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News by Date: October 2006 Rubber compound selection guide comes on CD 31 October 2006 - Rubber Industries Design engineers will find Rubber Industries' free rubber compound selection guide in CD format a useful tool in their part designs. X-rays have become laser-like 31 October 2006 - Max Planck Society Radiologists and biologists have been dreaming - ever since the discovery of lasers - of a compact laboratory source emitting X-rays in one direction in a laser-like beam. Such a source would permit X-ray images to be recorded with far higher resolution at vastly reduced dose levels, allowing early-stage cancer diagnosis at dramatically reduced risk. Microscopes furnished with this source would make nanometer-sized biomolecules perceivable in their natural surrounding (in vivo). Metalforming Machinery Makers’ Association to support regional exhibitions 31 October 2006 - Metalforming Machinery Makers' Association The Metalforming Machinery Makers Association (MMMA), based in Birmingham, has agreed to support the ETES Regional Engineering Exhibitions, and as a first step the MMMA will be staging a members pavilion at the Midlands Manufacturing show. New evidence links stellar remains to oldest recorded supernova 31 October 2006 - European Space Agency Recent observations from the European Space Agency's XMM-Newton Observatory and NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory have uncovered evidence that helps to confirm the identification of the remains of one of the earliest stellar explosions recorded by humans. Telemedicine initiative for sub-Saharan Africa 31 October 2006 - European Space Agency The first meeting of the Telemedicine Task Force for sub-Saharan Africa was held in Brussels. In the conclusions of the Telemedicine workshop held in Brussels, where the potential of satellite telecommunication technology was demonstrated as a tool for supporting healthcare systems in sub-Saharan Africa, it was declared that a complete picture of the telemedicine opportunities offered by feasible and affordable applications in sub-Saharan Africa is very much needed. Cluster makes an effervescent discovery 31 October 2006 - European Space Agency Space is fizzing. Above our heads, where the Earth’s magnetic field meets the constant stream of gas from the Sun, thousands of bubbles of superheated gas are constantly growing and popping. Husky launches hot runner manufacturing in Brazil 31 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky Injection Molding Systems has established a hot runner manufacturing operation at its Brazil Technical Center to provide dedicated support to the growing Brazilian plastics industry New great reference manual for all experienced welders 31 October 2006 - Speciality Welds New It’s been 6 years in the planning and writing, but it’s here now. A must for any commercial diver involved and/or interested in welding. Get yourself ahead and learn the tricks of the trade the easy way. Cellular phone mania sweeps the Globe, says IC Insights 31 October 2006 - Indium Corporation A mania continues to sweep around the globe in 2006, a cellular phone mania. Although the computer market is still by far the leading consumer of ICs and is forecast to represent 47% of the 2006 IC market, the electronic system type driving most of the IC market growth this year is cellular phones. Husky demonstrates packaging expertise at open house 30 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems The use of plastics in packaging will grow to more than 50% by the year 2009, according to a recent survey by Mastio and Co. With average annual growth of 5% in most of the major rigid packaging sectors, Husky is focusing its efforts to capture more of this key market. Australia and Southern Africa short-listed for Giant Radio Telescope 30 October 2006 - Max Planck Society The Square Kilometer Array is a giant next-generation radio telescope being developed by scientists and research institutes in 17 countries. At a recent meeting of the International SKA Scientific Steering Committee in Dresden (Germany), hosted by the Chairman of the European SKA Consortium, Prof. Anton Zensus (Max-Planck-Institut für Radioastronomie, Bonn), a first decision about the site of the SKA was made, having Australia and Southern Africa on the short list. Arctic summer ice anomaly shocks scientists 30 October 2006 - European Space Agency Satellite images acquired have shown for the first time dramatic openings, over a geographic extent larger than the size of the British Isles, in the Arctic’s perennial sea ice pack north of Svalbard, and extending into the Russian Arctic all the way to the North Pole. Discovery lands at Kennedy Space Center 30 October 2006 - European Space Agency Space Shuttle Discovery successfully landed at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Florida, at 15:14 CEST (13:14 UT) today. Discovery returned with one crewmember less than at the start of the STS-121 mission, ESA astronaut Thomas Reiter will remain on board the International Space Station for six months for the Astrolab Mission. Controlling robots that search for Mars life 30 October 2006 - European Space Agency As part of ESA's ambitious, long-term Aurora exploration programme, ExoMars will search for traces of life on Mars. The mission requires entirely new technologies for self-controlled robots, built-in autonomy and cutting-edge visual terrain sensors. Satellite systems to warn of health threats 30 October 2006 - European Space Agency Satellite solutions can make all the difference to the efficiency of telemedicine. With this in mind, ESA is preparing a European telemedicine via satellite programme which will be of direct benefit to the healthcare community. HyPAC offers quantum leap for thinwall molding 29 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky introduced its new purpose-built HyPAC injection molding system at NPE. The system features several new technologies that deliver unparalleled performance and achieve the lowest part cost possible for thinwall molding. Husky displays high-speed in-mold labeling workcells 29 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems A Husky Hylectric 120 system molded 200 ml containers with in-mold labeling at a 2.3-second cycle at the company's Packaging Days event at its Luxembourg Technical Center, establishing a new performance benchmark. The Colorant-Chromatics Group: Investing in the Future 29 October 2006 - Colorant Chromatics AG The Colorant-Chromatics Group, a leading supplier of concentrates, compounds, pigment dispersions and inks for fluoropolymers and other high performance polymers, has announced a number of key developments, intended to bring the company even closer to its customers, and to its stated aim of providing solutions for high performance applications. Jaguar has specified the conTeyor Roller Curtain as the closure system for its component containers 29 October 2006 - conTeyor The conTeyor Roller Curtain, selected by Jaguar Cars as the closure system for sequencing racks used to transport and store interior and exterior components for the production of its new XJ series and XK8 sports car, has now been specified for use throughout the company’s UK manufacturing plants. These include Castle Bromwich and Halewood, which respectively make the Jaguar S-type and X-type models. The conTeyor Roller Curtain is now even included in the official Packaging Standards Document issued by Jaguar, Land Rover and Aston Martin Lagonda. Sweden´s first long-term plan for research infrastructure 29 October 2006 - Swedish Research Council The Swedish Research Council´s Guide to Infrastructure, with a perspective of 10-20 years, is Sweden´s first long-term plan for research infrastructure. The emphasis is on field overviews in which research infrastructure, both present and planned, is placed in its context. The report presents various recommendations, identifying appropriate infrastructure projects of great importance to future research. Sharp develops Mega-Contrast advanced super view premium LCD 29 October 2006 - Sharp Electronics (Europe) GmbH Sharp Corporation has developed a “Mega-Contrast” Advanced Super View Premium LCD that defies conventional wisdom to deliver an unprecedented contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1 the highest level in the industry. Contemporary research on Sweden´s relationship to Communism and Nazism 28 October 2006 - Swedish Research Council The Swedish Research Council presented the findings to date from two research programmes: “Communist Regimes' and “Sweden´s Relationship to Nazism, Nazi Germany, and the Holocaust'. The findings help clarify Sweden´s relationship to communism and Nazism from the 1930s to the present. Mexican production facility underlines conTeyor’s commitment to support its North American customers 28 October 2006 - conTeyor conTeyor, the leading European provider of textile-based packaging and materials handling solutions to automotive OEMs and tiers, has started-up a production facility in Mexico. The facility is located at Irapuato, two and a half hours drive North of Mexico City. New product offerings 28 October 2006 - Colorant Chromatics AG Recently, Colorant-Chromatics AG introduced a number of new products. These include: Husky demonstrates versatile machine technology for wide range of returnable packaging applications 28 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky has gained a significant share of the European machine market for returnable packaging, from small collapsible thinwall crates to large industrial containers, with its highly flexible and reliable Hylectric and Quadloc Tandem platforms. New thinwall packaging system features the world's best melt delivery system 28 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky introduced its new purpose-built HyPAC injection molding system at NPE. The system features several new technologies that deliver unparalleled performance and achieve the lowest part cost possible for thinwall molding. New touchscreen features designed to give user precise control of molding process 27 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky has added several new features to its Polaris Control, giving machine operators more precise control of the injection molding process. EnCana unveils smaller Deep Panuke project 27 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch EnCana Corp. hopes to avoid formal public hearings as it proceeds with a scaled-back version of its original Deep Panuke offshore natural gas project. The Calgary-based company shelved development of the gas field, about 250 kilometres southeast of Halifax, three years ago, saying it was too costly to proceed at the time. The Colorant Chromatics Group builds a new factory in Europe 27 October 2006 - Colorant Chromatics AG At its current production site in Åland, Finland the CC Group is expanding its production and development facilities by the construction of a new 2000 sq.m (20.000 sq.ft) manufacturing and development facility. This is a doubling of the existing facility. The reason for the new construction is increased demand for the company’s fluoropolymer color masterbatches and compounds from European and Asian customers. A significant part of the growth comes from custom designed products, which is a reason for the increased demand of development facilities. New FlexyCell packaging concept delivers customised packaging at low cost 27 October 2006 - conTeyor FlexyCell is a customised packaging concept with many of the advantages of standard packaging systems, such as low cost, short delivery times, no tooling costs and suitability for small volumes. It has been developed by conTeyor for the business-to-business market for applications where components must not be scratched, damaged or broken, yet are easily accessible for the customer to load or unload. Attraction power of pheromones challenged 27 October 2006 - Swedish Research Council It is well-documented that animals attract the opposite sex through scents, or pheromones. The belief that people can also communicate with each other in this way is widespread. In his new research, Mats Olsson from the Department of Psychology at Uppsala University, challenges the belief that pheromones play a major role in human behaviour. Max-Lab new light on materials research 26 October 2006 - Swedish Research Council Development of new materials for superfast electronics and for highly efficient solar cells requires detailed understanding of the structure of atoms and processes at microscopic level. The same is true of the design of new drug molecules for treatment of disease. These are some of the uses of the multitalented synchrotron laboratory MAX-lab in Lund. Shanghai Colorant Chromatics Co Ltd. 26 October 2006 - Colorant Chromatics AG The Colorant Chromatics Group announces that they are setting up a production and marketing facility in Shanghai, named Shanghai Colorant Chromatics Co Ltd. Shanghai Colorant Chromatics started its operation in August this year. The compounding operation will start in November 2003. New York school to benefit from hydrogen fuel cell power supply 26 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch A New York State school is to establish its own fuel cell power source on its grounds in an effort to save on energy costs and educate students on new energy technology. New Shenzhen facility to offer FTO quick-delivery systems, reduced lead times 26 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky Injection Molding Systems, one of the world's leading hot runner suppliers, has officially opened its new Shenzhen manufacturing facility, the company's second hot runner operation in China. Fast cycles, high uptime give Chilean molder Wenco a competitive edge 25 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Wenco, a leading South American producer of collapsible plastic crates, has turned to Husky Injection Molding Systems for a reliable, cost-effective manufacturing solution for its popular fruit crates. Proton motor delivers fuel cell hybrid bus to the city of Barth 25 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Proton Motor Fuel Cell GmbH last week delivered one of the first Zero Emission Buses with Fuel Cell Hybrid Technology to the City of Barth (Mecklenburg-Vorpommern), which will in turn take ownership of the bus. New products presented 25 October 2006 - Colorant Chromatics AG The Colorant-Chromatics Group serves world markets with complete range of products to cover all industry needs by focusing on high quality concentrates and specialty compounds for the high performance, high temperature fluoropolymer processing industry. The Colorant-Chromatics Group is a global supplier with plants in Connecticut (USA), Ödkarby (Finland), Tsukuba (Japan) and Shanghai (China). Interdisciplinary research led to the nobel prize for chemistry 25 October 2006 - Swedish Research Council This year's Nobel Prize for chemistry goes to Roger Kornberg, USA. He has studied how the genetic information stored in the genes is copied so that the body can use it. This is a central process for all life, if it ceases, the organism will soon die. Lubrication system order for SMV presses 25 October 2006 - Metalforming Machinery Makers' Association SMV Presses (UK) Ltd, the Coventry based power press and ancillary equipment manufacturer has received an order for a Multi-Lube lubrication system to be retrofitted to an existing on-site manufacturing roll forming line at Eye, Suffolk based, SpeedDeck Building Systems Ltd, a supplier of secret-fix non-combustible steel and aluminium roof and cored panel walling systems. Multi-Lube Lubrication systems are used to apply thin lubricants and other low viscosity liquids evenly and efficiently to coil strip and tooling used in roll forming and pressing. The material being used by SpeedDeck Building System is 715 mm. wide and is used to make on-site roofing sections. Because the roll forming line is swung up to meet the roof area, the efficient distribution of lubricant on the sheet is critically important. This system uses a pumping system that evenly controls the distribution of the lubricant through spray nozzles, even when the roll former is being used at an angle. This system regulates the amount of lubricant used and is known to produce tremendous cost savings as lubricants are expensive. New punching and shearing machine is more productive 25 October 2006 - Metalforming Machinery Makers' Association A new model in the Finnish-built range of combination turret punching and right angle shearing machines from Finn-Power, marketed under the ‘Shear Genius’ brand name, has been introduced to the UK by Press & Shear Machinery, Tamworth. Designated SG6, the compact cell can machine larger sheet up to 3,000 x 1,500 mm without repositioning. Higher productivity results from 30 rev/min rotation of the 20-station turret, an indexable forming option, and 150 m/min table positioning in each axis, facilitated by a double ballscrew drive in Y and a high precision rack and pinion in X. The concept of a built-in shear has gained popularity in recent years, particularly since steel prices started to rise steeply, as the technique results in savings of typically 10 per cent in material consumption compared with traditional machining methods. Atkin Automation to develop new business in Czech Republic and Slovakia 25 October 2006 - Metalforming Machinery Makers' Association Atkin Automation, Thetford, Norfolk, having secured the European distribution rights for the Shung Dar range of Taiwanese coil handling equipment, has now established its sales, installation and support network in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Kolin based B & B Industry will be responsible for the marketing and promotion of the Shung Dar and Atkin range of products and automation solutions. It is a well respected company with an in depth understanding of the equipment needs of the metal and general engineering industries in both countries. The company already has a strong customer base for its range of high quality motors, gears, chains and drives. Prerov based Bukacek Electro will undertake the service and support for all the Shung Dar and Atkin equipment and systems sold by B & B Industry in both countries. Shear-form machine tools received order for robot Haeger insertion press cell 25 October 2006 - Metalforming Machinery Makers' Association Shear-Form Machine Tools Ltd, the Coventry based sheet metal and plate working machinery supplier and Haeger’s sole representative in the UK has received an order from Dundee based, Texol Technical Solutions plc for a robotic insertion press cell, comprising a Haeger 824 ‘OneTouch’ insertion press with a 50kg. Motorman UP50N 6-axis industrial robot and NX100 control system. Texol is a technical solutions service and manufacturing company offering a range of engineering and manufacturing services, including Metal Fabrication, Electronics, Mechanical Assembly, Box Build and Design Services. Clean energy alliance to expand NREL's Business Assistance Model 25 October 2006 - DOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory The National Alliance of Clean Energy Business Incubators begun in 2000 by U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory has become the Clean Energy Alliance, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the development of clean energy businesses. Atkin Automation grows in Eastern Europe 24 October 2006 - Metalforming Machinery Makers' Association Atkin Automation has now appointed a Latvian agent - Machinery Latvia - based in Riga. Machinery Latvia is a subsidiary of a large Finnish company which also operates in Lithuania and Estonia. With a wealth of knowledge and experience of the Latvian metal industry, it will be responsible for the sales and marketing of the Shung Dar and Atkin/BHP products and automation solutions throughout Latvia, which is one of the EU countries with greatest growth potential. As well as installing and commissioning new equipment, Machinery Latvia’s engineers will provide a technical support service to ensure users gain the maximum production benefit from their investment. Atkin Automation’s international reputation has been built over many years around its manufacture of the Atkin and BHP range of specialist, high performance coil handling and processing products and equipment. The Shung Dar products sit comfortably alongside its existing range and enable the company to offer highly cost effective equipment options which reflect individual application feature and performance requirements. New building and construction component 24 October 2006 - Metalforming Machinery Makers' Association Since becoming the exclusive European distributor of the Shung Dar range of coil handling and process equipment late last year, Atkin Automation, Thetford, Norfolk has achieved growing success with UK building and construction component manufacturers. Its latest sales contract from this industry sector is from Parkes Products Limited, a major manufacturer of builders’ fittings (www.parkesgroup.co.uk), and is worth in excess of £120,000. 7th largest provider of CAM Software 24 October 2006 - Metalforming Machinery Makers' Association Planit Solutions, a division of Planit Holdings plc comprising Licom, Radan, HRS, Planit International and Cabinet Vision Europe, has moved up to become the world’s 7th largest provider of CAM software technology in 2004, according to the latest NC software and related services market assessment by CIMdata. The success reflects consistent growth across the group’s CAM software products, which target the needs of the woodworking, metal, stone and sheet metal manufacturing sectors with branded products including: AlphaCAM, Radan and Cabinet Vision. Fast punch press doubles as plasma cutting back-up 24 October 2006 - Metalforming Machinery Makers' Association Pressworking cycle times have been halved at sheet metalworking subcontractor, Coleman Manufacturing, near Burton-on-Trent, following the installation in November 2004 of a Finn-Power C5 turret punch press and Jetcam programming software from Press and Shear Machinery. Stainless steel, mild steel and aluminium in the thickness range two to five millimetres is processed mainly by Coleman, which also frequently cuts material up to 8 mm on two plasma machines. RAS multibend centre – the next generation 24 October 2006 - Metalforming Machinery Makers' Association Reinhardt Maschinenbau, known as RAS, have installed approaching 50 fully automated sheet metal folding centres around the world and recently unveiled the second generation machine. The New RAS 79.22-2, now available through John Murray Machinery, has the same 2160 x 1500 x 2mm capacity, but has many new features making it faster and more versatile. The RAS development team have completely revamped the machine with highly dynamic backlash free servo gear motors providing improved accuracy and 30% higher speeds, a new dual drive tool changer, automatic clamp folding tools with integrated tab and offline tools, as well as improved and faster in-feed and out-feed systems. The latest version of the larger 2.6m machine, the RAS 79.26-2, is now available with all the same improvements giving users two highly flexible and super fast bending centres with compact yet easily maintained layouts. As RAS said, “These machines are workhorses and thoroughbreds ‘rolled into one’ and with which the operator can confidently solve the most extreme production challenges.” A Swedish roadmap for research infrastructures 24 October 2006 - Swedish Research Council The Swedish Research Council´s Guide to Infrastructure, with a perspective of 10-20 years, is Sweden´s first long-term plan for research infrastructure. The emphasis is on field overviews in which research infrastructure, both present and planned, is placed in its context. The report presents various recommendations, identifying appropriate infrastructure projects of great importance to future research. Certain fields in which further investigation is needed are also pinpointed. A summary of the key conclusions from the report is available in English, see the right column. The Colorant Chromatics Group opens a new factory in Europe 24 October 2006 - Colorant Chromatics AG At its current production site in Aland, Finland the CC Group has expanded its operation with the construction of a new 2000 sq m manufacturing and development building. PSA selects conTeyor packaging and material handling systems 24 October 2006 - conTeyor PSA Peugeot Citroën has selected the conTeyor Multibag System for the packaging of the Citroen C5 rear parcel shelf and the steering wheel of the Peugeot 308 and Citroen C3 and C5 models. General Motors unveils most technologically advanced fuel cell car 24 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Major car manufacturer General Motors today unveiled what it claims is a road version of 'the most technologically advanced automobile ever built', featuring an advance fuel cell propulsion system. Quadloc Tandem aids in door panel customization 24 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky Injection Molding Systems has supplied four Quadloc Tandem injection molding machines to Johnson Controls' operations in Italy to produce two-color automotive door panels for Fiat's new Grande Punto. Husky to improve customer support network in Europe 23 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky Injection Molding Systems has announced plans to improve its customer support network in Europe to ensure customers receive exceptional products, service and support across the continent. New World Trade Centre to incorporate fuel cell power 23 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch New York governor George Pataki has announced a new package of energy measures to be incorporated into the designs for the new World Trade Centre development, including fuel cell power generation. Innovative Packaging Systems from conTeyor save time, cost & packaging waste in truck manufacturing 23 October 2006 - conTeyor MAN Nutzfahrzeuge AG is using conTeyor Multibag material handling systems to package components for its Trucknology Generation A trucks, voted 2001 Truck of the Year. Heavy metal free Fluoropolymer-based color concentrates for the wire and cable industry 23 October 2006 - Colorant Chromatics AG With the implementation of RoHS, colorant producers had to reformulate their concentrates with more thermally stable pigments. Chromatics Inc, the US division of the Swiss-based Colorant Chromatics Group will present its newest ranges of Fluoropolymer-based heavy metal free color concentrates. New microdata research 23 October 2006 - Swedish Research Council Scope for conducting ‘microdata research´, using databases and personal registers, is particularly good in Sweden. Not only does every individual resident have a unique national or civic registration number that enables him or her to be followed in several databases; there are also numerous sources of data, such as administrative registers, with detailed individual-level information. These registers contain demographic, social and financial personal particulars, for example, as well as information about people´s health and ill-health. State of the Tech: The best 300-tonners in stock 22 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch It is generally agreed among molding machine suppliers that the most popular size of injection press sold to U.S. molders is a 300-ton machine. And according to the data in IMM’s 2006 media kit (available at www.immnet.com/mediakit/IMM06Media.pdf), most U.S. molders subscribing to IMM, meaning most U.S. molders, period, are custom molders with 10 machines or less. Better molded parts through optimum mold cooling 22 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Robert Beard of Robert A. Beard & Assoc. Inc. (Kenosha, WI) has seen firsthand the changes the plastics industry is undergoing, and the pain this is causing processors and mold manufacturers alike. In his observation, 80% of the surviving molding companies have taken over the business of the 20% that didn't survive, and now that 20% is going to China. Resin is typically 40% of a molder's cost, and we all know what's happening to resin pricing. For processors to capture and retain work for U.S. plants, increase productivity, and optimize resin usage while reducing costs requires thinking outside the typical moldmaking box. Auto makers see future in hybrid, diesel engines 22 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Sustained consumer interest in cars that use alternative energy sources, such as hybrid and diesel engines, will largely depend on US gasoline prices remaining high, auto industry executives said at the Reuters Autos Summit in Detroit this week. Study acquits sun of climate change, blames humans 22 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch The sun's energy output has barely varied over the past 1,000 years, raising chances that global warming has human rather than celestial causes, a study showed on Wednesday. Wind power begins to flow for Kansas City power & light 22 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Kansas City Power & Light, a subsidiary of Great Plains Energy, announced its Spearville Wind Energy Facility is fully operational. The site's 67 wind turbines are capable of producing 100.5 megawatts of electricity. That is enough clean, renewable electricity to serve the annual energy needs of approximately 33,000 homes. Husky unveils new automotive hot runner products 22 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky Hot Runners has introduced a number of new hot runner products aimed at the automotive market. Among them is the Hydraulic Ultra 1750 Valve Gate nozzle for large part automotive molding. The Ultra 1750 can handle throughputs of up to 2,000 grams/second. PRONTO hot runners ship in two weeks 22 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky Hot Runners has introduced two-week shipments for its PRONTO line of hot runners. It is the only quick delivery program of its kind to offer fully configurable, complete hot halves with plates and manifold systems in two weeks at a reduced cost. Energy Express, new energy buildings for Australia 22 October 2006 - CSIRO A new design software tool, Energy Express is expected to mark a turning point in the way energy-efficient commercial buildings are designed in Australia and overseas New high-tech concrete is lighter, stronger & green 22 October 2006 - CSIRO Australian scientists have developed a breakthrough low-cost, lightweight, concrete technology that is set to lower costs and speed up construction projects from residential homes to high-rise buildings. New test to detect aquatic pests 22 October 2006 - CSIRO CSIRO marine scientists have developed a technique that gives new hope in the battle to stop the spread of aquatic pests. CSIRO brings home the bacon 22 October 2006 - CSIRO A team of CSIRO Livestock Industries researchers are helping to make pigs healthier and happier, while fattening the bottom line. Dr David Strom leads a team at CSIRO Livestock Industries' Australian Animal Health Laboratory, detecting and modulating immune responses in pigs. Improving livestock production techniques 21 October 2006 - CSIRO Scientists from eight developing countries, the US, Europe, Japan and New Zealand will attend a workshop in Brisbane next week to learn new techniques designed to improve the productivity of ruminant livestock animals while reducing their emissions of a major 'greenhouse' gas, methane. Breakthrough polymer for bone repair 21 October 2006 - CSIRO A breakthrough in polymer development means that soon there may be a radical new treatment for people with broken bones, a special kind of material that can 'glue' the bone back together and support it while it heals. Fighting sheep worms with genomics 21 October 2006 - CSIRO Leading-edge technology is being used by two CSIRO Livestock Industries' research teams to identify genes that enable sheep to resist intestinal parasites. The discovery of such genes could lead to new products, control strategies, and markers to identify superior animals in selective breeding programs, which will substantially improve the overall health and welfare of the national flock. Husky rolls out upgraded CoolPik for HyPET 21 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky has upgraded the CoolPik robot on its HyPET preform systems with a new, more reliable vacuum-based preform handling system. Vacuum transfer offers a number of advantages over the previous bladder-type system, including increased reliability, reduced maintenance and simpler setup. Improved UltraFlow hot runner nozzle tip allows the industry's fastest color changes 21 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky Hot Runners has introduced its redesigned UltraFlow mixing tip, which delivers the industry's fastest color changes and is ideal for applications that require frequent color changes, such as closures. High Tech's the name; higher tech's the game 21 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch This laser lens holder for a Philips CD player is complex . . . . . . but this lens holder for a DVD player is more complex and smaller . . . . . . so Engel’s X-Melt high-speed injection technology was brought in . . . . . . but every precision micro-tolerance mold was made in-house. Almanac: The state of automation 21 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch A beam-mounted pin marker for date coding and other marking requirements increases robot utilization, all within the existing molding cycle. Automation has been the next big thing in molding for several years, but it wasn’t until recently that many injection molders were forced to automate to help reduce labor, build efficiencies, and remain competitive. One expert looks at the current technology and trends in automation. Velcro molded on a wheel 21 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch The mold for continuous injection molding of Velcro hooks consists of several dozen thin plates mounted on a wheel. Thanks to purpose-designed Velcro fasteners, a field crew can perform ceramic-composite armoring of military vehicles. Robots are designed for welding and measuring 21 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Robots speed and accuracy will allow manufacturers to increases cost-effectiveness of a welding cell by reducing scrap in applications such as laser cutting, welding and measuring. Knowing when to flower 21 October 2006 - CSIRO The secret of flowering in our major food crops like wheat has been revealed with the discovery by CSIRO Plant Industry of a gene that triggers flowering in cereals. 'Important cereal crops like wheat and barley rely on the gene we found, WAP1, to initiate flowering,' says Dr Ben Trevaskis, CSIRO Plant Industry. Human, chimp genes may have different functions 21 October 2006 - Case Western Reserve University Researchers at Case Western Reserve University's School of Medicine and University Hospitals of Cleveland may have made an important discovery in the study of what makes chimpanzees and humans different. Indium Corporation will feature their RELIABILITY program at Mexitronica 21 October 2006 - Indium Corporation A key element of this program is the company's Indium5.1 Series of Pb-Free No-Clean Solder Pastes. According to Ray Altieri, Indium Corporation Market Manager, 'this series features unsurpassed print transfer efficiency through small apertures, low BGA/CSP voiding across a wide variety of reflow profiles, industry leading response-to-pause printability, and excellent wetting to all common Pb-Free metallizations. Squirty star imitates black hole 20 October 2006 - CSIRO Scientists using CSIRO's Australia Telescope near Narrabri in northern NSW have made a discovery that they hope will increase our understanding of a fundamental cosmic process. Flouting traditional central drying pays off 20 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Each of the 21 injection machines serviced by this JIT material handling system can access any of 50 materials. North American Lighting’s decision to use 50 separate desiccant-free dryers in its JIT material handling system defies the traditional approach of a large central dryer, and pays off in vastly diminished splay-caused rejects. Smarter molders buy smart pumps 20 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Energy-efficient Unigy pumping system retrofits at Injex Industries, an automotive molder in Hayward, CA, save Injex about $105/day in energy costs on two of its 950-tonners. Above is the Mitsubishi, and pictured below that is the company’s Toshiba molding machine. Vertical IM design helps automate overmolding 20 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch The Engel production cell at ZIMK overmolds complex and delicate metal parts and does full inspection unattended. Overmolding “flimsy” complex metal grids for auto electrical conductors could be tricky. This production cell knows the trick, and does it repeatedly at high speed, unattended. Faster, better, more: Multimolding takes off 20 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch A standout multimolding project, the Tide Kick (called Arial in Europe) detergent applicator consists of a top and bottom, both PP overmolded with TPE. They are molded inline with one another on two presses, then snapfit together with a roller ball and layer packed. A system from Hekuma automates every step in the process. Husky showcases high-performance closures system 20 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky is demonstrating a Hylectric 300 machine with a 72-cavity closures mold at NPE that sets new industry benchmarks for speed, output and part quality. The system produces 1,500 parts per minute. Husky ships fastest CSD preform system in the world 20 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky has shipped a HyPET 500 144-cavity system that runs a 20 oz. carbonated soft drink preform at an industry-best 10.5 seconds. The system, currently running at a customer facility in the U.S., is equipped with some of Husky's new cycle-reducing technologies being showcased at NPE. Study confirms sheepskins prevent bed sores 20 October 2006 - CSIRO A major cause of patient pain and suffering and additional healthcare costs in hospitals and aged care facilities, pressure ulcers (bed sores), can be more than halved by using a simple but effective bedding overlay product developed by CSIRO. Sunbaking to make your car body stronger 20 October 2006 - CSIRO CSIRO scientists have discovered a new process which could soon lead to the production of aluminium cars and planes that get stronger the longer they are left to 'bake' in the sun. International effort assists dairy research 20 October 2006 - CSIRO A plant toxins expert from Iran is assisting CSIRO Livestock Industries' scientists in their search for the cause of a liver disease afflicting dairy cattle in southern Australia. High-vigour wheat puts weeds in the shade 19 October 2006 - CSIRO CSIRO through Graingene, is breeding new 'high-vigour' wheats so fast-growing they can out-compete weeds while maintaining high yields. Weeds cost Australian farmers over $4 billion annually in chemical and mechanical control and yield losses. Smart statistics for cancer diagnosis 19 October 2006 - CSIRO CSIRO statisticians have developed a new way to subtype paediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, the most common form of cancer in children under 12. CSIRO's new molecular classifier is being validated on clinical samples by the Children's Cancer Institute Australia for Medical Research. Breeding mastitis out of the dairy herd 19 October 2006 - CSIRO New technology developed by CSIRO Livestock Industries will lead to the development of new strategies designed to substantially reduce the $140 million lost each year due to Australian dairy cows contracting udder infections. A new series of purpose-built hot runners 19 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Every Husky hot runner is customized for its specific application. With this in mind, Husky introduced several new hot runner products and services at NPE that support the specific requirements of a wide range of applications, including automotive, closures, consumer electronics, medical and packaging, including: Husky to showcase world's fastest IML system 19 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky will showcase a high-speed in-mold labeling system at NPE to address the anticipated growth of IML in North America. The system will mold 125g cream cheese containers with five-sided labeling at less than 2.5 seconds. IMM's Plant Tour: A Texas transplant 19 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Precision insert molding and the precision injection molding of gears and other small technical parts have been family traditions the Sholtis family has brought to the Borderland, according to Charles A. Sholtis, PMT’s CEO. Below right is PMT’s new 40,000-ft2 El Paso facility. A growing number of injection molding machine suppliers 19 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch They can demonstrate their ability to provide custom-built manufacturing cells to a captive and, hopefully, captivated audience. Open house events also are used in a more traditional way, to celebrate the opening of a new facility. All generally showcase working equipment displays and informative technical presentations. Sputtered single-use silverware 19 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch WNA’s Reflections cutlery looks too good to be disposable, but it is. D2 In-Line Solutions’ vacuum metallizing technology set the table for an innovative new line of single-use injection molded cutlery. Natural nano files nanocomposite patent for wide range of uses in polymers and plastics industries 19 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch NaturalNano, Inc., a nanotechnology and materials science company that commercializes naturally occurring nanotubes, today announced that it has filed a U.S. patent application for advances in the production of nanocomposites in the polymers and plastics industry. Pine nutrition project to boost production 19 October 2006 - CSIRO A system designed to optimise fertilising strategies for radiata pine plantations in the Green Triangle (SE South Australia and SW Victoria) is being jointly developed by CSIRO, the Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation and key softwood growers in the region. Federal microArray quality control study 18 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch The FDA-led MicroArray Quality Control project findings announced show that microarray gene expression data from the commercial platforms tested in the study show high degrees of correlation. The results, published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Biotechnology, indicates that scientists have the ability to choose a gene expression platform based on value, ease of use and quality of content, with little to no legacy data concerns. GMO testing vital for SADC 18 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Twenty-six scientists from Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, Swaziland, Namibia and Zimbabwe attended a four-day Sadc GMO testing training course at the Tobacco Research Board centre at Kutsaga in Harare, which was jointly run by the TRB and the University of Zimbabwe. UC Santa Barbara and Intel develop world's first hybrid silicon laser 18 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Researchers from the University of California, Santa Barbara and Intel Corporation have built the world’s first electrically powered Hybrid Silicon Laser using standard silicon manufacturing processes. This breakthrough addresses one of the last major barriers to producing low-cost, high-bandwidth silicon photonics devices for use inside and around future computers and data centers. Productivity advances resulting from the technology revolution are reshaping global competition 18 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch U.S. manufacturing technology consumption in May grew to $319.40 million, according to data compiled by the Association of Manufacturing Technology and the American Machine Tool Distributors' Association. The total was up 21.4% from April and up 29.7% from the total of $246.27 million reported for May 2005. The world's most productive preform systems 18 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky introduced new injection molding technology for faster preform cycles and higher outputs at the National Plastics Exposition. Husky introduces Predictive Maintenance program 18 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky Injection Molding Systems has introduced a new Predictive Maintenance program for its complete line of machines. By leveraging the power of Husky's PC-based Polaris Control, SmartLink plant monitoring software and the latest in third-party predictive devices, Husky is now able to provide customers with the tools necessary to predict the need for preventative maintenance to reduce machine downtime. Husky's Hylectric machine passes the test with Schöttli 18 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Schöttli AG Mold Technology, a leading manufacturer of high-performance molds, has seen significant performance improvements in its mold testing program thanks to a new Hylectric 400 machine from Husky Injection Molding Systems. Australian scientists' revolution in casting technology 18 October 2006 - CSIRO Australian researchers who have worked quietly over several years in a long ignored area of metallurgy have been rewarded with a startling discovery, which is set to reshape the way metals are manufactured around the world. Frogs muscle-in on wasting process 18 October 2006 - CSIRO Scientific studies of a unique Australian frog could lead to the development of new ways to improve livestock production levels and boost the prospects of maintaining human muscle strength into old age. New beef quality gene marker identified 18 October 2006 - CSIRO The discovery of a new gene marker for marbling of beef will help cattle producers more accurately predict the genetic potential of their animals to produce better tasting, more valuable, beef. Bluetongue disease a growing threat 18 October 2006 - CSIRO Research into the reasons for the recent world-wide spread of the devastating animal disease, bluetongue, could have major implications for the long-term future of Australia's sheep industry. New technique may aid Human Genome Project 18 October 2006 - University of Chicago Scientists at the University and Johns Hopkins University have developed a new technique that promises to significantly enhance the rate of novel gene discovery, a process that becomes increasingly difficult as the Human Genome Project moves closer to completion. CSIRO based drug effective against bird flu 17 October 2006 - CSIRO Drugs based on CSIRO's research into the influenza virus have been shown to be effective, in laboratory tests, against a sample of an H5N1 influenza virus currently infecting chickens in Asia. Acoustic research helps Blue Grenadier Fishery 17 October 2006 - CSIRO Scientists and fishers will use deep ocean acoustic remote sensing techniques developed by CSIRO to help give long-term sustainability to the largest fishery in Australia's south-east. Wool Fibre Research Branches Out 17 October 2006 - CSIRO New research into the molecular events that underlie wool development could improve wool production and profits, according to CSIRO Livestock Industries scientist, Dr Graham Cam. Ancient sands key to cleaning up industrial pollution 17 October 2006 - CSIRO CSIRO research has found unusual properties in ilmenite sand from the Murray Basin that could be harnessed to remove heavy metal and radioactive pollution from mine drainage, industrial waste streams, and ground water. Husky introduces purpose built packaging nozzle 17 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky Hot Runners has introduced its new UP nozzle, a purpose built nozzle that delivers best-in-class performance for thinwall molding applications. The new nozzle is installed in Husky's new HyPAC thinwall packaging machine at NPE. Husky launches new Single Cavity Valve Gate 17 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky Hot Runners has introduced its next generation Single Cavity Valve Gate. The technology delivers an excellent operating window and increased reliability. It is well-suited for either prototype tooling or production molding, and features a three day order turnaround. Bacteria commonly exchange genetic information by the horizontal transfer of conjugative plasmids 17 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Bacteria commonly exchange genetic information by the horizontal transfer of conjugative plasmids. In gram-negative conjugation, a relaxase enzyme is absolutely required to prepare plasmid DNA for transit into the recipient via a type IV secretion system. Like a 1950's Detroit automaker, it appears that nature prefers to build its proteins around a solid 17 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch A new study combining advanced computational modeling and cutting-edge experiments by molecular biologists at Rice University and Baylor College of Medicine suggests that the most stable parts of a protein are also the parts that fold first. Molecular medicine comes to the rescue 17 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Lilly Jaffe, a six-year-old North Shore suburban girl who had been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when she was one month old, checked into the Clinical Research Center at the University of Chicago Medical Center. She checked out, starting to make her own insulin, well on her way to insulin independence and ready to get in a few days of beach time in Michigan before starting first grade. The hmuQ and hmuD genes from Bradyrhizobium japonicum encode heme-degrading enzymes 17 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Utilization of heme by bacteria as a nutritional iron source involves the transport of exogenous heme, followed by cleavage of the heme macrocycle to release iron. Bradyrhizobium japonicum can use heme as an iron source, but no heme-degrading oxygenase has been described. Husky unveils new cycle-reducing technologies 16 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky Injection Molding Systems, the world's leading supplier of preform systems and services, has unveiled new technology for faster preform molding cycles. New Split Sprue Bar eliminates stringing and drool 16 October 2006 - Husky Injection Molding Systems Husky Hot Runners has developed a new Split Sprue Bar that keeps the molding area clear for free drop of parts or easy robot access, and features a stem-to-stem shutoff to eliminate stringing and drool. Cutting edge technology to improve border security 16 October 2006 - CSIRO A contract for the construction and supply of cutting edge neutron scanning technology was today signed by the CEOs of Customs and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation. Plant disease discovery solves rusty problem 16 October 2006 - CSIRO In a world first CSIRO Plant Industry has discovered a gene that is the 'Achilles heel' of rust, a common disease of plants, which could save millions in breeding rust resistant plants and avert losses in food production. Saltbush benefits for sheep and farmers 16 October 2006 - CSIRO Salinity and meat researchers in Western Australia have identified a major nutritional benefit for sheep grazed on saltbush, a plant which is being used extensively to reduce dryland salinity levels. Ocean study explores link with Australian rainfall 16 October 2006 - CSIRO A five-nation oceanographic team is taking the first steps in a $3.6 million project studying the major flow of ocean currents between Asia and Australia and how they influence rainfall across Southern Australia and Indonesia. What is a genetically modified organism? 16 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch A genetically modified organism is an organism whose genetic material has been altered using techniques in genetics generally known as recombinant DNA technology. Recombinant DNA technology is the ability to combine DNA molecules from different sources into the one molecule in a test tube. Thus, the abilities or the phenotype of the organism, or the proteins it produces, can be altered through the modification of its genes. Biologists probe the machinery of cellular protein factories 16 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Proteins of all sizes and shapes do most of the work in living cells, and the DNA sequences in genes spell out the instructions for making those proteins. The crucial job of reading the genetic instructions and synthesizing the specified proteins is carried out by ribosomes, tiny protein factories humming away inside the cells of all living things. Allocating HIV drugs to South African cities would prevent the greatest number of infections 16 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch The most effective way to control the AIDS pandemic in hard-hit South Africa would be to concentrate the allocation of scarce antiretroviral drugs in urban areas. This, however, would not be the most ethical approach, according to an innovative new study from the UCLA AIDS Institute. Modeling the movement of electrons at the molecular scale 16 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Finding more efficient ways of storing and using energy requires scientists to first look at the particles that set these fundamental processes in motion the electrons. Controlling the movement of electrons through individual molecules could allow for the development of new technologies such as small-scale circuits to be used for a variety of applications including improved solar cells. Transcriptional profiling of bacillus anthracis life cycle in vitro & an implied model 15 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch The life cycle of Bacillus anthracis includes both vegetative and endospore morphologies which alternate based on nutrient availability, and there is considerable evidence indicating that the ability of this organism to cause anthrax depends on its ability to progress through this life cycle in a regulated manner. Pseudomonas syringae HrpJ Is a Type III secreted protein that is required for plant pathogenesis 15 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch The bacterial plant pathogen Pseudomonas syringae requires a type III protein secretion system to cause disease. The P. syringae TTSS is encoded by the hrp-hrc gene cluster. One of the genes within this cluster, hrpJ, encodes a protein with weak similarity to YopN, a type III secreted protein from the animal pathogenic Yersinia species. Plastics researchers design polymer macromolecules as gene transfer agents 15 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Gene therapy depends upon foreign DNA, even viruses, to deliver genes, therapeutic proteins, or medicine to cells within the body. Many scientists are looking for better chaperones across the cell membrane. Virginia Tech researchers think polymer molecules can be created to do the job. Forms RNAi collaboration with academic research leaders 15 October 2006 - DTI Globalwatch Sigma-Aldrich, a leading $1.7 billion life science company and member of The RNAi consortium, is pleased to welcome researchers from The Wistar Institute, Mayo Clinic, Tufts University, Princeton University, the Moores Cancer Center at the University of California, San Diego, and Washington University in St. Louis to the Sigma RNAi Partnership Program. New vaccine for cattle pneumonia 15 October 2006 - CSIRO A vaccine for a major bacterial cattle disease, bovine respiratory disease, which currently costs the Australian feedlot industry around $60m a year, is now available in Australia. New fumigant to replace gas that damages ozone layer 15 October 2006 - CSIRO CSIRO and the global industrial gas company the BOC Group have signed a deal to deliver to the international market a new environmentally-safe fumigant for treating soil, insect pests, weeds and diseases. Unlocking the ways insects pests survive without air 15 October 2006 - CSIRO A CSIRO scientist is a step closer to solving the mystery of how insect pests survive in low oxygen environments such as grain silos and how to reduce multi-million dollar reliance on toxic fumigants to kills such pests. MCA approves pivotal Phase III trials for Varisolve in the UK 15 October 2006 - BTG BTG plc announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Provensis Ltd, has received a letter of approval from the Medicines Controls Agency for its Clinical Trials Exemption confirming that the Phase III study for its Varisolve procedure can go ahead in the UK. New surgical sealant technology from BTG 15 October 2006 - BTG BTG, the global technology commercialisation company, announced today it will commercialise the rights to a new surgical sealant technology, which could replace traditional suturing in surgery, as well as provide advantages over biochemical sealants currently in use. Drink less rather than shower less to save water 15 October 2006 - CSIRO If you are trying to do your bit for sustainability and save water by taking shorter showers, then a new report on sustainability reveals for the first time that there are more effective ways that our everyday choices can have a positive impact on the environment. Bubbles could be the key to Future Blood tests 14 October 2006 - CSIRO Patients could soon have the results of blood tests available before they have finished their initial medical consultation thanks to new ways of mixing a single drop of blood. CSIRO software streamlines drug discovery 14 October 2006 - CSIRO Potential new drugs for neurological disorders, like Parkinson’s are being screened faster thanks to software developed by CSIRO that automatically assesses a drug’s effect on nerve cells. New tamoxifen formulation shown to substantially retard growth of resistant tumors 14 October 2006 - BTG Scientists have discovered a new formulation of tamoxifen which can treat breast cancers that are resistant to the standard formulation of the drug. Tamoxifen is the most widely prescribed breast cancer medicine in the world. BTG, the global technology commercialisation company, is now working to develop and commercialise liposomal tamoxifen, this new drug. New drug to treat chronic lymphocytic leukaemia likely to go on sale by end of the year 14 October 2006 - BTG BTG, the global technology commercialisation company, announced today that the U.S. Food & Drug Administration has granted accelerated approval of Campath (alemtuzumab) humanised monoclonal antibody for use as a treatment for patients with B-cell chroni