His research focuses on the importance of cell-matrix mechanical interactions and mass transport for blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) and its role in tissue regeneration. His group is strongly interdisciplinary, combines computational and experimental work, and currently involves 5 PhD students and 5 postdocs. Computational models relate to the use of mesh-based and meshless (particle-based, agent-based) methods and study cell-matrix mechanics and angiogenesis, and its relation to tissue regeneration. Experimental work aims at quantifying cell-matrix mechanics and solute transport, among others by means of optical microscopy imaging and image data analysis. Challenges relate to integrating computational and experimental data to generate novel understanding on cell-matrix mechanics and angiogenesis. Hans Van Oosterwyck has been a Council Member of the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB) since 2006. He has been the President of the ESB between 2012-2014.
“Quantifying cellular forces during endothelial cell migration and vascular invasion”
Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from the existing vasculature, is a process that is fundamental to tissue and organ development, growth, repair and disease. Numerous studies have focused on the biochemical regulation of angiogenesis. In contrast, studies that target the mechanical regulation of angiogenesis are rare. In our group, we develop experimental and computational tools to quantify cell-matrix mechanical interactions and to investigate their importance for angiogenesis, both at the single cell scale as well as multicellular scale of an invading angiogenic sprout.
In vitro model of single endothelial cell adhesion and migration
Endothelial cells were cultured on soft polyacrylamide hydrogels of different stiffness values (1.4, 2.7, and 4.5kPa) and coated with different adhesion proteins (fibronectin or collagen). Cellular tractions were quantified by means of Traction Force Microscopy (TFM). Two spatiotemporal analysis methods were implemented and applied to the TFM data. A first analysis zooms into the acquired traction maps and define subsets of tractions associated with a local single peak of maximal traction, termed traction foci, in this way analyzing tractions at a subcellular scale close to the length scale of focal adhesion complexes. A second analysis clusters cells based on spatial distribution, magnitude, and temporal evolution of tractions at each time-point into distinct transient states. These states characterize cell mechanical behavior in terms of force polarization and strength.
Traction foci were found to be larger in cells on collagen than on fibronectin, and stronger on stiffer hydrogels. The trends with which tractions increased with stiffness were different for foci and whole-cells, and depended on the adhesion protein used. Differences could be explained from the number of foci and their average strength. On fibronectin, a large number of short-lived weak foci were noticed, together being responsible for up to 30% to the total traction.
Clustering analysis demonstrated that in all conditions, cell traction exertion is polarized, particularly on collagen. By looking into state transitions it was found that cells do not easily change simultaneously their force polarization and strength.
In vitro model of vascular invasion
Displacement fields around an angiogenic sprout that invades a collagen hydrogel were characterized in relation to sprout morphology and dynamics. Collagen displacement calculations were performed by means of a B-spline-based 3D non-rigid image registration process that warps the image of the deformed gel to the image of the relaxed gel. The latter was obtained by disrupting the cell’s actin cytoskeleton. We found that maximum displacements are of the order of 2 to 10 µms and are located at the sprout tips as well as sprout bases. Between bases and tips, traction-induced matrix displacements become negligible, suggesting that single sprouts mechanically behave as a force dipole along the sprout axis. By downregulating actin polymerization with cytochalasin D, displacement magnitudes were reduced, which also influenced sprout dynamics at different length scales: total sprout invasion length and individual sprout dynamics were reduced and sprout protrusions were found to retract.
In silico models of cell-matrix mechanical interactions
Two different models were implemented that capture a mechanically active cell in either a 2D or 3D environment, by using meshless, particle-based methods. A first model describes a three-dimensional cell on a planar substrate, and captures the dynamics of cell protrusion, adhesion and stress fiber formation by means of the discrete element method. A second model makes a 2D representation of a cell embedded in a viscoelastic, degradable extracellular matrix (ECM), modeled by means of smoothed particle hydrodynamics. Protrusions follow from local reduction of cortex stiffness and the application of small protrusive forces, and stabilized through adhesion formation. Curvature-dependent cortex contractility is implemented as well, leading to cellular tractions.
Model sensitivity focused on the effect on traction polarization, morphology, and cellular traction magnitude of parameters accounting for protrusion, adhesion, actomyosin contraction, ECM stiffness, and ECM degradation. Simulations are compared to TFM experimental results. Results among others suggested that long-range deformations, as observed experimentally around invading sprouts, require collagen hydrogel to strain stiffen.
Acknowledgements: FP7/2007-2013)/ERC n° 308223, FWO-Vlaanderen (n° G.0821.13, n° G.0821.13


The success of the Gatling Gun soon encouraged others into the market The Gardner Gun was invented in 1874 by a former Civil War Captain in the Union army William Gardner of Ohio.
Origninally it had only two barrels and a crank loaded and fired each barrel in turn.
He needed finance to produce it, however, so went to the newly formed Pratt and Whitney Company. Francis Pratt had worked for Colt and had a reputation for being one of the top gun designers working.
Mechanism of the original two-barrelled version.
It was developed in conjunction with Pratt and Whitney but despite successful trials from 1875 until 1879 the US Army declined to buy the gun, as they felt it was not an appropriate weapon for their only military activity at the time, against the plains Indians.
Inside the crank case for the five-barrelled version.
The Royal Navy, having already bought the Gatling Gun, were more interested, however and Gardner was invited to England to demonstrate the gun, which by now had a five barrel version as well.
The two-barreled version on board ship.
The Admiralty were impressed enough that they not only adopted the weapon but bought the rights to produce it. Gardner stayed in England to supervise the construction of the weapons in Leeds and lived there for the rest of his life, dying in 1886. The British Army bought the gun in 1880 but its actual introduction by them was delayed because of opposition by the Royal Artillery.
The gun was light, reliable and could fire over 800 rounds a minute.


SM6432 switches are an additional variant of the industry leading SA6432 switches from [E³].
In addition to all standard features of the SA switches, SM6432 switches offer
- over 10,000 RGB colors
- inverse transflective LCD
- extended operating temperature range
- extended command set
- SL0000 socket locks as optional accessory
- SG0000 switch guards as optional accessory
SM6432 switches are used in CP custom control panels due to the exhanced capabilities based on the integration with advanced controller boards designed and developed by [E³].
SM6432 switches do not support Legacy Mode™.
SM6432 switches are available upon request only - minimum order quantities apply.
Please contact us or your [E³] Partner for a custom quote based on your specifications.


The Nemesis Ultra is a world leading multipurpose wheel lock. It is suitable for both Alloy & Steel wheels and can be fitted and secured using only one hand in under 10 seconds.
The Nemesis Ultra makes securing your caravan or trailer quick and easy, allowing you to use the Nemesis Ultra at times when other wheel clamps and locks would not be suitable such as service stations and car parks. The Nemesis Ultra incorporates a British Made anti-pick 9-pin lock from premier lock manufacturers Lowe & Fletcher
The Nemesis Ultra universal wheel lock has been tested and approved by Kiwa SCM MP03. SCM includes assessments not usually included in other procedures, such as resistance to freezing and corrosion. The accreditation ensures that the Nemesis Ultra universal wheel lock is the perfect choice for your caravan or trailer. Consider pairing with one of our Saracen hitch locks.
The Nemesis Ultra was designed in Purple Line’s UK innovation centre. The product design engineers were tasked with simplifying wheel based vehicle protection, ensuring ease of use and product weight were at the forefront of their minds at all times, without compromising on security in any way.
Installation involves replacing one of your vehicle’s wheel bolts with the Nemesis Ultra’s wheel bolt receiver. The bolt acts as a permanent replacement for your existing wheel bolt. The Nemesis Ultra then locks into the wheel bolt receiver, with the toughened steel bar passing through the wheel, fouling on the vehicle’s chassis in the event of attempted wheel rotation. No need for any fiddly alignment.
The Nemesis Ultra multipurpose wheel lock … ultra lightweight, ultra simple and ultra secure.
|Prevents Wheel Removal||Yes|
|Prevents Wheel Rotation||Yes|
|Wheel Fitment||Through Wheel|
|Wheel Nut Thread||12mm x 1.5mm|
|Wheel Nut Cone||60 Degree Conical Seating|
Q. Can I order replacement/spare keys for my Nemesis Ultra?
A. Yes. As long as you have registered your product with Purpleline and we have a record of the 6 digit key number or you have kept a record of the key number. The replacement/spare keys are supplied in pairs. The keys take around 2-3 weeks to be cut.
Q. Will the Nemesis Ultra fit my caravan’s wheel?
A. The Nemesis Ultra can be fitted to both Alloy and Steel wheels. replacing your vehicle’s wheel bolt with the Nemesis Ultra wheel bolt receiver. Unfortunately, we are unable to keep a definite list of vehicles the Nemesis Ultra Wheel Lock fits, if you are still unsure please Contact us


Ideal on Glass Chair Mats, Urethane Wheels
- 10mm diameter Stems Included
- Urethane tread is quieter & has better grip
- 60mm Diameter is 20% larger than most casters
- Durable zinc die-cast body and hood for long-lasting value
- Concealed axle for easy good looks
- EASY 1-minute installation
- FREE SHIPPING!
FAQ: "Will these fit on my office chair?"
Answer: These casters only fit chairs that require a 10mm diameter stem. Measure the diameter of your current caster stem by setting one stem next to a ruler. The head needs to be 10mm diameter for these casters to fit.
Installation is easy. Your existing casters will pull out with the old stem still in them. Now just push in the stem on your new casters. Its that easy!
Unsure about the size stem you need? Send us an email and include a photo if possible. Send that to email@example.com, we'll get back to you quickly.


Rescue Apparatus For Sale
Rescue Apparatus for Sale
Anticipated Availability is the Spring of 2018
Seneca VFD is now taking offers on the Rescue Apparatus we will be replacing in the Spring of 2018.
This unit is a 2004 International 4400 with an automatic transmission.
This unit will be sold with:
– An on-board 35,000W PTO driven generator.
– Front Mounted 15,000lb winch.
– Built in tire chains.
– Walk in rear compartment with air conditioning.
– Emergency lights, siren, and scene lighting.
– Unit will not come with rescue equipment, hose reels, or electric reels.
The truck currently has 1000 hours on it, and a little over 10,000 miles on it.
We are currently asking $95,000 for the truck, and we are open to offers.
Please contact the station at 814-676-1305 and leave a message for more details or information.


Renault is setting up a new unit for electric cars – and is announcing a Volks-Stromer for less than 20 thousand euros. What is known so far.
French automaker Renault announced an electric car manufactured in Europe for less than 20 thousand euros. The Legend small car for urban transit is scheduled to hit the market in 2025, Renault’s newly founded electromobility subsidiary Ampere has announced.
In addition to the low purchase price, Renault promises a very low standard consumption of 10 kWh per 100 kilometers for the Legend. With its concept, the new low-cost model should succeed the traditional city car Twingo, whose current generation has been on the market for almost ten years (since 2014) and shares the technical basis with previous Smart models.
Renault is planning an electric offensive
Renault wants to offer an electric car for 25 thousand euros next year, the R5. It will be produced in northern France and, in terms of vehicle segment, is the successor to the electric Zoe. The design of the R5 has a retro look and cites the small car of the 1970s and 80s. A year later, the R4 will hit the market in SUV format.
The three models are developed and marketed by Ampere, but operate under the Renault name. The brand wants to have a total of seven electric models on offer by 2031. The goal is to sell 300,000 electric cars in 2025, and the number is expected to increase to one million by 2031. That would be half of the total cars produced.
This is the subsidiary of Renault Ampere
French car manufacturer Renault plans to IPO its newly founded electric car subsidiary Ampere next year.
Ampere employs more than 11 thousand people, a third of whom are engineers. Production takes place in three existing factories in the north of France – in Douai, Maubiege and Ruitz.
The initial production capacity of 400,000 vehicles is expected to grow to one million by 2031. Sino-Japanese manufacturer AESC Envision and French start-up Verkor, which operate gigafactories near the Ampere plant, will supply batteries.
Electric car prices are expected to fall
“We want to democratize the electric car in Europe,” said Renault’s financial director, Thierry Piéton. In the medium term, list prices for electric cars are expected to fall by 40 percent compared to current ones, and price parity with vehicles with combustion engines is expected to be achieved by 2027/2028 with the second generation Mégane E-Tech Electric and Scénic E. -Tech Electric with the same margins.
Other manufacturers are planning this
The race for affordable European-made small cars is gaining speed: Citroën launched the ë-C3 small car for 23,300 euros in October. The small car with SUV proportions and a range of 320 kilometers will be available for purchase from spring 2024 and will be built at the Stellantis factory in Slovakia. A 19,900 euro variant with a weaker battery and a range of 200 kilometers will be launched in early 2025. Read more about the Citroën newcomer here.
VW boss Oliver Blume recently confirmed that the group intended to launch an electric car on the market “in the region of 20,000 euros”. However, a decision has not yet been definitively made. The ID.2 will initially come in Polo form in 2025 (you can read more about it here) – probably also in an electric GTI variant. Tesla could follow suit soon after with a cheap German-made Model 2.
Affordable electric cars are rare
Also on Tuesday, ADAC criticized the fact that it is still difficult to get a cheap electric car in Germany. Currently, there are only three models under 30,000 euros – all with a very limited range: Dacia Spring (from 22,750 euros), electric Renault Twingo (from 28,000 euros) and the Fiat 500e (from 29,990 euros ).


How hay is made!
- Hay is made very carefully. There’s a surprising amount of science and engineering that goes into making hay, and now that I live in hay-making country I thought it prudent to learn more about how hay is made.
Of course, many factors contribute to the quality of hay.
- You have the type of hay, the soil it’s grown in, how “weedy” the fields are, how much rain happens (or not), and how it’s turned from grass into bales of hay. When all of the stars align, your horse can munch down on some amazing hay.
First things first – the cutting of hay.
- Basically, the hayfield is mowed using a mower-conditioner. The best time is when the grass is mature, but not old. The mowing needs to happen when there is a window of three to five days AFTER when the hay can dry. Wet hay is a mold party waiting to happen.
- When the hay is cut, the mower conditioner cuts the grass, which then goes through the conditioner to crimp the hay. This makes the drying process a little faster. Most mower conditioners will crimp the hay every 4 inches, but some super mower conditioners crimp the hay at smaller increments to speed up drying.
Windrows of drying hay.
The mower-conditioner machine also creates those rows of cut grass in the fields.
- These are called windrows, and the mower conditioner determines how wide the windrows are.
- If you need to, you can then come over the windrows with a tedder. This handy machine spreads out the windrows. To speed up the grass drying process. Must outrun the rain!
- A few more steps – if the windrows have been spread out by the tedder, then the rake can come along and put them back into windrows. Alternatively, the rake can turn over the windrows if they were not spread out by the tedder.
The tedding machine – all about helping the cut grass dry.
Now it’s finally time to bale the hay.
- The baler sucks up the windrows, and creates bales or round bales.
- Different balers create different sizes of bales. It may be a two-string, a three-string, or a baby-sized round bale, or a monster round bale.
A baler. This one creates small round bales.
There’s quite a lot of land, equipment, and dodging weather for this to happen. And, it can just as easily be ruined with the wrong timing or busted equipment.
Do you know where your hay comes from?


1.Taking reference from the average adult walking speed which is approximately 1m/s or 2.2 mph.
2. Please read the user guide carefully.
3. 13.1-ft braking distance measured at 12.4 mph speeds, 68℉ weather temperatures, 165lbs load, tire pressure of 35 PSI, and on flat dry asphalt.
4. 18.6 miles long-distance range on a single full charge measured under the following conditions: 165 lbs load, 77°F weather temperatures, flat road without strong winds, power saving mode, and 15km/h constant speeds. Results may vary based on different weight loads, temperature, wind speed, operating habits, and other factors.
5. Cruise control not recommended above speeds of 15.5 mph, on curved paths, heavy traffic conditions, or during rainy and snowy conditions.
* Above data are based on internal lab tests and conducted in an controlled environment. Results may vary based on actual usage and environmental conditions.


Technology is completely changing the way maintenance and construction workers do their jobs. What took half a day in the past can now be accomplished in less than an hour. One of these technological breakthroughs is the convergence of CCTV and surveying, the result being portable video inspection equipment like the Pearpoint Flexiprobe pipe camera we use at Wetwork Plumbing.
Below you’ll find out more about challenges facing the construction and maintenance industries, how our Wetwork Plumbing pipeline inspections work, who can benefit from as-needed inspections, and how to book a drain or pipe inspection in Durban and Johannesburg:
Most metropolitan utilities, such as water pipes and drainage systems, are found just a few feet below the ground. The world would look like a completely different place if we didn’t bury pipes and drains! The issue with sub-terranean utilities is that finding faults when something goes wrong can be a challenge. Many a back yard have been churned up in the search for water pipe leaks and other pipeline issues.
Time is money in the maintenance and construction industry, and finding faults can sometimes take the better part of a day. Not only do workers have to physically access the pipeline, which is often in hard to reach locations, but they also need to inspect every inch of the pipe manually until the fault is found. Luckily, technology has made this a whole lot easier.
Wetwork Plumbing bridges the divide between traditional plumbing and inspection technologies, offering professional pipeline inspections with state-of-the-art UK-manufactured portable CCTV equipment. We’re able to send a probe into any conduit ranging from 70mm to 300mm in diameter – be it a drainage system or a water pipe – and assess the situation. This frees up your time and resources to focus on fixing the fault without unnecessary inspection delays!
Wetwork Plumbing, with branches in Durban and Johannesburg, is uniquely positioned to assess and document pipe faults for any industry in South Africa. We charge no call-out fees, and we won’t charge you for a quotation! Got a fault you’re struggling to find? Save your team time and effort by booking a pipe camera inspection today.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What hurricane protection products do you provide?
We can install steel or aluminum panels, accordion shutters, roll down shutters, colonials, and Bahamas.
Can you explain what metal hurricane panels are?
They are metal corrugated panels that can be made of galvanized steel or aluminum. They are usually 14 to 14½ inches wide and as long as building code allows in order to fit the specific opening.
How are they stored?
They can be stored stacked, usually in a garage, usually against a wall or flat on the floor.
How are they installed in my residence?
There are two basic methods of installing panels. The most economical is the so called Direct Mount Method. We install anchors in the wall that accept a threaded bolt so that its head sits flush with the wall (the part of the head that shows can be painted over to disguise it). When the Tracking Method is used, we install tracking which is usually permanent but can be made removable.
How would I put them up?
With the Direct Mount method, the person who is putting them up needs to use a power tool to unscrew each of the bolts and once the panel is hung up then it is secured by screwing the bolt back in. With the Tracking Method, they are usually inserted into an upper inverted-U shaped track and at the bottom they are secured with a Studded Angle (this is an L-shaped angle that has studs in it). The panel has holes that the stud from the angle goes through and the panel is then fastened with a wing nut — so no tools are needed in this method of installation.
What colors do the tracks come in?
The tracks can be white, bronze or mill finish in color.
Are they recommended for use on second stories?
They're not recommended for second stories or if you need to get on a ladder to put them up.
What are Accordion Shutters?
Accordion Shutters are typically made of 4 to 6 inch blades that are hinged so they can fold like an accordion (hence the name). These hinged blades slide sideways alongside tracks so that where they meet they usually lock. The folding blades are fit into a frame that is custom cut so it wraps around the outside of the specific opening. What provides strength to the Accordion Shutters is the top and bottom attachments — there is practically no limitation to their width.
Are they easy to operate?
On a first story, they are usually installed with most of the locks to the outside and as many doors as possible with the locks toward the inside. They generally slide as easily as a sliding glass door does. On a second story, they can be installed if you have single hung windows or sideway sliders or sliding glass doors. Sometimes, they can be installed even with louvered windows. Please inquire.
What Accordion brands do you use?
There are many accordion shutter products on the market, and we use the best quality product available. We provide our customers with as expedient an installation as possible under present demand conditions.
How long is the waiting time to installation?
At present we estimate that generally we can do an installation within four to six weeks after a permit is obtained. Accordions are available in white, ivory, beige and dark bronze. However, please inquire as to color availability.
What are Roll Downs?
Roll Downs are formed by joined aluminum extruded slats that run vertically up and down along two vertically installed side tracks. What gives impact resisting strength to the Roll Downs are these vertical tracks -they are installed along the outer edge of the opening. Depending on the size of the roll down, they can be either manually operated with a crank handle or with an electric motor. They roll up into a metal box that sits at the top of the opening.
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The landscape of wireless power transfer (#WPT) is experiencing a transformative shift, thanks to the remarkable potential of magnetizable concrete. In our most recent white papers, “WHY YOU NEED MAGNETIC CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS FOR WPT” and “WHY YOU NEED MAGNETIC MATERIALS FOR WIRELESS POWER TRANSFER“, the exceptional benefits of integrating magnetic materials into WPT systems take center stage. This study showcases how magnetizable concrete, crafted from cement or asphalt, outperforms traditional ferrite materials in both cost-effectiveness and transmission efficiency. Outdated charging technologies like catenary systems for trams and buses have proven inadequate in delivering a dependable and environmentally sustainable charging system. This novel breakthrough technology not only surpasses its limitations but sets a new standard for efficiency and effectiveness.
The magnetizable concrete’s multifunctionality adds a unique dimension to its benefits. Recent discoveries have unveiled the potential of concrete to serve as an energy storage facility, expanding its role beyond being the key enabler of WPT technology. This versatility amplifies its impact and opens doors to innovative applications.
Imagine a future where charging your electric vehicle becomes as effortless as parking or driving it on top of an energized road. Enter magnetizable concrete, a game-changing material that’s redefining the very fabric of WPT technology:
💡 Performance Par Excellence The analysis reveals that magnetizable concrete possesses an edge that significantly outstrips traditional ferrite tiles. Notably, the losses in the Ground Assembly (GA) coil are slashed by almost 45% for the same power, coil-to-coil distance, and GA coil geometry. This translates into enhanced efficiency, translating into tangible gains for WPT systems.
♻ Sustainable unmatched sourcing Magnetizable concrete goes beyond excellence in performance and cost-efficiency. By incorporating 100% recycled cement and ferrites, this innovative technology echoes environmental sustainability. This choice not only reduces ecological impact but also demonstrates a dedication to efficiency, waste reduction and simple local material sourcing. This dual advantage of heightened efficiency and ecological responsibility positions magnetizable concrete as a game-changer in wireless power transfer systems.
💰 Economic Viability Redefined What’s more intriguing is the economic feasibility of magnetizable concrete. The white paper underscores that adopting magnetizable concrete doesn’t just improve performance; it also drastically reduces total costs for GA. In fact, the bill of materials (BOM) for traditional arrays can be 2.5x to 3.5x more expensive than the magnetizable concrete alternative. This affordability factor has the potential to transform the landscape of WPT adoption and scalability.
🏗 Constructability allowing Scalability Magnetizable concrete’s adaptability offers advantages that span diverse applications and scales. This scalability aligns with the current trend in technology, where solutions designed for seamless expansion and integration hold significant value by minimizing errors, delays, and cost overruns. This inherent scalability highlights its capability to excel in both smaller, intricate projects and larger, complex systems.
🌡 Safety as a Priority Safety takes a front seat with magnetizable concrete. Notably, it reduces coil temperature by approximately 28% compared to traditional ferrite-tile cores. This significant reduction in temperature not only enhances safety by minimizing overheating risks but also underscores the material’s practicality and reliability.
🚀 A New Horizon for WPT Magnetizable concrete is ushering in a new era for WPT systems. Its superior performance, cost-effectiveness, and safety features make it a powerhouse contender among various charging technologies. The findings of this study not only highlight the potential of magnetizable concrete-based solutions but also pave the way for a future where WPT systems are both efficient and financially viable.
As we embrace this evolution, let’s recognize the game-changing nature of magnetizable concrete. Its blend of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety is set to drive the next wave of progress in wireless power transfer. Are you ready to embrace the future? Contact us to find out more about this exciting technology.


Holley's Ultra Double Pumper 4 Barrel Carburettor - Your choice of Blue, Red or Black billet metering blocks and bases
ULTRA light – aluminum construction saves 5 lbs ULTRA shiny – tumble polished finish holds shine longer ULTRA strong – billet metering blocks & base plates ULTRA cool – Blue, Red or Black anodized billet aluminum metering blocks and base plate ULTRA easy – built in sight window for simple float adjustments ULTRA fast – high performance fuel curves The Ultra Double Pumper Carburettors feature all aluminum construction and are equipped with metering blocks and a base plate made from 6061–T6 billet aluminum. Three different anodized color options (Red, Blue, or Black) allow for a personalized look while maintaining the ultra high strength and durability you get from billet. They Weigh in at approximately 5 lbs less than a comparable zinc carburetor. The new Ultra Double Pumper Carburettors have an enhanced fuel curve for optimum performance, with many more features such as aluminum construction; anodized billet aluminum metering blocks and base plate; 4 corner idle for precise idle control; mechanical secondaries for great performance; clear fuel level sight plugs for easy, no mess fuel level adjustments; Ford automatic transmission kickdown for use on popular Ford transmissions; four vacuum ports for all necessary vacuum accessories; and for the first time on a Double Pumper, factory pre–set electric choke for easy, fast cold start–ups.


Coatings, Paint Removers & Cleaners
Our range includes a comprehensive selection of aircraft coatings, ranging from primers suitable for various airframe substrates to topcoats available in standard, metallic, and special effect mica colors. These coatings are renowned for their exceptional application properties, UV resistance, and color durability. Our pioneering Selectively Strippable System offers both long-term performance and streamlined topcoat removal for repainting purposes.
PRC® and Pro-Seal™ sealants play a crucial role in sealing the structures of numerous aircraft worldwide. Our extensive selection of aircraft structure sealants encompasses solutions for fuel tanks, safeguarding aircraft mating surfaces, and sealing aircraft windshields. Through our Local Application Support Centers, we offer Semkit® packages, premixed and frozen sealants, and cutting-edge custom sealant solutions like PRC® seal caps and PRC® FIP Strip sealant. These innovations not only save time and labor but also offer superior quality benefits.


All Pipe parts are made of stainless steel.
Stainless steel is known and highly sought after for its durability and strength. It is a material that does not rust or fade, and can be used daily, in any type of activity or environment.
In addition to these characteristics, stainless steel also has anti-allergic properties, which makes it the perfect solution for those with sensitive skin.
Despite being easy to maintain, steel, like any other metal, requires maintenance care. If you understand that your piece is dirty and needs to be cleaned, just use a soft cloth or sponge, warm water and neutral detergent. If your piece has some detail or texture, you can replace the cloth or sponge with an equally soft toothbrush.
After dipping the cloth in the mixture of water and detergent, carefully and gently rub your piece in the direction of the grain of the steel, in order to prevent it from being scratched unnecessarily.
If your piece has some kind of stone, avoid rubbing that area.


Delivering Low Energy, Low Carbon Heating Solutions
Along with GI energy, the UK’s leading large scale heat pump provider, Smart Energy Services from ESB delivers best in class, ground source and air source heat pump solutions, complemented by the expertise of a full range of alternative heating solutions. GI Energy design, engineer, install and maintain leading edge innovative renewable heating and cooling systems including geothermal solutions.Make an enquiry
- Ground, Water, Air & Sewer Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) provide an electrically powered geothermal heating system that uses the natural underground temperature of the earth, water, air or sewer in order to heat, cool and provide hot water to buildings both commercial and residential. Combined Heat & Power.
- Combined Heat & Power. Combined Heat and Power units, also known as CHPs, capture generative heat and redistribute it to where it’s needed, thus preventing heat being wasted, and reducing energy requirements by up to 50%. We can also hybridize CHP and ground source heat pump technology to deliver exceptionally efficient installations.
- Renewable Heating & Cooling: We integrate solar PV and solar thermal technology with other renewables to maximise ROI and CO2 energy savings.
Under an Energy Partnership Agreement with you, we’ll install a fit for purpose Heat Pump or Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Solution, operate and maintain the plant in your Energy Centre and supply heating/ cooling/electricity at a discounted rate.
Significant fuel cost saving as well as income generation through Renewable Heat incentives
Installation with no upfront cost
Funded options available plus low ongoing maintenance
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Significant reductions in carbon emissions


The weight on the bar is always constant. The author is trying to explain the amount of force required to overcome the weight falling down and then accelerate it upwards. The 275lbs was given as an example of an amount of force used to overcome a 135lb weight. The force you apply has to be greater than 135lbs because you decelerate the bar and then accelerate it upwards. For simplicity, if you applied constant force, which results in constant acceleration applied to the weight, the time it takes to travel a certain distance can be calculated. You can use the equation below assuming constant force/acceleration:
(Force - Weight) = acceleration x mass = (2 x distance)/(time^2) x mass
Using the author’s example, lets say you applied a 275lb force (1223.3N) to overcome the 135lb weight (600.5N) over a length of 0.5m from the bottom position to the top position of a clean. We’re able to calculate exactly how long it takes if we assume constant acceleration:
(1223.3N - 600.5N) = (2 x 0.5m)/(time^2) x (61.23kg)
=> time = .3136 seconds
You can manipulate the equation however you like to solve for one variable. All the author is saying is that it requires more force than the actual weight to overcome it’s inertia or momentum and accelerate it. If you had a 135lb weight and picked it up slowly, you would apply less force and generate less power in comparison to if you picked it up as quickly as possible. It sounds like the underlying message the author is trying to get across is that you control how much force you generate and it is not equal to how much weight is on the bar. You could apply the concept of maximum power output to your training. I remember reading an article in the past couple years about some device that could be attached to a barbell to measure power output. That way, it doesn’t really matter how much weight is on the bar, only that you’re training for peak power.


As we drove by a small sugar house, we saw smoke and steam rising from the vents in the roof – they were making syrup today.
We’d never been to Wayne LaPier and Family Maple Sugar House before, and we’d just come from a pancake breakfast at another maple farm. But the woodpile stacked to the side of the building suggested that LaPier’s was an old-fashioned operation, one that still ran on wood for fuel rather than gas or electric. And a sign out front advertised an open house.
Inside we met Wayne LaPier, 75 years old, who has run this operation since 1985 when he bought it from his father. He’s standing next to the evaporator, the key piece of equipment in making maple syrup, and the producer of the smoke and steam that alerted us a boil was taking place.
Sap used to be collected in wooden or metal pails and then carried to the syrup house. Now a system of plastic tubing connects the trees and gravity carries the sap down to a drum for collection.
Those drums are gathered when they fill, brought to the syrup house, and poured into a larger collection tank.
Sap from nearby trees bypasses the collection drums and is pulled directly into the sugar house via a simple vacuum system hidden in a back closet.
In another closet sits this reverse osmosis machine. It takes the sap from the collection drums and vacuum system and rather like a household water filter, separates the water from the impurities – except in this case it’s the “impurities” that become the syrup. The process cuts the fuel needed for running the evaporator by two-thirds.
After going through the RO system, the syrup is stored in an overhead vat and gradually drained into the evaporator. Wayne bought this evaporator when he took over the operation in 1985. It’s made by the Canadian company Dominion & Grimm. Matthew Thomas’s Maple Sugar History blog has a short history of the firm, including an advertisement from 1909 with an evaporator that looks very much like this one.
There’s a pile of wood ready to be burned.
The rest of the family is moving the wood into place…
…so Wayne can keep the fire going.
Sap boils inside the evaporator, further reducing the water content.
Wayne uses a hygrometer to test the syrup from the evaporator. When the syrup reaches a particular density, it’s nearly ready for consumption.
It only needs to run through a series of filters…
…and the result is fresh, warm syrup, with a flavor much richer than even good syrup that has been packaged and stored.
Reader, should you ever have the chance to drink hot maple syrup right from the evaporator, please, do not pass it by.
Thanks to Wayne LaPier, Christine, and the rest of the family for letting us stay for an hour, answering all our questions, and giving us a taste of the syrup at its best.


Maintenance Manager - Pinetown
Our client, a large FMCG group is seeking a Maintenance Manager to manage the maintenance function at their factory.
Key responsibilities include:
- Optimize the maintenance strategy
- Ensure uninterrupted supply of energy and services by managing the maintenance function on site
- Ensure continuous availability and reliability of machinery and equipment
- Manage the total maintenance function on site, including engineering stock and fixed cost budget items
- Ensure adherence to applicable legislation and regulations
- Responsible for staff training and development
- Coordinate maintenance according to budget
- Coordinate contract work in terms of service provided on site
- Manage capital and major maintenance projects
- At least 5 years relevant experience
- Trade tested millwright
- N6 Compulsory, B Tech degree will be advantageous
- Good knowledge of relevant legislation
- Computer literate (ELKE)
- Analytical problem solving ability
- Technical knowledge of Process Control, Utilities and Maintenance Systems
- Good interpersonal skills
- Proven management experience
- Must be willing to perform scheduled work on weekends and public holidays
Click the button to apply or call Rose on tel:0315661960 for more information.
Should you be shortlisted we will contact you within one week.
Please follow us on Social Media and check the website regularly for updates.


To create a seat cushion that would minimise pressure points on the buttocks area by distributing your weight evenly
over the cushion surface and encourage correct seating posture.
The solution is to have a seat cushion with varying hardness. Where the pressure is higher, the cushion is softer, thus
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Through extensive in-house tests the empirical data proves that ergo-Sit technology minimises the pressure points
on the buttocks area.
Figure 1. shows pressure distribution of a seated person on an ordinary task chair cushion. The maximum pressure
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Figure 2. shows pressure distribution of a seated person on an ergo-sit cushion. The maximum pressure is 64mm
of mercury (86Kpa or 0.86bar.) The reduction in maximum pressure on the buttocks is approximately 30%.
The diagram also reveals a much more even distribution of the weight leading to increased levels of comfort when using
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1. Drain your water heater: Over the course of a year, hard water sediment tends to collect at the bottom of your water heater tank. The sediment deposits reduce the efficiency of your heater, costing you money!
To drain your water heater, first turn off the water supply and power to the water heater. Next, connect an ordinary garden hose to the outlet spigot near the bottom of the water heater tank. If possible, drain the water into a sink, tub, or floor drain. (Pumping the hot water outside is likely to kill your grass due to the temperature of the draining water.)
2. Sharpen and clean your garbage disposal all at once: Put a few ice cubes into your disposal and run the unit, this will quickly clean and sharpen the blades, all at the same time!
3. Change your furnace air filter: Experts recommend changing your furnace filter once a month. If you haven’t done it in a while, there’s no time like the present!
Using cheap fiberglass filters is actually preferred as opposed to more expensive HEPA filters for two reasons: First, replacing the more expensive filters every month can be costly. Second, the fiberglass filters actually allow for more air to flow into your unit reducing the amount of energy needed to effectively heat or cool your home.
4. Toilets: Water leaking from your toilet tank will not only cost you money when it comes to your utility bill, but it can also cause water damage to your bathroom floor and premature wear of your toilet’s internal workings. To find out whether your toilet tank is leaking, add some red food coloring to the water in the tank. Come back in about an hour and see if the water in the bowl is pink. If it is, you have a leak. If you find that your toilet is leaking from the tank to the bowl, the flapper needs to be replaced. To do this, simply turn the water valve located directly behind the toilet. Remove the tank lid and flush the toilet in order to empty the tank. Use a towel or sponge to mop out any excess water left in the tank. Remove the flush chain from the lever, and then slide the old flapper up off the overflow tube. Slide the new flapper in place over the overflow tube, reconnect the chain, and turn the water supply back on.
5. Faucets: The main cause of leaky faucets is worn out washers. The washers inside of the faucet handles are rubber and tend to wear out quickly. Replace them by turning off the main water supply, unscrewing the leaky handle that controls the flow of water to the spout, removing the old washer, and dropping in the new one.
6. Washing Machine & Dryer: It is important to regularly inspect your washing machine water supply hoses for leaks. One of the top reasons for insurance claims is for water damage caused by leaky washing machine supply lines. Inspect washing machine water supply lines at least annually and replace them every three years if they are plastic. If you notice that the metal ends of your water supply lines are discolored or rusty, replace them immediately.
Faulty washing machine drain hoses are as important as water supply lines when it comes to keeping water off of your floor and in your drain where it belongs. As with supply lines, regularly inspect the ends of your washing machine drain lines for discoloration or rust, and replace them immediately if you find evidence of leaking.
Additionally, check the snugness of the drain lines by using a crescent wrench or a pair of pliers. You should not be able to tighten the line any further if the line is properly tightened.
When it comes to your dryer, it is important to make sure that you regularly clean your lint screen! Not only will a clean lint screen prevent fires, but it will also increase the life of the heating element. Physically remove the lint from the screen between each load of laundry. Also, be sure to remove fabric softener residue by washing the screen with warm water and dish detergent once per week.
7. Plumbing: In order to keep water flowing freely through your pipes, keep the following things in mind:
Never pour fats or other oils down your drains. This includes oils that are not solid at room temperature. If you accidentally spill oils or fats down the drain, run hot water down your drain along with a healthy serving of dishwashing liquid. The soap will emulsify the fat or oil and move it on down the pipe, preventing a clog.
Get a hair strainer for the bathtub drain. If fats and oils are the main source of clogs in the kitchen, hair is the primary culprit in the bathroom. If you have a strainer, make sure that you remove any accumulated hair from it following each shower. This will reduce the amount of hair that finds its way through the strainer and into your plumbing.
Skip the Drano. Though the acids it contains can help unclog a drain, they also cause significant damage to your plumbing, including premature leaking. If your bathtub or toilet is completely clogged, use a small drain snake – which you can purchase at any hardware store – to pull the offending clog to the surface. If your kitchen sink is clogged, try plunging it before trying to snake the drain. If you cannot remove the clog using a drain snake, call a professional.
8. Air Conditioning: Air conditioners are among the most overlooked appliances when it comes to performing regular home maintenance. However, they can be one of the most costly appliances to repair.
Regularly inspect the condensation hose to make sure that water can flow freely from the line. If there is standing water where your condensation line drains, create a drainage path using a small garden trowel and line the path with gravel to keep mold and algae from forming, which can be a serious health hazard when the spores are drawn into the appliance and blown into your home.
Additionally, keep the screen around your air conditioner free from debris to keep air flowing easily. This will prevent your air conditioner from using more power than necessary to keep your house cool and keep the internal parts from wearing out too quickly.
9. Humidifiers: Some climate control systems have in-duct humidifiers that help keep air moist and healthy during the winter when artificial heat systems are in use. But when these systems aren’t working properly, they become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which can cause serious air quality issues.
At the end of each winter season, it is important to drain the unit and close the water valve to keep water from stagnating in the system. Also, cleaning the reservoir with a mixture of water and white vinegar helps to keep mineral deposits to a minimum.
10. Refrigerators: The main component of your refrigerator that should get your attention is the door seals. Keeping your door seals tight will reduce the amount of energy it takes to keep your food cool or frozen, but will also keep your refrigerator working efficiently, preventing premature wear on internal parts.
To test the door seals, close the door on a dollar bill and attempt to pull it out with the door closed. If you cannot easily pull the dollar bill out from the door, your seals are in good shape. However, if the bill slides out without much resistance, it’s time to replace the seals. You can purchase new seals from any home repair outlet store.
Also, if you have a refrigerator that has coils along the back, periodically vacuum these coils to remove dirt and dust build up. These coils contain the coolant the refrigerator uses to keep the internal temperature cold. If they become dirty, they won’t work efficiently and your refrigerator may stop cooling altogether.
As a general tip, keeping your refrigerator full uses less energy than trying to cool when it’s empty. Therefore, keep as many items in your refrigerator as possible to help reduce energy costs.
11. Drafty Windows: Drafty windows are a major culprit of high energy bills in the summer and winter months. Periodically check the condition of the caulk line that holds your windows in place. If the caulk appears to be dry, cracked, or otherwise weathered, remove the old caulk with a box cutter or other sharp knife and run a new bead of caulk along the seam.
For added utility bill savings, you can further insulate your window by applying an insulating window film over the glass. These methods cost much less than the price of replacing your windows and implementing green energy technologies in your home.
12. Gutters: While gutters may go practically unnoticed when you look at your house, they are the main line of defense between your foundation and siding and the elements. Gutters are designed to capture water and debris runoff from your roof and divert it away from your foundation, and one of the main causes of water accumulation in basements is a lack of gutter maintenance and proper water diversion.
Clean your gutters at least once per year by physically removing debris from the channels and rinsing them thoroughly by using a garden hose. Avoid installing gutter guards – not only do these not adequately prevent debris from entering your gutters, they also make it extremely difficult (if not impossible) to properly clean your gutter system.
Also, be sure to regularly check that your gutters are properly affixed to your fascia boards, and replace any sections that appear to be damaged or leaking.
13. Roof: Periodically check your roof for damage. Damaged, discolored, or gravel-less shingles should be quickly replaced to prevent the need to replace your roof, water-damaged trusses, or drywall when you finally discover a leak. During the inspection of your roof, pay special attention to shingles that surround skylights, vents, and chimneys, as these areas are the most leak-prone.
PAINT, PAINT, PAINT
It could increase your home’s value 2%
ADD A COLORFUL BACK-SPLASH
The kitchen is the #1 upgrade with the greatest return
SET HOT WATER HEATER TO 120 DEGREES F
Every 10-degree drop saves 3-5%
UPGRADE YOUR FRONT DOOR
It could increase your home’s value over 4%
INSTALL LED LIGHT BULBS
Save by using 75% less energy
STEAL CURB APPEAL
With these freebies: pull weeds, trim overgrown bushes, de-clutter
So you’ve just moved into your nice new home. You’ve unloaded the boxes and started to unpack your life.
Right now is the perfect time to walk through a checklist of ways to save money on your home for years to come.
Starting on these things as early as possible will allow you to start saving money sooner rather than later. Plus, some of them will be easier to accomplish before you hang pictures or get too settled in — and lose your move-in momentum.
Here are 19 things to check or do immediately that will reduce the energy and maintenance costs of your home over the long haul.
1. Check the insulation in your attic – and install more if needed.
If you have an unfinished attic, pop your head up there and take a look around. You should see insulation up there between the beams, and there should be at least six inches of it everywhere (more if you live in the northern part of the United States).
If there’s inadequate insulation up there – or the insulation you have appears to be damaged – install new insulation. Here’s a great guide from the Department of Energy on attic insulation, including specifics on how much you should have depending on where you live. Many states offer financial incentives, up to a 75% refund, for instance, to encourage homeowners to better insulate their homes.
2. Lower the temperature on your hot water heater down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (55 degrees Celsius).
This is the optimum temperature for your hot water heater. Most people don’t use water hotter than 120 degrees — indeed, water hotter than that can scald you or a child — and thus the energy needed to keep the water above 120 degrees isn’t used effectively. Lower the temperature, save money on your energy bill, and you’ll never skip a beat.
3. Toss a water heater blanket over that hot water heater as well.
While most modern hot water heaters are well-insulated, some are insulated better than others, and many older heaters aren’t insulated well at all. A small investment in a blanket for your water heater will slowly and gradually save you money on your heating bill over time by keeping the heat in the water instead of letting it disperse slowly into your basement or utility closet.
The Department of Energy recommends being “careful not to cover the water heater’s top, bottom, thermostat, or burner compartment.” And of course, on-demand (or “tankless”) water heaters don’t require this treatment.
4. Install ceiling fans in most rooms.
Ceiling fans are a low-energy way to keep air moving in your home. Because of the air circulation effect, you can get away with keeping your thermostat a degree or two higher in summer and a degree or two lower in winter, netting a rather large saving.
A while back, I wrote a guide to maximizing ceiling fan use. The most important thing to know is that the air directly below the fan should be blowing down on you in the summer and should be pulled upwards away from you in the winter — you can use the reversal switch on your fan to switch between the modes at the start of each season.
5. Wrap exposed water pipes with insulation.
Exposed hot water pipes lose heat as they move water from your heater to your faucet or shower. Wrapping them in pipe insulation, especially in cold basements or garages, can make a two- to a four-degree difference in the temperature of the water, and also allows hot water to reach your faucet faster.
Check the pipes into and out of your hot water heater first, as the first three feet out of the heater (and the last few feet of inlet water) are key. Use good-quality pipe insulation for the job, which is actually quite simple — here’s a tutorial.
6. Install a programmable thermostat – and learn how to use it.
A programmable thermostat allows you to schedule automatic increases and decreases in your home’s temperature, saving money on cooling in the summer and heating in the winter.
They’re easy to install and easy to use, especially if you keep a fairly routine schedule. Just program the thermostat to drop a few degrees at night while you’re sleeping or off at work during the day, and set it to return to your preferred temperature just before you wake up or return home from work. You won’t notice the difference — until you see your lower utility bill.
7. Replace your air filters.
When you first move in, you almost always need to replace the air handling filter or the filter on your furnace or AC unit. Don’t worry, it’s easy to do – it takes about 10 seconds.
Go down to your air handling unit, find where the filter is (it’s almost always a large rectangle), and mark down the measurements (printed around the edges). Then, go to the hardware store and pick up a few of them. Go home and replace the old one with a new filter, and save the rest so you always have a clean one ready to go. An outdated filter not only doesn’t filter air as well, but it also has a negative impact on air flow, meaning your air handling system or HVAC unit has to work harder — and use more energy — to pump out lower quality air.
8. Make sure the vents in all rooms are clear of dust and obstructions.
None of the vents in your home should be covered or blocked by anything – doing that makes your heating and cooling work overtime. You should also peek into all of your vents and make sure they’re as dust-free as possible, and brush them out if you see any dust bunnies. This improves airflow into the room, reducing the amount of blowing that needs to happen.
9. Mark any cracks in the basement with dated masking tape.
Many homes have a few small cracks in their basement walls from the settling of the foundation and the weight of the house. In a stable home, the small cracks aren’t growing at all – they’re safe. If they’re growing, however, you’ll save a ton of money by getting the problem addressed now rather than later.
How do you tell if they’re growing? Take some masking tape and cover up the end of any cracks you notice inside or outside, and write today’s date on the tape. Then, in a few months, check the tape – if you see a crack growing out of the end of the tape, you might have a problem and should call a specialist before the problem gets out of hand.
10. Hang a clothes rack in your laundry room (or better yet, an outdoor clothesline).
Even an efficient clothes dryer can really eat up your energy costs, but it’s convenient for many people. If you’re willing to battle that convenience, you can save money by hanging a clothes rack from the wall in the laundry room and using it for some items; t-shirts, underwear, towels, and pillowcases dry great on clothes racks. If you can hang up 20% of the clothes in a load on a rack, you can get away with running the dryer 20% less than before, saving you cash.
Even better: If you can, install a clothesline in your backyard and hang most of your clothes to dry outside, where a good breeze can do the work of a dryer in no time — and at no cost.
11. Check all toilets and under-sink plumbing for leaks or constant running – and check faucets, too.
Do a survey of the plumbing in your home before you settle in. If you find a toilet is running constantly, it’s going to cost you money – here’s how to easily fix that constantly-running toilet.
You should also peek under the basin of all the sinks in your home, just to make sure there aren’t any leaks. Got a leaky faucet? You should repair or replace any of those because the drip-drip-drip of water is also a drip-drip-drip of money; not to mention the terrible interplay between mold and home insurance.
12. Install LED or CFL light bulbs.
LED and CFL bulbs can save you a lot of money on energy use over the long haul, plus they have much longer lives than normal incandescent bulbs, making them well worth the upfront investment. Consider installing some in various places — especially in areas where the lights may be in use for long periods, like the living room or kitchen, or left on accidentally, like a back hallway or basement. CFL bulbs tend to be cheaper, but LED bulbs are usually preferable in terms of performance and have come down in cost quite a bit over the past few years.
13. Choose energy efficient appliances, even if you have to pay more up front.
Unless you were lucky enough to buy a fully-furnished home, you’ll likely have to do some appliance shopping. Focus on reliability and energy efficiency above all, even if that seriously increases the cost you have to pay up front. A refrigerator that uses little energy and lasts 20 years is far, far cheaper over the long run than a fridge that runs for seven years and guzzles electricity. If you plan ahead, you can buy it with a credit card that offers a big sign-up bonus. You’ll pay the balance off immediately and walk away with hundreds in cash or travel rewards.
14. Set up your home electronics with a SmartStrip or two.
Looking forward to getting your television, cable box, DVD player, sound system, and video game console set up? When you do it, set things up with proper surge protection (to shield your equipment from electric surges). You might also want to consider a SmartStrip, which makes it easy to “unplug” devices that aren’t in use.
A SmartStrip allows the on-off status of one device — say, the television — to control whether or not there’s power flowing to other devices (say, the DVD player or the video game console). Having the power cut automatically from such auxiliary devices can save a lot of money over time, especially since many such devices eat quite a bit of power as they sit there in standby mode, constantly draining your money.
15. Plant shade trees near your house.
Mother nature can help you save significantly on your summer cooling costs — and heating costs in winter, too.
Plant deciduous trees — the kind that lose their leaves in the fall — on the western and eastern sides of your house. The leafy shade trees will naturally cool your home during the hot summer months by reducing the amount of direct sunlight that hits your house.
In the winter, they’ll lose their leaves, allowing that same sunlight to stream through your windows and heat up the home a bit more. And if you plant evergreens on the north and northwest sides of your home, they won’t affect the sunlight, but will shield your home from cold winter winds.
As an added benefit, mature trees can increase your property value. Just make sure to plant them a safe distance from power lines and your home itself (no one wants a downed limb poking through their roof). Plant them now, and they’ll grow and shade your house sooner.
16. Change the locks and make spare keys.
One of the first things many homeowners do is change the locks on their new home. You don’t need to be particularly handy to install new door hardware, and a set of basic doorknobs and locks for your front and back door will only set you back $20-$80 or so. It may seem unnecessary, but there’s no way to know whether there are copies of your old key floating around, and who might have them if so. Investing a bit of money and time today can protect you from burglary down the road.
While you’re at it, get an extra copy of your key made and leave it with someone you trust, so you don’t have to shell out $100 to a locksmith when you inevitably lock yourself out.
17. Air-seal your home.
This isn’t such a problem in new homes, some of which are built tight as drums, but in older homes, it’s important to look for any places where air may be leaking directly into or out of your home. Common trouble spots are around doorways, windows, and even electric outlets.
These aren’t just air leaks – they’re money leaks. Thankfully, fixing small air leaks is pretty easy – here’s a great Department of Energy guide to caulking and weatherstripping, which will keep such air leaks from sucking the heat – and money – out of your home.
18. Take advantage of tax benefits and other incentives.
The energy tax credit, which was set to expire in 2014, was renewed at the last minute in December. That means homeowners who made energy-based improvements to their homes last year were eligible to receive a tax credit for 10% of the cost, up to $500 lifetime. Whether this popular credit is renewed for another year, however, is anyone’s guess. A whopping 30% tax credit toward the cost of solar energy systems, residential wind turbines, and geothermal heat pumps is in effect through 2016.
Your state or city may offer even more benefits, from no-interest loans to rebates, so do some research when you invest money improving the efficiency of your home — you may save even more money than you expected.
Many states and local utility companies also provide home energy audits for free or at a discount. Someone will thoroughly inspect your home to find where you’re wasting energy. They’ll look for air leaks and uninsulated pipes, test the efficiency of your heating and cooling equipment, and even replace any older incandescent light bulbs for free.
19. Develop a home maintenance checklist, and run through it for the first time.
One final tip: Create a home maintenance checklist. This list should include regular home maintenance tasks that you’d want to do on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis. Then, make it a habit to run through the items on this list every so often. Doing so will extend the life of almost everything in your home, saving you buckets of money over time.
Easter Dirt Cake
Everyone loves dirt cake so why not put an Easter spin on this delicious treat! With no baking involved it’s a great recipe to whip up with your little ones! You can’t go wrong with Oreo cookies, pudding, and cool whip. You can add whatever you want to the top, Peeps, jelly beans, edible grass, etc.
For the carrots, you can whip up some vanilla frosting, then add food coloring to get the orange. Next, put it in a plastic bag and clip the corner off. Squeeze little orange blobs on some wax paper and put them in the freezer for 10 min. until they are set. Use a tooth pick to poke a hole in the top so you can add a few pieces of edible grass. (You should be able to find edible grass in the Easter candy aisle at places like Target & Walmart.)
Easter Dirt Cake
- 1 pack of Oreo cookies
- 1 package 8oz of cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup soft butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 3 cups milk
- 2 instant chocolate pudding 3.4 oz (you can use vanilla if you want)
- 1 container 12 oz cool whip, thawed
- peeps, edible Easter grass, 1 container of vanilla frosting (or homemade)
- food coloring
- crush the cookies, I used a food processor
- in large bowl mix cream cheese, butter, sugar and vanilla until fluffy
- in another bowl, whisk milk and pudding until thick
- add pudding mixture into cream cheese mixture and mix until combined
- fold in cool whip until well blended
- add filling into 9×13 dish
- top with crushed Oreos
We hope your family has a wonder Easter holiday and as always if you have any mortgage questions contact us today! 662.890.3000 • http://www.desotohome.com
(Credit to The Semisweet Sisters)
This year instead of store bought St. Patrick’s day treats, save some green with these super cheap and easy recipes!
Shamrock Pretzel Pops
• Bag of Mini Pretzels
• Wilton Green Candy Melts
• Confetti Sprinkles
• Lollipop Sticks
• Wax Paper
STEP 1. After you gather all the ingredients, take the candy melts and place them in a microwave-safe dish. Melt according to package guidelines. I added about 1/4 a teaspoon of shortening (just a tad!) to help the candy soften. I melted about half the bag for about 1 minute and 30 seconds, checking on it every 30 seconds to mix.
STEP 2. Dip each pretzel into the green chocolate with small tongs or fork. You can cover the pretzels completely or let the access chocolate drip off. My pretzels were getting a bit drenched, but they made for even tastier treats!
STEP 3. Arrange the pretzels into the shape of a shamrock on wax paper. You’ll need three pretzels for each shamrock, making sure all the pretzels touch — this will help them adhere as the chocolate dries. Place your stick on top of the pretzels and drizzle with more chocolate to seal. Let set for several minutes and decorate with colorful sprinkles.
Shamrock Punch Recipe
This is the perfect addition to your St. Patrick’s Day theme party! Plus, this would also be fun to serve to your kids on St. Patrick’s Day! This recipe only calls for 2 ingredients which makes it super simple to prepare (and also really cheap)!
1 Carton of Lime Sherbet
1 2 Liter of Ginger ale
Place lime sherbet either in a punch bowl or glass, top with Ginger ale and then allow it to melt slightly before serving!
We hope your family enjoys making sweet memories this St. Patty’s Day! As always, if you have any questions about purchasing or refinancing a home, contact us today! 662.890.3000 • http://www.desotohome.com


A Dependable HVAC Contractor in Greater Temecula, CA
Comfort is inextricably linked to temperature, indoors and out. Think of times you’ve been sweltering and longed for the cooling breezes of air conditioning. “Ah, that’s better,” you say when you’ve found temperatures to your liking, “This is much more comfortable.” That scenario can play out any time you need it once you hire Interior Professional Heating And Air as your HVAC Contractor in Murrieta, CA.
Installation, Support, and Repair
To enjoy the benefits offered by an HVAC system, you must ensure proper installation in the first place. That is the initial step toward temperature control for your home or business. The next step is regular maintenance to ensure smooth, dependable operation on the hot days and the cool ones. Finally, if your system decides to act up, as modern technology can do on occasion, our technicians are the ones to call for prompt and efficient repair work. Contact us now for all your HVAC system requirements.
Call us today to handle all your HVAC needs. We proudly serve Murrieta, CA and the surrounding area.
This business started off as a combination of consulting in interior decorating, and me providing mostly the heating and air conditioning maintenance services, troubleshooting repairs, installations,...
Does not overcharge. I went through 5 HVAC services and he was the only honest one. Just an honest person which is like unicorns these days. Antonio is a retired Marine who owns his own company. Would recommend him. Wish he would do automobile work.
- Chris Matthews. 5/1/2020
We were impressed with Antonio Webb's service. He was professional, thorough, and honest. He checked our AC systems top to bottom. It was the most comprehensive service we have ever received from an HVAC company. Provided great value. We highly recommend Mr. Webb and will continue to seek his service in the future.
- suzanne mcmichael. 4/27/2020
Antonio Webb is responsive, friendly, and a professional. He takes pride in his work and enjoys helping people.
He returned my call quickly and scheduled an appointment for the next day. He updated me of his arrival time and arrived as scheduled.
Antonio quickly resolved the problem with our AC unit.
His pricing is more than than fair. He did not try to up sell me on two new AC units (even with them being 25 plus years old). He simply repaired the AC unit. His entire service call was less expensive than the price charged a few years ago by a "caring" AC company for a small part.
- bluewaterskiing . 4/1/2020
Antonio Webb is an absolute professional. He is easy to contact and works with you to schedule a convenient appointment time. He keeps you appraised of his arrival time and works hard to assess the problem with your heating/cooling system. He got our AC up and running in a short amount of time. I found him to be honest and his charges to be very reasonable (much less than the folks who advertise on TV). He takes pride in his work and is happy to show you just what the problem is and what his recommendation will be. When our system was outdated and could no longer be repaired, I trusted Antonio to install a new one. He gave us a written quote and stayed to his estimate, even when he encountered some issues with removing the old system. I wholeheartedly recommend Antonio Webb from Interior Professional Heating and Air for any installation and service needs.
- Susan Inumerable. 11/28/2019
Anthony is very helpful and experienced in his craft, he knows what to do and so affordable price he quote with extra job for free. He is awesome person i will definitely 100%% will recommend him.
- Marilou Mader. 11/26/2019
Antonio was personable yet very professional! He replaced my thermostat and filters. Had good suggestions and really helped us out. We also appreciate and support his business because he is a veteran!
- Jill McCook. 11/16/2019
Antonio really knows his stuff. I had quotes for twice as much to do the same thing, cool my upstairs area properly. Others told me I had to redo the duct work, etc. Antonio came out, diagnosed the problem, and installed a new 5 ton unit with new vents to properly cool the upstairs. Cannot say enough good things about him. Check him out the real deal. Honest, professional and true to his word.
- Steven Romanoff. 7/28/2019
Excellent and professional service.
- Darleana McHenry. 7/28/2019
Antonio is AWESOME!! The best HVAC service professional that I have met in 30+ years of owning a home.
I wanted both my air-conditioning units & heating systems serviced, and explained a couple of issues we were having with the cooling unit for the upstairs system and the downstairs heating system being slow warming up. He provided a very reasonable quote upfront explaining what is involved. He then did a very thorough inspection of each units of the heating and cooling systems and explained everything each step of the way.
He does not try to up sell any additional service or product but will recommend things if needed and a time line for future repairs. He tuned up my HVAC system to its optimal performance & identified the root cause of my system issues and fixed them, all at no additional cost to the original quote.
He respects your house, and cleans up after the job. I will highly recommend him to anyone needing HVAC service or repair.
- SC Lim. 5/22/2019
We were having an issue with our HVAC system not pushing out any cool air in our upstairs area. I came across a review on Mr. Webb and the HVAC service he provides, so we gave him a call to find out if he could fit us in his schedule for later in the week. I gave him a quick description of what we were dealing with and he offered to swing by that same day. He arrived promptly at the time that was arranged and went right to work at assessing our problem. Mr. Webb gave our AC system a careful, thorough look-through and determined that we had very low coolant levels in our system. Before we knew it, we had cool air pushing out of our vents.
Overall, extremely professional and courteous. Throughout his whole visit he made it a point to explain everything he was doing and why. Where ever he was working throughout the house, he made sure he kept it nice and orderly (putting on shoe booties while walking in and out of the house, laying out blankets on the carpet where ever he placed his tools/ladder). Without a doubt, I will be using him in the future for any additional maintenance work. As a matter of fact, I requested that he put me in his calendar for seasonal check-ups. Unfortunately, they only allow us to give five stars - if I could, I would put more. If your family was in need any type of HVAC service give him a call first - you will NOT be disappointed!!!
- Kimberly Santos. 5/13/2019
Anthony Webb was very professional, knowledgeable and personable as a heating and air technician. He was also extremely patient in helping me understand what the problems were and how to use the thermostat for best results! He was very careful to wear shoe protectors and leave everything as he found it. Anthony was highly recommended to me by people who he had serviced for years!! I will also recommend him with confidence to others for his outstanding work!!!
- Jean Smith. 2/30/2019
Tony came and took care of my heating needs next day. A week earlier than anyone else I called in town. Found errors in the job done before and got er fixed up. Thanks!
- Andrew McConnell. 11/27/2018
Tony did a great job, and his price was affordable. He is a very respectful person and cares about the work he does, checking back to make sure everything is working good. I would recommend him to anyone.
- Barbara Garlock. 11/2/2018
Cant say enough about what s great guy Antonio is. Always available when our air conditioner has issues. If you want a reliable and trustworthy company, this is it
- Dora Davis. 6/3/2018
We have used Antonio several times over the last 10 years he has always been super friendly and efficient and has saved us so much money and kept us up and running. Highly reccomend his services!.
- laura gamarro. 4/10/2018
I have had the pleasure of working with Antonio for several years. He is the BEST. He is extremely knowledgeable , always prompt, and a true professional.He is very informative and explains what is going on well, and he always makes the decision based on ME. If you want someone you can trust and you want top quality work, Interior Professional HVAC is exactly what you want, and Antonio IS your guy!
- Tawnia Moxley. 4/10/2018
I have done business with Tony for over 20 Years. I have never seen a more honest, caring & professional person in my life. Tony takes prides in his work and assures his customers they will be 100%% satisfied. The fact that Tony is a Veteran explains his meticulous work habit. I have referred Tony to several friends and relatives and they had nothing but praise for Tony and his quality of work.
- Calmom5 . 4/2/2018
We have used Interior Professional Heating and Air (Antonio) on many occasions and have referred him to several friends who have been just as happy with his professionalism, honesty and quality of work. He replaced the heater and air conditioner in our current house and he has serviced and repaired it whenever necessary. He also replaced the heater and air conditioner on our rental property. In addition to getting the job completed in a just a short time at a very reasonable cost, he treated our tenant with the same respect and courtesy he always does us and they were very happy. This is why we continue to refer him to our friends. You wont find a company with more integrity and professionalism. A co-worker was very impressed that he didn't try to just sell them a whole new unit during a service call. He told they still had life left in their HVAC system and advised a different option. Eventually he was the first company they called when they were ready for a new unit in another house. His prices are competitive, his work excellent, but his honesty and professionalism are second to none.


Aston Martin is a renowned luxury car brand that has captivated the hearts of automotive enthusiasts worldwide for over a century. With a rich heritage, a commitment to exquisite design, and a focus on delivering unparalleled performance, Aston Martin stands as an iconic symbol of British engineering and automotive excellence. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating story, exceptional craftsmanship, and notable achievements that define Aston Martin.
A History Steeped in Heritage:
Founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, Aston Martin takes its name from the hill climb race "Aston Hill" and Lionel Martin's surname. From its early years, the brand demonstrated a passion for racing, with notable successes in events like the French Grand Prix and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. However, Aston Martin's road cars truly began to capture attention in the 1950s and 1960s, with models like the iconic DB series, including the DB4, DB5 (famous for its appearance in James Bond films), and the DB6.
Timeless Design Language:
One of Aston Martin's defining characteristics is its timeless and elegant design language. Every Aston Martin vehicle is a work of automotive art, meticulously crafted to combine aerodynamic efficiency with aesthetic allure. From the sleek lines to the iconic grille, Aston Martin cars exhibit a harmonious blend of grace and power, catching the eye of onlookers and setting the stage for an exhilarating driving experience.
Engineering Excellence and Performance:
Beyond their stunning appearance, Aston Martin vehicles are revered for their exceptional performance capabilities. Each model is engineered to deliver exhilarating speed, precise handling, and a thrilling driving experience. Whether it's the Vantage, DB11, or the flagship DBS Superleggera, Aston Martin cars embody a perfect balance of power and agility, driven by cutting-edge technology and expertise honed over decades.
Craftsmanship at its Finest:
Aston Martin vehicles are meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the supple leather interiors to the precisely tailored stitching. Aston Martin's commitment to creating bespoke, personalized experiences for its discerning customers ensures that each car is a unique masterpiece, tailored to individual preferences and tastes.
Innovation and Future Direction:
As the automotive industry evolves, Aston Martin continues to push boundaries and embrace innovation. The brand's commitment to sustainability is exemplified by its focus on electric and hybrid technologies, with the introduction of models like the all-electric Rapide E and the forthcoming hybrid Valkyrie hypercar. Aston Martin aims to combine performance and sustainability, reflecting its dedication to a greener and more responsible future.
Aston Martin's journey through the decades has been defined by elegance, power, and a relentless pursuit of automotive excellence. From its roots in motorsport to its reputation as a creator of luxurious and high-performance vehicles, Aston Martin has established itself as a global icon. With its timeless design, exceptional craftsmanship, and commitment to innovation, Aston Martin continues to captivate car enthusiasts and serve as a testament to the best of British automotive engineering.
As we look ahead, Aston Martin remains poised to embrace new challenges, redefine boundaries, and create the next chapter in its illustrious history, ensuring that the legacy of this esteemed brand will continue to inspire automotive enthusiasts for generations to come.


Fundamental Theory of Atomic Force Microscopy
by Wenjie Mai
What is AFM?
The atomic force microscope (AFM) is one kind of scanning probe microscopes (SPM). SPMs are designed to measure local properties, such as height, friction, magnetism, with a probe. To acquire an image, the SPM raster-scans the probe over a small area of the sample, measuring the local property simultaneously.
How does AFM work?
AFMs operate by measuring force between a probe and the sample. Normally, the probe is a sharp tip, which is a 3-6 um tall pyramid with 15-40nm end radius (Figure 1). Though the lateral resolution of AFM is low (~30nm) due to the convolution, the vertical resolution can be up to 0.1nm.
Figure 1. (a) A new AFM tip; inset: The end of the new tip. (b) A used AFM tip.
To acquire the image resolution, AFMs can generally measure the vertical and lateral deflections of the cantilever by using the optical lever. The optical lever operates by reflecting a laser beam off the cantilever. The reflected laser beam strikes a position-sensitive photo-detector consisting of four-segment photo-detector. The differences between the segments of photo-detector of signals indicate the position of the laser spot on the detector and thus the angular deflections of the cantilever (Figure 2).
Figure 2. AFM is working with an optical lever.
Piezo-ceramics position the tip with high resolution. Piezoelectric ceramics are a class of materials that expand or contract when in the presence of a voltage gradient. Piezo-ceramics make it possible to create three-dimensional positioning devices of arbitrarily high precision.
In contact mode, AFMs use feedback to regulate the force on the sample. The AFM not only measures the force on the sample but also regulates it, allowing acquisition of images at very low forces. The feedback loop consists of the tube scanner that controls the height of the tip; the cantilever and optical lever, which measures the local height of the sample; and a feedback circuit that attempts to keep the cantilever deflection constant by adjusting the voltage applied to the scanner. A well-constructed feedback loop is essential to microscope performance (Figure 3).
Figure 3. AFM images of ZnO nanobelt.


10:00 - 17:30
Karl-Arnold-Platz 540474 Düsseldorf
Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel, Düsseldorf
LNG Roadmap Workshop
The event will highlight the development of the liquefied gas (LNG = Liquefied natural gas) as an alternative fuel for inland navigation and for heavy-duty commercial vehicles as well as fuel for industrial applications.
This year the event will experience its fourth performance. The 4th LNG Roadmap is a follow-up event, which gathered in 2014, 2015 and 2016 more than 100 guests each year from Germany, Austria, Belgium, France, Norway, Poland, Great Britain, the Netherlands and Switzerland. Also in this year we expect national and international experts of LNG as fuel gas and transportation fuel to exchange the experiences and have an open discussion about technical and regulatory aspects, safety standards, promotion and sponsorship options and the setup of an infrastructure. Besides, practical examples and project progresses will be presented. The workshop will be held in English.


Foshan Sime Darby Elco Power Equipment Limited are the appointed Perkins distributors in China. Through our network of approved dealers, we supply genuine Perkins engines and parts, as well as provide product support and warranty services.
Our company belong to CAT(caterpillar) SIME DARBY Group,we supply original/genuine parts for Caterpillar main models.
|Membership:||On ECPlaza since 2019|
|Business Type:||Agent, Distributor, Wholesaler/Retailer, Service, Others|
|Product Category:||Generator Parts & Accessories|
|Main Item / Product:||Caterpillar parts, Perkins parts, FG Wilson parts, engine parts,JCB,Messay Ferguson,VOLVO parts|
|Keywords:||Perkins Parts, Caterpillar Parts, Fg Wilson Parts|
|Main Target Region:||World Wide|
|Representative / CEO's Name:||Billy|
|Employees Total:||250 to 499|
|Annual Export Rate:||50%|