How do old people put on their socks? My friend's question was rhetorical, if rather bleak, but to Derek Jameson, 80-year-old former media mogul and TV star, it has serious import.
Jameson was once one of the most powerful men in British media. By last year, however, when he starred in the BBC's The Young Ones (now airing on the ABC), he had the look of a man who had not touched his feet for some time, and putting on his socks had become a primary life goal.
Yet The Young Ones is not bleak. Not at all. Television cannot afford to be. "What," asks (attractive, blonde) presenter Mariella Frostrup at the start, "if you really could think yourself young?"
This tantalising notion drives the show. Of course, it's television. So although it bills itself as serious science, and is presided over by the Harvard psychologist and Counterclockwise author Professor Ellen Langer, The Young Ones is also part reality TV, and part propaganda.
Then again, that could be part of the experiment, which tests the placebo potential of a new anti-ageing therapy - where the sugar pill is a house.
As students - somehow studenthood is always plural - we would occasionally try to imagine how we'd live in old age. The favoured vision involved a rambling, shared, wooden house, full of books, chooks, pets, friends and possibly drugs, with libraries and verandahs, music rooms and kitchen gardens. It was a hop away from streets brimming with cafes, cinemas and bookshops. (Yes, dearly beloved, back when bookshops and cinemas existed.)
Later, when my mother was dying, I changed my mind. When she was two weeks from death the hospital chucked her out. The caring-sharing team it had built around her decided she was sick enough to die, clearly too sick to be at home but not sick enough - or perhaps not curable enough - to command a hospital bed.
I was too close to tears to argue. But who can argue with a hospital, anyway?
So began a grim wheelchair tour of various ''care'' establishments. First was Paradise Waters, or similar, a funereal hostelry so new that half of it was still under wraps. The pink-faced manager clicked across the marble floor towards us, adjusting his cufflinks, cementing his smile into place, smoothing his trouser creases. For only a couple of thousand dollars a week he offered my mother a small plastinated room, with a view of other small plastinated rooms ready for the yet-to-crumble. All this, and staff paid to treat her like an underachieving four-year-old.
I saw then that, however thrilling or purposeful your life to that point, you are suddenly meant to feel right at home in a world that reeks of plastic carpet, boiled cabbage and stale body fluids, a world of neat lawns, false smiles and managed atmospheric denial in which you feel already embalmed, or soon wish you were.
So I decided my young-person's vision of ageing was just that; silly and unrealistic. Old people, I saw, were undercover heroes, trudging out across the frozen wastes, not a map or sled-dog in sight, increasingly ill-equipped for the terrors that lie ahead. Captain Oateses all.
2011年6月29日星期三
Honey and fig ice-cream with hazelnut praline
To make the hazelnut praline, preheat oven to 180°C. Spread hazelnuts over a baking tray and cook in preheated oven for 5-6 minutes or until aromatic. Rub hazelnuts between a clean tea towel to remove skins. Brush baking tray with oil to lightly grease and return hazelnuts to tray.
Place the sugar and water in a small heavy-based saucepan and stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to high and bring to the boil. Boil, uncovered, without stirring, for 3-4 minutes or until light golden. Pour over hazelnuts and set aside for 30 minutes or until set.
Break the praline into pieces and place in the bowl of a food processor. Process until crushed. Spoon 2 tsp of praline each into ten 160ml (2/3-cup) moulds. Set aside. Use electric beaters to whisk egg whites in a medium stainless-steel bowl until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Place the sugar, honey and glucose in a small heavy-based saucepan and stir over high heat for 30 seconds or until combined. Place a sugar thermometer in the pan and bring to the boil. Boil, uncovered, until soft ball stage (116°C) is reached (about 2 minutes).
Remove the pan from the heat. Use electric beaters on medium to whisk the egg whites while adding the syrup in a slow, steady stream. Continue whisking until the bowl is cold to touch.
Use electric beaters to whisk cream in a medium bowl until soft peaks form. Use a spatula to fold half the cream into the egg white mixture until combined. Repeat with remaining cream. Fold in remaining praline, figs, apricots, Craisins and orange rind. Spoon into moulds and place on a tray. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the freezer for 8 hours or overnight to set.
To serve, run a small spatula around the edge of each mould, then turn the desserts onto serving plates. Serve immediately with the raspberries.
Place the sugar and water in a small heavy-based saucepan and stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to high and bring to the boil. Boil, uncovered, without stirring, for 3-4 minutes or until light golden. Pour over hazelnuts and set aside for 30 minutes or until set.
Break the praline into pieces and place in the bowl of a food processor. Process until crushed. Spoon 2 tsp of praline each into ten 160ml (2/3-cup) moulds. Set aside. Use electric beaters to whisk egg whites in a medium stainless-steel bowl until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Place the sugar, honey and glucose in a small heavy-based saucepan and stir over high heat for 30 seconds or until combined. Place a sugar thermometer in the pan and bring to the boil. Boil, uncovered, until soft ball stage (116°C) is reached (about 2 minutes).
Remove the pan from the heat. Use electric beaters on medium to whisk the egg whites while adding the syrup in a slow, steady stream. Continue whisking until the bowl is cold to touch.
Use electric beaters to whisk cream in a medium bowl until soft peaks form. Use a spatula to fold half the cream into the egg white mixture until combined. Repeat with remaining cream. Fold in remaining praline, figs, apricots, Craisins and orange rind. Spoon into moulds and place on a tray. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the freezer for 8 hours or overnight to set.
To serve, run a small spatula around the edge of each mould, then turn the desserts onto serving plates. Serve immediately with the raspberries.
2011年6月26日星期日
'Slug' found in Heinz baby food actually 'mould', says SA Health
So Gaynor Giro was horrified when she pulled what she describes as a slug out of her five-month-old granddaughter's tinned Heinz baby food.
"It's just revolting," Ms Giro said. "I just couldn't believe it."
Ms Giro found the slimy, 5cm "slug" in a can of Heinz banana custard when she was feeding Aleksandra Giro at a family dinner on Tuesday.
Ms Giro, 41, of Walkerville, told the Sunday Mail she was convinced she pulled a slug out of the can, despite SA Health assurances it was not a slug.
"You can't tell me that that's not a slug," she said. "That's got feelers, mate.
"You can't tell me that's organic. Look at it - that's a slug."
Ms Giro said she was horrified to realise she was about to feed the baby the "slug".
"I thought it was mould at first, too, but we washed it and found that it was a slug," she said. "I stirred the custard because it was really runny, but imagine if I hadn't and just started feeding Aleksandra.
"I could've made her sick or if I'd given her chunky baby food I wouldn't even have known it was in there."
Ms Giro bought the food from a local supermarket, and the expiry date on the can was September, 2012.
"Imagine if it had been closer to the expiry date," she said. "Who knows how many would have dissolved?"
SA Health analysed the "slug" and told the Sunday Mail in a statement it was "coagulated" ingredients that were the result of air getting into the damaged can. "It has been confirmed that the material was neither a slug, nor rubber or plastic," the statement said.
A Heinz spokeswoman said the can was probably damaged after it left the factory. "We are, however, conducting a thorough investigation as per normal procedures," she said.
"Even if it was mould, it's in baby food," Ms Giro said. "It could've made her sick."
Ms Giro said she would throw out all of the dozens of canned baby food she had in her cupboard for when she babysat her two grandchildren.
"I'm making our own baby food from now on," she said. "They could offer me a whole year's supply and I wouldn't touch it.
"I don't even want to open my tinned tomatoes now. This has put me off buying any food that you can't make with your own hands."
Ms Giro said she did not believe the Government's analysis of the substance. "They've gone for hush-hush here," she said. "It might be a one-off, but it happened to me."
Ms Giro said a Heinz sales representative first told her to post the slug back to them, and then offered to pick it up to analyse it. Instead, she called SA Health for an independent analysis.
SA Health said retailers should avoid selling dented or damaged cans, and the public should not buy or consume food from dented or damaged cans.
An Opposition spokesman said the test results should be released publicly and the baby food recalled from sale.
"It's just revolting," Ms Giro said. "I just couldn't believe it."
Ms Giro found the slimy, 5cm "slug" in a can of Heinz banana custard when she was feeding Aleksandra Giro at a family dinner on Tuesday.
Ms Giro, 41, of Walkerville, told the Sunday Mail she was convinced she pulled a slug out of the can, despite SA Health assurances it was not a slug.
"You can't tell me that that's not a slug," she said. "That's got feelers, mate.
"You can't tell me that's organic. Look at it - that's a slug."
Ms Giro said she was horrified to realise she was about to feed the baby the "slug".
"I thought it was mould at first, too, but we washed it and found that it was a slug," she said. "I stirred the custard because it was really runny, but imagine if I hadn't and just started feeding Aleksandra.
"I could've made her sick or if I'd given her chunky baby food I wouldn't even have known it was in there."
Ms Giro bought the food from a local supermarket, and the expiry date on the can was September, 2012.
"Imagine if it had been closer to the expiry date," she said. "Who knows how many would have dissolved?"
SA Health analysed the "slug" and told the Sunday Mail in a statement it was "coagulated" ingredients that were the result of air getting into the damaged can. "It has been confirmed that the material was neither a slug, nor rubber or plastic," the statement said.
A Heinz spokeswoman said the can was probably damaged after it left the factory. "We are, however, conducting a thorough investigation as per normal procedures," she said.
"Even if it was mould, it's in baby food," Ms Giro said. "It could've made her sick."
Ms Giro said she would throw out all of the dozens of canned baby food she had in her cupboard for when she babysat her two grandchildren.
"I'm making our own baby food from now on," she said. "They could offer me a whole year's supply and I wouldn't touch it.
"I don't even want to open my tinned tomatoes now. This has put me off buying any food that you can't make with your own hands."
Ms Giro said she did not believe the Government's analysis of the substance. "They've gone for hush-hush here," she said. "It might be a one-off, but it happened to me."
Ms Giro said a Heinz sales representative first told her to post the slug back to them, and then offered to pick it up to analyse it. Instead, she called SA Health for an independent analysis.
SA Health said retailers should avoid selling dented or damaged cans, and the public should not buy or consume food from dented or damaged cans.
An Opposition spokesman said the test results should be released publicly and the baby food recalled from sale.
Food supply chain crucial
WHEN people think of improving food security, the focus is generally on improving production.
However, regional co-ordinator for south Asia and Africa with the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) John Dixon said working on the food supply chain could also be crucial in feeding more people in places such as Africa and the subcontinent.
“Without a doubt, there is quantity and quality of grain lost in the food chain, and it is worse for certain grains.
“There are more losses in pulses and maize, which have a softer coat, than in other staples such as rice and sorghum, which are harder,” said Dr Dixon, who is also ACIAR’s senior advisor of cropping systems and economics.
He said grain stored in third world areas was more susceptible to problems such as insect damage and mould, while there are also widespread problems with fungal diseases such as aflatoxin, a fungus prevalent in maize and groundnuts, which can cause death to those who eat contaminated grain in worst case scenarios.
But there is renewed interest in cutting post-harvest losses of staple crops in developing countries.
Dr Dixon said a second wave of investment in grain protection technologies was taking place, following a similar push in the 1980s.
“In the 1980s, there were big investments from many countries to cut back waste, especially in Africa, but not a lot of progress was made, and efforts stagnated a little.
“Now, there are some indications that things are moving in the right direction again, especially in south Asia, where you can walk into farmers’ houses and see silos with metal lids, where previously grain had been stored in sacks and was much more susceptible to damage.
“To a lesser extent, the same thing is also beginning to happen in Africa in places such as Kenya.
“There are now large enough volumes of grain about that the farmers can get local workshops to manufacture the silos for them.”
Dr Dixon also said there had been success with a micro-form of the grain bags popular in Australia.
However, regional co-ordinator for south Asia and Africa with the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) John Dixon said working on the food supply chain could also be crucial in feeding more people in places such as Africa and the subcontinent.
“Without a doubt, there is quantity and quality of grain lost in the food chain, and it is worse for certain grains.
“There are more losses in pulses and maize, which have a softer coat, than in other staples such as rice and sorghum, which are harder,” said Dr Dixon, who is also ACIAR’s senior advisor of cropping systems and economics.
He said grain stored in third world areas was more susceptible to problems such as insect damage and mould, while there are also widespread problems with fungal diseases such as aflatoxin, a fungus prevalent in maize and groundnuts, which can cause death to those who eat contaminated grain in worst case scenarios.
But there is renewed interest in cutting post-harvest losses of staple crops in developing countries.
Dr Dixon said a second wave of investment in grain protection technologies was taking place, following a similar push in the 1980s.
“In the 1980s, there were big investments from many countries to cut back waste, especially in Africa, but not a lot of progress was made, and efforts stagnated a little.
“Now, there are some indications that things are moving in the right direction again, especially in south Asia, where you can walk into farmers’ houses and see silos with metal lids, where previously grain had been stored in sacks and was much more susceptible to damage.
“To a lesser extent, the same thing is also beginning to happen in Africa in places such as Kenya.
“There are now large enough volumes of grain about that the farmers can get local workshops to manufacture the silos for them.”
Dr Dixon also said there had been success with a micro-form of the grain bags popular in Australia.
2011年6月22日星期三
Clinton Township plastic molder Anderson-Cook expands in China
Clinton Township-based Anderson-Cook Inc. plans to expand its Shanghai operations, including plastic molding, to handle growing demand for more precision automotive components in China.
The company plans to move from a 37,600-square-foot plant into a new, 64,500-square-foot building this year and has seen its sales in China double every year since 2008, company officials said.
Anderson-Cook plans to add four or five injection-molding machines to the 21 presses it now has in Shanghai, sales manager Rebecca Yue said in an interview at the International Auto Parts & Accessories Expo, held June 9-11 in Guangzhou, China.
“We have many current customers and potential customers who are very interested in our gear transmission housings,” including plastic components, Yue said.
The company does not compete in China’s mass market for auto parts, sticking to components where precision is required, and it is seeing demand for those types of parts rise, she said.
Most of its customers are the China operations of large foreign auto suppliers, including Lear Corp., Johnson Controls Inc. and Visteon Corp. But it is starting to see more interest from domestic Chinese carmakers as they seek to offer products such as better anti-lock braking systems, Yue said.
The Shanghai factory specializes in products such as gears and shafts, which make up about 77 percent of sales. It is also involved in office products and medical assemblies.
The company employs 130 at Shanghai but is unsure how many employees it will add in the expansion, Yue said.
Like factories in other big coastal cities, wages have risen substantially at the Shanghai plant — more than 10 percent a year for the past several years — prompting Anderson-Cook to look at more automation, she said.
Anderson-Cook has eight factories in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and China. It opened the Shanghai plant in 2005.
The company plans to move from a 37,600-square-foot plant into a new, 64,500-square-foot building this year and has seen its sales in China double every year since 2008, company officials said.
Anderson-Cook plans to add four or five injection-molding machines to the 21 presses it now has in Shanghai, sales manager Rebecca Yue said in an interview at the International Auto Parts & Accessories Expo, held June 9-11 in Guangzhou, China.
“We have many current customers and potential customers who are very interested in our gear transmission housings,” including plastic components, Yue said.
The company does not compete in China’s mass market for auto parts, sticking to components where precision is required, and it is seeing demand for those types of parts rise, she said.
Most of its customers are the China operations of large foreign auto suppliers, including Lear Corp., Johnson Controls Inc. and Visteon Corp. But it is starting to see more interest from domestic Chinese carmakers as they seek to offer products such as better anti-lock braking systems, Yue said.
The Shanghai factory specializes in products such as gears and shafts, which make up about 77 percent of sales. It is also involved in office products and medical assemblies.
The company employs 130 at Shanghai but is unsure how many employees it will add in the expansion, Yue said.
Like factories in other big coastal cities, wages have risen substantially at the Shanghai plant — more than 10 percent a year for the past several years — prompting Anderson-Cook to look at more automation, she said.
Anderson-Cook has eight factories in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and China. It opened the Shanghai plant in 2005.
Louisville-based Jones Plastic & Engineering celebrates 50th anniversary
Louisville-based Jones Plastic, a leading injection molders for the appliance and automotive industries, announce its 50th anniversary.
In 1961, Louisville natives and Manual High School Alumni Harry & Larry Jones, with funding from family and friends along with their wives, Nancy and Skeet, and six children all under 7 in tow, started a one-machine manufacturing operation.
Two years later they purchased another machine and with great employees and hard work the business eventually out grew its modest beginnings and was relocated to its current headquarters, in the Jeffersontown Industrial Park. Harry said
“We took a big chance but needed to have the ability to continue to expand if opportunities kept coming our way," Harry Jones said.
They did keep coming and helped turn Jones Plastic and Engineering into a
multinational injection molder that is still family owned, with three generations active in day to day operations.
Harry and Larry are Kentucky staples both as entrepreneurs and local sport legends. The twins both lettered three years (1950-52) with the University of Kentucky Wildcats football team under Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant.
Harry led the UK team and the nation in kickoff return yardage with 964 in 1951, and Larry led UK in punt returns that same year.
Harry Jones, 1A, and Larry Jones, 1BHarry and Larry are mentioned in the book, "The Wildcats," by former UK Sports Information Director Russell Rice. The book discusses Bryant’s use of a unique number system to identify the twins, Harry (1A) and Larry (1B).
Jones Plastic initially manufactured whiskey caps for liquor bottles, and in the early ’90s it pioneered the use of gas-assist, high-speed molding and component kitting. It was not only this expertise in molding, but their reputation for helping their customers get products to market, reducing handling labor and shipping costs that led the way to expansions
in Kentucky, Tennessee and two Mexican locations, Monterrey and Juarez.
The company is known in the industry for service and quality and by its “Outworking the Competition” motto, coined by Larry in 1965.
“My father, Harry and Uncle Larry insisted on providing customers with the best product and service possible. The 50th anniversary is testament to our continued dedication to this core value!" said CEO Craig Jones
Jones Plastic and Engineering now has 2,400 employees worldwide and
its plants are comprised of nearly 1 million s.f.
“It wasn’t always growth over the 50 years”, said Harry Jones. “Sometime the markets changed and then we had to adjust.”
The results of those adjustments can be seen through the primary product lines, which consists of Appliance Consumer Goods, Packaging & Displays,
Outdoor Products, Medical, Electronic, and Automotive Components.
In 1978, the family held company expanded its holdings with the acquisition of a division of Ajax Hardware of California and established Rev-A-Shelf as a division of Jones Plastic and Engineering in the 1980s. Rev-A-Shelf’s line began as metal and polymer Lazy Susan components complemented Jones Plastic and has since grown into the market leading innovator of quality, functional residential cabinet storage and organization products.
“We had high hopes for this company (Rev-A-Shelf) when we started it." Harry Jones said. "With the help of so many hard working employees and great leadership in our first president, Kevin Jones, and now with David Noe, current general manager, Rev-A-Shelf has grown into an International company with a great reputation for very high quality, storage solution products.”
“2011 was never a goal, nor did we ever expect to be in business this long”, said Harry Jones. “The reason we are still here today is because we were very fortunate to find great people willing to work hard to satisfy our customers.”
That hard work has grown Jones Plastic and Engineering from one machine to a global corporation with five molding facilities, two satellite locations in Europe and Asia, and its subsidy company, Rev-A-Shelf.
“We are proud to be part of the business. It has been great to be here all these years” said Harry Jones.
In 1961, Louisville natives and Manual High School Alumni Harry & Larry Jones, with funding from family and friends along with their wives, Nancy and Skeet, and six children all under 7 in tow, started a one-machine manufacturing operation.
Two years later they purchased another machine and with great employees and hard work the business eventually out grew its modest beginnings and was relocated to its current headquarters, in the Jeffersontown Industrial Park. Harry said
“We took a big chance but needed to have the ability to continue to expand if opportunities kept coming our way," Harry Jones said.
They did keep coming and helped turn Jones Plastic and Engineering into a
multinational injection molder that is still family owned, with three generations active in day to day operations.
Harry and Larry are Kentucky staples both as entrepreneurs and local sport legends. The twins both lettered three years (1950-52) with the University of Kentucky Wildcats football team under Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant.
Harry led the UK team and the nation in kickoff return yardage with 964 in 1951, and Larry led UK in punt returns that same year.
Harry Jones, 1A, and Larry Jones, 1BHarry and Larry are mentioned in the book, "The Wildcats," by former UK Sports Information Director Russell Rice. The book discusses Bryant’s use of a unique number system to identify the twins, Harry (1A) and Larry (1B).
Jones Plastic initially manufactured whiskey caps for liquor bottles, and in the early ’90s it pioneered the use of gas-assist, high-speed molding and component kitting. It was not only this expertise in molding, but their reputation for helping their customers get products to market, reducing handling labor and shipping costs that led the way to expansions
in Kentucky, Tennessee and two Mexican locations, Monterrey and Juarez.
The company is known in the industry for service and quality and by its “Outworking the Competition” motto, coined by Larry in 1965.
“My father, Harry and Uncle Larry insisted on providing customers with the best product and service possible. The 50th anniversary is testament to our continued dedication to this core value!" said CEO Craig Jones
Jones Plastic and Engineering now has 2,400 employees worldwide and
its plants are comprised of nearly 1 million s.f.
“It wasn’t always growth over the 50 years”, said Harry Jones. “Sometime the markets changed and then we had to adjust.”
The results of those adjustments can be seen through the primary product lines, which consists of Appliance Consumer Goods, Packaging & Displays,
Outdoor Products, Medical, Electronic, and Automotive Components.
In 1978, the family held company expanded its holdings with the acquisition of a division of Ajax Hardware of California and established Rev-A-Shelf as a division of Jones Plastic and Engineering in the 1980s. Rev-A-Shelf’s line began as metal and polymer Lazy Susan components complemented Jones Plastic and has since grown into the market leading innovator of quality, functional residential cabinet storage and organization products.
“We had high hopes for this company (Rev-A-Shelf) when we started it." Harry Jones said. "With the help of so many hard working employees and great leadership in our first president, Kevin Jones, and now with David Noe, current general manager, Rev-A-Shelf has grown into an International company with a great reputation for very high quality, storage solution products.”
“2011 was never a goal, nor did we ever expect to be in business this long”, said Harry Jones. “The reason we are still here today is because we were very fortunate to find great people willing to work hard to satisfy our customers.”
That hard work has grown Jones Plastic and Engineering from one machine to a global corporation with five molding facilities, two satellite locations in Europe and Asia, and its subsidy company, Rev-A-Shelf.
“We are proud to be part of the business. It has been great to be here all these years” said Harry Jones.
2011年6月20日星期一
2012 Ford Fiesta ST revealing spy shots
Ford has again been spotted testing the upcoming Ford Fiesta ST on the Nurburgring in Germany. This time there was hardly any camouflaging placed over the car and almost all is revealed.
From the front we can see there’s going to be a very aggressive front bumper set for the production model. The example on this test mule does seem a bit strange though as it incorporates a large central fascia mould, covering up the Ford badge and grille design. But as per previous shots, we already have a pretty good idea of what the front end will look like.
The front end may also incorporate LED lights behind the plastic mould on this particular test car, which will feature on the production model in accordance with new European design rules. This test car also appears to be wearing a new set of alloy wheels, unseen on previous spy shots, which could be the wheels that will feature on the production model next year.
Providing power for the new model is likely to be a 1.6-litre EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing around 140-150kW of power. The engine will help the car sprint from 0-100km/h in around the six-second range, rivalling the likes of the Volkswagen Polo GTI and the Renualt Clio RS 200.
Even though it is yet to be confirmed, the 2012 Ford Fiesta ST is expected to be unveiled in full at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show in September. We look forward to providing all the coverage.
From the front we can see there’s going to be a very aggressive front bumper set for the production model. The example on this test mule does seem a bit strange though as it incorporates a large central fascia mould, covering up the Ford badge and grille design. But as per previous shots, we already have a pretty good idea of what the front end will look like.
The front end may also incorporate LED lights behind the plastic mould on this particular test car, which will feature on the production model in accordance with new European design rules. This test car also appears to be wearing a new set of alloy wheels, unseen on previous spy shots, which could be the wheels that will feature on the production model next year.
Providing power for the new model is likely to be a 1.6-litre EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing around 140-150kW of power. The engine will help the car sprint from 0-100km/h in around the six-second range, rivalling the likes of the Volkswagen Polo GTI and the Renualt Clio RS 200.
Even though it is yet to be confirmed, the 2012 Ford Fiesta ST is expected to be unveiled in full at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show in September. We look forward to providing all the coverage.
RPC Containers Oakham Unveils Advanced Packaging Solution for Paints
RPC Containers Oakham has unveiled its latest plastic paint can, the Supertainer, which offers improved aesthetic features and reduces carbon footprint, while sustaining the same size for effective on-shelf storage and logistics.
The Supertainer illustrates the commitment of RPC Oakham for providing superior packaging solution for surface coating products. According to RPC Oakham’s Technical Manager, Brian Edwards, the company has been producing plastic cans with straight-sided designs for more than three decades; however, the Supertainer is a future-generation product.
The Supertainer is a not an over-engineered product. RPC Oakham designed the product based on comprehensive real-world research, which made its production staff and designers to compare the real-time performance of the can in the market and find the possibility of reducing the amount of raw material needed for can production. This resulted in reduced carbon footprint.
RPC Oakham has assessed the performance of the Supertainer for nearly 18 months by investing significantly on production lines. The investment includes new machine designed particularly to manage self-adhesive labels and in-mould labeling, demonstrating the company’s commitment in providing striking aesthetics.
The Supertainer illustrates the commitment of RPC Oakham for providing superior packaging solution for surface coating products. According to RPC Oakham’s Technical Manager, Brian Edwards, the company has been producing plastic cans with straight-sided designs for more than three decades; however, the Supertainer is a future-generation product.
The Supertainer is a not an over-engineered product. RPC Oakham designed the product based on comprehensive real-world research, which made its production staff and designers to compare the real-time performance of the can in the market and find the possibility of reducing the amount of raw material needed for can production. This resulted in reduced carbon footprint.
RPC Oakham has assessed the performance of the Supertainer for nearly 18 months by investing significantly on production lines. The investment includes new machine designed particularly to manage self-adhesive labels and in-mould labeling, demonstrating the company’s commitment in providing striking aesthetics.
2011年6月14日星期二
Peter Reinhart suggests pre-slicing
Thinking about sprouting at home? MOM’s Organic Market sells home sprouters, and seeds and sprouters are available via online retailers such as Sproutpeople and Sproutman. Gil Frishman and Lori Tooker, who run Sproutpeople, keep their site stocked with tips for home sprouters, particularly when it comes to avoiding mold and bacteria. In general, sterilize your equipment, rinse and drain well, and be sure the water you use is no warmer than 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, unless otherwise specified for a particular seed.
Fresh sprouts generally keep for a week in the refrigerator, but be mindful of “best by” dates if sourcing at the supermarket. Shelf-stable sprouted grains such as quinoa and rice will keep in the pantry for one year. Sprouted flours will keep in airtight containers for six months at room temperature. To extend their shelf life up to one year, freeze.
Fresh-baked sprouted flour bread can develop mold after four days or so. Peter Reinhart suggests pre-slicing, wrapping in film or a plastic bag, and then freezing to extend the shelf life.
Fresh sprouts generally keep for a week in the refrigerator, but be mindful of “best by” dates if sourcing at the supermarket. Shelf-stable sprouted grains such as quinoa and rice will keep in the pantry for one year. Sprouted flours will keep in airtight containers for six months at room temperature. To extend their shelf life up to one year, freeze.
Fresh-baked sprouted flour bread can develop mold after four days or so. Peter Reinhart suggests pre-slicing, wrapping in film or a plastic bag, and then freezing to extend the shelf life.
HTC to Utilize Hybrid Metal-Plastic Case for Smartphones
The latest report from DigiTimes suggests that Chenming Mold Industrial has secured a contract with smartphone-maker HTC to produce a new plastic-metal chassis for a new upcoming HTC phone. The new metal-plastic housing would bring the best features from both materials.
For instance, it would have the strength of metal, but at the same time be more friendly with radio signals from the plastic part as metal is known to cause radio interference.
Chenming pointed out that most metal chassis processing is being done through CNC lathe machines, but since metal chassis can easily create interference with the handset’s radio, the company’s NanoMolding Technology (NMT), which allows a combination of metal and plastic materials, will help vendors to avoid interference issues, while providing flexible choices in designs as plastic can be easily formed into different shapes.
The new manufacturing process would help to reduce the overall thickness of the final case while at the same time also help to make the final product harder.
It’s unclear how the final case design for the new HTC phone would look like as the HTC Sensation and Sensation 4G for T-Mobile currently comes with a hybrid plastic-metal case, but some reporters have noticed that the case currently has a ‘death grip‘ issue where WiFi reception is concerned.
For instance, it would have the strength of metal, but at the same time be more friendly with radio signals from the plastic part as metal is known to cause radio interference.
Chenming pointed out that most metal chassis processing is being done through CNC lathe machines, but since metal chassis can easily create interference with the handset’s radio, the company’s NanoMolding Technology (NMT), which allows a combination of metal and plastic materials, will help vendors to avoid interference issues, while providing flexible choices in designs as plastic can be easily formed into different shapes.
The new manufacturing process would help to reduce the overall thickness of the final case while at the same time also help to make the final product harder.
It’s unclear how the final case design for the new HTC phone would look like as the HTC Sensation and Sensation 4G for T-Mobile currently comes with a hybrid plastic-metal case, but some reporters have noticed that the case currently has a ‘death grip‘ issue where WiFi reception is concerned.
2011年6月12日星期日
Bay could drive titanium industry
They call it the super metal. Titanium. It is strong and lightweight, it is anti-corrosive and withstands high temperatures, but it is expensive.
It is associated with high-quality, whether it's the latest golf clubs or spacecraft components.
New Zealand, and particularly Western Bay, has the opportunity to become a world frontrunner in the development of new and cheaper titanium products using cost-effective powder metallurgy - a process of blending fine powdered materials and fabricating intricate components.
Titanox Development, which has established a production plant in Newton St, Mount Maunganui, is producing fine titanium alloy powder following 10 years of research and development.
It is one of the few producers of titanium alloy powder in the world.
Across the city, the Titanium Industry Development Association (TiDA) - based in the Engineering Block on Bay of Plenty Polytechnic's Windermere campus - has installed the latest powder metallurgy equipment and is bringing interested parties and (engineering) companies together to develop exciting new products based on the Titanox powder.
A powder metallurgy expert, Germany's Professor Bernd Kieback, this week told the New Zealand group that development should first focus on a niche market such as the medical sector - the titanium alloy powder can be used in artificial hip and knee joints, bone screws and plates, heart valves, pacemakers, orthodontic bracelets, and surgical devices.
Professor Kieback, who heads the leading powder metallurgy research laboratory in Europe, said TiDA had made a good start by forming a partnership between academia and engineers involved in titanium powder activities.
"This partnership has developed rapidly and collaboration is strong.
It's better than having individual activity," he said.
Asked if the Western Bay could host a $1 billion industry on the back of the titanium alloy powder, Professor Kieback said: "It's possible ... if you are ready to make the right things. You have to keep the development at the very high level and you need to have research and development funding to find new solutions as the market moves."
Professor Kieback, who signed a collaboration agreement with TiDA, is the director of Fraunhofer Institute's Manufacturing and Advanced Materials branch lab, and is also director of Dresden Technical University's Institute of Materials Science.
He will be sending PhD students to Tauranga, and he said: "TiDa is interested to include our knowledge into their concepts."
This week Professor Kieback gave a lecture on the advances in powder metallurgy during a symposium organised by TiDA at the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic.
He said more titanium products, made from powder metallurgy, could be used in the industrial, aerospace, automotive and medical sectors.
The two main techniques used to form and consolidate the powder are laser sintering and metal injection molding.
The material is pressed into a desired, often complex, shape and heated in a controlled atmosphere to bind together.
A popular form is titanium foam, and the new products can be created without intricate machining, reducing cost and making the price more attractive.
Professor Kieback said only 100,000 tonnes of titanium metal was produced in the world, compared with 1.45 billion tonnes of steel and China used a third of that production.
"You don't want to compete with China," he said.
He believed the demand for titanium could grow by about 10 per a year, up from its present 4 per cent.
"There are new applications for titanium and more opportunities to move into new markets. In Germany, there are 160,000 hip operations a year, costing 10,000 euros each. Imagine what sort of business that is, using titanium.
"If you think about steel, you need a lot of money to build up a steel company. With titanium, you can start with a little bit of money and a lot of knowledge. In 10 to 20 years, titanium will be much more important than its present 100,000 tonnes."
He had talked to Volkswagen about using titanium in their car exhaust systems.
The vehicle manufacturer wouldn't take that step until the price of titanium was reduced - if VW made the step, it would have helped add 15,000 tonnes a year to world titanium production.
Professor Kieback said there were 50 million cars in the world.
"If the titanium is only going into the exhaust systems, then production would reach one million tonnes a year. That's the potential with new titanium development."
He was impressed by the quality of the Titanox titanium alloy powder. "What is fascinating is that the powder is in small particle size and it has the right properties to go into the new technologies, and advances.
"Titanox has been a pilot plant but it can now scale up to a production level.
" I wouldn't go into the aircraft sector straightaway - they will push the price down.
"Its powder can be sold at the highest possible price and it's better to start with the medical sector," Professor Kieback said.
Titanox is aiming to start commercial production at 20kg a day or five tonnes a year.
The powder can sell for up to $1000 per kg and five tonnes would produce $5 million a year.
Professor Kieback said long term, the New Zealand industry didn't have to just rely on the amount of powder Titanox produced.
"With what I see happening here, you can build your competence in the titanium application sector, and I see no problem that in a few years, the powder can also come from other parts of the world.
"The technology developed here can then be used to produce new, exciting titanium products for the world market," he said.
It is associated with high-quality, whether it's the latest golf clubs or spacecraft components.
New Zealand, and particularly Western Bay, has the opportunity to become a world frontrunner in the development of new and cheaper titanium products using cost-effective powder metallurgy - a process of blending fine powdered materials and fabricating intricate components.
Titanox Development, which has established a production plant in Newton St, Mount Maunganui, is producing fine titanium alloy powder following 10 years of research and development.
It is one of the few producers of titanium alloy powder in the world.
Across the city, the Titanium Industry Development Association (TiDA) - based in the Engineering Block on Bay of Plenty Polytechnic's Windermere campus - has installed the latest powder metallurgy equipment and is bringing interested parties and (engineering) companies together to develop exciting new products based on the Titanox powder.
A powder metallurgy expert, Germany's Professor Bernd Kieback, this week told the New Zealand group that development should first focus on a niche market such as the medical sector - the titanium alloy powder can be used in artificial hip and knee joints, bone screws and plates, heart valves, pacemakers, orthodontic bracelets, and surgical devices.
Professor Kieback, who heads the leading powder metallurgy research laboratory in Europe, said TiDA had made a good start by forming a partnership between academia and engineers involved in titanium powder activities.
"This partnership has developed rapidly and collaboration is strong.
It's better than having individual activity," he said.
Asked if the Western Bay could host a $1 billion industry on the back of the titanium alloy powder, Professor Kieback said: "It's possible ... if you are ready to make the right things. You have to keep the development at the very high level and you need to have research and development funding to find new solutions as the market moves."
Professor Kieback, who signed a collaboration agreement with TiDA, is the director of Fraunhofer Institute's Manufacturing and Advanced Materials branch lab, and is also director of Dresden Technical University's Institute of Materials Science.
He will be sending PhD students to Tauranga, and he said: "TiDa is interested to include our knowledge into their concepts."
This week Professor Kieback gave a lecture on the advances in powder metallurgy during a symposium organised by TiDA at the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic.
He said more titanium products, made from powder metallurgy, could be used in the industrial, aerospace, automotive and medical sectors.
The two main techniques used to form and consolidate the powder are laser sintering and metal injection molding.
The material is pressed into a desired, often complex, shape and heated in a controlled atmosphere to bind together.
A popular form is titanium foam, and the new products can be created without intricate machining, reducing cost and making the price more attractive.
Professor Kieback said only 100,000 tonnes of titanium metal was produced in the world, compared with 1.45 billion tonnes of steel and China used a third of that production.
"You don't want to compete with China," he said.
He believed the demand for titanium could grow by about 10 per a year, up from its present 4 per cent.
"There are new applications for titanium and more opportunities to move into new markets. In Germany, there are 160,000 hip operations a year, costing 10,000 euros each. Imagine what sort of business that is, using titanium.
"If you think about steel, you need a lot of money to build up a steel company. With titanium, you can start with a little bit of money and a lot of knowledge. In 10 to 20 years, titanium will be much more important than its present 100,000 tonnes."
He had talked to Volkswagen about using titanium in their car exhaust systems.
The vehicle manufacturer wouldn't take that step until the price of titanium was reduced - if VW made the step, it would have helped add 15,000 tonnes a year to world titanium production.
Professor Kieback said there were 50 million cars in the world.
"If the titanium is only going into the exhaust systems, then production would reach one million tonnes a year. That's the potential with new titanium development."
He was impressed by the quality of the Titanox titanium alloy powder. "What is fascinating is that the powder is in small particle size and it has the right properties to go into the new technologies, and advances.
"Titanox has been a pilot plant but it can now scale up to a production level.
" I wouldn't go into the aircraft sector straightaway - they will push the price down.
"Its powder can be sold at the highest possible price and it's better to start with the medical sector," Professor Kieback said.
Titanox is aiming to start commercial production at 20kg a day or five tonnes a year.
The powder can sell for up to $1000 per kg and five tonnes would produce $5 million a year.
Professor Kieback said long term, the New Zealand industry didn't have to just rely on the amount of powder Titanox produced.
"With what I see happening here, you can build your competence in the titanium application sector, and I see no problem that in a few years, the powder can also come from other parts of the world.
"The technology developed here can then be used to produce new, exciting titanium products for the world market," he said.
SEDA-COG OKs loans for production firm
SEDA-COG has approved three loans totaling $400,000 to Advanced Powder Products, a metallic components production company in Philipsburg. The loans will help the firm increase its “sintering” capacity, which involves powdered metal processed under extremely high heat.
In addition to the loans through SEDA-COG, the project will be financed through company equity and the Moshannon Valley Economic Development Partnership. Advanced Powder Products plans to purchase a new furnace that will more than double its sintering capacity.
Advanced Powder Products manufactures 225 parts through prototype fabrication and metal injection molding. It has 20 full-time and 16 part-time employees and, through this project, expects to retain all existing employees. This is the third project that SEDA-COG has participated in with the company.
Wound care center wins award
Mount Nittany Center for Wound Care was recognized with the Robert A. Warriner III, M.D., Center of Excellence award from Diversified Clinical Services, a wound care management company.
Mount Nittany Center for Wound Care is an outpatient treatment center on Radnor Road, State College, for people with problem wounds and those needing diabetes management and foot care.
The center earned the award by meeting the Center of Distinction quality standards for two consecutive years. The center has achieved patient satisfaction rates over 90 percent, and an 89 percent healing rate in 30 median days, among other quality standards.
In 2010, the center cared for 564 patients who were provided specialized treatment, often preventing amputations and helping patients return to active lives.
CBICC names scholarship winners
The Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County has announced the recipients of the 2011 Workforce Development Scholarships.
This year, a $1,250 scholarship was awarded to one high school student in each of the five Centre County school districts who is enrolled in a program of technical education or training and plans to pursue a career in a technical field in Centre County upon completion of their education.
The 2011 Workforce Development Scholarship recipients are Crispolo Bloom, Bald Eagle Area School District; Aaron Boatwright, Bellefonte Area School District; Cody Williams, Philipsburg- Osceola Area School District; Tierani Auman, Penns Valley Area School District; and Eric Rickabaugh, State College Area School District.
Money for the scholarships is raised through the chamber’s annual “Open for Business” golf tournament. This year’s tournament will take place Kuly 29 at Toftrees Golf Resort and Conference Center.
Since its inception, the Workforce Development Scholarship Program has awarded more than $48,000 to local students.
Clearfield County selects tax collector
As part of the local tax changes brought about by Pennsylvania Act 32, the municipalities and school districts that sit on the Clearfield County Tax Collection Committee selected Keystone Collections Group as their new county-wide earned income tax collector effective Jan. 1.
The new law’s most important change for local businesses is the requirement for mandatory wage tax withholding. Employers must automatically withhold and submit earned income tax for every employee beginning in 2012.
In an effort to educate local businesses of their new obligations under Act 32, the CCTCC and Keystone will provide a series of employer seminars held throughout Clearfield County. These free educational sessions are part of an ongoing outreach effort to employers transitioning to the new system.
Keystone representatives will explain the changes mandated by Act 32 for employers, including mandatory withholding and reporting of local earned income tax. Sessions will be held at Clearfield Elementary, 700 High Level Road, Clearfield, on Monday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; North Lincoln Hill Elementary, 200 Short St., Philipsburg, on July 7 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; Glendale High School Auditorium, 1466 Beaver Valley Road, Flinton, on July 15 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; and DuBois Middle School auditorium, 404 Liberty Ave., DuBois, on July 21 at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Giant to unveil new product packaging
Giant Food Stores and Martin’s Food Markets are introducing a new packaging design for nearly 2,000 of their store-brand products.
Insurance official to speak at luncheon
The Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County’s June membership luncheon will feature Marc Backon, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Capital Blue- Cross. Backon will share his observations around the impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act on insurers and employers, as well as the unanticipated consequences for various key stakeholders.
The event will take place June 21, from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the Nittany Lion Inn, 200 W. Park Ave., State College. The cost is $18 per member, or $30 per guest.
In addition to the loans through SEDA-COG, the project will be financed through company equity and the Moshannon Valley Economic Development Partnership. Advanced Powder Products plans to purchase a new furnace that will more than double its sintering capacity.
Advanced Powder Products manufactures 225 parts through prototype fabrication and metal injection molding. It has 20 full-time and 16 part-time employees and, through this project, expects to retain all existing employees. This is the third project that SEDA-COG has participated in with the company.
Wound care center wins award
Mount Nittany Center for Wound Care was recognized with the Robert A. Warriner III, M.D., Center of Excellence award from Diversified Clinical Services, a wound care management company.
Mount Nittany Center for Wound Care is an outpatient treatment center on Radnor Road, State College, for people with problem wounds and those needing diabetes management and foot care.
The center earned the award by meeting the Center of Distinction quality standards for two consecutive years. The center has achieved patient satisfaction rates over 90 percent, and an 89 percent healing rate in 30 median days, among other quality standards.
In 2010, the center cared for 564 patients who were provided specialized treatment, often preventing amputations and helping patients return to active lives.
CBICC names scholarship winners
The Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County has announced the recipients of the 2011 Workforce Development Scholarships.
This year, a $1,250 scholarship was awarded to one high school student in each of the five Centre County school districts who is enrolled in a program of technical education or training and plans to pursue a career in a technical field in Centre County upon completion of their education.
The 2011 Workforce Development Scholarship recipients are Crispolo Bloom, Bald Eagle Area School District; Aaron Boatwright, Bellefonte Area School District; Cody Williams, Philipsburg- Osceola Area School District; Tierani Auman, Penns Valley Area School District; and Eric Rickabaugh, State College Area School District.
Money for the scholarships is raised through the chamber’s annual “Open for Business” golf tournament. This year’s tournament will take place Kuly 29 at Toftrees Golf Resort and Conference Center.
Since its inception, the Workforce Development Scholarship Program has awarded more than $48,000 to local students.
Clearfield County selects tax collector
As part of the local tax changes brought about by Pennsylvania Act 32, the municipalities and school districts that sit on the Clearfield County Tax Collection Committee selected Keystone Collections Group as their new county-wide earned income tax collector effective Jan. 1.
The new law’s most important change for local businesses is the requirement for mandatory wage tax withholding. Employers must automatically withhold and submit earned income tax for every employee beginning in 2012.
In an effort to educate local businesses of their new obligations under Act 32, the CCTCC and Keystone will provide a series of employer seminars held throughout Clearfield County. These free educational sessions are part of an ongoing outreach effort to employers transitioning to the new system.
Keystone representatives will explain the changes mandated by Act 32 for employers, including mandatory withholding and reporting of local earned income tax. Sessions will be held at Clearfield Elementary, 700 High Level Road, Clearfield, on Monday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; North Lincoln Hill Elementary, 200 Short St., Philipsburg, on July 7 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; Glendale High School Auditorium, 1466 Beaver Valley Road, Flinton, on July 15 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; and DuBois Middle School auditorium, 404 Liberty Ave., DuBois, on July 21 at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Giant to unveil new product packaging
Giant Food Stores and Martin’s Food Markets are introducing a new packaging design for nearly 2,000 of their store-brand products.
Insurance official to speak at luncheon
The Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County’s June membership luncheon will feature Marc Backon, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Capital Blue- Cross. Backon will share his observations around the impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act on insurers and employers, as well as the unanticipated consequences for various key stakeholders.
The event will take place June 21, from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the Nittany Lion Inn, 200 W. Park Ave., State College. The cost is $18 per member, or $30 per guest.
2011年6月8日星期三
More than a mere odour eater
Everyone knows that leaving an open box of baking soda in the fridge will absorb odors; it also cleans toilet bowls and sinks and it will even help bread rise. But not many people are aware that sodium-bicarbonate can also be used to treat mosquito bites and smelly armpits.
Not only is baking soda cheap, it's environmentally friendly and it comes in a recyclable box. So, here,are a handful of the more unexpected uses for this miracle ingredient:
UNDERARM DEODORANT
I'm not going to make any outlandish claim that using brand-name antiperspirants will give you Alzheimer's, but if you want to prevent excess sweating and body odor the natural way dab a powder puff or cotton ball into some baking soda, pat it under your arms after a shower. and presto: an easy, cheap, eco-friendly solution.
ITCH RELIEF
According to the authors of Resourceful & Ingenious Uses of Baking Soda, quell annoying itches by mixing baking soda and water into a thick paste and spreading it on to insect bites or hives.
NON-STICK COATING FOR ORGANIC WASTE BINS
Whether you use plastic or biodegradable bags in your kitchen compost pail, chances are the whole unit gets moist and smelly. Sprinkle some baking soda in the pail each time you change the bag and prevent moisture forming in the first place.
TREATMENT FOR INDIGESTION
Some believe that by sprinkling a bit of Arm & Hammer on stuff such as baked beans, falafel and other gas-inducing victuals, you can alleviate bloating afterward.
WATER PURIFIER AND NASAL-CLEARING SOLUTION
Add a bit of baking soda to your humidifier and you'll not only prevent mould and calcium residue from building up on the filter, you'll purify the air and potentially help nasal passages stay clear.
DRAIN UNCLOGGER
Everyone knows what happens when baking soda and vinegar get together: a volcanic reaction. So combine these two ingredients and pour them down the drain when you need to unblock it. Fish prefer this to Drano.
HOMEMADE CLAY
Use two cups of baking soda, one cup of cornstarch, a cup of warm water and the food colouring of your choice to make a clay for the little ones to play with and also, technically, eat (not that you should encourage that).
ALL-NATURAL TOOTHPASTE
Try mixing baking soda with a bit of water, a natural sweetener such as stevia and wintergreen or peppermint oil for taste. Keep it in a tin or old toothpaste tube and brush away.
Not only is baking soda cheap, it's environmentally friendly and it comes in a recyclable box. So, here,are a handful of the more unexpected uses for this miracle ingredient:
UNDERARM DEODORANT
I'm not going to make any outlandish claim that using brand-name antiperspirants will give you Alzheimer's, but if you want to prevent excess sweating and body odor the natural way dab a powder puff or cotton ball into some baking soda, pat it under your arms after a shower. and presto: an easy, cheap, eco-friendly solution.
ITCH RELIEF
According to the authors of Resourceful & Ingenious Uses of Baking Soda, quell annoying itches by mixing baking soda and water into a thick paste and spreading it on to insect bites or hives.
NON-STICK COATING FOR ORGANIC WASTE BINS
Whether you use plastic or biodegradable bags in your kitchen compost pail, chances are the whole unit gets moist and smelly. Sprinkle some baking soda in the pail each time you change the bag and prevent moisture forming in the first place.
TREATMENT FOR INDIGESTION
Some believe that by sprinkling a bit of Arm & Hammer on stuff such as baked beans, falafel and other gas-inducing victuals, you can alleviate bloating afterward.
WATER PURIFIER AND NASAL-CLEARING SOLUTION
Add a bit of baking soda to your humidifier and you'll not only prevent mould and calcium residue from building up on the filter, you'll purify the air and potentially help nasal passages stay clear.
DRAIN UNCLOGGER
Everyone knows what happens when baking soda and vinegar get together: a volcanic reaction. So combine these two ingredients and pour them down the drain when you need to unblock it. Fish prefer this to Drano.
HOMEMADE CLAY
Use two cups of baking soda, one cup of cornstarch, a cup of warm water and the food colouring of your choice to make a clay for the little ones to play with and also, technically, eat (not that you should encourage that).
ALL-NATURAL TOOTHPASTE
Try mixing baking soda with a bit of water, a natural sweetener such as stevia and wintergreen or peppermint oil for taste. Keep it in a tin or old toothpaste tube and brush away.
A Fresh Wash
Pregnant clouds, cool breezes, the pitter-patter of rain, a newly washed sky and an abundance of greenery! Monsoon is truly a magical time. The sky may be dreary and grey, it’s true, but the sombre mood doesn’t need to cast a cloud over your home and hearth. If the wardrobe gets a change with the season, why shouldn’t home decor get one to drive away monsoon blues?
Colour me bright. Colour affects a person’s mood, emotions and health. Each colour permeates an energy all its own and —by stimulating the pituitary and pineal glands—can influence thoughts, behaviour and the endeavour to work. So bye-bye dull colours that make a room damp and drab. And hello deep red, sunny yellow, sea green, aqua blue, hot pink and tangerine orange. Since big-ticket jobs such as painting and wallpapering are best put off till after the monsoon, consider adding streaks of colour across the house—perhaps a change of curtains, a zippy new rug, some cushions to perk up the sofa set? Drape bright fabric across your sofa or get your neighbourhood tailor to sew vivid slipcovers. You’ll see that the addition of colour to any room can transform the atmosphere.
To get your living room rain -ready, clean and put away heavy carpets, and bring out light rugs and durries. A moisturising clean-up may be a good idea to keep your leather furniture supple and safe.
Bring out the accessories. Colour doesn’t have to be in big patches only; small spots, courtesy accessories, work well too. Think vases, pots, paintings, photo frames, candles and so on. Bring out the metalware—brass and copper tend to add a spot of shine and cheer to a room. Put away the blues and blacks when it comes to bed linen; opt for bright bedspreads in a variety of hues, designs and textures. Floral prints in bold colours create a spring-like feel despite the rainy weather. Heavy draperies and curtains can be put away in favour of sheers and lace. Ensure that the lighting creates a warm atmosphere—soft yellow lights create a mellow ambience that goes with the pitter-patter of rain. Don’t forget colourful flowers—in vases, glasses, mugs and tureens—to create a happy atmosphere.
The moisture-laden air tends to make wooden floors warp. Give them a thorough cleaning, followed by a coat of wax.
Green the verandah. The monsoon is the perfect time to transform your balcony into a green haven. Pick up the right planters—clay, terracotta, concrete, ceramic or plastic. The pots should be large and should have drainage holes at the bottom. Choose a general-purpose potting soil at your local nursery and seek the gardener’s help when choosing plants. The decision depends on the amount of sunlight and shade the balcony gets, the height each plant will reach, the amount of space, and how green-thumbed you are! Don’t miss planting herbs such as basil, mint, coriander, lemongrass, curry leaf and aloe vera. Consider a water feature such as a fountain, bird bath or flowing water sculpture. We list a few important fixes that you should consider to get your house rain-ready:
Begin with the most important thing before the rains—waterproofing of the roof. In case exterior walls are showing signs of seepage, get them repaired. Don’t miss tile joints in bathrooms and kitchen.
Wooden floors tend to warp owing to the moisture-laden air. Give them a thorough cleaning, followed by a coat of wax, before the monsoon sets in.
Roll up rugs in polythene and store them away until the rains are gone. This will protect from water and insects.
The best way to protect upholstery, rugs and soft furnishing, from the damp is to give them a good airing in the sun before the monsoon sets in.
Carpets need extra care if you aren’t putting them away—you need to tackle dirt and the moisture that finds its way into the fibres. Invest in a good quality cleaner.
The rainy season tends to bring out termites in droves. Check the house for signs of an infestation; if you spot one, get it tackled professionally.
Ventilation is essential during monsoon to keep your home free of humidity and the feeling of dampness. Ensure there’s enough cross-ventilation, fresh air and sunlight coming in.
Keep mildew away by ensuring areas (specially bathrooms and kitchens) are clean and dry. Keep doors open to ensure the rooms dry out thoroughly.
If you have a huge collection of books, keep the space spotlessly clean to keep away silverfish, cockroaches and book lice. Controlling moisture and dust discourages the growth of fungus, mould and mildew.
Clean up the windows to ensure a great view. Put away the heavy curtains, bring out the lace and sheers, and fancy tiebacks (ribbons, strings of shells, beads and brooches) to let in the light.
Perhaps it’s time to invest in a tumble dryer to ensure that your home doesn’t get damp and musty, thanks to the numerous clothes that need drying space.
To avoid a musty closet, store camphor (it soaks moisture) amid your clothes. Neem leaves keep silverfish at bay.
Create scented sachets for your closets—the mix of herbs, dried flowers, essential oils and spices lightly scent your clothing and take care of the stale smell. A quick do-it-yourself recipe: fill small muslin/cloth bags with cloves, dried orange peels, dried flowers, herbs, and spritz with a dab of essential oil!
Create a nautical corner in an open area —put together a water body, some sea shells, a model sailboat and some sea salts. Add some aromatherapy candles.
Put up a couple of rain chains, a beautiful outdoor home accent, in your verandah or terrace. The water flowing through decorative cups and links is gorgeous as is the melodious sound they produce.
A few checks and you’ll be all set to enjoy steaming hot cups of chai and pakoras by the window seat. Let the showers come down, but don’t let the monsoon rain on your parade!
Colour me bright. Colour affects a person’s mood, emotions and health. Each colour permeates an energy all its own and —by stimulating the pituitary and pineal glands—can influence thoughts, behaviour and the endeavour to work. So bye-bye dull colours that make a room damp and drab. And hello deep red, sunny yellow, sea green, aqua blue, hot pink and tangerine orange. Since big-ticket jobs such as painting and wallpapering are best put off till after the monsoon, consider adding streaks of colour across the house—perhaps a change of curtains, a zippy new rug, some cushions to perk up the sofa set? Drape bright fabric across your sofa or get your neighbourhood tailor to sew vivid slipcovers. You’ll see that the addition of colour to any room can transform the atmosphere.
To get your living room rain -ready, clean and put away heavy carpets, and bring out light rugs and durries. A moisturising clean-up may be a good idea to keep your leather furniture supple and safe.
Bring out the accessories. Colour doesn’t have to be in big patches only; small spots, courtesy accessories, work well too. Think vases, pots, paintings, photo frames, candles and so on. Bring out the metalware—brass and copper tend to add a spot of shine and cheer to a room. Put away the blues and blacks when it comes to bed linen; opt for bright bedspreads in a variety of hues, designs and textures. Floral prints in bold colours create a spring-like feel despite the rainy weather. Heavy draperies and curtains can be put away in favour of sheers and lace. Ensure that the lighting creates a warm atmosphere—soft yellow lights create a mellow ambience that goes with the pitter-patter of rain. Don’t forget colourful flowers—in vases, glasses, mugs and tureens—to create a happy atmosphere.
The moisture-laden air tends to make wooden floors warp. Give them a thorough cleaning, followed by a coat of wax.
Green the verandah. The monsoon is the perfect time to transform your balcony into a green haven. Pick up the right planters—clay, terracotta, concrete, ceramic or plastic. The pots should be large and should have drainage holes at the bottom. Choose a general-purpose potting soil at your local nursery and seek the gardener’s help when choosing plants. The decision depends on the amount of sunlight and shade the balcony gets, the height each plant will reach, the amount of space, and how green-thumbed you are! Don’t miss planting herbs such as basil, mint, coriander, lemongrass, curry leaf and aloe vera. Consider a water feature such as a fountain, bird bath or flowing water sculpture. We list a few important fixes that you should consider to get your house rain-ready:
Begin with the most important thing before the rains—waterproofing of the roof. In case exterior walls are showing signs of seepage, get them repaired. Don’t miss tile joints in bathrooms and kitchen.
Wooden floors tend to warp owing to the moisture-laden air. Give them a thorough cleaning, followed by a coat of wax, before the monsoon sets in.
Roll up rugs in polythene and store them away until the rains are gone. This will protect from water and insects.
The best way to protect upholstery, rugs and soft furnishing, from the damp is to give them a good airing in the sun before the monsoon sets in.
Carpets need extra care if you aren’t putting them away—you need to tackle dirt and the moisture that finds its way into the fibres. Invest in a good quality cleaner.
The rainy season tends to bring out termites in droves. Check the house for signs of an infestation; if you spot one, get it tackled professionally.
Ventilation is essential during monsoon to keep your home free of humidity and the feeling of dampness. Ensure there’s enough cross-ventilation, fresh air and sunlight coming in.
Keep mildew away by ensuring areas (specially bathrooms and kitchens) are clean and dry. Keep doors open to ensure the rooms dry out thoroughly.
If you have a huge collection of books, keep the space spotlessly clean to keep away silverfish, cockroaches and book lice. Controlling moisture and dust discourages the growth of fungus, mould and mildew.
Clean up the windows to ensure a great view. Put away the heavy curtains, bring out the lace and sheers, and fancy tiebacks (ribbons, strings of shells, beads and brooches) to let in the light.
Perhaps it’s time to invest in a tumble dryer to ensure that your home doesn’t get damp and musty, thanks to the numerous clothes that need drying space.
To avoid a musty closet, store camphor (it soaks moisture) amid your clothes. Neem leaves keep silverfish at bay.
Create scented sachets for your closets—the mix of herbs, dried flowers, essential oils and spices lightly scent your clothing and take care of the stale smell. A quick do-it-yourself recipe: fill small muslin/cloth bags with cloves, dried orange peels, dried flowers, herbs, and spritz with a dab of essential oil!
Create a nautical corner in an open area —put together a water body, some sea shells, a model sailboat and some sea salts. Add some aromatherapy candles.
Put up a couple of rain chains, a beautiful outdoor home accent, in your verandah or terrace. The water flowing through decorative cups and links is gorgeous as is the melodious sound they produce.
A few checks and you’ll be all set to enjoy steaming hot cups of chai and pakoras by the window seat. Let the showers come down, but don’t let the monsoon rain on your parade!
2011年6月6日星期一
PTI adds in-house industrial design group
PTI Engineered Plastics Inc. already had spent years helping companies develop and prototype new products. Now it has gone even further into development by adding industrial design to its existing lineup of operations in mold making and molding.
The Macomb-based firm officially launched PTI Design at the beginning of this year and now has a team of six people creating new parts that take into consideration how the part will be made as well as how it will be used.
“We’re under the same roof as the manufacturing facility, which gives us an advantage that at any time we can reach out and pull in any manufacturing or engineering expertise as we’re working on a program,” said strategic planning director Jim Hayward.
The addition of industrial design was a natural outgrowth that allows the company to cover everything from “mind to manufacturing,” said CEO Mark Rathbone.
The design group, combined with manufacturing expertise, will allow PTI to ensure that concepts will make as much sense on the factory floor as in the design offices, Rathbone said. That combination also helps to cut development time, since there is less potential for the company to create a prototype that cannot be produced at the required price point.
“That’s what keeps the program on track. You don’t put a design together and then hand it to a toolmaker and see that it’s not going to work,” Hayward said in a May 16 telephone interview. “Tooling has always been a core competency of PTI. There’s a lot of expertise that can be put into how a tool is built to make parts.”
PTI Design has been working on medical, industrial and consumer products, working with existing customers as well as entrepreneurs.
“A lot of times, people will come to us with the start of design — a napkin sketch,” Hayward said. “We work with them from there to whatever it takes to take it to a manufacturable state.”
The company’s existing expertise in medical molding has come into use as the design, tooling and manufacturing groups combine to help customers move into other industries, but PTI Design also works on programs that will not be produced within the firm or even in plastic.
“We might look at it and say, ‘This is not a plastic part,’” he said. However, the ultimate manufacturability of the part remains at the heart of the design process.
The Macomb-based firm officially launched PTI Design at the beginning of this year and now has a team of six people creating new parts that take into consideration how the part will be made as well as how it will be used.
“We’re under the same roof as the manufacturing facility, which gives us an advantage that at any time we can reach out and pull in any manufacturing or engineering expertise as we’re working on a program,” said strategic planning director Jim Hayward.
The addition of industrial design was a natural outgrowth that allows the company to cover everything from “mind to manufacturing,” said CEO Mark Rathbone.
The design group, combined with manufacturing expertise, will allow PTI to ensure that concepts will make as much sense on the factory floor as in the design offices, Rathbone said. That combination also helps to cut development time, since there is less potential for the company to create a prototype that cannot be produced at the required price point.
“That’s what keeps the program on track. You don’t put a design together and then hand it to a toolmaker and see that it’s not going to work,” Hayward said in a May 16 telephone interview. “Tooling has always been a core competency of PTI. There’s a lot of expertise that can be put into how a tool is built to make parts.”
PTI Design has been working on medical, industrial and consumer products, working with existing customers as well as entrepreneurs.
“A lot of times, people will come to us with the start of design — a napkin sketch,” Hayward said. “We work with them from there to whatever it takes to take it to a manufacturable state.”
The company’s existing expertise in medical molding has come into use as the design, tooling and manufacturing groups combine to help customers move into other industries, but PTI Design also works on programs that will not be produced within the firm or even in plastic.
“We might look at it and say, ‘This is not a plastic part,’” he said. However, the ultimate manufacturability of the part remains at the heart of the design process.
Pallet fire at BG's Toledo Molding and Die
A pallet fire outside a Bowling Green manufacturer remains under investigation.
City firefighters were called to Toledo Molding & Die, 515 E. Gypsy Lane Road, shortly after 1 a.m. Monday. Flames from the stacks of plastic container pallets, stored at the east side of the property, could be seen from more than a quarter-mile away.
“It was a large fire and our personnel did an excellent job knocking it down,” said BG Fire Lt. Dave Hagemeyer this morning.
Kelly Conner, human resources director at the company, said approximately 60 people were working at the time, and all were evacuated safely.
“We made sure they got everybody out of the building,” Hagemeyer stated.
Bowling Green responded with two engines and its aerial truck “and everybody was moving water. We moved a lot of water to try to put that out,” he added.
Crews hooked up at city hydrants located on Klotz Road to the east, and a private hydrant on the company’s property.
Full Story
The Sentinel-Tribune is a FOX Toledo News media partner.
City firefighters were called to Toledo Molding & Die, 515 E. Gypsy Lane Road, shortly after 1 a.m. Monday. Flames from the stacks of plastic container pallets, stored at the east side of the property, could be seen from more than a quarter-mile away.
“It was a large fire and our personnel did an excellent job knocking it down,” said BG Fire Lt. Dave Hagemeyer this morning.
Kelly Conner, human resources director at the company, said approximately 60 people were working at the time, and all were evacuated safely.
“We made sure they got everybody out of the building,” Hagemeyer stated.
Bowling Green responded with two engines and its aerial truck “and everybody was moving water. We moved a lot of water to try to put that out,” he added.
Crews hooked up at city hydrants located on Klotz Road to the east, and a private hydrant on the company’s property.
Full Story
The Sentinel-Tribune is a FOX Toledo News media partner.
2011年6月1日星期三
INEOS Styrenics Announces Launch of New Sustainable Line of Polystyrene Grades in North America
INEOS Styrenics announces the introduction of a new line of polystyrene products containing post consumer recycled polystyrene in North America. The new product launch includes two products each with 25% post consumer recycle content supplied by NextLife™.
The new grades of polystyrene are FDA approved for food contact and designed for injection molding applications requiring consistent resin properties. The resins also process the same as 100% virgin polystyrene. The target applications include injection molded opaque articles, such as cutlery, housewares, office accessories and appliance components.
"Nextlife's ability to provide sustainable post consumer FDA approved polystyrene resin helps create a true closed loop recycling solution. This collaboration with INEOS Styrenics is not only good for both of our companies; it is also good for the industry. Reuse through closed loop recycling has always been the best solution." said Robert Dishman, Vice President of Nextlife.
The new grades of polystyrene are FDA approved for food contact and designed for injection molding applications requiring consistent resin properties. The resins also process the same as 100% virgin polystyrene. The target applications include injection molded opaque articles, such as cutlery, housewares, office accessories and appliance components.
"Nextlife's ability to provide sustainable post consumer FDA approved polystyrene resin helps create a true closed loop recycling solution. This collaboration with INEOS Styrenics is not only good for both of our companies; it is also good for the industry. Reuse through closed loop recycling has always been the best solution." said Robert Dishman, Vice President of Nextlife.
New Kistler CoMo Injection Firmware Software Version 2.2.3 Offers Enhanced Real-Time Injection Molding Data Analysis Capabilities
a worldwide supplier of precision sensors, systems and instrumentation for the dynamic measurement of pressure, force, torque and acceleration, has introduced CoMo Injection Firmware software version 2.2.3, designed for greater functionality and enhanced zero-defect process monitoring capabilities within supported automotive, medical, electrical and two-shot injection molding operations.
Developed in response to customer demand and with direct compatibility to Kistler CoMo Injection versions 2869A and 2869B, version 2.2.3 firmware software includes real-time curve display and cycle capabilities, with legacy cycle displacement via CoMo MIS and continuous background information collected as prior data is displayed. Curve data from up to 20 prior cycles may be displayed simultaneously, each superimposed on another for accurate comparisons, with the ability to zoom into individual parts of a curve view. Up to three sets of reference curves may be saved in the same format as specified in the curve viewer module. Enhanced mold settings include a fully redesigned sensors settings page; separated digital outputs specifications; and the ability to delay delivery output signals within multi-component applications.
In addition, a new Quality Control feature, located under system settings, allows for monitoring of good part optical and electrical signals when a specified number of good parts is achieved; and rejection monitoring, with optical and electrical signals when a defined number of rejected parts is exceeded. The system automatically waits until all evaluations are completed before decision of good/bad signal is generated. Evaluation objects (EO) page arrangements have been modified for more concise operation and ease of use. Commands to turn the EO on and off, as well as to choose the appropriate reference curve, are available from the Quick Link Menu.
With capability to support up to 24 measurement channels, Kistler CoMo Injection is an injection molding production optimization, control and monitoring system. All required functions for process evaluation and optimization are integrated into a single compact unit, allowing for the direct connection of piezoelectric cavity pressure sensors and the acquisition and evaluation of signals from injection molding machinery or other sensors. The CoMo DataCenter Type 2829B database enhances CoMo Injection's capabilities with curve analysis, statistical functions and reporting. The system uses multiple variables associated with the production order, with data that is easily and cost-effectively exported for additional analysis or incorporation into ERP systems. Subsets of collected data, such as good/bad, maximum/minimum, integral or other variables produced by CoMo Injection may also be identified and analyzed.
Developed in response to customer demand and with direct compatibility to Kistler CoMo Injection versions 2869A and 2869B, version 2.2.3 firmware software includes real-time curve display and cycle capabilities, with legacy cycle displacement via CoMo MIS and continuous background information collected as prior data is displayed. Curve data from up to 20 prior cycles may be displayed simultaneously, each superimposed on another for accurate comparisons, with the ability to zoom into individual parts of a curve view. Up to three sets of reference curves may be saved in the same format as specified in the curve viewer module. Enhanced mold settings include a fully redesigned sensors settings page; separated digital outputs specifications; and the ability to delay delivery output signals within multi-component applications.
In addition, a new Quality Control feature, located under system settings, allows for monitoring of good part optical and electrical signals when a specified number of good parts is achieved; and rejection monitoring, with optical and electrical signals when a defined number of rejected parts is exceeded. The system automatically waits until all evaluations are completed before decision of good/bad signal is generated. Evaluation objects (EO) page arrangements have been modified for more concise operation and ease of use. Commands to turn the EO on and off, as well as to choose the appropriate reference curve, are available from the Quick Link Menu.
With capability to support up to 24 measurement channels, Kistler CoMo Injection is an injection molding production optimization, control and monitoring system. All required functions for process evaluation and optimization are integrated into a single compact unit, allowing for the direct connection of piezoelectric cavity pressure sensors and the acquisition and evaluation of signals from injection molding machinery or other sensors. The CoMo DataCenter Type 2829B database enhances CoMo Injection's capabilities with curve analysis, statistical functions and reporting. The system uses multiple variables associated with the production order, with data that is easily and cost-effectively exported for additional analysis or incorporation into ERP systems. Subsets of collected data, such as good/bad, maximum/minimum, integral or other variables produced by CoMo Injection may also be identified and analyzed.
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