bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tribology Aspects Considered When Selecting Rolling Bearings for the Automobile Industry
Authors: Glöckner H J R
Published: February 2007

To save energy and to reduce weight of automobiles, the tribological behaviour of the bearing positions in the torque flow between drive motor and tyre contact have been optimized to reduce losses in rolling bearings. This has resulted in a considerable increase in power density and life of rolling bearings in gearboxes and differential gears. By development of a new generation of wheel bearings it has been possible to reduce the weight of unsprung masses of the cars considerably. By selection of suitable lubricants, frictional losses in rolling bearings can also be reduced. By means of a short test it is now possible to evaluate the behaviour of lubricants in the rolling contact under operating conditions.
Stiffness and Damping of Externally Pressurized Gas Journal Bearings with Porous Inserts
Authors: Majumdar B C
Published: February 2007

A theoretical analysis on stiffness and damping of externally pressurized gas journal bearings with porous inserts as restrictors is presented. The effect of stiffness and damping on squeeze number, supply pressure, feeding parameter and L/D ratio is investigated.
The Piezo-Viscous Fluid, Rigid Solid Regime of Lubrication
Authors: Dowson D , Dunn J F , Taylor C M
Published: February 2007

A general analysis of the lubrication of rigid-ellipsoidal solids by a piezo-viscous fluid is reported. Solutions based upon the Reynolds cavitation boundary condition are presented and details are given of the resulting pressure distributions and film thickness predictions.

Four distinct forms of the fluid film lubrication of a general curved solid near a plane have previously been noted and described as: (i) rigid-isoviscous, (ii) elastic-isoviscous, (iii) elastic-variable viscosity (piezo-viscous), (iv) rigid-variable viscosity (piezo-viscous).

Solutions already exist for the first three forms of lubrication for conjunctions formed between solids having curvatures in two principal directions, but the rigid-variable viscosity regime has not previously been analysed within the same general set of conditions.

The results not only enable the film thickness between curved solids in nominal point contact to be predicted with reasonable confidence, but they indicate quite clearly the dominant physical effects governing the hydrodynamic performance of such conjunctions.
Explicit Equations for the Stresses beneath a Sliding Spherical Contact
Authors: Hamilton G M
Published: February 2007

Explicit formulae have been developed for the stresses beneath a sliding, normally loaded Hertzian contact. As friction rises a region of impending failure develops in the back edge of contact.
On the Dynamic Analysis of Planar Mechanisms with Multiple Clearances
Authors: Osman M O M , Bahgat B M , Sankar T S
Published: February 2007

The paper develops a general procedure for the dynamic analysis of planar mechanisms with multiple clearance. The analysis mainly relies on determining the clearance angles Bij its first and second derivatives. The governing equations of each clearance angle are developed on the condition that the variations in displacements and velocities due to clearance effect are very small and could be ignored. Also, the equations governing these clearance angles are developed such that the common normal at the point of contact at each clearance connection coincides with the direction of the clearance eccentricity vector which has the same direction of the normal force at the point of contact. A quick-return motion mechanism with seven clearances is considered to illustrate the procedure.
A Study of Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication of a Centrally Loaded 120° Arc Partial Bearing in Different Flow Regimes
Authors: Jain S C , Sinhasan R , Singh D V
Published: February 2007

The elastic deformation of the bearing liner is considered in determining the static and dynamic performance characteristics of the centrally loaded 120° arc bearing for eccentricity ratio up to 0.8 and mean Reynolds number up to 7500. Using the finite element method, the pressure distribution in the fluid film and the elastic deformation in the bearing shell are obtained by solving the Reynolds equation and the three-dimensional elasticity equations iteratively. The performance characteristics of the bearing are computed for different values of the deformation coefficient which is a measure of the flexibility of the bearing shell. In addition, some results are also reported for laminar and turbulent flow conditions treating viscosity as a function of pressure.
Free and Forced Motion of a Gyropendulum
Authors: Krishnan V , Maunder L
Published: February 2007

The paper extends the theory of a gyroscope moving under gravity. Two types of suspension are investigated. In each case results are obtained for free motion and for forced horizontal vibration. As far as is known, fast precession was measured experimentally for the first time.
A Simplified Procedure for Predicting the Performance of Inherently Compensated Aerostatic Thrust Bearings
Authors: Stanojevic M , Lewis G K
Published: February 2007

Simplified theoretical predictions of load capacity, flowrate and stiffness are compared with measured performance. Reasonable agreement is achieved if the roughness of the bearing surfaces and an empirical discharge coefficient for the equivalent restrictor are taken into account.
Steady-State Characteristics of Aerostatic Porous Rectangular Thrust Bearings Incorporating the Effects of Velocity Slip, Anisotropy and Tilt
Authors: Singh K C , Rao N S , Majumdar B C
Published: February 2007

A generalized solution is presented in order to predict the steady-state performance characteristics of aerostatic porous rectangular thrust bearings of finite pad thickness. The analysis takes into account the Beavers-Joseph criterion for velocity slip at the bearing interface, the anisotropy of the porous material and the tilt of the bearing. Dimensionless load capacity, mass flowrate of the gas and static stiffness are computed numerically for different operating parameters and bearing dimensions and presented in the form of design charts. The effect of slip is to reduce the load capacity and increase the mass rate of flow.
A Technique for the Prediction of the Noise Field from an Arbitrary Vibrating Machine
Authors: Hodgson D C , Sadek M M
Published: February 2007

A comprehensive computer aided design package has been developed to predict the sound field and sound power of an arbitrary vibrating machine structure subject only to the limitations of computer storage. The technique is a combination of a standard finite element package and a specially developed noise prediction package based on the Helmholtz integral equation. The accuracy of the package has been verified experimentally for two impact forming machines. Experimental results and theoretical predictions were found to agree within 2 dB in general.
Design Study of a 375 kW Helicopter Transmission with Split-Torque Epicyclic and Bevel Drive Stages
Authors: White G
Published: February 2007

A novel drive train based on a simple epicyclic gear that drives a bevel combining gear through counter-rotating pinions is developed into a main gearbox for a helicopter powered by a single engine. A design with an overall speed ratio of 17.6 : 1 is compared with an advanced technology version of a production transmission.

The new design, based on an integral main shaft and bevel gear, has a dry weight of 46 kg and offers a 24 per cent reduction in weight while remaining competitive in respect of drive train losses and totals of gears and bearings.
Effect of Top-Relief and Rake Angles on the Gear Shaping Cutter Profile
Authors: Srinivasan N , Shunmugam M S
Published: February 2007

Gear shaping cutters are provided with top-relief and rake angles. As a result of this, the profile representing the cutting edge is modified. This paper deals with the method of obtaining the effective profile on the rack-type and pinion-type cutters for spur gears. Analysis of the effective profile shows that the effective profile of the rack-type cutter is actually a straight-sided tooth form with different pressure angle and tooth thickness at the reference (pitch) line. In the case of the pinion-type cutter, tooth thinning takes place and the effective profile could not be identified with any involute form.

This paper also deals with the methods of correcting the cutter profile form so that profile close to the theoretical form can be obtained on grinding the rake face. This approach would be quite useful to the designers and manufacturers of the shaping cutters.
Condition Monitoring in the CEGB—Some Future Requirements for Tribology Related Problems
Authors: Low M B J , Gordelier S C
Published: February 2007

This paper attempts to take a broad look at the practice and prospects for condition monitoring in the CEGB. The strategy of on-condition maintenance is compared with the current maintenance policy in the Board and it is concluded that, apart from auxiliary plant, there is no clear economic case for an on-condition approach. It is suggested that a rational approach to condition monitoring can only be achieved with a knowledge of plant failure statistics and the detailed characteristics of the failure modes. A detailed survey of plant failures is given with the specific examples of a tribological nature where the monitoring derived from knowledge of the failure mechanism. A brief review of the available monitoring techniques, benefits and shortcomings, and how these can be applied to the problems discussed is also given.
Windage Loss in Larger High-Speed Gears
Authors: Dawson P H
Published: February 2007

Some preliminary measurements have been made of the windage loss in a number of larger spur gears and one helical gear, in air, and of how this windage loss is affected by speed, size, details of the gear geometry and the shape of enclosures. It is shown that for most gears the larger part of the windage loss arises from the teeth. Some comments are made on the mechanisms of windage loss and an empirical formula is given to estimate roughly the windage loss to be expected from a gear. The experiments, however, were carried out in air and there is a lack of knowledge on the effects of oil vapour, mist and larger drops in the atmosphere on the windage loss.
Comparison of Measured and Calculated Gas Velocities in the Inlet Channel of a Single Cylinder Reciprocating Engine
Authors: Sierens R , Van Hove W , Snauwaert P
Published: February 2007

This paper shows that the calculated instantaneous velocities (using the method of characteristics) in the inlet channel of a combustion engine are in agreement with the measured velocities (using a laser Doppler anemometer). A discussion of the results is given.
Cost Effective Engineering Through Simulation
Authors: Hollocks B W
Published: February 2007

Computer simulation is a well proven and powerful tool to assist engineers in the decision making which is part of plant design and operation. British Steel (BSC) was the pioneer in this field. The paper describes recent advances in simulation tools, and recent examples of their application.

Drawing on BSC experience, the paper discusses where and how simulation should be used in order to secure the considerable potential benefits in reduced costs and improved plant performance.
Effect of Reducing the Blade Cooling Air Temperature and Mass Flow on Blade Life and Cycle Efficiency
Authors: Hay N , Taylor J H
Published: February 2007

Reduction of the temperature of the air used for blade cooling to below the compressor exit temperature would allow the required mass flow to be reduced and might be expected to result in an improvement in engine performance. This is demonstrated and quantified in this paper.

Improvements in both blade life and cycle efficiency are shown to be possible. For example by cooling the coolant by 50°C a reduction in coolant flow of 40 per cent is possible as well as an improvement of 20 per cent in blade life. Additionally a marginal increase in cycle efficiency is obtained and a 1.4 per cent increase in specific work output.

A concept for an integrated cooling device for producing the required reduction in temperature of the blade cooling air is described and appraised. As envisaged at present, the device would be too bulky for airborne applications. However, with further development a feasible design might be evolved.
The Active Control of Noise and Vibration and Some Applications in Industry
Authors: Swinbanks M A
Published: February 2007

During the last decade, advances in signal processing and microelectronics have brought to reality the development of active devices for suppressing noise and vibration. These have now been successfully demonstrated both in laboratory experiments, and under more rigorous conditions of large-scale industrial application.

It is shown that close parallels exist between these novel active techniques and certain well-proven mechanical methods of reducing vibration. Examples of the latter are given which date back to the last century, and highlight the extent to which the basic principles of dynamic vibration cancellation have been applied with confidence by mechanical engineers. Now, in common with many other applications of control technology, the process of replacing simple mechanical linkages with more precise and responsive electronically activated servomechanisms has led to considerably improved flexibility and adaptability. In this respect the application of active control to vibration attenuation represents a natural and timely step in engineering development.

A more recent advance, however, has been the application of these techniques to the direct control of airborne sound, which represents a greater departure from conventional engineering practice. A number of successful examples of such methods have now been demonstrated. It is proposed that more sophisticated devices, which will take even greater advantage of the power of modern signal processing, will be developed for the future. These devices promise to enhance considerably the overall scope of the technology.
A Study of Audits, Inspection and Quality Costs in the Pressure Vessel Fabrication Sector of the Process Plant Industry
Authors: MSc B G Dale , MSc J J Plunkett
Published: February 2007

This paper presents the results of an investigation into quality assurance (QA) in the pressure vessel fabrication sector of the process plant industry, with particular emphasis on audits, inspection, and costs. Studies have taken place in twelve fabrication companies and have been supplemented by discussions with other involved and interested bodies (e.g. Pressure Vessel Quality Assurance Board, clients, contractors, and independent inspection agencies). The more important problems areas such as multiple inspection, number of annual external audits, fabricators' dissatisfaction with the qualifications, experience and professional competence of many inspectors and auditors, and the mutual distrust existing between many of the interested parties in the industry are pointed out. The study also shows that few fabricators are able to quantify their quality costs and only one company revealed a system which identified quality costs and used the data in a constructive way to improve their quality performance.
End Plate Balance in Gear Pumps
Authors: Hooke C J , Koc E
Published: February 2007

This paper presents a computer aided approach to the design of fixed and floating end plates in gear pumps. Account is taken of the relative tilt of the plates and gears and of the hydrodynamically and hydrostatically generated pressures between the gears and end plate. Criteria for achieving load and moment balance are outlined and the effects of cavitation discussed. It is shown that the approach leads to an understanding of the behaviour of wear plates and enables the effect of changes in plate design to be assessed.
Changes Required in British Industry
Authors: Ashton E W S
Published: February 2007

Deficiencies in British manufacturing industry are described and proposals outlined for a new generation of managers capable of restoring the fortunes of British industry.
Mechanical Engineering Design Decisions: Instances of Practice Compared with Theory
Authors: Tebay R , Atherton J , Wearne S H
Published: February 2007

Decisions made in an engineering company were recorded and analysed to show how elementary techniques of decision-making can aid the planning and control of decisions in engineering design.
Contractual Responsibilities for the Design of Engineering Plant: A Survey of Practice and Problems
Authors: Wearne S H
Published: February 2007

Reviews current practice and problems in the contractual relationship between customer and contractor in the design and construction of engineering plant.
Experience in Using Computer Aided Design and Draughting Equipment in the Mining Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Chandler D
Published: February 2007

This paper describes the use of computer aided systems in connection with the design of powered roof supports to work on mechanized installations for the underground extraction of minerals, principally coal. Each roof support is made up of many structural components withstanding extreme loading conditions: hydraulic struts which hold up the roof advance the support, etc., and associated valve gear (both electronic and hydraulic control) to operate the supports. Each set of roof supports (approximately 150 per installation) is custom built to suit the particular mine's requirements.

A computer aided design (CAD) system was installed in 1979 to help with the presentation of technical brochures for presentation with the quotation to prospective customers. This proved a great success especially in the pictorial representation of the proposed support to the customer. Since then the CAD facility has been expanded, especially in the structural design area, and is now used for design and analysis as well as normal draughting of components and assemblies.

This paper emphasizes the use of CAD as a design and analysis tool rather than equipment that can produce detail drawings more quickly than manual methods. It also explores where CAD can be of benefit in hydraulic design in areas such as flow analysis and its extensions into CAD/CAM (computer aided manufacture) and general manufacturing.
Project Management in Engineering R and D
Authors: Pearson A W
Published: February 2007

Techniques for improving the effectiveness of engineering R and D are not used as frequently as the literature suggests. Reasons are discussed and approaches presented which have improved performance in differing situations.
The Development and Application of a Computer Based Appraisal Technique for the Structured Evaluation of Machine Tool Purchases
Authors: Primrose P L , Leonard R
Published: February 2007

This paper describes the philosophy and construction of a computer program which has been used to alleviate the problems normally associated with DCF (discounted cashflow) techniques for investment appraisal, especially with respect to advanced machine tools. The parameters for evaluating a single machine tool purchase are listed, together with a discussion of the practical problems of evaluating these factors within an industrial environment. It is shown that many of the assumptions made in past publications relating to financial evaluation are in error and do not allow for the constraints normally encountered in industry. A companion paper describes a range of case studies of the practical application of the program within industry with respect to the purchase of advanced machine tools.
The Mathematical Modelling of Hydrostatic Pumps and Motors
Authors: McCandlish D , Dorey R E
Published: February 2007

Accurate mathematical models of hydrostatic pumps and motors are required in the synthesis and analysis of hydraulic systems. Increasingly the models are used in computer simulation work where the performance of the machines must be represented over a wide range of operating conditions.

Examination of test data has shown significant differences in the real performance characteristics of hydrostatic machines compared to the characteristics predicted by classical models based on simple linear theory. This paper describes these differences and shows the way that the characteristics can change with different designs of machine.

A mathematical model is developed which may be adapted to describe the wide range of characteristics associated with the different designs. This model has shown good agreement with test data.

Recommendations are made for more comprehensive performance tests to provide the data required for more accurate models.
Getting the Engineers we Need
Authors: Corfield Sir Kenneth
Published: February 2007

This paper presents the author's views on the importance of education in future wealth creation, in particular the education of engineers, and on the need for industrial /academic co-operation. It points out that there will be an increasing demand for engineers in high technology and that providing the resources for their education and training is vital if the UK economy is to survive and prosper. It concludes by outlining the proposals of the Engineering Council for the future education and training of engineers.
The Way Ahead for Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Tombs Sir Francis
Published: February 2007

This paper outlines the decline in manufacturing industry in the UK over the past thirty years and pinpoints the main causes for the decline. The author puts forward his views on the prospects for improvement in manufacturing industry and the need for changes of attitude within the Government, the Civil Service, trades unions, universities, management and shareholders. The author then proposes some contributions which each of these groups can make towards the future survival and success of industry and concludes by urging the industrialists to take the initiative.
The Large Elastic Deflection of Thin Strips in V-Die Bending and the Onset of Plasticity
Authors: Johnson W , Yu T X
Published: February 2007

The aim is to examine carefully the start of a press-braking process in which thin flat strips begin to be deformed in order to plastically form V-shaped items. To this end the large elastic deformation of strips in V-die bending is analysed to obtain the relationship between the punch force and the punch displacement. The process consists of two stages: air bending and partial straightening at the strip ends along the die. The range of applicability of the elastica-like solutions is discussed and provides criteria for the onset of plastic forming. Numerical results and magnitudes for load versus punch displacement, suitably non-dimensionalized, for 90° V-die bending, are presented.
Theoretical Considerations of Molecular Mean Free Path Influenced Slip in Self-Acting Gas-Lubricated Plain Journal Bearings
Authors: Malik M
Published: February 2007

The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of slip under the influence of molecular mean free path on the steady state and dynamic performance characteristics of plain gas journal bearings. The theoretical investigations have been made over a wide range of compressibility number. It is found that slip usually impairs the bearing performance, particularly at low compressibility numbers, A; the effect of slip, however, diminishes with increasing values of A. In fact at high compressibility numbers, theory suggests that slip has a beneficial effect of improving the dynamic performance of the bearing.
The Computation of Thick Axisymmetric Boundary Layers and Wakes around Bodies of Revolution
Authors: Markatos N C
Published: February 2007

The paper is concerned with the computational investigation of thick, axisymmetric, turbulent boundary layers and wakes around bodies of revolution. The procedures employed take full account of the influence of longitudinal and transverse surface curvatures and normal pressure gradients on the development of the boundary layer and wake, and also the viscous—inviscid interaction in the tail region of the body.

The method makes it possible to calculate the static pressure and the velocity profiles along the body as well as the drag components; and it is applicable to both two- and three-dimensional situations, enabling, for example, the prediction of flows around ships' and submarines' hulls to be made.

The application of the fully-elliptic calculation procedure to a body of revolution is described, and comparisons made between predictions and experimental measurements.

The calculated axial variation of skin friction and pressure coefficient, and the velocity profiles are shown to be in fair agreement with experimental values.
An Approximate Treatment of Flow in Branches and Bends
Authors: Hager W H
Published: February 2007

Flow in channel branches and bends is analysed by using elementary hydraulic theory. The results are expressions for the local loss coefficients. The primary purpose is to explore the simplified flow processes in the two flow elements. The theoretical solutions match observations well qualitatively but need improvement if quantitative agreement with observations is to be obtained.
Influence of Induction Swirl and Piston Configuration on Air Flow in a Four-Stroke Model Engine
Authors: Vafidis C
Published: February 2007

Measurements of ensemble-averaged mean, r.m.s. and cycle resolved instantaneous swirl velocities, obtained by laser—Doppler anemometry, are reported for the in-cylinder flow in a four-stroke model engine motored at 200 r/min. Variable induction swirl was created by 30° and 60° vanes located in axisymmetric and off-centre intake ports with flat and re-entrant bowl piston configurations.

The results showed that the main features of the initial swirl velocity distribution, which are determined by the intake port/valve geometry, persist through the compression stroke. The swirl centre performed in all cases a helical motion whose development was a function of the clearance volume at top dead centre; the weakness of this motion made it susceptible to cyclic variations which were significantly reduced with the re-entrant piston bowl. High induction swirl resulted in lower turbulence intensity at top dead centre of compression, in the flat piston case, and more complex vortex pattern inside the re-entrant piston bowl.

The angular momentum decay from inlet valve closure to top dead centre of compression was shown to depend on initial swirl ratio and velocity distribution and calculated to be about 30 and 45 per cent for the flat and re-entrant bowl piston, respectively.
A Theoretical Analysis of the Bending into Cylindrical Dies of Metal Strips
Authors: Yu T X , Johnson W
Published: February 2007

Based on experiments on the bending of metal strips into cylindrical dies using a semi-circular ended punch (1) a theoretical analysis of this metal forming process is presented to predict the punch load—punch travel characteristic and the clearance between the punch pole and the mid-point of the strip. Elastic/plastic and rigid/plastic material idealizations are employed, and the effect of friction between the strip and the die is also considered. The theoretical predictions show good agreement with the experimental results and are useful for designers.
Temperature Transients in a Triple Heat Exchanger
Authors: Chiu P C , Fung E H K
Published: February 2007

A triple heat exchanger, so called because there are three heat exchange processes taking place in it, was built to simulate the system behaviour of a nuclear reactor power plant or a solar heating plant which is characterized by the two circulating loops of the fluid flow. Experiments were carried out to study the temperature transients under disturbances in secondary fluid inlet temperature and power output from immersion heaters. Numerical results were obtained from the weighted residual formulation of the proposed dynamic model and they were shown to be in general agreement with the two sets of experimental responses.
A Multi-Surface Representation of Anisotropic Hardening and Comparisons with Experiment
Authors: Rees D W A
Published: February 2007

An idealized multi-strain potential model is presented. Qualitatively, it is shown to represent, through rigid kinematic translation, the anisotropic hardening behaviour for prestrained metallic materials in the Bauschinger effect, unloading-reloading hysteresis, plastic strain path rotation with fading memory and features of cyclic plasticity under load and strain control. Respective comparisons made with experimental observations suggest a translation model further modified with rotation, contraction and expansion along the prestress vector in the absence of cross-hardening. Equivalence considerations reveal that such refinements can conveniently be made to the model from reversed loading experiments under tension and torsion.
The Stiffness and Static Stability of Compensated Hydrostatic Cylindrical-Pad Bearings
Authors: Lewis G K
Published: February 2007

The effect of capillary, orifice and flow-control valve compensation on the fluid film stiffness, ψ, and static instability (ψ = 0) of hydrostatic cylindrical-pad bearings has been examined both theoretically and experimentally. Equations derived from the basic bearing parameters allow the stiffness to be expressed in non-dimensional form and calculated at any load and eccentricity. The equations show that for the same load and eccentricity ψv> ψo> ψc>. For both orifice and capillary compensation the stiffness may reduce to zero and the shaft become unstable as the load and eccentricity are increased. This does not occur with flow-control valve compensation. Here the stiffness increases rapidly with eccentricity. For this type of compensation a greater stiffness is obtained with a smaller port. For a given orifice or capillary the port size determines the eccentricity when instability occurs. To obtain a maximum stable working range and also to increase the stiffness at any eccentricity a large port is preferred with these types of compensation. The size of the compensating element also affects the inception of instability. Maximum allowable values for various port sizes are derived for square ports.
The Strength-Instability Interaction of Double-Skinned Composite Circular Shells under External Pressure
Authors: Nash T , Montague P
Published: February 2007

This paper describes the construction and external pressure-testing of cylindrical shells fabricated by filling the annulus between two thin steel concentric membranes with an epoxy resin-glass syntatic foam. The investigation was specifically aimed to study the strength-instability interaction of relatively thin composite shells. The experimental behaviour of eight shells is reported and their failure pressures are compared with previously published predictions. The results provided empirical evidence to support a modified Rankine-type interaction curve yielding safe lower bound solutions.
A Car for the Nineties: BL's Energy Conservation Vehicle
Authors: King C S
Published: February 2007

Several crises in the Middle East have resulted in the disappearance of cheap fuel oil. Further crises are possible and although considerable reserves exist, with the exception of the Middle East, production is bound to become more and more expensive.

BL's answer is the conservation vehicle. Development ran through two preliminary phases, ECVI and ECV2, which were based on a small car prototype. The third phase ECV3, though profiting from the earlier vehicles, bears little resemblance to them; it is bigger, it shares few common parts and to a large extent is made from different materials.

The objectives for the ECV are 0–60 mile/h acceleration in 12 s or less with an average fuel consumption of better than 50 mile/gal.

It must be in no way inferior to existing medium sized family cars in performance, ride, handling, interior noise, vibration, safety and accommodation. It is designed for minimum whole life cost.

This lecture describes the efforts made to meet these objectives.
Applications of Fibre Reinforced Plastic Composites in the Railway Industry
Authors: Batchelor J , Wilson J E
Published: February 2007

This paper describes the use of fibre reinforced plastics in the railway industry. A description is given of various case studies, including seat shells, temporary overhead structures, pantograph heads, cab fronts and doors, in order to give a practical illustration of the various applications to which such plastics can be put.

The paper also deals with design criteria such as stiffness, strength, flammability, durability and cost effectiveness, quoting comparative figures. Finally, the paper looks at future developments, specifically the use of higher performance carbon and aramid, fibres, both of which are discussed, after which a brief description is given of fibre reinforced thermoplastics for performance applications.
Tailoring Oils to Engines
Authors: Colyer C C
Published: February 2007

Today's high performance automotive engines would not operate effectively without the progressive advancements in engine oil formulation technology. A communications network between the engine builders, additive suppliers, petroleum companies, and consumers is essential in the continuous tailoring of engine oils to meet new engine requirements. The SAE/ASTM/API tripartite Engine oil performance and engine service classification system is recognized worldwide as a base for adding further requirements for various geographic areas. Attempts to develop one worldwide specification system have been thwarted by lack of unified agreement within, as well as between, the pertinent geographic areas of the world. In addition, worldwide specifications would not provide cost/performance optimization for areas not requiring each of the included engine oil parameters, and oil formulation compromises required to meet total world requirements could weaken oil performance in a specific area.

As new engine designs place additional burdens on engine oils, the role of chemical additives to meet these demands increases. Revised engine oil evaluation tests are an associated need. Continued efforts toward elusive worldwide engine oil specifications will provide benefits by consolidating the number of expensive laboratory engine tests required to define engine oil performance.
Motor Vehicle Design Engineering in the UK
Authors: Mellor R W
Published: February 2007

Outlines the author's views on the present state of motor vehicle design engineering in the U K. Describes the organizational, management and technical opportunities to maintain the importance of the U K as a source of vehicle design.
The Dynamic Response of Railway Track With Flexible Sleepers to High Frequency Vertical Excitation
Authors: Grassie S L , Cox S J
Published: February 2007

A model of railway track is presented which allows examination of the behaviour of the track support. Large sleeper strains are associated with poorly damped sleeper resonances.
Variety In Transport Engineering
Authors: Hollings J S
Published: February 2007

The Chairman of the Automobile Division traces his career from Cambridge University, where he was a Scholar, through military service with REME to Rolls-Royce where he worked for thirty-four years on a variety of transport engineering projects. He describes some of the Rolls-Royce aero engines, the design of a nuclear reactor for a submarine and some details of the development of famous motor cars such as the Silver Shadow, the Corniche and the Silver Spirit.
The Effect of Atmospheric Conditions on the Performance of an Air-Borne Two-Stroke Spark-Ignition Engine
Authors: Sher E
Published: February 2007

The effect of changes in atmospheric pressure and temperature on the performance of a crankcase-scavenged spark-ignition two-stroke cycle engine has been investigated. A detailed computer code has been developed to simulate the two-stroke cycle and was used to evaluate an optimal engine design for best performances at high altitude conditions. The model which includes detailed computations of the scavenging process, calculations of the flows into and out of the engine, empirical expressions for the combustion process, and a practical approach for the heat transfer has been calibrated by using experimental results. An empirical correlation has been devised for the prediction of the indicated power and for the specific fuel consumption of an engine at any pressure and temperature using information obtained at normal atmospheric conditions. These are [Formula: see text]

The correlations have been compared with some other suggested correlations and were found to best fit experimental observations for three different makes of engine.
Electrification of Suburban Railway Routes Through the City of Dublin
Authors: Grant J C
Published: February 2007

A technical description of the electrification in progress of the existing railway coastal routes from Howth to Bray through Dublin city, forming the first stage of a proposed rapid transit network.
Reduction of Pumping Losses By the Use of a Variable Valve Timing System
Authors: Payri F , Boada F , Macián V
Published: February 2007

In this paper, the advantages of using variable valve timing systems in order to decrease pumping losses are outlined. In the first part of the paper, the reduction of pumping losses through regulation of the engine load rate, by varying the time that the intake valve remains open, is justified by reasoning on ideal diagrams. In the second part, a proposed system to vary the valve timing diagram is described. This system consists mainly of a four-bar mechanism. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed system are considered in the real engine by means of a calculation model. The conclusion is that with this system it is possible to obtain important improvements in the effective efficiency of the engine running at partial load.
Low-Pressure Steam Turbine Disc Cracking—An Update
Authors: Lyle F F , McMinn A , Leverant G R
Published: February 2007

This paper summarizes results of studies conducted in the USA over the past five years to identify factors responsible for stress corrosion cracking (SCC) of forged, shrunk-on, low-alloy steel discs in low-pressure (LP) steam turbines used in nuclear power plants. Experience in the UK and subsequent research findings are reviewed, and results of a survey of US experience and of comprehensive experimental programs are reported. Recommendations are presented to minimize SCC of LP turbine discs in existing and future power plants. In general, the work performed revealed: (i) no specific chemical contaminant is required for cracking; crack initiation and growth occur in pure condensed steam; (ii) the yield strength of a disc steel is the dominant factor governing crack growth rates; (iii) other factors being equal, a higher incidence of cracking may be expected in rotor designs having higher applied stress levels. Crack initiation and growth in LP turbines may be minimized by control of the environment, by use of low-strength alloys, and by designs which eliminate keyways and minimize applied stress levels.
The History of Safety Valves Leading to the Development of British Standards for Safety Valves
Authors: Fuller J A
Published: February 2007

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers has stated, and the British Standards Institution has accepted, that a standard should reflect both the most up-to-date and reliable advice that can be applied within prevailing economic restraints, and the needs of supplier and user.

The paper reviews some features of safety valve design from 1680 onwards and relates these to various requirements of British Standards for safety valves, BS 759 of 1937, and its subsequent revisions, BS 1123 of 1943, and its revisions, both of which are application standards, and BS 6759: 1984, which is a product standard.

This latter standard for safety valves, which is in three parts, (Part 1. Safety valves for steam and hot water; Part 2. Safety valves for compressed air and compressed inert gas; Part 3. Safety valves for process fluids not covered by Parts 1 and 2) is introduced and described in some detail, particular attention being given to the sections dealing with the certification of performance of any given design.
Ceramics Technology—Application to Engine Components
Authors: Parker D A
Published: February 2007

In the development of engine components a number of special techniques are used to combat the hostile operating environment which usually includes high and cyclic forces, high and cyclic temperatures, sliding and often corrosion and/or erosion. Examples of the use of these techniques, namely the development of special materials for substrate and surface, of mathematical modelling verified by telemetry, and of special machining, to solve the problems of the operating environment, are given in respect of pistons, piston rings, cylinder liners, bearings, camshafts and valve seat inserts. It is noted that of the above techniques the development of special surface and substrate materials provides the most universal assistance.

The application of materials technology to surface and substrate is illustrated with respect to ceramics, including silicon nitride, silicon carbide, zirconia and alumina. Applications under development include insulation, improvement of wear resistance, reduction of mass, increase of operating temperature and the reinforcement of metals, for example, reinforcement of aluminium alloys using alumina fibres incorporated by squeeze casting.

The several means open to improve the properties of gravity cast aluminium silicon alloys are reviewed and the improvement of properties obtainable by squeeze casting without reinforcement are illustrated. The further enhancement of these properties by the design of an appropriate fibre reinforcement system, incorporated by squeeze casting, is then described. Its application to the reinforcement of a combustion bowl subject to high thermal stress is discussed and the performance of the resulting piston in relation to unreinforced pistons is described.

In conclusion the market, product and process aspects of the development are correlated to demonstrate its overall value and to identify further applications.
The Equations of Motion of n-Bladed Propellers with Arbitrarily Positioned Hinges and Their Application to an Experimental One-Bladed Wind Turbine
Authors: Person M
Published: February 2007

The equations of motion of n-bladed propellers with arbitrarily positioned hinges are derived out of the equations of a one-bladed propeller, by superposition. Different types of propellers are compared for time variances at the equations. An unbalanced start-up and the stability analyses (Floquet) of an experimental one-bladed propeller illustrate the need to consider the interaction of the motions of nacelle or hub and blade.
Fusion Power and the JET Project—A General Presentation
Authors: Huguet M
Published: February 2007

This paper gives an introduction to the principles of fusion reactions and fusion power. The basic engineering features of fusion machines and the JET (Joint European Torus) are also described together with the mechanical problems specific to this type of machine.
Experimental Stress Analysis of Four Fabricated Equal Diameter Branch Pipe Intersections Subjected to Moment Loadings and the Implications on Branch Junction Design
Authors: Moffat D G
Published: February 2007

Four 250 mm (10 inch) equal diameter branch junctions of different thickness have been subjected to all six external moment loadings that can occur in practice, together with internal pressure in one case. The results of detailed experimental stress analyses are presented and are discussed in the light of current American and British piping design codes.
Some Practicalities and Pitfalls of Quality-Related Cost Collection
Authors: Plunkett J J , Dale B G
Published: February 2007

This paper, which is based on detailed case studies in three engineering companies, highlights some possible pitfalls in quality-related cost collection. It also makes clear that costs need to be suitably qualified if they are to be meaningful and comparable with other published data. A rational approach to quality cost collection exercises is outlined. Such an approach will help to ensure that the data collected are understood by all parties, and can be qualified.
Robotics: Market Growth, Application Trends and Investment Analysis
Authors: Lewis A , Nagpal B K , Watts P L
Published: February 2007

The paper discusses briefly the state of art of robotic applications and the degree of penetration of robots in various industrial sectors on a worldwide basis is forecast. A set of economic models is developed for investment appraisal. Parameters such as capital cost involved, productivity improvement, resulting savings and corporation tax aspects are included. The ranking of various applications as per capital investment required and the economic criteria of payback period and internal rate of return (yield) are presented.
Surviving the Social Implications
Authors: Burke T
Published: February 2007

The paper considers the implications for manufacturing industry of the rise in influence of the public interest pressure groups and the kind of responses that might be made to the mutual benefit of industry and society.
The Design of Self-Centring Seal-Less Hydraulic Pistons
Authors: Laurenson I T
Published: February 2007

This paper describes the design optimization of hydraulic pistons in which the only seal is the small clearance between the piston and the cylinder wall. The small leakage thus permitted is used, in conjunction with an appropriate piston geometry, to provide a pressure distribution which makes the piston self-centring. Metal-metal contact is avoided, even under considerable side loads. Similar design principles applied to the piston rod bearing make the rod self-centring in the bearing. Several possible advantages arise, e.g., the elimination of break-out friction problems common with conventional seals, the elimination of maintenance checks and seal replacements, use in environments which are hostile to conventional seals, and use with non-lubricating fluids. Three piston designs, the tapered piston, the stepped piston and the slot-controlled piston, are considered. The slot-controlled piston is shown to have performance characteristics which are superior to those of the other two designs.
Mechanical Properties of Woven Fabrics
Authors: Hamed H A K , Sadek K S H
Published: February 2007

Woven fabrics are now used for many industrial purposes such as conveyor belts, filters, car tyres and inflatable structures. This has increased the importance of a precise knowledge of their mechanical properties. In this paper, an attempt is carried out to predict the extension of plain woven fabrics when subjected to bilateral tension. Naturally, it is essential to know the mechanical properties of the yarns used in the fabric. Three basic sets of non-linear equations are used. The first set includes the geometrical relations of yarn interlacing according to the Pierce model. The second set is deduced by assuming that the total volume of the yarn is constant during extension. The third set is an expression of the total energy or the sum of potential energy and the yarn strain energy due to extension and bending. The total energy is minimized using the pattern optimization technique while maintaining the constraints imposed by the first two sets of equations. The numerical results obtained are given in the form of load-extension curves and some experimental results are shown for comparison.