angle).
Non-Linear Drive Control System for Electric Car
Authors: Mubin M. , Ouchi S. , Kodani N. , Hirata H. , Mokhtar N.
Published: April 2013

This paper presents a new drive control system for electric car with GPS system to measure the speed of the car-body. This drive control system uses a non-linear controller designed by following the Lyapunov stability theorem. The controller is designed in order to control the wheel slip when the car starts to accelerate on the slippery road condition. The effectiveness of this control system is verified by experiments.
A Review of Experiments on Cold Start of PEM Fuel Cells
Authors: bin Mohamad Azizul
Published: April 2013

This paper evaluate previous experimental studies on sub-freezing start up of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell system, and identify issues for further investigation. In a successful cold start, product water from electrochemical reaction in the cathode must be removed from the cell before it turns into ice and causing voltage drop and shutdown also leads to permanent damage to fuel cell components. Successful single PEM fuel cell start up was achieved from temperature as low as-30°C. Some researchers found that cold start of a 30 W stack from-20°C was possible only with aid of external energy. Successful self-start up a 2 kW stack from temperature-5°C was reported but the time taken was unacceptably long and attempts to start up the stack at lower temperatures were failed. Based on the current state of research, further research is necessary to fully understand the operation and mechanism of PEM fuel cell cold start.
The Substructures Technique Including Contact Problem
Authors: Podešva Jiří , Szweda Jan , Poruba Zdenek
Published: April 2013

The numerical analysis of large mechanical systems brings specific problems. As an example the contact of two surfaces can serve. The contact situation occurs when two surfaces touch each other. The pressure forces can be then transferred whilst the tension forces can not. The solution of mentioned large systems by FEM leads usually to the large number of degrees of freedom (DOF). Even the nowadays used HW equipment makes possible solving the large scale systems, in certain cases (especially when the number of DOFs exceeds approximately 1e7) it is convenient to use an alternative approach leading to shorter solution times and HW demands. One of these approaches is the substructure technique. The paper deals with the description of this technique used for the contact problem arising in the body of roller bearing.
Effect of Mica Content on the Physical, Mechanical and Morphological Properties of Alumina-Cullet-Mica Ceramic
Authors: Badarulzaman Nur Azam , Amiroll M.A.M. , Noh Mohamad Zaky , Jikan S.S. , Yunus Z.M.
Published: April 2013

This research is conducted in order to determine the best composition of alumina-cullet ceramic with the addition of mica powder. The alumina-cullet-mica composites (ACMCs) were produced by using powder compaction method. All raw materials used such as alumina, cullet and mica for fabricating the samples were first mixed, compacted and finally the samples have to undergo the sintering process. It is observed from the physical, mechanical and morphological analyses that the properties of ACMCs are highly dependable on the mica content.
An Effect of Fractal Flow Conditioner Thickness on Turbulent Swirling Flow
Authors: Manshoor Bukhari , Rosidee N.F. , Khalid Amir
Published: April 2013

Fractal flow conditioner is a flow conditioner with a fractal pattern and used to eliminate turbulence originating from pipe fittings in experimental fluid flow applications. In this paper, steady state, incompressible, swirling turbulent flow through circle grid space filling fractal plate (Fractal flow conditioner) has been studied. The solution and the analysis were carried out using finite volume CFD solver FLUENT 6.2. The turbulence model used in this investigation is the standardk-εmodel and the results were compared with the pressure drop correlation of BS EN ISO 5167-2:2003. The results showed that the standardk-εmodel gave a good agreement with the ISO pressure drop correlation. Therefore, the model was used further to predict the effects of circle grids space filling plate thickness on the flow characteristics.
Palm Fatty Acid Distillate as an Alternative Source for Hydraulic Oil
Authors: Golshokouh I. , Wira J.Y. , Ani Farid Nasir , Syahrullail Samion
Published: April 2013

This study investigates the physical properties of pure palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD) as a new, clean and renewable source of lubricant and hydraulic oil. This study is done using a four-ball tribotester. The experiments are conducted at five different temperatures of 55, 75, 95, 105 and 125 °C. The rotational speed was fixed at 1200 rpm, normal load was 40 kg and duration was 1 hour. For evaluating the results, all experiments again were conducted using commercial engine mineral and hydraulic mineral oil and at the end all results were compared together. The results show that PFAD has higher anti friction and anti-wear ability.
Effects of Palm Oil Biodiesel Blends on the Emissions of Oil Burner
Authors: Amirnordin Shahrin Hisham , Ihsanulhadi Nurudeen , Alimin Ahmad Jais , Khalid Amir
Published: April 2013

Biodiesel is one of the alternative fuels used in oil burner. In order to determine the quality of this biodiesel produced at UTHM Biodiesel Pilot Plant, it is tested in crucible furnace system. This study is focused on the effects of biodiesel on emissions from an oil burner. It uses 5 % (B5), 10 % (B10) and 15 % (B15) biodiesel blended with diesel. 100 % diesel is used as a comparison. Emissions from the combustion of diesel burner were measured using gas analyzer and smoke detector. Measured parameters were carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC), carbon dioxide (CO2) and opacity. Results show a significant improvement up to 87 % of harmful emissions showed by blended fuel compared to 100 % diesel. The overall results indicate the potential of palm oil biodiesel blend in reducing harmful emissions from the burner system.
Characterization of Micro Metal Injection Molding by Using PMMA & PEG
Authors: Ibrahim Mohd Halim Irwan , Muhamad Norhamidi , Sulong A.B.
Published: April 2013

Due to its versatility, micro metal injection molding has become an alternative method in powder metallurgy where it can produce small part with a minimal number of waste. The success of micro MIM is greatly influenced by feedstock characteristics. This paper investigated the characterization and optimization which both of them plays an important characteristic in determining the successful of micro MIM. In this paper, stainless steel SS 316L was used with composite binder, which consists of PEG (Polyethelena Glycol), PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrilate) and SA (Stearic Acid). The rheology properties are investigated using Shimadzu Flowtester CFT-500D capillary rheometer. The geometry of water atomised stainless steel powder are irregular shape, therefore it is expected significant changes in the rheological results that can influence the microcomponent, surface quality, shape retention and resolution capabilities. From rheological characteristics, feedstock with 61.5% shows a significant value with several injection parameters were optimized through screening experiment such as injection pressure (A), injection temperature (B), mold temperature (C), injection time (D) and holding time (E). Besides that, interaction effects between injection pressure, injection temperature and mold temperature were also considered to optimize in the Taguchis orthogonal array. Result shows that 61.5%vol contributes a significant stability over a range of temperature and the best powder loading from a critical powder volume percentage (CPVP) and rheological point of view. Furthermore interaction between injection temperature and mold temperature (BxC) give highest significant factor followed by interaction between injection pressure and mold temperature (AxC).
Fabrication and Piezoelectric Property of Textured Bismuth Layered Structure Ceramics by Hot Pressing Technique
Authors: Chen Huan Bei , Xu Jin Bao , Zhai Ji Wei
Published: April 2013

The bismuth layered structure materials (BLSFs) with general formula of the (Bi2O2)2+(Am-1BmO3m+1)2-, have attracted considerable attention for high-temperature piezoelectric applications. Hot pressing is a useful densifying and texture technique for enhancing the piezoelectric properties. In this present study, four different types (m=1, 2, 3, 4) of ceramics with Aurivillius structure were prepared and the influential factors of textured degree was investigated systematically by hot pressing method. The result indicates that the value of m is larger, the BLSFs ceramics is easier to get high degree of texture and high piezoelectric properties in the parallel of the hot pressing direction.