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Nanosilver Lining or Liability?
Nanoscale silver is widely used in consumer products, including many residential and commercial appliances, because it is an effective antimicrobial agent. However, silver is classified as a toxin to aquatic plants and animals. Manufacturers are trying to anticipate the risks of using nanoscale silver in the future, including detection in the environment.
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A-Twitter About a DVD Ceramic Tweeter
A tweeter diaphragm, made of ceramic graphite, reproduces the very high frequencies of DVD Audio and SACD formats — thanks to the material's low-weight/high-strength characteristics. Introduced by Pioneer, the new speaker "pushes the diaphragm resonance far beyond the audible range," promising a home stereo experience for even the most discriminating audiophile.
If you find this subject interesting, subscribe to the GlobalSpec e-Newsletter, DirectU2 The world of Acoustics & Audio Technology.
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Look Ma, No Fasteners!
In-mold assembly is a promising two-in-one process that can efficiently combine appliance components, allowing injection molders to eliminate welding and adhesive glues. Molders now use multiple injection barrels that rotate and index different materials to create more than one part. In twin cube molding, the parts are snapped together.
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Bond, High-performance Bond
Targeted for high-performance bonding, a two-part epoxy adhesive develops 3,000 psi lap shear strengths on Al-to-Al bonds. Ultimate strength is attained at ambient temperature, but heat hastens curing. The adhesive bonds well to ceramics, glass, metals, and numerous plastics, and is recommended for very thin bond line assemblies.
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Wire Harnesses for Electronic Devices and Appliances
J-RAD Technical Services, Inc.
Simple to complex, discrete, and multi-conductor wire assemblies for Electronic Devices and Appliances. Engineering support with prototype builds and design recommendations for discrete and multi-conductor wire assemblies for Electronic Devices and Appliances. Learn more... |
Appliance Filters
LCR Electronics, Inc.
LCR products are used in all appliances including portable tools, vacuum cleaners, blenders, mixers, white goods, pumps, microwave ovens, and power supplies. Our EMI Filters (RFI Filters, EMC Filters) bring appliance products into compliance with all National (FCC) and International (CE,VDE, etc.) EMC regulations. |
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Mini Appliance Motors
Just larger than two D-size batteries, (2 x 5.5 in. or 5 x 14 cm), this small diameter DC motor delivers enough torque to drive power tools that require a small cross section. The motor has superior power-to-weight ratio, excellent heat dissipation, low losses, and zero cogging. The secret is its rare earth magnets and high copper density.
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BLPM Appliance Motors
Permanent magnet motors are a strong contender to replace the induction motors currently used in a variety of applications, including compressors for residential air conditioning systems. This article from Appliance Magazine explores the details of different kinds of magnetized motors and how they function both with and without electronics.
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Electrical/Electronic Components . . . |
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Appliance Panels Indicate with Color
A single chip hardware/software solution features a graphical user interface (GUI) co-processor with LCD controller and graphical operating system. This makes it possible to design more usable push buttons and other graphical elements for appliance control panels. The system-on-chip supports 24-bit color and alpha-blending, helping designers accommodate various marketing and branding initiatives.
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Intuitive Appliance Interaction
Touchscreens are making all kinds of gadgets more popular and more usable; from cell phones, to computer monitors, to calculators. However, some touchscreen technology isn't ready for some devices and appliances, and for the television. Consumers are not going to trade in their remote control for a touchscreen, no matter how cool.
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High Current Appliance Outlets
Schurter Inc
SCHURTER's new series 4797 appliance outlets are rated up to 20 A at 250 VAC. The high current outlets consist of two versions for screw or snap-in mounting. The snap-in version was developed in response to customer demand for easier mounting and smaller fit over screw mount types, which is especially important for gang mounting. |
CE Power Cordage and Control Cables
HI-Tech Controls, Inc.
This flexible PVC cable is perfect for the Domestic/Export appliance manufacturing industry. One cable with all the needed approvals helps reduce inventory and the worry of selecting the correct cable for exporting.
Applications include household, kitchen, and office appliances in dry and wet environments, both indoors and outdoors. |
Careers & Commentary . . .
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Quiet Counts with Appliances
Low noise is definitely a plus when it comes to major kitchen appliances according to the most recent J.D. Powers and Associates Kitchen Appliances Study. Among the six factors used to measure customer satisfaction are operational performance, functionality, noise level, and energy efficiency. Not surprisingly, the highest preference for dishwashers in particular relies on noise level and energy efficiency.
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It's What's Inside That Counts
A photography student at Hartford Art School produced a unique senior thesis project: she took apart and arranged the internal components of a wide variety of appliances and then took photographs of them. Her portfolio consists of a waffle iron, juicer, coffee maker, popcorn popper, electric knife, and a few more common kitchen tools as you've never seen them before! |
Share Your Thoughts . . .
About This Month's Topic
Nanoparticles Contributing to Illnesses?
Has there been enough testing of the nanotechnologies used in household appliances? A study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) suggests that common appliances such as stoves and hair dryers may be contributing to indoor air pollution that may cause certain illnesses. How can manufacturers strike the right balance between technology and safety?
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