bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling of Flexspline and Contact Analyses of Harmonic Drive
Authors: Chen Xiao Xia , Lin Shu Zhong , Xing Jing Zhong
Published: October 2009

Harmonic drive has widespread applications for its compact size and high reduction ratios. It is often favored for electro-mechanical systems with space and weight limitation. In order to minimize the volume and improve its transmission capacity, more and more aborative design technologies are adopted. For structural analyses in assembly state and in transmission stage, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) can be widely applied to get proper parameters and performance. Flexspline usually endures large deformation under assembly force from wave generator. In transmission state, driving force leads to multiple tooth mesh contact between flexspline and circular spline teeth. In this paper, shell element is applied to build flexspline cone, and tapered beam element is used to model the teeth on the flexspline. Contact relation between flexspline and wave generator is simulated by contact element. Forced displacement of flexspline is imposed by contact analysis. Transmission forces are acted at the teeth tips on the flexspline in mesh state, whose values are determined according to experimental distribution. Simulations of assembly state and transmission state are computed in ANSYS. Deformation and stress distribution in assembly state are compared with that in transmission state. Some suggestions for long life and high performance design are present.
The Dynamics Analysis of the Robot Polishing System by the Multi-Agent System
Authors: Yu Miao , Cai Zhi
Published: October 2009

In order to solve the confliction among the working space, precision and stiffness on the free-form surface, this paper puts forward a Multi-Agent alliance control model that is made up of the series robot Agent, the parallel moving platform Agent and the polishing tool system Agent and so on by organically introducing the MAS (Multi-Agent System) theory into the polishing. Through the introduction of virtual point-curve constraint, the dynamics of the constraint multi-body equation for the polishing system is established in order to accurately program the moving track of the robots. Meanwhile, the control parameters and the optimal path during the polishing can be optimized.
Trajectory Planning Realization for Multi-Legged Walking Machine's Leg
Authors: Zhang Li Xun , Wang Gang , Wang Li Quan , Chen Dong Liang , Liu De Feng
Published: October 2009

In this paper, multi-legged walking machine is simplified as one leg, which the whole machine is constructed by the modularization configuration of the legs in an axisymmetric way. Consequently, the control of one leg and its trajectory planning is the significant part for multi-legged walking machine. This paper, according to the structure of the walking machine's leg with 3-DOF open chains, calculates the terminal track of the leg using the principle of kinematics and presents a foot's controller based on dSPACE. In order to obtain the optimization of the foot's track, the three-cubic spline algorithm is considered. Depending on the model of the control system in Matlab, the paper provides a semi-physical simulation for a real leg using dSPACE. The feasibility of the planned track is demonstrated and the PID parameters have been adjusted.
Applying Genetic Algorithm to Resource Constrained Multi-Project Scheduling Problems
Authors: Chen James C. , Jaong Wun Hao , Sun Cheng Ju , Lee Hung Yu , Wu Jenn Sheng , Ku Chung Chao
Published: October 2009

Resource-constrained multi-project scheduling problems (RCMPSP) consider precedence relationship among activities and the capacity constraints of multiple resources for multiple projects. RCMPSP are NP-hard due to these practical constraints indicating an exponential calculation time to reach optimal solution. In order to improve the speed and the performance of problem solving, heuristic approaches are widely applied to solve RCMPSP. This research proposes Hybrid Genetic Algorithm (HGA) and heuristic approach to solve RCMPSP with an objective to minimize the total tardiness. HGA is compared with three typical heuristics for RCMPSP: Maximum Total Work Content, Earliest Due Date, and Minimum Slack. Two typical RCMPSP from literature are used as a test bed for performance evaluation. The results demonstrate that HGA outperforms the three heuristic methods in term of the total tardiness.
Research on the Method of Circumferential Spring Dual Mass Flywheel Damper Matching with Diesel Engine
Authors: Jiang Zheng Feng , Chen Lei
Published: October 2009

As a new type of torsional vibration damper, a Dual Mass Flywheel (DMF) has different configuration and working principle from the traditional clutch. Focusing on the problem of matching DMF with a diesel engine, the relationship of circumferential spring dual mass flywheel (CS-DMF) and gearbox is analyzed based on a multi-freedom model, and then the methods of gearbox selection, rotary inertia coefficient ascertain and optimization of torsional stiffness are proposed in this paper. The methods have been applied to a CS-DMF matching with a passenger car with diesel engine. Modal simulation and torque fluctuating experiment show the CS-DMF has excellent damping performance.
Interference Suppression Detector for Spread Spectrum System Based on Amplitude Domain Processing
Authors: Wang Jing Gang , Wang Jia Huan
Published: October 2009

Amplitude Domain Processing (ADP) is proposed in this paper for modern and complicated electromagnetic environment; the algorithm is derived from Locally Optimum Detection (LOD) theory. In non-Gaussian noise environment, ADP technique could be used in Squared-Sum Detector to obtain a new code acquisition method. The result of simulation shows that the Amplitude Domain Processing proposed by this article could eliminate the narrowband interference in Spread Spectrum Navigation Receiver automatically and improve its SNR (Signal to Noise Ratio).
A Layout Method for Control Panel of Thermal Power Plant
Authors: Xu Yu Qing , Meng Qing Xin , Yu Kun , Xu Zhi Dan
Published: October 2009

. A novel method for layout has been proposed for control panel. Six layout principles of ergonomics are taken into consideration to reduce the influences of indeterminate factors caused by the subjective judgments of designers. Optimization method and function is constructed to optimize the layout result based on genetic algorithm. And a computer-aided layout system is developed based on UG/OPEN API to realize automatic layout by computer. A detailed example of control panel layout of a thermal power plant is provided. The result shows that the efficiency and quality of layout are improved by this method.
A Formal EXPRESS-to-OWL Mapping Algorithm
Authors: Pan Wen Lin
Published: October 2009

Network-based collaborative product development has become a trend in manufacturing industry, which depends on two key information technology: the Semantic Web and the standard for the exchange of product model data (STEP). EXPRESS is the STEP product data modeling language, and OWL is the standard ontology representing language used in the Semantic Web. Only when the EXPRESS models are converted to OWL models, product information can be exchanged at the Web. The ontology meta-modeling theory was employed to analysis the ontology definition metamodel of EXPRESS and OWL, in order to build up the mapping relationship between them. A formal EXPRESS-to-OWL mapping algorithm is then proposed, represented by abstract syntax.
Simulation of Diesel Electronic Control PPVI Fuel Injection System
Authors: Sun Wen Fu , Li Xiao Bo , Wang Gui Xin
Published: October 2009

The structure and properties of diesel fuel injection system directly influence the performance of diesel, and calculation and analysis are important methods to improve engine performance. So, by analyzing the structure, math models and working process theory of the electronic control PPVI fuel injection system, this paper founds initial and improved simulation models of the diesel electronic control PPVI fuel injection system, completes simulation and analysis. The simulation results show that the improved model has better cushion effect than the initial model by adding a constant pressure delivery valve between the nozzle and electromagnetic valve, what is more, the improved model can avoid the instability of the work state, such as second injection, cavitation and anomaly injection, etc., therefore, the diesel forms perfect unloading characteristic, and its performance has also been improved.
Simulation Research on Braking Safety Properties of Aircraft Traction System
Authors: Wang Neng Jian , Zhou Li Jie , Song Qiang , Zhang De Fu
Published: October 2009

The jack-knifing tendency of aircraft traction system during braking was discussed and analyzed using multi-body dynamics models that consist of aircraft-towing tractor, aircraft draw link and aircraft. The braking critical conditions of the aircraft traction system for straight-line braking and turning braking were discussed and analyzed respectively. In the case of straight-line braking, the effect of friction coefficient on the maximum braking torque is described. In the case of turning braking, the relationship between the maximum baking torque and relative angle is obtained.
Study of Ship Motion Simulation Based on HLA Technology
Authors: Liu Qin Hui , Wang Neng Jian , Zhu Hai Tao
Published: October 2009

With the effect of waves on ship in the seaway, the ship sways ceaselessly. These sway conditions affect the ship equipments and assignments directly. It is very important for us to set a system and to use the system to simulate ship navigation in ocean conditions. In the article, the authors have established the ship simulated motion framework based on HLA. In this framework, several federations which are taken as the basis to simulate ship motion and the seaway environment have been set up. The framework provides an environment and platform to study the assignments on board. The ship simulated motion system is developed with VC.Net and Vega prime technology. This system can simulate the motion of ships in deferent sea conditions. At the same time, it also can provide a basic research environment for the further study of the diversity of assignment process on board.
Semantic Similarity Based on Ontology Technology and its Application in Mobile Information Retrieval for Product Design
Authors: Zheng Yong Jun , Ren Zhong Ming , Su Dai Zhong , Arthur Leslie
Published: October 2009

With recent advances in wireless communication technologies, the world of mobile computing is flourishing with a variety of applications. This paper presents a mobile product information retrieval system that supports collaborative work among remote users. With the development of the system, a knowledge representation framework has been adopted which accommodates semantic relationships and similarity of product data. To illustrate the system developed, a case study in information retrieval for product design is presented．
Remote Machine Condition Monitoring Using Wireless Web Technology
Authors: Su Dai Zhong , Peng Wen Jie
Published: October 2009

A remote real-time machine condition monitoring system is reported in this paper, which is applied for diagnosis and prognosis of gearboxes’ working condition. Within the system, the diagnostic classification is performed by pattern recognition using statistic parameters, and remote diagnostic capability is enhanced by applying Wireless Web technology. An online signal-processing scheme is adopted based on time-frequency analysis, digital filtering and statistic parameter algorithm to detect early fault signals of gears and to provide expert advice for decision making for maintenance. The effectiveness of the developed remote diagnostic system is verified via experimental investigation of monitoring a gearbox on a test rig under different conditions.
Research on Simulation Optimization and Experiment of Dynamical Vibration Absorption Boring Bar with Damping
Authors: Qin Bai , Shao Jun Peng , Zhang Bo , Ni Yan , Zhao Yan Jiang , Han Gui Hua , Zhang Yan Qin
Published: October 2009

The build-in dynamical vibration absorption system with damping is applied to increase the dynamic stiffness of a boring bar. According to construction and vibration features, multi flexible body dynamical model of the vibration absorption system is built up by using the software of ADAMS and ANSYS. Also the vibration characteristic of an actual boring bar is analyzed by using SA-78 2ch FFT analyzer. Through the analysis of simulation results and experimental data the accuracy of the model is validated. On this basis the influence of the radial stiffness coefficient of rubber brushes, the damping coefficient of damping fluid and the mass of heavy turning body on the vibration system is discussed by using the vibration analyses module of ADAMS. The simulation results verify the feasibility of the initial structure design; establish the design key points in the actual design. The multi flexible body dynamical model of the vibration absorption system has been simulated, optimized and analyzed. And optimized parameters are obtained finally. With these optimized parameters, actual dynamical vibration absorption boring bar with damping can be designed, and the dynamic stability of the bar is enhanced thereby.
Using AHP and TOPSIS Approaches in Nuclear Power Plant Equipment Supplier Selection
Authors: Yang Guang , Huang Wen Jie , Lei Lin Li
Published: October 2009

Comparing with others, the supply chain of nuclear power plant (NPP) has its special characteristics, which not only on product safety, but also on the life cycle of supplier as well as requirement of environment, the selection of the appropriate supplier requires independent evaluation index system. For these reasons, based on establishing an evaluation index system, an integrated framework is proposed to approach the supplier selection problem in NPP supply chain systems utilizing analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and improved technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS). Then the ranking of the suppliers are determined according to their results. Finally, for application and verification, an empirical study is performed to demonstrate the integrated model and identify the suitable supplier(s).
Experimental Study and Hydrodynamic Performance Analysis of a Bio-Tail Fin Propellant System
Authors: Su Yu Min , Zhao Shi Qi , Yang Liang
Published: October 2009

In order to research the bionic mechanics in unsteady flow and the hydrodynamic performance of the oscillating tail fin, in this paper, an experimental device imitating bionic tail fin were built, the design concepts and the rolling systems of the mechanical tail fins were demonstrated, including the procedures and correlated works on the selection of the servo motors, online control and signal data collecting and processing. The movements of the mechanical tail fin could be optimized by the comparisons of the propulsion efficiency, thrust coefficient, lateral force coefficient and torque coefficient at different conditions. Meanwhile, error analysis is carried out to correct the movement curves and obtain more precise experimental data and results.
Boundary Element Method and its Application for Measuring Moisture Content in Woody Materials
Authors: Wang Jue , Luo Yue Sheng , Liu Shao Gang
Published: October 2009

The main aim of this paper is to study the mathematical model of the single planar capacitance sensor by boundary element method. This numerical method is used to compute the solution of the partial differential equation with complex boundary conditions which was established as the model of the single planar capacitance sensor. We find out the relationship between dielectric constant of the measured object and the capacitance value of capacitance sensors. A single planar capacitance sensor, which was set its specific size, is taken as an example, numerical example shows that this method is effective. The method and results can be applied to the practice of engineering, such as measuring wood moisture content and soil moisture contant, etc.
Influence of Hydrogen Contents of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy on Cutting Force and Temperature
Authors: Wei Wei Hua , Xu Jiu Hua , Fu Yu Can , Yang Shu Bao
Published: October 2009

The Ti-6Al-4V alloy was hydrogenated at 800°C by thermohydrogen treatment technology. To research the influence of hydrogen contents on cutting force and cutting temperature, the turning experiments were carried out by applying uncoated WC-Co cemented carbide tool. The results show that the most decrease amplitude of main cutting force is about 11%, and the cutting temperature reduces most by 85°C in the given conditions. Moreover, the change law of cutting force and cutting temperature is both as follows: firstly decreases and then increases with the increase of hydrogen content, and the optimum hydrogen content is 0.26%. It is considered that reasons of the change law are attributed to comprehensive effect of hydrogen contents on microstructure, flow stress, impact ductility, elastic modulus, microhardness, thermoconductivity and friction coefficient of the Ti-6Al-4V alloy.
The Order Tracking Study of Variant Speed Process of Aeroengine Vibration Signal
Authors: Jin Xiang Yang , Zhong Shi Sheng
Published: October 2009

Order tracking is an important method to analyze the response characteristics of rotating machinery for fault diagnosis and condition monitoring in rotating machinery. Order tracking method overcomes the shortcomings of traditional resampling and FFT method. A new use based on the order tracking analysis is proposed in this paper, the computed order tracking method is applied to analyse the dynamic vibration signals during aeroengine start-stop process.In the aeroengine test, the fault characteristic of rotating shafts is related to the rotating speed,vibration will be more complicated and diversified with the increasing speed during run-up process, and has characteristics of periodicity and multiple frequency. It is of vital critical to extract characteristic information from exterior measurement vibration signal and get interior fault information. Applying the order tracking in the analysis of aeroengine signals shows that it can extract the fault characteristics and realize the state monitoring.
Tangent Hole Machined by Micro Electrical Discharge Machining
Authors: Li Mao Sheng , Chi Guan Xin , Wang Zhen Long , Wang Yu Kui
Published: October 2009

Based on a self-developed pulse power supply, effects of working fluid to machining efficiency and relative wear of electrode are studied. tangent-hole machining experiments are designed and carried out. Tangent holes with 0.75mm and 0.56mm diameters on some nozzles are obtained.
Dynamic Stress Concentration of Circular Cavity and Double Linear Cracks in Elastic Medium
Authors: Zhang Xue Yi , Zou Guang Ping , Li Hong Liang
Published: October 2009

Sacttering of SH-wave of combined deffectiveness which included single circular cavity and double linear cracks in elastic medium was investigated in detail. Analytic solution of this problem was obtained by Green’s Function method and idea of crack-division at actual position of crack at two times. There were two key steps of this method. First step was to employ a special Green’s Function which was a fundamental solution of displacement field for an elastic space with a cavity in it subjected to out-of-plane harmonic line source force at any point at first. The sceond step was crack-division which was artificially to produce a crack by apllying opposite shear stress caused by incident SH-wave. Distribution of dynamic stress concentration factor (DSCF) at edge of cavity was studied by numerical analysis. Distribution Curves of DSCF of three models were plotted by numerical method in polar coordinate system. Three models were one circular cavity and without crack, one circular cavity and single crack and single circular cavity double cracks. The results were compared and discussed in different incident angle of SH-wave.Conclusion was that the interaction among SH-wave, single cavity and double crack was obvious. Dynamic stress concentration factor varied with angle and distance between cavity and crack.
Dynamics Model and Control of Path Following of Wheel Mobile Robot
Authors: Qu Dong Yue , Zhan Yong
Published: October 2009

This paper discusses the structure of wheel mobile robot, dynamics model and control model are developed. The method is tested by computer simulation, which is used to control the wheel mobile robot to follow straightaway and circle path, and numerical results show good result.
Development and Experimental Study of a Small Type Submarine Mower
Authors: Zhang Li Zhen , Li Jun , Chen Jin Wen
Published: October 2009

In view of the current situation that landscape waterfronts are small, dispersed, increasing, and it is difficult for big mowers to cut aquatic grass, a small type submarine mower-SGW1.2 type submarine mower, is developed for small waterfront. Based on the definition of the swath, the cut depth, the machine’s outline size, productivity and other technical parameters, and combined with the knowledge of hydrodynamics and theoretical naval architecture and so on, the reciprocating cutters, propeller and auxiliary structures are selected and designed, and then the design of the submarine mower is accomplished. The experiments showed that SGW1.2 type submarine mower’s cutting depth is adjustable among the required range, and all the parameters including the turning radius, the productivity, the speed and the fuel consumption meet the demands as anticipated. The average omission rate and average cutting leakage rate are small. The experiments proved that the submarine mower has a good ability for continuous cutting and harvesting, and is appropriate to cut aquatic grass in small-scale waterfronts.
Studies and Application of Aquatic Processing Products Supply Chain Traceability System
Authors: Zhou Hui , Zhang Li Zhen
Published: October 2009

To effectively control and monitor the quality of aquatic products, a supply chain traceability system of multi-user and multi-authorities has been established. In this paper, current situation of traceability system was firstly introduced, and then a general system architecture, function modules, data model and encoding scheme were discussed. This system was constructed on the ASP.NET platform, using the C# programming language and SQL server 2000 database technology. Through this system, a platform was provided for exchanging information of producing, circulating and consuming among supply chain participants, products quality control on the whole chain and traceability was then achieved.
Bending Fatigue Design Method for Double Sides Loaded Gears
Authors: Wang Guo Jun , Jiang Mei Hua , Zhu Shi Shun , Xu An Tao
Published: October 2009

Bending fatigue is one of the main failure modes of gears. The method of gear fatigue design was discussed in many papers. Most of them are based on GB/T3480-83.But study shows that the method current widely used only fits for the single side loaded gear. For double sides loaded gear, only a mean stress modification coefficient is concerned compared to single side loaded gear. A new formula based on fatigue theory is given to modify the mean stress in consideration of the load character of doubled sides loaded gear. The method given in the paper is an addition to the traditional gear design method.
Design and Testing of Towed Fishery Detector in Horizontality
Authors: Yu Ming , Yang Shi E
Published: October 2009

Towed fishery detector in horizontality works passively to detect the location of the shoals of fish through detecting their noises. It can facilitate the detection and reduce the cost as well. It can offset the noise in the signals received by the two vector hydrophones in the tow and reduce the interference from the ship for the efficient range of target detection. It can indicate the azimuth of each target by computing relatively on sound pressure and vector velocity and with the help of non-linear optimizing technology and multi-sources distinguishing by single vector hydrophone.
Launder System for Aluminium Casting
Authors: Canullo María Victoria , Daroqui Fernando , Ottaviani Julio , Martín Mauricio , Laje Rodolfo Acuña
Published: October 2009

In 2000 Aluar installed its first in-house designed launder system for liquid metal transfer from the furnaces to their continuous casting machines. Since then, this type of launder system has been successfully installed in 9 casting lines, both batch and continuous, with flow rates ranging from 2 to 44 tonne/h, for conventional open mould casting, Wagstaff vertical DC billet casting , and Properzi rod casting.
The Aluar system is designed to ensure an effective metal temperature control as well as a constant steady “under skin” metal flow, so avoiding turbulence and oxide generation.
The highly adaptable system consists of a metal structure, which houses the pre-moulded high durability refractory launders of standardized shapes and dimensions required for the geometry of the desired lay-out: Y shaped, V-shaped, straight, elbowed launders, etc. In this way, the launders enable the connection of the furnaces to the casting machine optimizing the new or existing lay-out, and can be fully integrated to the degasser unit and the filter box without dross generation. The pre-moulded refractory pieces can be easily and quickly removed when their life time is over, thus reducing maintenance costs.
Each module is insulated by a thick layer of material to reduce temperature loss (approx. 1°C per m in continuous casting).
Another important feature of the system is the thermally insulated heated lids that can be commanded by a PLC to ensure excellent metal temperature control.
Efficient launder level control systems ensure an effective achievement of consistent process control parameters. Control flow devices with laser commanded pins allow handling metal height differences up to a range of 200mm, without turbulence.
This paper describes the main features of the launder design and presents some case studies in continuous and batch casting lines to show their performance in aluminium alloyed and unalloyed products. Maintenance performance indicators showing typical refractory life time are also included.
INFA, an Engineering company of the Aluar group, with a vast experience in engineering works for the aluminium industry, was responsible for the installation and commissioning of these systems and is planning to market this product worldwide in the near future.
Development of a Phosphate - Free Reticulated Foam Filter Material for Aluminium Cast Houses
Authors: Aubrey Leonard S. , Olson Rudolph , Smith David D.
Published: October 2009

Filtration of molten aluminium using porous reticulated ceramic foam was developed in 1974 by SELEE Corporation. Since that time, there have been significant technical advances in filter bowl design and construction, preheat systems, development of fine pore size filters, development of compact two-stage filtration systems, filter gasket materials, and equipment automation. One area that has remained relatively unchanged has been the refractory filter material technology.
The refractory material utilized by all of the major cast house filter suppliers is based on an alumina aggregate grain bonded with aluminium phosphate (AlPO4). This filter material, commonly referred to as “PBA” in the aluminium industry, has become an industry wide standard and accounts for nearly 99% of the filters supplied to cast houses worldwide. There are significant technical limitations of PBA filters in terms of refractory performance, as well as potential environmental, health and safety concerns.
This paper describes the development of a cost effective replacement filter material that overcomes the limitations of PBA filters. The new material utilizes a low expansion – low modulus aggregate material and a non-phosphate bond. The result is a significant reduction in mechanical failures during use, improved filtration performance and elimination of the issue of potential environmental, health and safety concerns.
Results with a Multi Stage System of Filtration Employing a Cyclone
Authors: Courtenay John H. , Reusch Frank
Published: October 2009

The development of a new prototype multi stage filter was described at TMS 2008 in which a ceramic foam filter was applied in a first chamber operating in cake mode; grain refiner added in a second chamber and a cyclone deployed in a final chamber to ensure removal of any oxides or agglomerates arising from the grain refiner addition or release events from the foam filter. The first industrial prototype was installed at Trimet Aluminium at Essen in Germany and demonstrated that liquid metal could pass through the cyclone successfully without excessive turbulence or splash. The further development of the prototype based on new water modeling work is described.
Estimating the Production Capabilities of Casthouse Equipment Configuration Options
Authors: Baker P.W.
Published: October 2009

Operational casthouses must, above all else, be capable of accepting all primary metal produced by the potlines so as not to limit the ability of the smelter to produce metal and to provide the most stable operating regime for the reduction cells by allowing consistent metal pad depth. To be effective, casthouse equipment configurations must accommodate not only the normal operational state, but also both repair and catch-up scenarios.
Hatch has developed a simple first pass methodology for assessing the performance of equipment configuration options for primary aluminium casthouses in this context.
Technological Jump in Aluminium Ingot Production
Authors: Brocato Carmelo Maria
Published: October 2009

Abstract
Usual production of modern cast houses includes semi products and re-melt products. Billets, slabs and rod belong to the family of semi products, while T-bars, sows and ingots are incorporated in the category of re-melt products. Re-melt forms have been developed to be easily transported and easily processed in locations even far away from the cast house where these have been produced. Unlike sow and T-bars, ingots need to be stacked in bundles and securely strapped to allow safe and easier handling and transportation. Yet, the ingots can be processed one-by-one by small users or can be loaded into the melting furnace bundle-by-bundle.
The shape and weight of pure aluminium ingots of the old prior art were determined with two aims: maximization of the production rate and minimization of the production costs: for many years heavy ingots have been produced by pouring molten aluminium into a chain of open top moulds. The traditional complex shape of the ingots was intended to facilitate de-moulding operations and bundle piling.
For the above reasons, the most common ingot weight worldwide has ranged, until now, from 22.5 to 23.5kg.
Now a new technology launched by Continuus-Properzi offers bigger hourly production rates and handy, safe and sound ingots of 30 pounds (13.6kg) as well as more compact and stable bundles. These advantages are paralleled by low maintenance costs and a very high yield near to 90%.
With similar investment and production costs the new technology can give a 30% yearly production increase and winning ingot characteristics.
Dross Processing Technology
Authors: Peel Alan , Herbert James , Roth David , Collins Martin J.
Published: October 2009

While it is generally acknowledged that dross generation should be kept to a minimum, too often the importance of maximizing the aluminium content of the dross is overlooked. Some mistakenly believe that a low metal content is a good thing and that the aluminium is being kept in the furnace. In reality, this metal is most likely being lost due to insufficient cooling and thermiting.
Much can be gleaned from looking at the dross that is generated in a casthouse; in fact, the quality of dross can provide a good indication of the overall efficiency of the operation. Even with the very low aluminium prices of today of about US$1400 per tonne, a recovery improvement of just 3% for a facility producing 500t of dross per month can provide savings in excess of $250.000 per year. Effective dross management also results in better metal quality, improved fuel efficiency, prolonged refractory life and improved profitability in the entire facility.
Over the years, as facilities have focused on better dross cooling and handling techniques, dross recoveries have improved. Today, dross recoveries should be in the range of 60 – 70%. These numbers will raise debate but 30 years of experience give us deep insight into these results.
The paper looks at the different techniques of handling the dross that is produced within the melting/casting operation with the objective of maximizing aluminium recovery. This paper will consider both the initial dross handling within the cast house but then also how secondary processors should be evaluated to maximize the value of the dross being processed. A company can lose as much dross recovery opportunity here as in their own facility. .
In summary, by careful attention to the equipment and process techniques around the furnace and the follow-on dross management, significant cost savings and environmental benefits can be realized by cast house operations.
Fives Solios Experience in Modern Secondary Aluminium Casthouse Construction
Authors: Allen Lee , Hipwood Paul , Houghton Barry
Published: October 2009

In early 2006, Fives Solios, namely Solios Thermal, was selected as a key cast house supplier by a major aluminium producer for a new 130,000te/yr re-melting facility. The project scope included not only the supply of modern melting and holding furnaces plus ancillary equipment, but also pre-heating furnaces, an air pollution control system, basic cast house engineering, cooling water schemes and complete turnkey project management. This project presented particular technical and logistical challenges and was required to meet exacting European environmental / efficiency standards for all major contractors involved. The facility was commissioned in March 2008 and the first production was on schedule.
This paper will discuss the challenges that the Solios Thermal project team had to overcome, from layout of equipment to conclusion of the project; also how good communication and close collaboration between the customer and all major subcontractors resulted in a successfully implemented plant.
Thermal Diffusivity Measurements of the Layered Materials by the Laser Flash Method
Authors: Akoshima Megumi , Baba Tetsuya , Ogawa Mitsue , Tanaka Takashi , Harada Yoshio , Kawasaki Akira , Ono Fumio
Published: October 2009

Ceramics-based thermal barrier coatings are used as heat and wear shields of blades of gas turbine. There are strong needs to evaluate thermophysical properties of coatings, such as thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity and heat capacity of them. Since coatings are attached on substrates, it is not easy to measure these properties separately. In order to evaluate the thermal diffusivity of coating attached on substrate, we have tried to apply the multi-layer model based on the response function method and established a procedure for the measurement by the laser flash method. We verified the procedure by the measurements from room temperature to about 1000 K for two-layer ceramics sample prepared by the doctor blade tape casting method. The thermally sprayed CoNiCrAlY coating on the SUS304 substrate was also used for verification. The thermal diffusivity of coating attached on substrate approximately agreed with that of the single-layer coating removed from substrate. In the case of the ceramics sample, the thermal diffusivity of the coating including the interfacial thermal resistance determined within about 20 % uncertainty. We compared the laser flash measurement signals of the samples prepared by the thermal spraying with variant thickness and found the difference among them. It was found that the procedure has enough resolution to detect the heat shield effect caused by the change with about 200 m in thickness. The result shows that the procedure and analysis were practically effective for the thermal diffusivity estimation of coating attached on the substrate without remove from substrate.
Analytical Solution of a Crack Problem in a Radially Graded FGM
Authors: Çetin Suat , Kadıoğlu Suat
Published: October 2009

The objective of this study is to determine stress intensity factors (SIFs) for a crack in a functionally graded layer bonded to a homogeneous substrate. Functionally graded coating contains an edge crack perpendicular to the interface. It is assumed that plane strain conditions prevail and the crack is subjected to mode I loading. By introducing an elastic foundation underneath the homogeneous layer, the plane strain problem under consideration is used as an approximate model for an FGM coating with radial grading on a thin walled cylinder. The plane elasticity problem is reduced to the solution of a singular integral equation. Constant strain loading is considered. Stress intensity factors are obtained as a function of crack length, strip thicknesses, foundation modulus, and inhomogeneity parameter.
Report on FY 2007 Functionally Graded Materials Database
Authors: Kisara Katsuto , Konno Tomomi , Niino Masayuki
Published: October 2009

Functionally Graded Materials Database (hereinafter referred to as FGMs Database) has been run by Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) since October, 2002. So far, the database contains 1,815 research paper information including 12,790 figures and tables, 2,632 author information, 904 PDFs, and 563 university, research institution and company information. The database had been used by 34,968 users from 113 countries in FY2007, where the effective total visits counted to 73,072. Approx. 20% of users had repeatedly visited the website. In FY 2007 users from Japan were significantly increased. Additionally, the interest of Europe and Middle east/Africa region was remarkable.
Basic Approach to Graded Compound of Magnetic Particle with Polyester Resin in Magnetic Field
Authors: Ito Mikiya , Sakamoto Tatsuro , Suzuki Minoru
Published: October 2009

Functionally Graded Material (FGM) is a characteristic material having many functions and possibilities. The improvement of the long term stability is strongly necessitated by railway polymeric materials. To carry out the purpose, FGM is an expected material that enables to improve the certain properties and affinities. The authors tried to produce a graded compound of the magnetic particles in the polymer matrix in the magnetic field. From the results, the graded compound of the magnetic particles was produced by the control of magnetic flux. In particular, the control of time during which the magnetic field was charged was effective to improve the dispersion state of the magnetic particles in polymer matrix.
Synthesis, Structure and Properties of Niobium Aluminum Oxynitride and Tantalum Based Compound Prepared through Citrate Route
Authors: Masubuchi Yasuji , Yamamoto Shinichi , Takeda Takashi , Kikkawa Shinichi
Published: October 2009

The oxynitrides with composition A1-xBx(OyNz) (A: Nb and Ta, B: Al) were studied in preparation through citrate route and NH3 nitridation. In the case of Nb, the product of x = 0.5 prepared at 1000 °C was a new compound of a = 0.435 nm with rock salt structure. In this structure, Al and Nb atoms were distributed randomly in the cation sites. Anion sites were also randomly occupied by oxide and nitride ions with some amount of vacancy. The chemical composition was represented as Nb0.56Al0.44O0.38N0.37□0.25 from Rietveld refinement and oxygen/ nitrogen measurement. In the case of Ta, monoclinic Ta3N5 crystallized with a small amount of Ta4N5 impurity at x = 0.5. Aluminum compound was co-present as amorphous impurity.
Modelling of Processing of FGM Bioimplants
Authors: Gasik Michael M. , Zhang Bao Sheng
Published: October 2009

Bioimplants composed of metal and ceramic parts are recently widely used in medicine. It was shown that properties of these implants might be substantially improved with functionally graded materials (FGM). In this work ceramics FGM are considered with emphasis on the optimal processing technique. For ceramic balls and liners of total hip replacement prosthesis optimal sintering procedure is very important irrespectively on the initially selected graded composition profile to get beneficial stresses distribution after sintering and assembling. Different examples are shown and influence of the sintering and gradient profile selection on final properties is discussed.
Development of WC-Co/SUS304 Functionally Graded Materials by Using Three Dimensional Micro Welding
Authors: Yamamoto Y. , Kirihara Soshu
Published: October 2009

Three dimensional micro welding (3DMW) of a novel freeform fabrication process for metal or alloy components has been developed in our investigation group. A tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding machine is controlled by utilizing CAD/CAM processes. Various types of metal or alloy wires are fed automatically under a micro-arc torch to form tiny metallic beads. These micrometer order beads are joined continuously to build three dimensional structures. Near-net-shape components of metal or alloy compounds with high melting points can be fabricated automatically with minimized energy and resources. In this study, tungsten carbide-cobalt (WC-Co) and stainless steel (SUS304) micro beads of 1.0 mm in diameter were stacked alternately to fabricate cutting tools with graded structures by using the 3DMW. The microstructure and hardness were observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectra (EDS) and Vickers hardness tester. The maximum hardness of micro bead was approximately 1300 HV and no crack or pore existed in the formed objects.
Approach to Optimum Layer Structure of Functionally Graded Materials
Authors: Hasezaki Kazuhiro , Noda Yasutoshi
Published: October 2009

Minimum interlayer numbers of functionally graded materials (FGMs) are studied based on the empirical analysis of thermal stress due to the differences in the thermal expansion coefficient  and temperature T between sintering and room temperatures. It is found the maximum ,   and the minimum interlayer number necessary to produce a NiCr / Fly ash FGM structure without interface cracking were 4.0×10-6 K-1, 1080 K, 0.043 and 2, respectively. The condition  < 0.043 was derived and confirmed to be valid for available FGM systems.
Fabrication and Evaluation of CoSb3/Electrode Thermoelectric Joints
Authors: Zhao De Gang , Li Xiao Ya , Cai Yan Hong , Jiang Wan , Chen Li Dong
Published: October 2009

Joining of TE material to electrode is the key technique in the construction of TE device for the practical applications. In this study, a suitable alloy electrode was introduced into CoSb3-based element by means of spark plasma sintering (SPS). Finite element analysis showed that the maximum thermal residual stress appeared at the cylindrical surface zone close to the CoSb3/electrode interface. Microstructure of CoSb3/electrode was investigated by EPMA and the intermetallic compound (IMC) layers were found. The shear strength of CoSb3/electrode joints was tested and the results show that the joints have sufficient strength for reliability of TE device. Electrical contact resistance between CoSb3 and electrode was measured by means of four-probe technique. The results show that the contact resistance was minimal and below the 50μΩ.cm2, which meant the joint exhibited a good electrical contact. The high temperature reliability evaluation showed good thermal duration stability of the CoSb3/electrode joints.
Sputter Deposition of Fe-Co Nitride for Ferromagnetic Granular Nitride Thin Film
Authors: Sakon K. , Hirokawa Y. , Masubuchi Yasuji , Kikkawa Shinichi
Published: October 2009

Sputter deposited Fe0.7Co0.3 nitride thin film had zinc blende structure. It was thermally decomposed completely back to the ferromagnetic Fe0.7Co0.3 alloy above 400°C. As-deposited nitride thin films obtained in cosputtering of (Fe0.7Co0.3)1-xAlx composite target with nitrogen sputter gas were solid solutions with zinc blende (x≤0.44) and wurtzite (x>0.5) type structure, respectively. The largest magneto resistance ratio of 0.24% was observed on the Fe0.7Co0.3 alloy particles dispersed in AlN thin film obtained by thermal decomposition of the nitride solid solution with x=0.66 at 500°C.
Mechanical Modeling of Thin Films Bonded to Functionally Graded Materials
Authors: Guler Mehmet Ali , Gülver Yusuf Fuat , Dag Serkan
Published: October 2009

In this study the contact problems of thin films bonded to Functionally Graded Materials (FGM) are considered. In these problems the loading consists of any one or combination of stresses caused by uniform temperature changes and temperature excursions, far field mechanical loading, and residual stresses resulting from film processing or in the manufacturing process of the graded coating. The primary interest in this study is in examining stress concentrations or singularities near the film ends for the purpose of addressing the question of crack initiation and propagation in the substrate or along the interface. The underlying contact mechanics problem is formulated by assuming that the film is a “membrane” and the FGM an elastic continuum, and is solved analytically by reducing it to an integral equation. The calculated results are the interfacial shear stress between the film and the graded substrate, mode II stress intensity factor at the end of the film and the axial normal stress in the film.
Structure of Ni-Al Intermetallic Porous Thick Films Produced by Microscopic Reactive Infiltration
Authors: Hayashi Naoya , Ohmi Tatsuya , Iguchi Manabu
Published: October 2009

A microchanneling process utilizing microscopic reactive infiltration produces microchannels and alloy lining layers in metal bodies. We examined the composition and structure of a Ni-Al intermetallic lining layer with a peculiar porous structure produced by Ni-Al reactive infiltration. The Ni-Al lining layer is a thick film consists of multiple sub-layers and has many micropores. Such a porous structure and the heat resistance of Ni-Al intermetallic compound are appropriate for a catalyst support in high-temperature use. Image analysis and EPMA revealed that both aluminum concentration and voidage in the Ni-Al lining layer show a graded distribution along the thickness direction of the lining layer.
The Recent Progress of FGM on Nuclear Materials - Design and Fabrication of W/Cu Functionally Graded Material High Heat Flux Components for Fusion Reactor
Authors: Zhou Zhang Jian , Yum Yong Jin , Ge Chang Chun
Published: October 2009

Two kinds of W/Cu functionally graded material based high heat flux components, including monoblock concept and flat tile concept, are designed and fabricated. Thermally induced stresses and strains under operation conditions in these components are analyzed using finite element analysis. The effect on stress and strain of using different graded structures to join Cu to W is examined and compared. There has no obvious difference on operation thermal stress mitigating between monoblock design and flat tile design. The component with monoblock concept was fabricated by a one step fast resistance sintering, and the component with flat tile concept was fabricated by infiltration-welding method successfully.