News

Data acquisition system test recipe: Bake at 221°F for 3 years — serve up a job well done

One-stop shop for auto glazing lowers vehicle weight, improves fuel economy

New research suggests biofuel blending is often inaccurate

First-of-its-kind 360° optical sensor inspects bore surfaces

IMTS announces plans for new Innovation Center theme days

Keyless bushing simplifies theme park ride construction, maintenance
A novel type of bushing has helped Garmendale Engineering to reduce costs on a mineshaft-style railway ride for a new European theme park. The Dodge Grip Tight Bushing system from Baldor allows the drive wheels to be attached directly onto the shafts without the cost of machining keyways, providing a completely concentric grip. The bushing's 360° fit and easy disassembly mechanism also simplify routine maintenance of the ride.
Read the full article

The Unbelievable Prototyping Company. Are you behind the curve in product launch? Do you have a design that just doesn't seem to be working? If you're having difficulty answering these questions, chances are the 3-Dimensional Services Group has the answers. We're experts in bringing product ideas to reality and laying design challenges to rest. We design and build prototypes with manufacturing intent in mind, and we do it faster than you can imagine. For more information visit 3-Dimensional Services Group online.

Crankshaft study demonstrates durability/fatigue strength of steel
In a late November 2007 study released by the University of Toledo, forged steel crankshafts were shown to have 36% higher fatigue strength than cast iron crankshafts, resulting in a usage life six times longer for the forged steel crankshaft. The study also explored strength, ductility, and impact toughness of the two materials and found forged steel to be superior to the ductile cast iron.
Read the full article

Researchers develop darkest manmade material
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Rice University have created the darkest material ever made by man. The material, a thin coating comprised of low-density arrays of loosely vertically aligned carbon nanotubes, absorbs more than 99.9% of light and one day could be used to boost the effectiveness and efficiency of solar energy conversion, infrared sensors, and other devices. The researchers who developed the material have applied for a Guinness World Record for their efforts.
Read the full article

Wheels: CR says some cheaper cars may cost more to own
A cheaper car can cost consumers more in the long run compared with a more expensive alternative, according to Consumer Reports' new owner-costs comparisons, which appear in the annual April Auto Issue. In fact, says CR, a car's sticker price doesn't tell the whole story. At about $17,500, a Mitsubishi Lancer could cost $5,000 less than a Mini Cooper to drive home. But considering the total costs of ownership for each car, the Lancer could cost drivers around $3,000 more over the first five years.
Read the full article