bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Partnerships for corporate social responsibility
Authors: Nijhof Andre , de Bruijn Theo , Honders Hakan 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to conceptualise the extent to which partnerships with non‐governmental organisations (NGOs) are a necessity for successful efforts of businesses in the area of corporate social responsibility (CSR).Design/methodology/approachThe main findings are based on an analysis of existing literature on NGO typologies and strategies for CSR and illustrated with examples from the Dutch National Research Program on CSR.FindingsBased on three different strategies towards CSR, the suggestion is that NGOs tend to become involved in partnerships with companies that have an interest in postponing concrete results, while partnerships with companies that have the potential for the biggest contribution to the ambitions of NGOs have the highest risk of diminishing NGO‐legitimacy.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a conceptual paper. Suggestions are given to test the hypotheses put forward as well as the actual results associated with each of the strategies towards corporate social responsibility.Practical implicationsWhatever strategy a company opts for, managers should be aware that every strategy has a reverse side. Being aware of the weak spots of one's own strategy is important to anticipate claims associated with one of the other strategies.Originality/valueTheory in the field of CSR emphasises the necessity to involve NGOs in embedding social issues in the strategies and day‐to‐day operations of organisations. This paper proves that this emphasis is not always justified and presents arguments when certain forms of NGO involvement are required.
Tribological performance of rare‐earth alkylsalicylate as lubrication additive
Authors: Liu Rende , Tao Dehua , Zhao Yuan 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to study the tribological performance of an oil soluble mixed rare‐earth alkylsalicylate (REA) as lubrication additive in VG 26 white oil, and to estimate the action mechanism.Design/methodology/approachThe organo rare‐earth compound is synthesized, and added in base oil with different concentrations. The tribological performances of the organo rare‐earth compound as a lubrication additive in VG 26 white oil and its anti‐wear properties are evaluated with a four‐ball friction and wear tester. The wear scar is analyzed with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).FindingsThe novel compound exhibits excellent anti‐wear, load‐carrying and friction‐reducing capacities in base stock. The analytical results of XPS indicate that the excellent performance of REA can be attributed to the formation of a boundary lubricating film mainly composed of alkylsalicylic acid, rare earth oxide, and complexes of rare earth metals, which is formed on a rubbed surface when lubricated by oil containing the REA additive.Research limitations/implicationsTheir antioxidant and anticorrosion properties are not estimated.Practical implicationsOne useful AW and EP lubricating oil additive is synthesized, and maybe it is the potential industrial applied lubricating oil additive.Originality/valueThis paper provides a study of organo rare‐earth compounds as lubrication additives.
Fatigue testing of Inconel‐625 coatings on carbon and stainless steel after one and three weeks of exposure to aqueous electrolytic solution
Authors: Boudi A.A. , Hashmi M.S.J. , Yilbas B.S. 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper seeks to examine the fatigue properties of HVOF sprayed Inconel‐625 coating of steel substrate before and after the aqueous corrosion.Design/methodology/approachWorkpieces were cut from steel sheets. After chemical and ultrasonic cleaning, workpiece surfaces were sand‐blasted and HVOF sprayed Inconel‐625 coated. The coated and un‐coated surfaces were subjected to the aqueous corrosion tests for one and three weeks. After the completion of the corrosion tests, fatigue properties of the workpieces were examined.FindingsStainless steel coated workpieces demonstrated excellent fatigue life resistance versus coated carbon steel workpieces. Stainless steel workpieces apparently have a high‐cycle fatigue represented by in excess of 1.50 million cycles without cracking, thereby assuring a high‐fatigue life. The carbon steel specimens have low‐cycle fatigue and consequently a short fatigue life. In addition, high velocity impacting of splats on to the workpiece enhances the hardness of the surface. This, in turn, improves fatigue properties at the interface, particularly for stainless steel workpieces.Research limitations/implicationsThe tests can be extended to include the duplex treated workpieces such as the laser treatment of surface after HVOF sprayed coating. This enhances the bonding of the coating through thermal integration of the coating and the base substrate material.Practical implicationsThe results can be used to assess the HVOF sprayed coatings.Originality/valueThis paper provides information on the fatigue behavior of HVOF sprayed coatings when subjected to the cyclic load and offers practical help for the researchers and scientists working in the coatings area.
Effect of rheological behaviour of lithium greases on the friction process
Authors: Delgado M.A. , Franco J.M. , Kuhn E. 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe aim of this work is to investigate the relationship among rheology, tribology and traditional standardized technological parameters of lithium lubricating greases.Design/methodology/approachLubricating greases having the same composition but differing in processing protocols have been manufactured and characterized in order to isolate the rheological behaviour from the formulation.FindingsSome successful empirical correlations between rheological (viscous and viscoelastic) and technological standardized parameters, with the friction factor obtained from a ball‐disc tribometer, have been established in order to elucidate the role of the rheological behaviour of lubricating greases on the friction process. In addition to this, an energetic evaluation of the structural degradation of greases during the friction process has been carried out by performing stress‐growth experiments. Thus, the storage energy density, which is related to the grease capacity to accumulate energy in the elastic deformation, and the limiting energy density, which represents the dissipation of energy in the flow process, have been satisfactorily correlated with the friction factor.Research limitations/implicationsThe complex rheological behaviour of lubricating greases, the extreme deformations and the high‐shear stresses resulting in a tribological contact imply that it is difficult to develop a model to describe their behaviour in an elastohydrodynamic lubricating contact.Originality/valueThis paper provides a resource of practical data to be applied in tribological systems.
Effect of Ti and B on the dry sliding wear behaviour of hypoeutectic Al‐Si alloys
Authors: Kori S.A. , Chandrashekharaiah T.M. , Auradi V. , Kabadi V.R. 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to study the effect of Al‐Ti‐B grain refiners on the wear behaviour of hypoeutectic (Al‐0.2, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7Si alloys) Al‐Si alloys against steel counterface using a Pin‐On‐Disc machine under dry sliding conditions.Design/methodology/approachIn the present study, Al‐5Ti‐1B and Al‐1Ti‐3B grain refiners were used for the refinement of α‐Al dendrites in hypoeutectic Al‐Si alloys. Various parameters such as alloy composition, normal pressure, sliding speed and sliding distance were studied on Al‐Si alloys. Worn surfaces were characterized by SEM/EDX microanalysis.FindingsWear resistance of hypoeutectic Al‐Si alloys increases with the addition of Al‐Ti‐B refiners when compared with the absence of grain refiner.Research limitations/implicationsThe effects of normal pressure, sliding speed and sliding distance were studied by varying one parameter and keeping constant the other two parameters.Originality/valueThis paper provides information on improvement in wear properties of Al‐Si alloys by the addition of Al‐Ti‐B grain refiners. The effects of silicon and grain refiners containing Ti/B play a vital role and are responsible for the wear resistance of the alloys, which helps the industrialists in manufacturing Al‐Si alloy components.
An examination of human resource management practices in Iranian public sector
Authors: Yeganeh Hamid , Su Zhan 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze HRM practices in Iran in view of underlying cultural, political and economic factors.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is organized in three major parts. The first part deals with HRM concept and Iranian social context. The second part presents methodology and data analysis. The third part discusses results and illustrates HRM practices in Iranian organizations. The study involves in‐depth interviews with four Iranian managers and data collected from 82 respondents through Likert‐type questionnaires (n=82, rate of response=44 per cent).FindingsThe findings in the paper shed light on the main HRM functions in the Iranian public sector. Staffing is marked by pervasiveness of networking, entitlement, compliance with Islamic/revolutionary criteria and high job security. Compensation is described by features such as fixed pay, ascription/seniority‐based reward, and hierarchical pay structure. Training and development programs are found to be unplanned and spontaneous. Finally, the paper shows that the appraisal function receives little attention and tends to be based on subjective and behavioral criteria.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper shows that the study is limited in terms of HRM functions, sector and sample size. Further research may make comparison between large/state‐owned and small/private organizations.Practical implicationsThe findings in the paper might be valuable for MNEs, NGOs, international negotiators, expatriate managers, investors and those who are concerned with this part of the world.Originality/valueThe paper presents a convenient approach in assessing HRM variations. The combination of qualitative and quantitative data provides a thick description of HRM enriched by secondary data and previous research. Given some commonalities between Iran and other developing countries, the findings might be of potential interest in comparative studies dealing with management transferability.
KUKA robotics open architecture allows wireless control
Authors: Connolly Christine 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to investigate a high‐profile marketing stratagem staged by a robot manufacturer.Design/methodology/approachThe exhibition, press release and video are described. The relevant technical details of the KUKA robot and controller are presented, followed by those of the Nintendo Wii remote control device and its Bluetooth communications technology. The experimental set‐up used in the video is then explained.FindingsThis advertising exercise created a lot of interest, but was rather misleading and of questionable value in its stated aim of encouraging the trickle‐down of robots to the consumer market.Originality/valueThis paper highlights the power and availability of the Nintendo Wii controller and Bluetooth communications, and KUKA's drive to appeal to non‐engineers.
Vision and robotics team up at the 2007 Show
Authors: Bloss Richard 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to review the 2007 Bi‐Annual International Robotics and Vision Show in Chicago.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents in‐depth interviews with exhibitors of robots and robotic vision systems.FindingsThe marriage of vision and robotics is changing the nature of robotics. In the past, a robot was a “dumb” mechanism which followed pre‐programmed directions. With the addition of vision and added computing power, the robot is starting to “find its way” in the application. Innovations in grippers, robotic design and simulation also shared the stage.Practical implicationsApplications, which previously did not lend themselves to a robotic solution because the requirement could not be completely pre‐programmed, may now be possible. With vision, the robot can adjust for uncertainties in real‐time and perform other tasks such as inspection.Originality/valueThis paper reviews the 2007 Bi‐Annual International Robotics and Vision Show, Chicago.
The theory of constraints thinking processes: retrospect and prospect
Authors: Kim Seonmin , Mabin Victoria Jane , Davies John 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper seeks to provide a timely review of developments to the theory of constraints (TOC) body of knowledge, particularly the TOC thinking processes as reported in the public domain peer‐reviewed literature, and to present an analysis of the nature of the thinking processes (TPs), and their methodological and applicatory evolution.Design/methodology/approachResearch reported in the public domain from 1994 to early 2006, as peer‐reviewed journal articles or as papers published in refereed conference proceedings, was reviewed to summarize key research issues that have been studied and to suggest future research. The literature is categorized along several dimensions and according to several emergent and self‐defined clusters that relate to application area, methodology and epistemology.FindingsThis paper presents a comprehensive review of the TP literature, identifies specific publication and research gaps as they relate to the defined classification and also provides some future research topics.Research limitations/implicationsThe review addresses only the peer‐reviewed literature spanning a limited period from 1994 to the time of the current work in early 2006 – that is the period since the publication of Goldratt'sIt's Not Luck. In doing so, the review complements the work of others for the period to 2000, extends previous reviews beyond 2000, whilst providing an additional focus on the TPs.Practical implicationsThis paper provides useful insights about the development of the TOC body of knowledge, especially as it relates to the development and reported use of the TPs as stand‐alone tools or in tandem with other tools or methods. It provides a valuable summary, for academics and practitioners, of the developing TOC body of knowledge that has been reported in the peer‐reviewed literature.Originality/valueThe development of the TOC body of knowledge has been largely practice‐led, manifested not only in the diverse nature of application areas and in the diverse use of TOC tools, but also in the broader evolution of TOC methodology, methods and tools. Earlier reviews of the literature in this journal preceded many of the developments documented here. This paper will help position the many TOC methods and tools in relation to one another, as well as capturing developments in multi‐methodological usage across several domains.
Supplier relations and supply chain performance in financial services processes
Authors: Field Joy M. , Meile Larry C. 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to empirically test the relationship between supplier relations and satisfaction with overall supplier performance in a services context at a process level of analysis.Design/methodology/approachTwo hypotheses are developed, one predicting a positive relationship between a multi‐dimensional construct of supplier relations and satisfaction with overall supplier performance, and one five‐part hypothesis predicting positive relationships between the underlying components of supplier relations and satisfaction with overall supplier performance. Using a sample of 108 financial services processes, the first hypothesis is tested using regression analysis, and the second hypothesis is tested using correlation analysis.FindingsAfter controlling for supplier efficiency and responsiveness, use of information technology, electronic information‐sharing, supplier type, and firm size, better supplier relations are associated with satisfaction with overall supplier performance. However, while the “partnering” components of the relationship (i.e. cooperation and long‐term commitment) are correlated with satisfaction with overall supplier performance, the “operational” components of the relationship (i.e. high degree of coordination, information‐sharing, and feedback) are not.Research limitations/implicationsLimited informant population, primarily single respondents, some single‐item variables.Practical implicationsThe research results suggest not only the importance of improving overall supplier relations, but also the particular benefits of building partnerships within the service supply chain through co‐operation and long‐term commitment in order to increase satisfaction with overall supplier performance.Originality/valueUnlike most empirical supply chain management studies, which use data from manufacturers at the strategic business unit or firm level, and recognizing that services and manufacturers differ in certain respects that are salient for supply chain management, this study uses data from a services industry (i.e. financial services) collected at the process level and provides unique insights into services and process level supply chain management.
Printed sensors: enabling new applications
Authors: Schroeter Klaus 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to discuss the new applications enabled by printed sensors.Design/methodology/approachThe paper discusses how silicon‐based sensors are manufactured using the time‐consuming, expensive, and complicated fabrication process of traditional semiconductor devices and shows what is needed in order to produce such new devices with the advantages of printed sensors.FindingsWith new materials, new processing technologies and a new manufacturing process, thin, flexible, lightweight, cost‐effective sensors are made possible through the power of printed semiconductors.Originality/valueThis paper should be of value in terms of understanding the pros of printed semiconductors and the resulting sensors which have a number of unique mechanical, electrical, and optical properties.
Accordion fringe interferometry: a revolutionary new digital shape‐scanning technology
Authors: Bloss Richard 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper seeks to describe an innovative new technology for digitizing the shapes of 3D objects quickly and accurately, which uses accordion fringe interferometry (AFI).Design/methodology/approachLaser beams cast fringe patterns on objects, a digital camera captures images and software constructs point clouds of data. A software package then analyzes the point cloud to extract information such as dimensions or variations in shape for subsequent operations.FindingsThe AFI approach has already been applied to a number of applications such as: inspection of jet engine airfoils, repair of composite structures and inspection of very delicate objects.Practical implicationsPoint cloud digital shape scanning will find an ever increasing number of applications which will benefit from this fast, accurate and non‐contact three‐dimensional digitizing technology.Originality/valueUsers now have a totally new means for capturing dense, three‐dimensional data.
Laser sensors maximize gains and minimize losses
Authors: Pastorius Walter , Snow Mike 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to use 3D laser sensors to collect high‐density data that are required for defect detection and localization at high‐production rates in manufacturing facilities.Design/methodology/approachThe high‐speed sensors use Ethernet communications to transport large amounts of data and resolve any synchronization issues.FindingsModern laser sensor technology provides the ability to detect and quantify defects in high‐volume manufacturing, wherever defects are located. Laser line sensors provide high speed, high‐density data for full surface inspection. Synchronization and communications issues are simplified by the FireSync™ platform, making system integration straightforward, and maximizing reliability.Originality/valueThis paper provides detailed 3D data at high speed and uses multiple (binocular) scanners to overcome problems of occlusion.
New‐generation nano‐engineered biosensors, enabling nanotechnologies and nanomaterials
Authors: Khanna Vinod Kumar 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to discover the novelties in biosensor fabrication brought about by breakthroughs in nanomaterials and process techniques, the resulting enhancement in biosensor functionalities, new applications and future possibilities.Design/methodology/approachThe impact of nanotechnology on biosensor advancement has been examined. Different directions of biosensor research in the nano era have been highlighted. These include the efforts made through nanotechnology to improve the performance parameters of the existing biosensors, and for implementation of innovative biosensor concepts.FindingsNanotechnology is a key technology in biosensor development. It has permeated into the biosensor field and brought in its wake far‐reaching changes.Practical implicationsBiosensor science and engineering are central to virtually all aspects of life including medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring and biotechnological process control. Therefore, the progress in biosensors brought about by nanotechnology influences one's everyday life.Originality/valueThe study helps in understanding the applications of nanotechnology in fabricating a new generation of biosensors with improved characteristics. It provides information of value to those involved in biosensor research.
Solid state acoustic wave sensors for real‐time in‐line measurement of oil viscosity
Authors: Durdag Kerem 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to determine the important role of acoustic wave devices in sensing applications such as automotive applications, industrial applications and commercial applications.Design/methodology/approachThe paper provides a comprehensive overview of acoustic wave technology and highlights an example of one commercial implementation of its technology for sensing application: a commercially available real‐time, online threaded bolt viscosity sensor.FindingsThe commercially available viscosity sensor can be readily applied in field operations or installed directly on the equipment for continuous monitoring of viscosity to enable technicians/mechanics to test the oil in minutes.Originality/valueThe paper introduces a new product for the sensing industry.