#Keystone Pipeline System

[youthchronical]

Man Who Shot at Pipeline and Power Station Gets 25 Years in Prison

A Canadian man who, in an attempt to raise awareness about climate change, used a high-powered rifle to fire shots at a pipeline in South Dakota in 2022 and a power station in North Dakota in 2023 was sentenced on Monday to 25 years in federal prison. The man, Cameron M. Smith, 50, who pleaded guilty last September in U.S. District Court in Bismarck, N.D., to two counts of destruction of an…

[dertaglichedan]

Trump Plans To Revive Keystone XL Pipeline Project on Day One

It’s been quite some time since we covered the Keystone XL Pipeline, a proposed extension of the existing Keystone Pipeline System designed to transport crude oil from Alberta, Canada, to Nebraska.

The project’s goal was to expand the pipeline system’s capacity by allowing the transport of up to 830,000 barrels of oil per day over a distance of approximately 1,210 miles. The aim was to provide a more direct route for Canadian oil, and provisions were included for adding American-produced oil from the Bakken formation in Montana and North Dakota.

The last time we reported on this Keystone KL, it included a review of the number of jobs that were not created because Biden terminated this project (initially authorized by President-elect Donald Trump.)

The report, which the Department of Energy (DOE) completed in late December without any public announcement, says the Keystone XL project would have created between 16,149 and 59,000 jobs and would have had a positive economic impact of between $3.4-9.6 billion, citing various studies. A previous report from the federal government published in 2014 determined 3,900 direct jobs and 21,050 total jobs would be created during construction which was expected to take two years.

Now, people familiar with the incoming administration’s plans indicate that Trump will revive the project on Day One.

Trump believes declaring the 1,200-mile Canada-to-Nebraska crude project back on the table would drive the pro-oil message he delivered in his campaign, said people involved in the transition team discussions about the idea. Trump also wants to show he can defy President Joe Biden, who reversed Trump’s initial 2017 approval of the project, which was strongly opposed by the climate movement. “It’s on the list of things they want to do first day,” said one of the people familiar with Trump’s plan, who was granted anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. …During his latest presidential campaign, Trump railed against Biden’s decision to revoke the Keystone XL permit. “Why does Biden go in and kill the Keystone [XL] pipeline and approve the single biggest deal that Russia’s ever made, Nord Stream 2, the biggest pipeline anywhere in the world going to Germany and all over Europe?” Trump said during his debate with Vice President Kamala Harris, referring to the gas line that was hit by sabotage in 2022. “Because they’re weak and they’re ineffective.”

[darkmaga-returns]

President-elect Donald Trump will likely reverse President Joe Biden’s cancellation of the Keystone XL oil pipeline, a 1,200 mile project running from Canada to Nebraska. 

Citing unnamed sources, Politico reported that Trump plans to take the action on his first day in office. While the news has been met with excitement over the jobs and economic activity it would bring, experts say Biden’s decision to kill the project has likely destroyed any chance it will ever be built. The decision may also impact large energy projects well into the future. 

Energy analyst David Blackmon, who publishes his work on his “Energy Absurdities” Substack, told Just the News that Trump’s reversal of the decision will be largely symbolic, but he should still do it anyway. 

“It was really a very damaging thing that the current president did, and so I think it’s really important that Trump does take that action,” Blackmon said. 

Long, costly effort

TransCanada, which is now TC Energy, first proposed the project in 2008. The contested Keystone XL pipeline portion was to be the second half of a pipeline running from Hardisty, Alberta, Canada, to the Gulf Coast, and these two portions are part of a larger pipeline system running through the heart of America. The southern portion, which is now known as the Gulf Coast Pipeline, runs between Cushing, Oklahoma, and Port Arthur, Texas. It was completed in August 2019. 

The second portion of the Keystone XL project would have run from Hardisty to Steele City, Nebraska, but because it crosses an international boundary, it’s required to receive approval from the U.S. Department of State. This gives the president the power to deny, approve or revoke the permits. 

[insert-witty-user-name-here]

10+ Good Things Biden has Done: Climate & Labor Edition

Just a list of 10+ good things Biden has done in the last 4 years because I’ve been hearing too much rhetoric that it doesn’t matter who you vote for. It does make a difference. 

Find more 10+ good things here, here and here.

Rejoined the Paris Climate Accords.  

Listed more than 24 million acres of public lands across the country as environmentally protected and has channeled more than $18 billion dollars toward conservation projects. (And revoked the permit for the Keystone XL pipeline amongst others). (x)

Invested $369 billion to reduce greenhouse emissions and promote clean energy technologies through the Inflation Reduction Act. Through the tax incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act, renewable energy (such as wind, solar, and hydropower) has surpassed coal-fired generation in the electric power sector for the first time, making it the second-biggest source of energy behind natural gas. (x)

Strengthened protections against workplace assault through the Speak Out Act. (x) 

Increased protections for workers during the union bargaining process (x)

Is making it easier for passengers to obtain refunds when airlines cancel or significantly change their flights, significantly delay their bags, or fail to provide extra services when purchased. (x)  

Invested $1.2 trillion into roads, waterlines, broadband networks, airports and more allowing for more bridges, railroads, tunnels, roads, and more through the Inflation Reduction Act (which also added 670,000 jobs). (idk about you but I like driving on well maintained roads and having more rail options).  

Strengthened overtime protections for federal employees (x)

Raised the minimum wage for federal workers and contractors to $15. (x)

Strengthened protections for farmworkers by expanding the activities protected from retaliation by the National Labor Relations Act and more. (Previously anti-retaliation provisions under the National Labor Relations Act applies mostly to only U.S. citizens) (x)

Invested $80 billion for the Internal Revenue Service to hire new agents, audit the wealth, modernize its technology, and more. Additionally, created $300 billion in new revenue through corporate tax increases. (x) 

Lowered the unemployment rate to 3.5% — the lowest in 50 years.

Proposed investments in a lot of programs including universal pre-k, green energy, mental health programs across all sectors, a national medical leave program for all workers and more. (x) 

Last… let’s also not forget all the truly terrible things Trump did when he was in office. If you need a reminder, scroll this list, this one mostly for giggles + horror, for actual horror about what a Trump presidency has in store, learn about ‘Project 2025’ from the Heritage Foundation. I know this post is about reasons to vote FOR Biden but let’s not forget the many, many reasons to vote for him over Trump.

Looking for more?

10+ good things Biden has done in education and immigration and

10+ good things Biden has done in healthcare and housing

10+ good things Biden has done in the justice and courts system

A few other notes

Voting for Biden or Trump shouldn’t be the only reason you vote. You know what elections have more power over your life? LOCAL elections. If you’re not feeling jazzed about Biden… vote for someone really cool running for mayor, or your rep, or on your school board and then begrudgingly vote for Biden. 

A reminder that if someone online is trying to discourage you to vote there’s a good chance they are a paid actor to do so. Voter suppression was a well-documented tactic during the 2016 election and I’m sure the trolls are out in force again. 

Check your voter registration here, make a plan to vote, and encourage your friends to vote as well. 

All in all, yeah… there’s a lot of shitty things still happening. There’s always going to be shit but things aren’t going to change on their own. And that change starts (it certainly doesn’t end) with voting. 

Go vote in November.

[annajade456]

Embracing DevOps: A Journey Towards Technological Excellence

In the ever-evolving landscape of modern technology, where change is the only constant, DevOps has emerged as a revolutionary force reshaping the very foundations of software development and IT operations. Short for Development and Operations, DevOps represents not just a set of practices, but an all-encompassing cultural shift with far-reaching implications in the digital age.

This comprehensive blog invites you to embark on an immersive journey into the expansive universe of DevOps. Here, we dive deep into the multifaceted scope of DevOps and its transformative impact across diverse industries. From turbocharging software delivery to fortifying security and scalability, DevOps isn't just a methodology; it's the cornerstone of success in today's interconnected technological landscape.

Join us as we unravel the boundless possibilities and profound significance of DevOps in the modern tech-driven world.

Unveiling the Multifaceted Scope of DevOps

DevOps isn't a singular concept or a one-size-fits-all approach; it's a dynamic and multifaceted philosophy that touches every facet of modern technology. Let's delve into the various dimensions that collectively define the expansive scope of DevOps:

Streamlined Software Delivery: In a world where time is a valuable currency, DevOps assumes center stage. It empowers organizations to expedite the development, testing, and deployment of software, resulting in swift and efficient software releases, a decisive advantage in today's fast-paced business landscape.

Enhanced Collaboration: DevOps shatters traditional silos that once separated development and operations teams. Instead, it nurtures a culture of collaboration, where every team member works harmoniously toward common objectives, fostering superior outcomes and a culture of relentless innovation.

Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery (CI/CD): DevOps champions the widespread adoption of CI/CD pipelines, where the process of building, testing, and deploying code becomes an automated symphony. This not only reduces errors but also accelerates the delivery of new features and updates, keeping organizations agile and competitive.

Improved Quality: Quality is the keystone of DevOps. Through automated testing and continuous monitoring, DevOps ensures that software maintains an apex of quality. Issues are pinpointed and rectified early in the development cycle, dramatically lowering the chances of post-production glitches.

Efficient Resource Utilization: DevOps practices become the maestros of resource optimization, eliminating inefficiencies in both time and infrastructure. The result? Cost savings and a more efficient utilization of resources, a double boon for organizations.

Enhanced Security: Security isn't an afterthought in DevOps; it's integrated seamlessly into the very fabric of the process. Automated security scans and checks are an integral part, ensuring proactive measures are taken to minimize vulnerabilities and bolster system security.

Scalability: DevOps, by its very nature, is infinitely scalable. It empowers organizations to seamlessly adjust their operations to meet demand, whether scaling up or down. DevOps ensures that systems can adeptly handle varying workloads, providing the vital elements of flexibility and efficiency.

Monitoring and Feedback: At the core of DevOps lie the principles of continuous monitoring and feedback loops. This guarantees that performance issues are swiftly identified, enabling teams to make necessary adjustments in real-time, further enhancing efficiency.

The DevOps Revolution Across Industries:

The scope of DevOps extends beyond the boundaries of industries, leaving its indelible mark in software development, e-commerce, finance, healthcare, and beyond. Its principles and practices are proven to be versatile and adaptable, positioning DevOps as a coveted asset in the world of technology. It drives innovation and efficiency in every sector fortunate enough to embrace it.

In the vast landscape of technology, DevOps has emerged as a beacon of efficiency and innovation. It's not merely a practice; it's a transformative culture that redefines how organizations approach software development and IT operations. With streamlined software delivery, enhanced collaboration, continuous integration and delivery, improved quality, efficient resource utilization, enhanced security, scalability, and vigilant monitoring, DevOps has left an indelible mark across industries.

The scope of DevOps transcends boundaries, impacting software development, e-commerce, finance, healthcare, and beyond. Its principles and practices adapt and evolve, making DevOps an invaluable asset in the world of technology, driving innovation and efficiency wherever it is embraced.

In a world where adaptability and agility are paramount, DevOps shines as an irreplaceable force. And in this dynamic landscape, ACTE Technologies stands as a guiding light, preparing individuals to excel in DevOps. With the rise in demand for skilled DevOps professionals, ACTE Technologies equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in this dynamic domain. Whether you're a budding DevOps engineer or a seasoned IT professional, embracing DevOps isn't just a career choice; it's a monumental leap towards a promising and impactful future in the tech industry. The possibilities with DevOps are limitless, and the journey ahead is filled with innovation and success.

[semiconductorlogs]

Electronic Spacer Market Report: Forecasting Growth to USD 1.13 Bn by 2025–2032

MARKET INSIGHTS

The global Electronic Spacer Market size was valued at US$ 743.8 million in 2024 and is projected to reach US$ 1.13 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period 2025-2032.

Electronic spacers are precision components used to maintain proper spacing and alignment between electronic parts in various applications. These spacers come in multiple forms including hexagon swage spacers, round spacers, and metric spacers, each designed for specific mechanical and electrical requirements. They play a crucial role in ensuring structural integrity and electrical insulation in assemblies.

The market growth is driven by increasing demand from consumer electronics and automotive sectors, where miniaturization and reliable component spacing are critical. While the U.S. leads in market size currently, China’s rapid electronics manufacturing expansion is creating new growth opportunities. Key players like Wyandotte Industries and Keystone Electronics are expanding their product portfolios to cater to evolving industry needs, particularly in high-density PCB applications.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Expansion of Consumer Electronics Manufacturing to Accelerate Market Demand

The global electronic spacer market is experiencing robust growth driven by the rapid expansion of consumer electronics manufacturing. With smartphone production exceeding 1.4 billion units annually and tablet production reaching nearly 200 million units, the demand for precision components like electronic spacers continues to surge. Electronic spacers play a critical role in PCB assemblies and device housings, ensuring proper component alignment and thermal management in increasingly compact electronic designs. Major electronics manufacturers are adopting automated production lines that require standardized spacer components, creating a stable demand pipeline for market players.

Automotive Electronics Revolution to Spur Technological Advancements

The automotive sector’s shift toward electric vehicles and advanced driver assistance systems is generating significant demand for specialized electronic spacers. Modern vehicles now contain over 3,000 electronic components requiring precision spacing solutions that can withstand vibration, temperature fluctuations, and electromagnetic interference. Automotive-grade spacers must meet stringent quality certifications, driving innovation in materials and manufacturing processes. The growing adoption of vehicle electrification, with projections indicating electric vehicles will comprise over 30% of new car sales by 2030, positions electronic spacers as critical components in next-generation automotive architectures.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Raw Material Price Volatility Creates Margin Pressure

While the electronic spacer market shows strong growth potential, manufacturers face persistent challenges from raw material price fluctuations. Stainless steel, aluminum, and specialty polymers – which account for approximately 60-65% of production costs – have experienced significant price volatility in recent years. This instability makes cost management difficult, particularly for manufacturers serving price-sensitive market segments. Smaller manufacturers with limited purchasing power find it especially challenging to maintain profitability while competing with larger firms that benefit from economies of scale.

Other Challenges

Supply Chain Disruptions Recent global supply chain disruptions have highlighted vulnerabilities in the spacer manufacturing ecosystem. Many producers rely on specialized metal alloys and polymers sourced from limited suppliers, creating bottlenecks during periods of high demand or logistical challenges.

Inventory Management Pressures The need to maintain extensive inventories of spacer variants for diverse applications increases working capital requirements and storage costs, presenting ongoing operational challenges for market participants.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Miniaturization Trend Challenges Traditional Spacer Designs

The electronics industry’s relentless push toward miniaturization is forcing spacer manufacturers to radically redesign their products. Conventional spacer designs struggle to meet the dimensional precision requirements of modern microelectronics, where component spacing tolerances are now measured in micrometers rather than millimeters. This technical challenge is compounded by the aerospace and medical device sectors adopting similarly stringent requirements for their electronic assemblies. Manufacturers must invest heavily in precision tooling and quality control systems to remain competitive, creating barriers to entry for smaller players.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Emerging Applications in Renewable Energy Systems

The rapid growth of renewable energy infrastructure presents significant opportunities for electronic spacer manufacturers. Solar inverters, wind turbine control systems, and energy storage installations all require robust spacing solutions capable of withstanding harsh environmental conditions. With global renewable energy capacity projected to increase by over 60% in the next five years, specialized spacers designed for outdoor electrical applications represent a high-growth market segment. Manufacturers developing corrosion-resistant, UV-stable spacer solutions stand to benefit substantially from this trend.

Additive Manufacturing Opens New Design Possibilities

Advances in 3D printing technologies are enabling the production of complex spacer geometries that were previously impossible or cost-prohibitive to manufacture. This technological leap allows for spacers with integrated features like conductive traces, thermal management channels, or customized mounting points. Early adopters of metal and polymer additive manufacturing are gaining competitive advantages through reduced prototyping costs, shorter lead times, and the ability to offer highly customized solutions. As additive systems become more affordable and material options expand, this production method is expected to transform spacer manufacturing paradigms across multiple industries.

ELECTRONIC SPACER MARKET TRENDS

Miniaturization in Electronics Driving Demand for Precision Spacer Solutions

The rapid advancement of miniaturization in electronics has created a significant demand for high-precision electronic spacers across industries. As consumer electronics and automotive components shrink in size while increasing in complexity, the need for reliable spacing solutions that maintain structural integrity and thermal management has grown substantially. Hexagon swage spacers, known for their durability and secure fastening, currently dominate the market with an estimated 32% revenue share in 2024. The shift toward 5G infrastructure and IoT devices has particularly accelerated adoption, with metric spacers witnessing 8.7% year-over-year growth in telecommunications applications. Furthermore, material innovations including high-temperature plastics and conductive alloys are expanding spacer functionality beyond mechanical separation into thermal dissipation roles.

Other Trends

Automotive Electrification Spurs New Spacer Requirements

The global push toward electric vehicles has introduced stringent new requirements for electronic spacers in battery management systems and power electronics. Where traditional applications required basic isolation, EV applications now demand materials with dielectric strength exceeding 5kV/mm while maintaining thermal conductivity above 3 W/mK. This has led to increased R&D investment in hybrid polymer-metallic spacer solutions, with leading manufacturers launching over 15 new specialized products in 2023 alone. The automotive segment is projected to grow at 9.2% CAGR through 2030, outpacing overall market growth as EV production scales globally.

Supply Chain Localization Reshaping Manufacturing Landscapes

Geopolitical tensions and logistics disruptions have accelerated the trend toward localized spacer production, with North American and European manufacturers investing over $120 million in new production facilities since 2022. While China remains the dominant production hub with 44% of global capacity, regional demand is increasingly met by domestic suppliers – particularly for defense and medical applications requiring certified supply chains. This shift has created opportunities for mid-sized manufacturers with fast prototyping capabilities, as OEMs prioritize vendors who can rapidly adapt to design changes while meeting regional content requirements. The trend is most pronounced in the aerospace sector, where lead times have decreased by 18% through localized spacer sourcing strategies.

Smart Manufacturing Technologies Enhancing Production Efficiency

Industry 4.0 adoption is transforming electronic spacer manufacturing through AI-driven quality control and predictive maintenance systems. Leading producers report 27% reduction in material waste and 15% improvement in production throughput after implementing machine vision inspection systems. Automated inventory management using RFID-tagged spacer bins has reduced stockouts by 40% in high-volume applications. These efficiency gains are critical as manufacturers balance the need for mass production of standard spacers with growing demand for customized solutions – a segment that now represents 22% of total market value and commands 35-50% price premiums over standard products.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Innovation and Strategic Partnerships Drive Competition in the Electronic Spacer Market

The global electronic spacer market features a dynamic competitive landscape, characterized by both established manufacturers and emerging players striving to capture market share. Wyandotte Industries, Inc. and Keystone Electronics Corp. have emerged as leading players, leveraging their extensive product portfolios and robust distribution networks across North America and Europe. These companies collectively held approximately 35% market share in 2024, with their dominance rooted in precision manufacturing capabilities and rapid response to industry demands.

While the U.S. remains the largest regional market for electronic spacers, Boker’s, Inc. and PennEngineering have been increasingly focusing on expansion in Asia-Pacific, particularly in China and Japan, where demand is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% through 2032. These players are investing heavily in automated production technologies to enhance efficiency and reduce lead times, addressing the needs of fast-growing applications in consumer electronics and automotive sectors.

Mid-size competitors like MBK Tape Solutions and Fabri-Tech Components, Inc. are differentiating themselves through specialized solutions, particularly in the hexagon swage spacers segment, which is expected to reach $85 million by 2032. Their strategy focuses on customized spacer solutions for niche applications, allowing them to compete effectively against larger industry players.

The market also sees active participation from component specialists such as Nyltite Corp. and XTO, Inc., who are strengthening their positions through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. Recent developments include expansion of high-temperature resistant spacer lines to serve the growing electric vehicle market, reflecting the industry’s response to evolving technological requirements.

List of Key Electronic Spacer Companies Profiled

Wyandotte Industries, Inc. (U.S.)

Boker’s, Inc. (U.S.)

MBK Tape Solutions (U.S.)

Fabri-Tech Components, Inc. (U.S.)

XTO, Inc. (U.S.)

Nyltite Corp. (U.S.)

Keystone Electronics Corp. (U.S.)

Miller Gasket Co. (U.S.)

PennEngineering (U.S.)

Segment Analysis:

By Type

Hexagon Swage Spacers Segment Leads Due to High Demand in Precision Engineering Applications

The market is segmented based on type into:

Hexagon Swage Spacers

Round Spacers

Metric Spacers

Others

By Application

Consumer Electronics Segment Dominates Due to Increasing Demand for Compact Electronic Devices

The market is segmented based on application into:

Consumer Electronics

Automotive

Industrial Equipment

Aerospace

Others

By Material

Plastic Spacers Gain Preference Due to Lightweight and Insulating Properties

The market is segmented based on material into:

Metal

Plastic

Rubber

Others

Regional Analysis: Electronic Spacer Market

North America The North American electronic spacer market is anticipated to exhibit steady growth, driven by high demand from the consumer electronics and automotive sectors. The presence of key manufacturers such as PennEngineering and Keystone Electronics Corp. supports regional supply chains, while stringent regulatory standards for precision components in electronics bolster quality requirements. The U.S., accounting for the largest market share in the region, benefits from advancements in smart devices, aerospace, and automotive assembly technologies. However, rising material costs and supply chain disruptions pose challenges to cost-sensitive applications.

Europe Europe’s market is characterized by demand for high-precision spacers, particularly in Germany and the U.K., where the automotive and industrial electronics segments dominate. Compliance with EU regulations on material safety and sustainability drives innovation in spacer materials, such as recyclable polymers and corrosion-resistant alloys. While the region maintains a strong foothold in precision manufacturing, competition from Asia-Pacific suppliers has led to pricing pressures. Nevertheless, collaborations between research institutions and manufacturers continue to foster technological advancements in spacer design.

Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific leads global market growth, propelled by China’s massive electronics production and India’s expanding automotive industries. With cost efficiency being a key driver, manufacturers like Nyltite Corp. leverage regional supply chains to produce hexagon swage and metric spacers at competitive prices. However, despite high-volume production, the market faces challenges in quality standardization. Japan and South Korea remain pivotal for advanced spacer applications in semiconductors and robotics, emphasizing precision and durability in their manufacturing ecosystems.

South America South America presents modest growth opportunities, largely tied to Brazil’s automotive sector and Argentina’s electronics assembly market. While demand for spacers in industrial applications is rising, economic instability and inconsistent infrastructure investment limit large-scale adoption. Local manufacturers often rely on imported materials, making production costs volatile. Despite these hurdles, niche applications in renewable energy and telecommunications are emerging, indicating long-term potential.

Middle East & Africa This region remains a developing market, with growth primarily concentrated in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa. Demand stems from infrastructure projects and telecommunications expansion, though the lack of local production capabilities results in heavy reliance on imports. While the adoption of electronic spacers in oil & gas equipment and consumer electronics shows promise, limited industrialization and financing constraints slow market penetration. Strategic partnerships with global suppliers could unlock opportunities in the coming years.

Report Scope

This market research report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Global Electronic Spacer Market, covering the forecast period 2025–2032. It offers detailed insights into market dynamics, technological advancements, competitive landscape, and key trends shaping the industry.

Key focus areas of the report include:

Market Size & Forecast: Historical data and future projections for revenue, unit shipments, and market value across major regions and segments. The Global Electronic Spacer market was valued at USD million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of % during the forecast period.

Segmentation Analysis: Detailed breakdown by product type (Hexagon Swage Spacers, Round Spacers, Metric Spacers, Others), application (Consumer Electronics, Automotive, Others), and end-user industry to identify high-growth segments and investment opportunities.

Regional Outlook: Insights into market performance across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa, including country-level analysis. The U.S. market size is estimated at USD million in 2024, while China is projected to reach USD million.

Competitive Landscape: Profiles of leading market participants including Wyandotte Industries, Inc., Boker’s, Inc., MBK Tape Solutions, Fabri-Tech Components, Inc., and others, covering their product offerings, market share, and recent developments.

Technology Trends & Innovation: Assessment of emerging manufacturing techniques, material advancements, and evolving industry standards in electronic spacer production.

Market Drivers & Restraints: Evaluation of factors driving market growth such as increasing demand from electronics manufacturing, along with challenges like raw material price volatility.

Stakeholder Analysis: Insights for component suppliers, OEMs, system integrators, investors, and policymakers regarding the evolving ecosystem and strategic opportunities.

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[impulsivelycontentious]

Participating in the system is a protective behaviour. I would stress what HAS changed - a number of laws have been rolled back - and the impact on say, transgender children. For example the keystone XL pipeline was canceled! Voting MATTERED about that. Students who went to the predatory art school got debt forgiveness and he's trying to do more - but the courts are tying it up. Perhaps they'd feel better knowing we're likely to see more justices replaced soon and much of our issues stem from having trump appointees sitting there and choosing biden now means choosing better justices.

I don't really know.

A lot of people find doing nothing to FEEL more moral even if no action leads to the bad outcome anyway. It's the trolley problem. They won't flip the leaver even if there's far more people on the track.

Insight today while washing the lettuce and thinking of my friend who doesn't want to vote.

They are an otherwise intelligent, responsible, generous person, who appears to be socially conscious. They have worked hard and long for their position in their profession. They express concern for the planet. They get twitchy if you use too many paper towels.

But they don’t want to vote for Biden for reasons, and quote "doesn't like the whole system where the parties take turns swinging things back and forth" unquote.

I have been dumbstruck at their attitude for about two months now. I've been thrashing back and forth trying to reconcile this person I love with their attitude:

If you care abt the planet enough to conserve paper towels, don’t you care enough to stop a Repub administration from raping the land?

If you don’t like how things can swing back and forth, don't you want an administration that's going to work to shore up, rather than dismantle, more lasting democratic systems of governance?

If you understand the value of the long game, why are you only satisfied with instant results from a single election rather than viewing that election as a single move in an ongoing process?

The insight came to me as I used an extra set of paper towels to dry my lettuce:

These people are not motivated by outcomes. They are motivated by how their choices make them FEEL.

Not how the outcomes of their choices will make them feel. But how the action associated with their choices makes them feel.

In terms of outcomes for the environment, saving paper towels doesn't do shit compared to pushing for restrictions on oil companies. But using half a paper towel is an instant dopamine hit: "Ahhh, I am caring for Mother Earth. I care. I am a good person. Ahh yes that's the stuff."

This model fits for voting too. We know that The Only Votes That Count Are Those Cast. We know that Dems Go Where The Votes Are Not Where The Votes Aren't. We know that voting in every election, every time, in numbers, is a very low-effort way to contribute to moving the Overton window farther left.

But in the moment, for people who are motivated by how their action associated with their choice makes them feel... the absolute best move for their dopamine supply is to abstain: "I am NOT supporting an old fart; I am NOT supporting genocide; I am Challenging The System; I am a good person. Ahh yes, that's the stuff."

At the time, when I challenged my friend on their position, they held up their hands and said "look, I'm not saying I have any answers, I'm just saying I don’t like how the system works."

They didn't like how participating in the system made them FEEL in the moment.

For those of us who think this is madness, hey, we aren't off the hook entirely. We are basing our choices and actions off of outcomes, true. But there's probably a feeling/dopamine component in there too. "I am holding my nose and voting Blue; I am doing my part to actually affect the future even if I hate some things abt my choice; I am a good person."

So maybe the difference isn't in the motivation (my feelings and self-image) but in what motivates us (my action vs the outcome of my action).

I don't have an answer to the question at this time and this post is already long enough. But I'll think on it. And I invite you to do so as well:

For these people (who seem to be a sizable part of the population), how to outweigh the choice where their action preserves their self-image, doesn't cost them dopamine for having to take a "bad" action, and maybe even gives them a happy boost for "not being part of a flawed system?"

For these people, how to help them connect more to the outcome?

Off the cuff, I can't think of any means other than cognitive-behavioral therapy. :/

EDIT: Apparently there's a term for this and it's called Emotivism -- ethics isn't abt effects but abt feelings.

[aliyaqoobsblog]

The Ultimate Guide to Stainless Steel Flange: Applications, Advantages, and Everything in Between

Stainless steel flanges are an inevitability of most industrial as well as commercial piping systems. They do not leak and are the most secure method to join pipes, pumps, valves, and equipment, thereby ensuring joints are safe. If you want to know why stainless steel flange is needed, what they do and why it was originally the first selection for the majority of industries, this article will walk you through everything you'd like to learn.

What is a Stainless Steel Flange?

A stainless steel flange is a medium bore pipe fitting that is flat disc-shaped and that joins the equipments or pipes into a pipe system. The stainless steel flanges are very resistant to pressure and high-temperature corrosion, and they are usually strong in every direction. Stainless steel flanges are employed in almost every food processing business, water treatment, chemical treatment, oil, and gas processes.

Types of Stainless Steel Flanges

There are several various stainless steel flanges, each to be applied in a given circumstance:

Weld Neck Flange: High-pressure use, with more balance of stress distribution.

Slip-On Flange: Easy to install and sufficient for low-pressure use.

Blind Flange: To seal off the end of a pipework system or vessel.

Socket Weld Flange: Low-diameter, high-pressure pipework.

Threaded Flange: Threads on pipes without welding, low pressure for systems.

Lap Joint Flange: Assembled with stub ends, and ease in alignment and assembling.

Major Strengths of Stainless Steel Flanges

Corrosion Resistance

Stainless steel flange is one of the major strengths of which is that it is highly corrosion-resistant. This makes it highly suitable for precise design to be used in aggressive environments, i.e., chemical plants and seacoast locations.

Strength

Stainless steel flanges won't have a chemical reaction with heat and pressure and won't warp or buckle.

Flexibility

Stainless steel flanges come in a range of sizes, pressures, and configurations and are available for purchase to specification for an assignment.

Cleanliness

Where cleanliness is the only thing that counts, as in food handling, medicine, and other uses, stainless steel's non-reactive state provides the highest degree of sanitation.

Maintenance-Free

Low-maintenance stainless steel flanges reduce downtime and operating cost.

Typical Applications

Oil & Gas Pipelines: Safe and leak-proof connections.

Water Treatment: Resistance to chemicals and corrosion.

Chemical Processing: High temperature and corrosive chemicals resistant.

Food and Beverage Industry: Keep out contamination and maintain hygiene.

Pharmaceuticals: Prevent sterile and safe connections.

How to Choose a Stainless Steel Flange

Buying a stainless steel flange involves a couple of considerations for the buyer:

Grade of Material: Stainless steel is classified widely between 304 and 316, with commonly being found in the category of 304 and 316.

Pressure Rating: Get the flange adequately rated for system pressure.

Size and Compatibility: Choose a flange size that will be compatible with your pipe size.

Application Environment: Consider in terms of chemical, temperature, and pressure exposure.

In the majority of quality stainless steel flanges, you can consider in terms of opportunities in Ali Yaqoob.

Conclusion

Corrosion-resistant, rugged, and highly versatile, stainless steel flanges are now regarded as the keystone of any contemporary piping system. Used either in oil and gas, water treatment, or food processing facilities, the relevant industries must pick the proper stainless steel flange so that their systems can have a long service life, with respect to their safety, dependability, and operability. To get the best, use the right flanges suitable for your own project and purchase them from authentic sources.

Wishing to upgrade your piping system? Purchase from the immense collection of stainless steel flanges available with Ali Yaqoob, and start making things simpler, worry-free.

[newssphere0]

Company plans to restart Keystone Pipeline after oil spill in rural North Dakota

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The operator of the Keystone oil pipeline said it planned to restart the system Monday after a spill onto farmland in North Dakota last week shut down the line. South Bow said it’s watching inclement weather conditions before beginning “a carefully controlled restart” that will include 24/7 monitoring, reduced operating pressures, cleanup of the site and compliance with…

[alarmist-nonsense]

"BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The nearly 2,700-mile Keystone oil pipeline was shut down Tuesday morning after it ruptured in North Dakota, halting the flow of millions of gallons of crude oil from Canada to refineries in the U.S. and potentially leading to higher gasoline prices. South Bow, a liquid pipeline business that manages the pipeline, said it shut down the pipeline after control center leak detection systems detected a pressure drop in the system.

The company estimated that 3,500 barrels of oil were released and said the spill was confined to an agricultural field in a rural area, about 60 miles (97 kilometers) southwest of Fargo."

[pixeljade]

The problem with too many leftists is that they believe, unironically and totally, that while Trump is bad, Biden is just as bad. But Biden reversed most of Trump's executive orders on day one of his presidency, including things like ending the Muslim Travel Ban and rejoining the Paris Climate Agreement. He also revoked approval for the Keystone XL Pipeline that many of us protested against, a pipeline for which the plans have now been officially abandoned. All on THE FIRST DAY! He's also done a fuckton of railway infrastructure work and funding, which is FINALLY going to get us the train system in America all of us leftists blog about constantly, reducing car dependency MASSIVELY. He ALSO has forgiven TONS of student loans--There's a complaint that he hasnt forgiven student loans but he's actually done a lot of that, he simply cant do the "All At Once" plan he proposed in the electoral process without congressional support he doesnt quite have. He also is the ONLY president in history to have joined a picket line in favor of unions, a huge act which is literally unprecedented and had an enormous impact!

He's also done lots of the bad things too, and I think its only fair to admit that he's approved horrendous amounts of aid to Israel in the midst of their genocidal acts against Palestine, and that he has not only continued but ramped up efforts to secure the Mexico border, an act which is separating even more families.

He's done much more positive and negative than this, but if I were to list everything I'd be here all day. The point is that leftists declaring that "Biden and Trump are the same!" Are cherry-picking the negative items about Biden, and ignoring all the positives. Scroll back up to the Day 1 actions, re-read those for me. And THEN tell me they're the fucking same, when we have a *literal first day list* of the things Biden disagreed with Trump on, on the ways in which they are tangibly different! And yet you don't want to admit that because you're so angry over the latter stuff. Which frankly just strikes me as childish. I used to shy away from that term because I believe in good faith amongst leftists, but screw it. If you can't view the good Biden's done because he's done plenty of bad you are childish. That is an illogical, reactionary point of view, and you're going to let a fascist back into office because you cant get past it, you whiny fucking babies. Grow up.

Who is helped in this scenario?

More to the point: how will your one issue improve under Trump?

[rawstorys]

The Keystone Oil pipeline, which is $ 5.2 billion, prevents thousands of gallons from Canadian oil from the United States

The Keystone Oil pipeline, which is approximately 2700 miles, was closed on Tuesday morning after it was torn in the northern Dakota, which led to the stopping of thousands of gallons stoppingCrude oil from CanadaTo refineries in the United States South Bo, a liquid pipeline company that runs the pipeline, said it closed the pipeline after discovering the control center discovery systems a…

[worldmediathewhowhatwhen]

Keystone Pipeline The system includes the 800-mile-long pipeline, which runs from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez, and the Valdez Marine Terminal, where oil is loaded onto tankers for shipment to market. The pipeline has become an engineering icon and has set a standard for design which endures to this day.

Oleoducto Keystone El sistema incluye el oleoducto de 800 millas de longitud, que va desde Prudhoe Bay hasta Valdez, y la terminal marítima de Valdez, donde se carga el petróleo en buques cisterna para su envío al mercado. El oleoducto se ha convertido en un ícono de la ingeniería y ha establecido un estándar de diseño que perdura hasta el día de hoy.

[bllsbailey]

Keystone XL Pipeline Is Back Once Trump Retakes Office, But There's a Problem

The Keystone XL pipeline was one of the items on Barack Obama’s legislative kill list. He set into motion plans to stop the project, which was rolled out in 2017 by then-President Trump. Outgoing President Joe Biden also set the ‘kill the pipeline’ plan into motion again, with President-elect Trump vowing to restart it. The tug-of-war on this massive energy project might have reached another set, but there’s a catch—the company that was the main force behind its construction no longer wants to build it (via Politico): 

Donald Trump is looking to revive the Keystone XL oil pipeline on his first day back in the White House, according to three people familiar with the president-elect’s plan, even though no companies are trying to build it anymore.  Trump believes declaring the 1,200-mile Canada-to-Nebraska crude project back on the table would drive the pro-oil message he delivered in his campaign, said people involved in the transition team discussions about the idea. Trump also wants to show he can defy President Joe Biden, who reversed Trump’s initial 2017 approval of the project, which was strongly opposed by the climate movement.  […]  The pipeline’s permit to cross the U.S.-Canadian border was first rejected in 2015 by President Barack Obama. Trump in 2017 reversed that decision and approved the border crossing — only to have that decision revoked by Biden in January 2021. After that, TC Energy, the pipeline’s developer, said it would no longer pursue its construction. Calgary-based TC Energy no longer owns the pipeline system that the Keystone XL was intended to complement. And the portions of the pipeline that TC Energy had put in the ground in both Canada and the United States in anticipation of the cross-border permit approval have been dug up. Replacing that pipe would require any company that wants to rebuild it to again obtain local permits for the project.  […]  But the pro-oil message it would send was something Trump was interested in delivering, the person said, even if an actual pipeline didn’t materialize right away.  “Everyone in the country knows what the KXL pipeline is,” said this person, who was granted anonymity to discuss private conversations. “It’s energy. It’s infrastructure. It’s construction.” 

Yeah, that’s the thing: the people who say this project is back on the table are anonymous sources, though I would no doubt bet heavily that Trump wants to push for this pipeline’s renewal. I’d rather he work on deporting illegal aliens, getting the Trump tax cuts made permanent, and rebuilding the economy, though if he must fight on several fronts at a time, why not throw this one in there? Or at least put feelers out there. 

Regardless, much must be done quickly to undo the damage Joe Biden has done.

Trending on Townhall Videos

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from Inside Climate News:

Before the sun set on his inauguration day, Joe Biden reversed a raft of his predecessor’s deregulation policies with the stroke of a pen. Among them was an order revoking the permit for the controversial Keystone XL oil pipeline. 

Canceling the project was a campaign pledge to address the climate crisis. But looming over that decision was the risk that an obscure but powerful international legal system could force the United States to pay billions of dollars to Keystone XL’s Canadian developer, TC Energy. 

That system—embedded in thousands of trade and investment treaties—allows corporations to drag governments before panels of arbitrators, usually behind closed doors. Governments have been ordered to pay billions of dollars in damages to oil and mining companies for violating those treaties. While the system was intended to protect foreign investors from unfair treatment or asset seizure, many environmental advocates, lawyers and politicians say it is now being used to win awards from governments that enact new environmental regulations or raise taxes on polluting industries.

Increasingly, these critics warn the system threatens climate action by punishing governments that phase out fossil fuels. 

The $15 billion claim TC Energy brought against the United States was one of the largest-ever in response to a climate policy. The company lost earlier this month, but the case was dismissed on a technicality and its outcome says nothing about other pending cases around the world.

Australia, Canada, Colombia and Slovenia are facing tens of billions of dollars in claims from companies for phasing out coal power plants, rejecting mining licenses or disallowing liquefied natural gas permits. In 2022, Italy was ordered to pay a British oil company roughly $200 million after offshore drilling restrictions upended the firm’s development plans. 

In other countries, the system set up for these claims—investor-state dispute settlement, or ISDS—has driven up costs of closing coal power plants, prevented governments from canceling oil and gas licenses or otherwise impeded efforts to reduce fossil fuel use, government ministers and researchers say. Companies even win awards despite leaving behind environmental contamination, violating human rights or breaking national laws.

The ISDS system is uniquely daunting for governments because arbitrators overseeing the cases can award compensation not just for real losses but also for unearned, expected future profits. It’s a key reason awards can balloon into the billions of dollars. 

Governments already face numerous practical and political obstacles as they attempt to move away from fossil fuels, said Canadian lawyer and professor Gus Van Harten, who has studied ISDS’s evolution for decades. “This system is providing an unwarranted and unexpected further minefield.” 

As Mary Robinson, former president of Ireland, put it in a speech this year: “I cannot overstate just how perverse this is.”

[pixeljade]

"Nothing changed in 2020" yeah okay. Then apparently the revoking of the keystone XL pipeline, shutting down that project that we all protested against for ages was nothing. The muslim travel ban ending, that was nothing. So was the rejoining of the Paris Climate Agreement. And the restoring of protections for trans healthcare, thats just nothing. Cancelling student debt too, he keeps finding new ways to do that, this link is from 3 days ago.

Like look. I generally despise Biden. I think he should be held responsible for the tens of thousands dead that he enabled through his persistent funding of Israel. I also think his defense of the police crackdown on the protestors is atrocious, as is his increasing of funding for police and his beefing up of border security, neither of which you mentioned, but I wanted to make sure you're aware I genuinely do have my reasons to hate Genocide Joe when I say this next bit: He is not REMOTELY the same as Donald J. Trump. While Biden is a monster for what he's done to Palestine, he's also UNDENIABLY working to improve things for the climate crisis while Trump gleefully wants to expand all industries regardless of their impact! Biden ALSO made it so that a lot of young folks have more options than they did during Trump! He's also helped save trans folks like me. Trump had a law making it legal to discriminate against me for employment, housing, and healthcare, for being trans! Biden doesnt! Not to mention Trump fumbled the pandemic so much it led to MILLIONS dead!!!!!

Like. Look. I dont think we can push him any further left. I think he's never going to hand us the means to dismantle his system of power. I also dont think he's been anywhere near perfect, nor even near acceptable. But he IS different, he IS better, and if you cant see that you've either got the memory of a goldfish or you're so pissed you can't see past your current hatred!!!! Please, for the love of god, STOP DOING THE REPUBLICANS' WORK FOR THEM!!! CRITICIZE BIDEN BUT DONT SAY HE'S AS BAD AS TRUMP! THATS THE ONLY THING YOU HAVE TO AVOID!!!!

I swear if I see people saying this widespread police repression we're seeing would be "worse under trump" I'm fucking begging you to remember 2020. Things were exactly as bad as they are now. The stages of escalation have been so similar. This is the fascist reality that you're all warning us will happen in some imagined future. Stop fucking pretending