#exporter of turned components

[accurexcomponentsindia]

Benefits of Using CNC Turned Components in Modern Manufacturing

Discover the top 5 benefits of using CNC turned components in modern manufacturing, including precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for enhanced production quality.

[brasspartsmanufacturer]

GK Metals - Brass Parts Manufacturer in Jamnagar, India

GK Metals is a leading brass parts manufacturer in Jamnagar, India. With our expertise, advanced technology, and commitment to quality, we offer a comprehensive range of brass components to meet diverse industrial needs. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements.

[wheelsgoroundincircles]

Oldsmobile

April 29'th 2004. The last Oldsmobile rolls off the line. You may be surprised to learn, that for a long time Oldsmobile meant innovation. Here are just a few of the Automotive technologies Olds pioneered in it's 100+ years in business:

1898: Olds Motor Vehicle Company exports the first American car, a steam-powered automobile, to Mumbai, India.

1901: The first speedometer offered on a production car was on an Oldsmobile Curved Dash.

1901: Oldsmobile was the first to procure parts from third-party suppliers.

1901: Olds produces 635 cars, becoming the first high-volume gasoline automobile producer.

1901: Oldsmobile becomes the first manufacturer to publicly promote their vehicles.

1902: The Oldsmobile Curved Dash is the first mass-produced vehicle in America.

1903: Oldsmobile builds the first purpose-built mail truck.

1908: Oldsmobile rebadges the Buick Model B as the Oldsmobile Model 20, possibly creating the first badge-engineered car.

1915: First standard windshield introduced by Oldsmobile.

1926: Oldsmobile is the first to use chrome plating on trim.

1929: Oldsmobile creates the first Monobloc V8 engine in its Viking Sister brand.

1932: Oldsmobile introduces the first automatic choke.

1935: Oldsmobile offers the first all-steel roof on an automobile.

1940: Oldsmobile introduces the Hydra-Matic, the first fully automatic transmission.

1948: Oldsmobile offers one-piece curved windshields, along with Buick and Cadillac.

1949: Oldsmobile introduces the Rocket, the first high-compression OHV V8 engine.

1952: Oldsmobile introduces the "Autronic Eye," the first automatic headlight dimming system.

1953: Oldsmobile switches its lineup to the 12v charging system.

1962: Oldsmobile creates the first production turbocharged car, the F-85 Jetfire.

1962: Oldsmobile also creates the first production car with water injection, the F-85 Jetfire.

1966: The Oldsmobile Toronado is the first mass-produced front-wheel-drive American car.

1969: First use of chromed ABS plastic exterior trim on the 1969 Oldsmobile Toronado.

1969: First electric grid window defogger on an American car, the 1969 Oldsmobile Toronado.

1971: The Oldsmobile Toronado is one of the first cars to feature a high-mounted brake light.

1974: The Toronado is the first American car to offer a driver-side airbag.

1977: The Toronado is the first American car with a microprocessor to run engine controls.

1982: First use of high-impact molded plastic body components on the 1982 Oldsmobile Omega.

1986: Oldsmobile introduces the Delco VIC touchscreen interface on the Toronado, shared with Buick Riviera.

1988: The first production heads-up display system is introduced on the 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Indy Pace Car.

1988: Oldsmobile breaks a world speed record with the Oldsmobile Aerotech at 267 mph, driven by A.J. Foyt.

1990: Oldsmobile updates the color touchscreen interface with a built-in cellular phone on the 1990 Toronado Trofeo.

1995: Oldsmobile introduces Guidestar, the first onboard navigation system on a U.S. production car.

1997: Oldsmobile becomes the first American car company to turn 100 years old.

2001: The redesigned 2002 Oldsmobile Bravada becomes the first truck to pace the Indianapolis 500.

[beardedmrbean]

BANGKOK (AP) — Thai officials on Wednesday said they seized 238 tons of illegally imported electronic waste from the United States at the port of Bangkok, one of the biggest lots they've found this year.

The waste, which came in 10 large containers, was declared as mixed metal scrap but turned out to be circuit boards mixed in a huge pile of metal scrap, said Theeraj Athanavanich, director-general of the Customs Department.

The waste was found on Tuesday after the containers became the subject of a routine random inspection, officials said.

A U.N. report last year said electronic waste is piling up worldwide. Some 62 million tons of electronic waste was generated in 2022 and that figure is on track to reach 82 million tons by 2030, the report said. It said only 22% of the waste was properly collected and recycled in 2022 and that quantity is expected to fall to 20% by the end of the decade due to higher consumption, limited repair options, shorter product life cycles, and inadequate management infrastructure.

Theeraj said Thai authorities are looking to press charges including falsely declaring imported goods, illegally importing electronic waste and planning to re-export the waste back to its country of origin.

“It’s important that we take action on this kind of goods,” he said. “There are environmental impacts that are dangerous to the people, especially communities around factories that might import these things for processing, then recycling.”

Electronic waste creates huge health hazards. Many components are laden with lead and mercury, cadmium and other toxins. Recyclers are after gold, silver, palladium and copper, mainly from printed circuit boards, but lax controls mean that facilities often burn plastics to release encased copper and use unsafe methods to extract precious metals.

Thailand passed a ban on the import of a range of electronic waste products in 2020. The Cabinet in February approved an expanded list of the banned waste.

Sunthron Kewsawang, deputy director-general of the Department of Industrial Works, said officials suspected at least two factories in Samut Sakhon province, which borders Bangkok, are involved in importing the waste.

In January, the Customs Department said it seized 256 tons of illegally imported electronic waste from Japan and Hong Kong at a port in eastern Thailand.

[diesfortunae]

Hi guys for a few days I've been brainstorming a fan zone and, besides the guardian, I have quite a lot of things planned.

I don't have a name for it, all I know is that it's cream / tan colored.

Behold, because I will go into a bit of detail.

I'm still not totally sure about the architecture of the place. It's like a miniature claustrophobic city, if that makes sense. It's littered with advertisements for some sort of beverage... I wonder what it could be?

More below the cut :}

Ok so since you found this interesting enough to read more, let's directly get into the gist of it:

What the hell is gasoil?

Gasoil is the signature element this zone specializes in, it's their main source of income as they also ship it to other zones, either raw or processed.

When raw, it is used as fuel for machinery and electricity.

When processed, it becomes edible. The every-day beverage of every elsen!

Due to the consumption of gasoil, the elsen of this area are friendlier and extroverted, I'd imagine one of them would greet the Batter when he first steps into the place.

And yes! You read that right! It can be mixed with sugar. However, the elsen of this area are immune to sugar craving, as gasoil breaks down the addictive component of sugar, and also gets sweeter. They don't consume sugar unless with a cup of gasoil.

Gasoil also makes elsen more productive! Truly the beverage of all time, this should be sold everywhere and everyone should consume it immediately OUCH YEOCH MY ARM WHAT THE FUCK

The last bullet point of that little image was that gasoil is addictive.

Elsen can become addicted to it due to the overconsumption of it, resulting in tachychardia, deliriums, vomiting, etc. Upon dying, these elsen immediately turn into sugar, as their insides are burning.

Rabid elsens are extremely dangerous so please don't approach one ever (thumbsup)

What's the aquarium?

Whales produce gasoil by absorbing plastic into their spiracles, to then excrete it in the form of raw gasoil. The raw gasoil is then harvested, and either sold raw or processed.

At the building known simply as "The Aquarium", it's where investigations about the beverage and whales occur. There are groups of people specialized in hunting and breeding these whales to achieve the best quality of gasoil. So far, not much progress has been made.

These seems quite insane and all

But where's the guardian?

This is where my silly drawings end because I have no idea what to do for the guardian, however I do have some other ideas:

(I love writing)

At the beginning, this guardian's plan was to bring out the potential of every man that would step on their land. Fierce like a militar, but caring like a mother. This guardian thought everyone had an ultimate version of themselves that, with a bit of digging, it could be brought out.

However, this guardian didn't really like the performance of their elsen, it saw them as too frail and dependent. With the discovery of gasoil, this guardian saw that the consumption of this beverage would make their elsen more productive in their tasks, however since it was in its raw state, the elsen would fall sick and do even worse after the effect of the beverage wore off.

This guardian then, invested their whole spirit into researching this new element, that could transform men and bring their potential out. Like this, "The Aquarium" was founded. Processed gasoil was invented, and it was perfection in a cup.

Contacting the guardians and signing agreements did really well in the economy of their zone. Zone 1 specially, as it had a lot of the components necessary for elsen to live, in exchange this zone would export gasoil (raw or processed) as well as men, since I don't think Dedan would mind a few more workers.

Zone 3's sugar became important, since it would make gasoil sweeter and friendlier for elsen with a weaker palate.

This zone was simply utopic. Every man had a job that they were comfortable with, with holidays and sick leaves and what not. With a loving guardian and the graph of the economy looking like Mt. Everest, what could possibly go wrong?

The elsen became mad when this guardian decided to put regulations on the consumption of gasoil. The massive production of it made the demand for it weaker, and the only costumers of it would be the elsen of this same area. It was still being exported to other zones though, just not in large quantities.

The guardian had noticed that its elsen were becoming addicted to it, once again dependent on something. The elsen ravaged and rebelled against their governor, wanting an explanation for the sudden cut in their diets and lives.

These manifestations would evolve into threats, and from threats to fights with the guardian. The guardian knew that if they were to answer these attacks it would get significantly worse, and also because they already had certain reputation of being really nice to their men (this would really affect the economy!). It decided to leave and exile themselves in the farthest point of the zone, reflecting on how permissive, and even uncaring, their actions were, thinking that it was their fault that their men became obsessed with it. This wasn't the way they envisioned "bringing someone's full potential out".

This is basically all I have planned lol. Also the way I see spectres in this is that the player would think that the stupid ghosts are interrupting elsen just wanting to do their work and drink their whale water. What the player wouldn't realize is that they're helping their addictions, spectres are beneficial here, and even the guardian will scold The Batter.

[pinkyjulien]

🟨 Appearance Creator Mod Infos Dump

With the release of ACM (Appearance Creator Mod) I wanted to dump some information that might be useful, especially for non-modders that want to play around with it!

(I had no involvement with the making of this mod at all, nor I have any tie with AMM development, just throwing my two cents as a regular user, player and modder)

You'll find some How To, Tutos and other useful heads-up under read more, if you plan on using this mod as a modding tool (sketching up outfits ideas before modding them as custom appearance for your blorbo for example) or simply want to play blorbo dress up!

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

First, You might want to get familiar with these suffix, as you will need to identify what part of a character's outfit you wanna swap

▶ Garments Components Names

h0 - Character's head mesh he - Eyes mesh heb - Eyebrows mesh ht - Teeth mesh hx - Head's details meshes (pimples, makeup...) hh - Hair mesh t0 - Character's Body mesh t1 - Torso Inner Garment (T-shirt, Tank top...) t2 - Torso Outer Garment (Vest, Jacket, Hood...) a0 - Character's Arms mesh (Cyberarms...) l1 - Legs Garment (Pants...) s1 - Feet Garment (Shoes, Socks...) i1 - Accessory / Item Garment (Cyberware, Belt, Necklace...)

▶ Garments Rigs Names

ma - Man Average mb - Man Big mc - Man Child mf - Man Fat mm - Man Massive wa - Woman Average waf - Woman Average Fat

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

⚠ It's important to note that Garments are NOT automatically refited to the character! You can use a WA garment on a Male NPC but it won't magically fit his shape

⚠ Johnny and Kerry, despite using the MA rig, both have a thinner bodies and most of the garment will float and appear larger on them

⚠ A lot of Garments have their own RIGs and physics, and might T-pose / break upon being swapped on your NPC of choice! For this reason, Hair with physics will automatically break as well

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

AMC is a standalone window in game, and not included in AMM main window!

After spawning a NPC, the AMC window should fill up with the spawned entity's garment components (and yes it can get crowded really quick, especially on smaller monitors and resolution)

Yes, It also works on NPVs and NPC+! 🔥

Everything on these windows can be overwhelming especially if you're not familiar with modding, so I'll throw a little example here using Scorpion

First I want to get rid of his hood and vest, without using AMM's custom appearance, using only ACM

In the list, I look for his Vest and his Hood component

We can easily turn them invisible by clicking the "Toggle" button Make sure to also disable any decals, stickers, and additional component (his vest also has a decal component, see in the screenshot)

The little icon next to a component's name indicate it has been edited in some way

I'll now switch his tank top for something else

Click on "Select From List" next to the "Mesh Path" of the desired component (in Scorpion's case, t1_060_ma_tank__corset) Open up the "Torso" list, and you'll be able to click on any of the listed t1 and t2 garments!

⚠ As mentioned above, garments doesn't magically refits on characters; Scorpion use the Man Average body and rig, anything that isn't a "ma" garment won't fit him correctly!

⚠ Another thing to be aware of is that a lot of garments's might break around the collar area! However if you plan on using this same mesh in an outfit, don't let that scare you, as it's easily fixable in blender

Export your desired mesh and look for the "NeckCollar_JNT" bone and simply rename it to "Neck" (blender will put some numbers next to it but that's fine, ignore that)

I'm going to switch to Valentin here to showcase how to deal with potential clipping 🤏 Since Valentin's body is customized, bit chubbier, he always needs refiting

Let's say you swapped your character's top for something else but part of his torso clips out

To put my boys titas away, I'll look for his body component (t0)

Click on "Chunk Mask" to open the garment's submeshes list

Garment's meshes are broken down in multiple submeshes that can be easily chunkmasked (disabled) at will to deal with clipping! This is why NPC usually don't even have a full body mesh when taking off their clothes, they are chunkmasked to avoid clipping :D

I will disable the Submesh 1 by unchecking the "1" box

Don't be afraid to click on multiple box and see what gets chunkmasked on different meshes! You won't break anything 👌

aaand for now that's about all I can think of that might be confusing for users- tho if you have question don't hesitate to ask on this post, to reblog or to come into DMs!

[multifan2022]

Golden Lies 2

PART 1

“Over 100,000 people are wanting to try and get a view of this year's tributes! Especially the two volunteers from District 9, I know I'm ready to see them!” Caesar Flickerman says into the camera leaning forward here and there for dramatic effect. He turns and smiles laughing with this year's co host.

“Ah yes! I bet there are lots of sponsors here for their first glimpse.” He says as the camera shows the crowds of people, some just talking amongst themselves while others are sipping drinks. “This is really the tribute's first impression. In my opinion one of the MOST important moments in the pregame days.”

The screen splits, showing President Snow waiting patiently, along with some game makers and others talking to one side, and the crowd on the other. President Snow looks bored, and unhappy to be there.

Screaming can be heard over the Panem anthem that's playing as chariots start moving down the lane. Each pair of tributes wear something to catch the attention of those around them. It's also supposed to show off whatever the main exports from their district are as well.

District one is painted a light gold color and covered in furs and jewels with large feather head pieces on. Two dressed to look like Gladiators with winged crowns on their heads.  Three has a new stylist so they look like weird crosses between a human and a robot. Wires and electrical components covering their bodies.

Four are dressed to look like a fisher and a mermaid, which is pretty typical. Five had on a dress and suit that had lightning bolts, their skin painted to look like it had little sparks moving across it. District six was weird, they looked like maybe they were supposed to resemble trains? District seven was dressed as trees.. Which was also pretty normal but boring. They really need some new stylists here.

District eight looks like a child tried to dress them. Their dress suits multiple colors and fabrics. Ten was dressed as ranchers, it looked like the same exact outfit from the previous years. Eleven had on overalls and wheat crowns. And Twelve looked like they were about to fall over in their miners outfits.

Thankfully for you, all eyes were on Nine. On your dress as it gracefully weaved through the air behind you and Hardin. Both of your crowns and hair had little insects moving and buzzing. The crowd was hit with the scent of Honeysuckle and grain as you rode past.

They screamed and screamed as you smiled and waved, you were channeling your nonexistent inner career. You had seen plenty of games, watched as Districts 1-4 smiled and winked. They dazzled the crowd far before they were in the arena, and that's what you needed to do if you had any chance at keeping Hardin alive.

It would probably always catch you off guard to watch these people. Their huge colored hair, dyed skin and tattoos. The way they screamed and cheered for kids who were going to die. How they bet on who would last longest. Who would kill the bloodiest. They were a completely different species to you.

With one hand holding the chariot, you reached for the hand Hardin had wrapped around his scythe. Forcing your fingers between his, you both firmly held the metal, carefully lifting it above your heads to hold your hands up. Both chuckled at how easy it seemed to be to manipulate the crowd.

The rest went by in a blur, you didn't even remember the speech Snow had given before Lavanna was pulling you back off the chariot screeching about how amazing it was. Cress was there also, him and Lavanna talking over each other as your eyes widened and you nodded. Even though you had no clue what they were saying you didn't want to interpret what was clearly a moment for them.

You looked at Hardin, his face was starting to pale as his hands started shaking. You could see sweat beading on his forehead as he turned to you. His eyes were dazed and when he opened his mouth to speak it all just came out in a jumble. You pulled him aside, grabbing his face between your hands “Did you take your meds this morning?” His brows pinch together as he tries to remember.

He shakes his head and starts using sign language to speak. The only way he can force words out when he gets like this, but it's still sloppy. “Tried…” can't read the rest “Cress stopped me… Too busy.”

“You tried to take your meds but Cress stopped you and told you we didn't have time?” You asked, starting to get pissed off. It takes just a few seconds for him to take his pills, and in a few days he wouldn't be able to take them at all. Just as you went to storm away to tell Lavanna to take Hardin upstairs and to tear into Cress someone else walked up.

Finnick thought when he saw the two of you walk off, he could take the chance to crack into your defense. Try to push you off the high you were having. A tactic that normally worked with women, but he had a feeling he was going to have to lay it on thick this time. So he dug his hand into a bowl before he made his way to you.

When you turned around you almost ran into him. You watched as he lifted a white square from one hand and slowly lifted it to his mouth. His tongue came out just a little as he placed it between his teeth. It was supposed to be seductive you supposed, and maybe at any other moment it would've been. You couldn't deny that the guy was attractive, 10 out of 10 would recommend looking at him.

But the only thing you were worried about at that moment was helping Hardin. You knew he needed two things, to eat something sugary and take his meds. Problem was at home the only sugary thing you really had easy access to was honey. And the only honey you knew of was back in your apartment.

“Sugar cube?” Finnick asked holding one out to you, his fingers were up near your mouth clearly wanting to place it between your lips. But his words were all that sunk in as you pointed to his hand, “Those are sugar?” He nodded slightly confused before remembering your from a poor district. He opened his hand, thinking you would marvel at it.

He was wrong, you snatched them all out of his palm before turning your back on him. He watched as you lowered your friend to the ground, just now realizing something was wrong with the kid. “Hardin.. I need you to chew on this ok..” You said as you grabbed his jaw with your free hand practically forcing his mouth open and closed.

Finnick watched as the guy twitched here and there trying to follow the commands you gave him. Maggie was the next person to come over, quietly asking what was going on but he couldn't answer. Mags looked around wondering where the kids mentor was before remembering that they didn't have one.

She felt horrible knowing that two kids who looked like they had a good chance of at least lasting a while had no help. No one to guide them through from a tribute's perspective. All they had was an escort who thought that it was an honor to go into the games. She told herself that if there came a moment where she could help them without hurting her own kids, she would.

After a good ten minutes the sugarcubes were gone. Another ten before a flustered Cress and worried Lavanna showed up. “Where have you been!” Cress said blown away by the audacity of his two tributes. He couldn't believe they had just walked off and were now sitting on the dirty ground.

All that anger from before creeped back in as Cress started going on and on about how horrible the two of you were acting. Standing back to your full height you noticed that a few of the other Mentors and their tributes had gathered around. The fact that Hardins illness had been revealed before you were ready pushed you further.

But the fact that now almost every tribute knew there was something wrong with him infuriated you. Now even some members of the Capitol were running down and crowding around the group. They all wanted to know what was going on, who was hurt and what the scoop was. You helped him up, watching as he closed his eyes both from embarrassment and from dizziness.

“Lavanna.. Could you please take Hardin back upstairs, he needs to eat.” Your voice was eerily calm, something that set goosebumps up some of their arms. They all watched with you as Hardin walked with the shorter woman towards the elevator. When he turned around, he shook his head at you as the doors shut. He knew you were upset, and that you were going to lash out. But he also knew that a simple head shake wasn't going to stop you.

“Little girl! Are you ready to explain to me just what in the world you think the two of you were doing?!” Cress practically yelled, his hands on his hips as he tapped one of his feet. He didn't have any time to move or react as your finger wrapped into the fabric of his shirt and slammed him into the wall.

“Every single morning.. From now until you put us in the arena you will allow Hardin to take his medication.” You said harshly, faces were almost pressed together. Cress opened his mouth to say something but when you pulled him back and slammed him again he whimpered and shut his mouth. “You're throwing us into the arena.. No mentor.. No training.. No help. So you will shut the fuck up and not interrupt him when he is taking care of himself. Let him live his last few days in a decent state.. Or the games will start with me and you.”

When he whimpered again and nodded you let him go, watching as he fell to the ground. You rolled your eyes knowing that had he screamed even once the peacekeepers would have tackled you. He was in no real danger from you at this moment, he's just a weak Capital tart.

When you turned, there were a lot of jaws on the floor. People are finally realizing that you might really be someone worthwhile. Those few Capitalists are yelling and begging for a leaf off your dress, or a flower from your crown. The mentors and tributes all staring at you as you pull the crown off and literally just throw it into the crowd.

You watched the district 12 mentor smile with his mouth open and clap for you. Your eyes locked with Finnicks “Thanks for the sugarcubes, Mr. Odair..” You laughed a scoff before turning and making your way towards the elevator. Finnick, Mags and Haymitch all basically shoving their way towards the elevator as well. Well Mags just stayed between the two safety letting them push people.

You kissed your teeth in annoyance as Finnick shoved his way into the small room. You smiled at Mags, having nothing against the older woman. Your eyes rolled when the drunk stumbled his way. He stood back up, flicked his hair out of his face and smiled at you. “That was quite the show, Sweetheart.. The dress.. Beating up your escort.” He was laughing while nodding “I like it. What's your angle though.”

You scoffed crossing your arms, “There is no angle. My friend has a condition that once we are in the arena will kill him. Slowly and painfully since we will have no access to his medication. So I see no reason why he shouldn't be able to be comfortable in the days coming. Cress could have waited the ten seconds it takes for him to take them, instead of shoving him out the door. They are already killing us for their entertainment, the least they can do is let him take it before then.”

They all agreed silently, but unlike you they knew the danger of speaking like that. So they all just nodded and watched you as the lift opened on the fourth floor. Mags stepped out offering you a sad smile before she walked away. When Finnick stepped away you grabbed his wrist, stopping him and causing him to turn to you.

“I know that you were coming over to flirt, or throw me off or something. But thank you, honestly. Had you not come over I don't know how I would've drug Hardin up to our apartment.” Finnick nodded, hating the warmth your touch caused on his wrist. He could see the honesty on your face as well as determination. He could see that you really would've drug a guy that was half a foot taller than you to the elevator, in heels without thinking twice.

He nodded and smiled what was a real smile, for the first time in years it felt like. “No problem. Good luck.” When he stepped out and the doors closed again Haymitch took the time to introduce himself. He told you that you needed to be careful, not trust any of the careers. That in his opinion it would be best for you and your friend to run and hide. Only fight those who seek you out, stay out of the bloodbath as much as possible. He gave you more advice than he had given his own tributes.

But he could see the same spark in you that he had once. The spark that could get you and maybe your friend through till the end. So for once in the almost twenty years he had been a mentor he gave what advice he could between the fourth and ninth floors. When the doors opened on your own floor, he patted your back “Good Luck, Sweetheart.. I hope to see you again.”

~~~~~~~

The next morning, you and Hardin stood with the other tributes in front of Atala. “In two weeks, 23 of you will be dead. One of you will be alive, winner of the games. And that person will depend on how well you pay attention over the next three days.” She waved her arms a little pointing out different things in the gym as she spoke. “Particularly to what I'm about to say. First, no fighting with the other tributes, you'll have plenty of time for that in the arena.”

When she chuckles along with the careers it disgusts you. Yet again here are people who think it's fun and entertaining to watch kids kill each other. Hardin puts his hand on your back as he feels you tense at her words, a silent reminder to try and behave. The other tributes are looking around, trying to size each other up but you and Hardin stay looking forward.

“Next there are four mandatory exercises, the rest will be individual training. My advice is to spend a lot of time on survival skills. Everyone wants to grab a sword, but most of you will die from natural causes. 10% from infection, 20% from dehydration, exposure can kill just as fast as a knife.” When Atala finishes she walks the group over to the first of the mandatory exercises which are rings that you have to hook to be able to move from one end to the other. You watch as the teens from 1,2 and 3 all complete it with ease. But the 13 year old boy and 12 year old girl for 4 both fail to do it, failing and hitting the padded floor hard. The other careers laugh at them before watching the rest. Some fail while others make it but struggle.

You easily swing across it, stretching your arms to get a hook further away. Trying to do less work, faster, Smarter not harder. Both you and Hardin finish it quickly and effectively. The next was ropes that had knots in them, Atala said to climb to the top, ring a bell and climb back down.

Again easy for those of you who had core muscle strength. You and Hardin, the tributes from 7, 10, 11 and the Careers all did this easily. The boy from four got it done with a struggle, while the girl got almost all the way up before falling. You wanted to step forward and catch her, but knew that it would make it seem like you wanted to team up and you didn't.

You and Hardin had talked late last night, sitting on the couch pretending to rewatch old games. You had told him everything Haymitch had said, and decided to go it alone. You would try and learn some new skills with weapons while in training and brush up on your survival skills. Being from district 9 survival was something that came natural. It wasn't unlikely that you could get caught in a blizzard, the summers were warm but humid and you were normally stuck in the sunny fields.

When mandatory training was over you and Hardin walked to the edible plant computer. “Wanna see who can do it faster?” Hardin challenged which you answered by shrugging and stepping up. One minute and 26 seconds was how long it took you, no mixing any of them up. One minute and 32 seconds was how long it took Hardin and he clicked two plants that would kill him almost instantly. You shook your head and tsked him while you both laughed.

The Game makers, mentors and sponsors were all taken back by the carefree, almost happy way the two of you made your way around the room. Brushing up on making a fire, learning how to keep it low enough to smoke meats without giving away your position. You tried to learn how to make fish hooks, but kinda failed at it. Basket weaving and knot typing was something you knew from the fields.

The second day you did the ropes course. Hardin had had a rough night and morning so he only made it halfway through the course before falling. He thankfully landed on his feet but you could see that he was beating himself up. You quickly did the course, ignoring all the eyes on you as you finished. Quickly dropping and following your friend to the station set up to learn how to make shelters.

While you were both covering a debris shelter with leaves you looked up at Hardin. He looked exhausted and you knew that back home this was a day he would stay home. Unfortunately he didn't have that luxury here. You looked around the room with your eyes as you tied a knot to keep the wood together. The careers were watching Hardin with smug smiles and so were their mentors.

  Mags was looking sadly at her two young tributes who were probably not going to make it through the blood bath. Haymitch was drinking and watching you, he could see the gears working in your head. He knew that look, he was wondering and worried about what you were going to do.

Finnick had been watching you all day, and maybe all day yesterday. He was impressed with what you knew, and the strength that you already had. He wondered exactly what you did back home to be so in shape. There was a small amount of jealousy at the way you always flocked to your friend. More because he didn't really have someone who loved him like that, and he wished he did.

He wished he had someone who would volunteer to stay with him. Who would fight for him, cheer him up, care for him when he was sick or had nightmares. Someone he could tell about his situation with Snow, someone that would understand and stay. Because he was alone right now, and he hated it.

You sighed and finished the shelter with Hardin, after learning how to make an igloo and a sod shelter you looked back up. Hardin looked like he needed to sit down and the careers were still taking turns watching him. When you looked up, the guy from one pressed the back of his hand to his forehead and dramatically fell to the ground. The others all laughed as Hardins face turned red.

Your tongue ran over your teeth as you watched him go over to the hook making station. He could sit in a chair there and relax for a minute while working on something the two of you didn't really know. You knew he wouldn't want you to give away anything you could do just to get them off him. But strategically if they thought he would be an easy kill, they would come after him faster.

Especially if they wanted to draw it out and make fun of him. And since the two of you were sticking together, they would find you sooner. So you looked around noticing that the spear station was empty besides the trainer. Once you were there the guy smiled at you, “Do you have any experience throwing spears?” It was clearly just the question he was supposed to ask but it sounded stupid to you. How would you have practice doing that?

“No, but back home we have contests to see who can throw pitchforks the best. Set up targets and such, who can throw with the most accuracy or the furthest.” He nodded, walking you over to a rack that held a few spears, he pulled one down and showed you how to hold it. You were surprised to see how the concept was pretty much the same.

The careers and almost everyone spectating turned to watch you, all curious to see how you would do. Stepping in position, allowing the trainer to show you the right way, you held the spear in the air.  You looked at the dummies as he told you how to throw it.You could practically feel Haymitch's eyes on you, hearing his voice telling you to be careful. You ignored it though, feeling your leg muscles and core tighten as you flung the spear. You threw it with all the strength you could and were rewarded. The reward was the whistling sound the spear made as it flew through the air.

It landed dead center on the target, the entire spear head stuck inside. The chuckling slowed down but when the trainer, who was clearly impressed handed you another and told you that he wanted to spare. That's when the chuckling stopped.

When you knocked the trainer down and held the spear to his throat, the gym was silent. The first sound heard beside your ragged breathing was clapping, and that was coming from none other than Haymitch Abernathy. “Good on you Sweetheart.” Is all that was said as you turned back to look at the careers who were now looking away. It was all you needed to help the trainer up and make your way back over to your friend.

~

~

~

~

~

@avis15 @liballer

[mariacallous]

The end-to-end encrypted communication app WhatsApp, used by roughly 3 billion people around the world, will roll out cloud-based AI capabilities in the coming weeks that are designed to preserve WhatsApp’s defining security and privacy guarantees while offering users access to message summarization and composition tools.

Meta has been incorporating generative AI features across its services that are built on its open source large language model, Llama. And WhatsApp already incorporates a light blue circle that gives users access to the Meta AI assistant. But many users have balked at this addition, given that interactions with the AI assistant aren’t shielded from Meta the way end-to-end encrypted WhatsApp chats are. The new feature, dubbed Private Processing, is meant to address these concerns with what the company says is a carefully architected and purpose-built platform devoted to processing data for AI tasks without the information being accessible to Meta, WhatsApp, or any other party. While initial reviews by researchers of the scheme’s integrity have been positive, some note that the move toward AI features could ultimately put WhatsApp on a slippery slope.

“WhatsApp is targeted and looked at by lots of different researchers and threat actors. That means internally it has a well understood threat model,” says Meta security engineering director Chris Rohlf. “There's also an existing set of privacy expectations from users, so this wasn’t just about managing the expansion of that threat model and making sure the expectations for privacy and security were met—it was about careful consideration of the user experience and making this opt-in.”

End-to-end encrypted communications are only accessible to the sender and receiver, or the people in a group chat. The service provider, in this case WhatsApp and its parent company Meta, is boxed out by design and can’t access users’ messages or calls. This setup is incompatible with typical generative AI platforms that run large language models on cloud servers and need access to users’ requests and data for processing. The goal of Private Processing is to create an alternate framework through which the privacy and security guarantees of end-to-end encrypted communication can be upheld while incorporating AI.

Users opt into using WhatsApp’s AI features, and they can also prevent people they’re chatting with from using the AI features in shared communications by turning on a new WhatsApp control known as “Advanced Chat Privacy.”

“When the setting is on, you can block others from exporting chats, auto-downloading media to their phone, and using messages for AI features,” WhatsApp wrote in a blog post last week. Like disappearing messages, anyone in a chat can turn Advanced Chat Privacy on and off—which is recorded for all to see—so participants just need to be mindful of any adjustments.

Private Processing is built with special hardware that isolates sensitive data in a “Trusted Execution Environment,” a siloed, locked-down region of a processor. The system is built to process and retain data for the minimum amount of time possible and is designed grind to a halt and send alerts if it detects any tampering or adjustments. WhatsApp is already inviting third-party audits of different components of the system and will make it part of the Meta bug bounty program to encourage the security community to submit information about flaws and potential vulnerabilities. Meta also says that, ultimately, it plans to make the components of Private Processing open source, both for expanded verification of its security and privacy guarantees and to make it easier for others to build similar services.

Last year, Apple debuted a similar scheme, known as Private Cloud Compute, for its Apple Intelligence AI platform. And users can turn the service on in Apple’s end-to-end encrypted communication app, Messages, to generate message summaries and compose “Smart Reply” messages on both iPhones and Macs.

Looking at Private Cloud Compute and Private Processing side by side is like comparing, well, Apple(s) and oranges, though. Apple’s Private Cloud Compute underpins all of Apple Intelligence everywhere it can be applied. Private Processing, on the other hand, was purpose-built for WhatsApp and doesn’t underpin Meta’s AI features more broadly. Apple Intelligence is also designed to do as much AI processing as possible on-device and only send requests to the Private Cloud Compute infrastructure when necessary. Since such “on device” or “local” processing requires powerful hardware, Apple only designed Apple Intelligence to run at all on its recent generations of mobile hardware. Old iPhones and iPads will never support Apple Intelligence.

Apple is a manufacturer of high-end smartphones and other hardware, while Meta is a software company, and has about 3 billion users who have all types of smartphones, including old and low-end devices. Rohlf and Colin Clemmons, one of the Private Processing lead engineers, say that it wasn’t feasible to design AI features for WhatsApp that could run locally on the spectrum of devices WhatsApp serves. Instead, WhatsApp focused on designing Private Processing to be as unhelpful as possible to attackers if it were to be breached.

“The design is one of risk minimization,” Clemmons says. “We want to minimize the value of compromising the system.”

The whole effort raises a more basic question, though, about why a secure communication platform like WhatsApp needs to offer AI features at all. Meta is adamant, though, that users expect the features at this point and will go wherever they have to to get them.

“Many people want to use AI tools to help them when they are messaging,” WhatsApp head Will Cathcart told WIRED in an email. “We think building a private way to do that is important, because people shouldn’t have to switch to a less-private platform to have the functionality they need.”

“Any end-to-end encrypted system that uses off-device AI inference is going to be riskier than a pure end to end system. You’re sending data to a computer in a data center, and that machine sees your private texts,” says Matt Green, a Johns Hopkins cryptographer who previewed some of the privacy guarantees of Private Processing, but hasn’t audited the complete system. “I believe WhatsApp when they say that they’ve designed this to be as secure as possible, and I believe them when they say that they can’t read your texts. But I also think there are risks here. More private data will go off device, and the machines that process this data will be a target for hackers and nation state adversaries.”

WhatsApp says, too, that beyond basic AI features like text summarization and writing suggestions, Private Processing will hopefully create a foundation for expanding into more complicated and involved AI features in the future that involve processing, and potentially storing, more data.

As Green puts it, “Given all the crazy things people use secure messengers for, any and all of this will make the Private Processing computers into a very big target.”

[posttexasstressdisorder]

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WhatMatters

Your guide to California policy and politics

By Lynn La

April 24, 2025

Presented by Californians for a Connected Future, a Project of USTelecom; TURN - The Utility Reform Network; Californians for Energy Independence and Dairy Cares

Good morning, California.

How Trump’s tariffs could affect CA wine

Farmworkers work at the Heringer Estates Family Vineyards and Winery in Clarksburg on March 24, 2020. Photo by Rich Pedroncelli, AP Photo

As California moves to sue President Donald Trump’s administration over tariffs, Californians working in the state’s wine, agricultural and port industries must navigate a murky economic outlook that could upend their livelihoods, writes CalMatters’ Levi Sumagaysay.

Igor Ivanov owns the Vinous Reverie wine shop in Walnut Creek. Because it sells mostly wines from Europe — where Trump has threatened 200% tariffs — Ivanov said he may need to make some changes, including stocking up on California wines or closing his shop altogether.

Ivanov: “I’d have to think about whether it’s worthwhile staying in business.”

At stake: The U.S. wine industry makes about $86 billion in annual sales, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, and California exported $1.3 billion worth of wine in 2022.

But tariffs don’t just affect wine sellers. Winemakers could face higher costs on bottles, since glass is mostly imported from China, as well as labels, corks, wooden stakes for vines and more. 

California is also a major exporter of wine, making up 95% of the country’s U.S. exports, said a spokesperson for the Wine Institute. More than a third of the exports go to Canada — a country in which some of its political leaders have publicly criticized Trump’s tariffs and warned against traveling to the U.S. 

U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson, a Democrat whose district includes Napa’s Wine Country, said some of his constituents have reported that their Canadian business partners have canceled hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of orders. Potential sales to Mexico or the European Union are also on hold. One winery in St. Helena told Thompson’s staff that due to tariffs Trump imposed during his first term, it lost 90% of its business with China.

But Natalie Collins, president of the California Association of Winegrape Growers, said there could be one benefit: Tariffs on competing wines, including those from Europe, could help local California wineries.

That includes Bruce Lundquist, co-founder of the California sparkling wine producer Rack & Riddle, who agreed with Collins.

Lundquist: “I wish Americans would look at wines grown in their backyard.”

For more on how Trump’s tariffs could impact other industries, read Levi’s story.

Gifts are matched dollar-for-dollar in our CalMatters Spring Member Drive. We’re here to connect the dots, uncover what others won’t and explain how state and federal decisions directly impact your life — from housing and education to climate and the economy. Support our independent, trusted journalism, please give now.

Don’t miss this powerhouse panel: California Secretary of Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency Tomiquia Moss, Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell and Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson join CalMatters’ Marisa Kendall on stage today to dig into what’s working — and what’s failing — when it comes to addressing homelessness and affordable housing. Join us in Sacramento or tune in online. Register now.

Other Stories You Should Know

 

 

An inside look at mental health court

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Ronald Owen Kaye in his office at the Hollywood Courthouse in Los Angeles on March 12, 2025. Photo by Jules Hotz for CalMatters

“I really didn’t know what to expect.”

That’s how Judge Ronald Owen Kaye described his reaction to CalMatters’ Joe Garcia after Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed him to the Los Angeles Superior Court in 2020.

Kaye presides over a mental health court, a key component of the state’s effort to implement diversion services amid a growing number of criminal defendants struggling with mental health issues. These courts receive alleged offenders who are incompetent, or at risk of being found incompetent, to stand trial. Through partnerships with county health services, the courts can also help connect individuals with treatment and housing.

Before becoming a judge, Kaye was a former legal aid attorney, a federal public defender and a civil rights attorney. He’s had a history of filing multiple lawsuits against the county related to failures for providing proper mental health care.

Kaye frequently interacts with defendants dealing with chronic homelessness, mental illness and substance abuse, and says he aims to “make people feel comfortable in court and make them feel like they matter.”

Kaye: “I’m always balancing these issues of liberty — people’s freedom; and treatment — getting them quality of care; and making sure the community is safe. That’s essentially what I do in virtually every aspect of my job.”

Read more here.

 

CA Dems split on housing

A VTA Light Rail train passes an apartment complex in San Jose on May 10, 2019. Photo by Dai Sugano, Bay Area News Group

At the beginning of the legislative session, Democratic legislative leaders said they intended to push colleagues to focus on the state’s cost-of-living issues. But the narrow passing of a pro-housing bill, during a tense Senate committee hearing Tuesday, underscores a rift among Democrats who want to quickly build housing and other infrastructure projects, and progressives concerned with affordability and labor agreements.

As CalMatters’ Jeanne Kuang explains, Senate Bill 79 would require cities to allow taller and denser housing construction near public transit stations. Sen. Aisha Wahab, a Fremont Democrat and chairperson of the Senate Housing Committee, opposed the bill saying that the measure didn’t guarantee that projects would be built with union labor, nor require new units to be affordable for low-income residents.

Wahab, in an interview with CalMatters: “Because there is such a need right now, developers are seizing the moment and experimenting with options that are truly a sweetheart deal for them.”

Democratic Sen. Scott Wiener of San Francisco, the author of the bill and a vocal advocate for housing production, pushed back against Wahab, arguing that she only provided blanket opposition to the bill instead of offering possible amendments.

Wiener, at Tuesday’s hearing: “There’s apparently not a single thing in the bill you like.”

Read more here.

 

And lastly: Angry Canadians

A banner supporting Canada, installed at the request of the Palm Springs City Council, is seen in Palm Springs on April 11, 2025. Photo by Valerie Macon, Getty

Tourism from Canada — California’s second-largest international market — is falling amid backlash to Trump’s policies and rhetoric. CalMatters’ Levi Sumagaysay and video strategy director Robert Meeks have a video segment on how Canadian tourism affects California's economy as part of our partnership with PBS SoCal. Watch it here.

SoCalMatters airs at 5:58 p.m. weekdays on PBS SoCal.

 

California Voices

CalMatters columnist Dan Walters: Assuming California’s newly launched Cradle to Career Data System will expand in scope, the database would be a lasting accomplishment for Gov. Newsom that fulfills a long-awaited need.

 

Other things worth your time:

 

Some stories may require a subscription to read.

 

 

Medi-Cal under threat: Who’s covered and what could be cut? // California Healthline

UC faculty to consider its own high school ethnic studies mandate // EdSource

CA expands its electric school bus fleet as federal freeze paused efforts elsewhere // AP News

State workers raise $15K for billboard blaming worsening traffic on Newsom // The Sacramento Bee

In CA jails, a rash of homicide and negligence // The New York Times

Amazon faces legal complaint for refusing to negotiate with unionized SF workers // San Francisco Chronicle

SF and Santa Clara counties ask US Court to halt Trump’s ‘sanctuary city’ funding freeze // KQED

ICE raid reportedly detains more than a dozen day laborers outside Pomona Home Depot // Los Angeles Times

As farmworker deportations loom, Trump hints at relief for agriculture // The Fresno Bee

 

See you next time!

Tips, insight or feedback? Email whatmatters@calmatters.org. Subscribe to CalMatters newsletters here. Follow CalMatters on Facebook and Twitter.

About Us· How We're Funded· Subscribe· Donate

 

CalMatters 1017 L Street #261 Sacramento, CA 95814 United States

 

[kingdrawcse]

Chemistry behind Tyrian purple

Tyrian purple, also known as Tyre purple or Royal purple, is a reddish-purple natural dye extracted from certain species of sea snails in the Muricidae family. These snails secrete a yellow defensive mucus when stimulated, which gradually turns purple through complex chemical reactions after exposure to light. As early as around 1600 BC, the ancient Phoenicians in the eastern Mediterranean began using this dye.

Tyrian purple has strong coloring power, and the dyed fabric fades from purple to red and then to pink over time, appearing even more vibrant. However, the extraction and production process of Tyrian purple is labor-intensive. It takes about 12,000 dye-producing snails to produce 1.4 grams of pure dye, barely enough to dye a single garment edge, making Tyrian purple extremely precious at the time. Around 1000 BC, Tyrian purple was exported to Rome and other regions, and only the privileged class could wear this color. Through modern technological analysis, "6,6'-Dibromoindigo" has been identified as the primary coloring component in Tyrian purple.

[steeloncallkavya]

TMT Bar Rate: A Key Factor in Construction Projects

TMT (Thermo-Mechanically Treated) bars are a fundamental component in modern construction. They are widely used for reinforcing concrete structures, providing strength and durability to buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects. TMT bars are favored for their high strength, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion, making them an essential material for both residential and commercial construction.

One of the most important factors influencing the cost of construction is the TMT bar rate. The price of TMT bars can vary depending on various factors such as material quality, market conditions, demand, and geographical location. Understanding the TMT bar rate is crucial for construction businesses, builders, and individuals to plan their budgets effectively.

In this article, we will explore what TMT bars are, how they are priced, the factors that influence TMT bar rates, and how these prices impact construction projects.

Factors Influencing TMT Bar Rate

Several factors influence the rate of TMT bars, which fluctuate over time. Understanding these factors can help individuals and businesses better plan and budget for construction projects.

1. Raw Material Costs

The primary raw material used in the production of TMT bars is iron ore. The price of iron ore can vary based on market conditions, international supply, and demand. When the cost of raw materials rises, the price of TMT bars typically follows suit. Global factors such as trade policies, supply chain disruptions, and natural disasters can cause fluctuations in the price of iron ore, affecting the tmt bar rate.

2. Production Process

The cost of producing TMT bars is another factor that affects their rate. The thermo-mechanical treatment process, which involves high energy consumption for heating and rapid cooling, can make TMT bars more expensive than traditional steel bars. The more advanced the production technology and machinery used, the higher the overall production cost, which in turn affects the price.

3. Demand and Supply Dynamics

Like any commodity, the price of TMT bars is influenced by supply and demand dynamics. In periods of high demand, such as during a construction boom or in regions where infrastructure development is happening at a rapid pace, the price of TMT bars may increase. Conversely, during slow construction periods, when demand for building materials drops, the rate of TMT bars may decrease.

Regional variations in demand also play a role. For example, large cities or regions with high construction activity may see higher TMT bar prices compared to areas with less demand.

4. Transportation and Logistics Costs

TMT bars are often produced in specific regions, and transportation costs can have a significant impact on the final rate. If TMT bars need to be transported over long distances or to remote areas, logistics costs will increase, which is reflected in the price. Additionally, fuel costs and transportation infrastructure can influence the cost of getting TMT bars from the factory to construction sites.

5. Government Policies and Taxes

Government policies, including taxes, duties, and import/export regulations, can also affect the price of TMT bars. For example, the imposition of import duties on steel products or changes in tax rates can increase the cost of TMT bars. Conversely, subsidies or reductions in taxes on raw materials may lower the price. Construction businesses need to stay updated on any changes in government policies that could impact TMT bar rates.

6. Technological Advancements

Technological innovations in steel manufacturing can also influence the TMT bar rate. For instance, new methods of production that increase efficiency and reduce energy consumption can lower the cost of producing TMT bars. On the other hand, investments in research and development or advanced machinery may increase the cost of production in the short term but could lead to higher-quality products in the long run.

How TMT Bar Rate Impacts Construction Projects

The rate of TMT bars is a significant factor in the overall cost of construction. The amount of TMT bar required for a project depends on the size of the structure, the grade of the steel, and the complexity of the design. Since TMT bars are used extensively in reinforcing concrete, their cost can make up a significant portion of the material budget in construction projects.

1. Cost Estimation and Budgeting

Builders and contractors need to factor in the TMT bar rate when estimating the total cost of a project. Since TMT bars are a critical material in construction, fluctuations in their price can impact the overall budget. If the price of TMT bars increases unexpectedly, it may lead to cost overruns unless the budget is adjusted accordingly. Accurate cost estimation and understanding of the market conditions are crucial for successful project management.

2. Project Planning

Construction projects typically involve a large number of materials, and delays or changes in the price of one material can lead to project delays. For example, if the price of TMT bars rises significantly during the construction phase, contractors may need to purchase the required quantity of steel at higher rates, affecting project timelines and costs.

To avoid such situations, project managers often lock in prices in advance or place bulk orders to secure a more favorable rate. Additionally, monitoring TMT bar prices and market trends is essential for making informed decisions.

3. Quality vs. Cost

While the price of TMT bars is a key consideration, the quality of the bars should not be compromised in an effort to reduce costs. Using substandard TMT bars can lead to structural weaknesses, which can be costly in the long run due to repairs, maintenance, or even failure of the structure. Therefore, while TMT bar rates play a role in the budgeting process, quality must always be prioritized to ensure the safety and longevity of the construction.

Conclusion

The TMT bar rate plays a crucial role in determining the overall cost of construction projects. Builders, contractors, and project managers must stay informed about the various factors that influence TMT bar prices, such as raw material costs, demand and supply, production processes, and government policies. By understanding these factors, they can make informed decisions about purchasing and budgeting for TMT bars.

If you are looking for best quality tmt bars, please visit our website : www.steeloncall.com or you can contact us through our toll-free number: 18008332929

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this New York Times story:

Less than a year ago, CubicPV, which manufactures components for solar panels, announced that it had secured more than $100 million in financing to build a $1.4 billion factory in the United States. The company planned to produce silicon wafers, a critical part of the technology that allows solar panels to turn sunlight into electrical energy.

The Massachusetts-based company called the investment a “direct result of the long-term industrial policy contained within the Inflation Reduction Act,” the 2022 law that directed billions of dollars to develop America’s domestic clean energy sectors. CubicPV was considering locations in Texas, where it would employ about 1,000 workers.

But a surge of cheap solar panels from China upended that project. In February, CubicPV canceled its plans to build the factory over concerns it would no longer be financially viable thanks to a flood of Chinese exports. As CubicPV was gearing up to make wafers in the United States, prices of those components were dropping by 70 percent.

The setback underscores the concerns rippling across the U.S. solar industry and within the Biden administration about whether President Biden’s industrial policy agenda can succeed. Top administration officials have begun warning that efforts to finance a domestic clean energy industry are being undermined by a surge of cheaper Chinese exports that are driving down prices and putting the United States at a competitive disadvantage.

The fate of the CubicPV factory is the type of outcome that Treasury Secretary Janet L. Yellen has warned is likely if China does not stop dumping heavily subsidized green energy products into global markets at rock bottom prices. She took that message to China last week, warning that its industrial strategy was warping supply chains and threatening American workers.

China appeared to dismiss those concerns. Following Ms. Yellen’s meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, his office said, “The development of China’s new energy industry will make an important contribution to the worldwide green and low-carbon transition.”

Chinese overcapacity has been a central topic this week at the spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. Ahead of talks with Chinese officials at the Treasury Department on Tuesday, Ms. Yellen said that China was not operating on a “level playing field” and warned that by producing more green energy products than the world can absorb, it was putting American firms and workers at risk.

[brasspartsmanufacturer]

Quality Brass Components Manufacturers in Jamnagar India

GK Metals, based in Jamnagar, India is a trusted brass components manufacturer, supplier and exporter offers high-quality precision brass turned parts and components as per customer specification. Renowned for precision and durability, they cater to diverse industries including electrical, plumbing, and automotive.

[imperialchem]

Oxygen Scavenger Chemicals vs.  Corrosion: Winning the Battle in Oil & Gas

In the sprawling realm of the oil and gas industry, battles are constantly waged against corrosion, an ever-present adversary that threatens the integrity and longevity of vital equipment and infrastructure.  Oxygen, a key catalyst for corrosion, penetrates systems and accelerates the degradation of pipelines, storage tanks, and other essential components.  To combat this relentless foe, the oil and gas industry employs a formidable weapon: oxygen scavenger chemicals.  Experience the power of oxygen elimination.  Oxygen Scavenger Chemicals manufactured and exported by Imperial Oilfield Chemicals - the most recognised Oxygen scavenger manufacturer in India guarantee product safety.

This blog delves into the importance of oxygen scavenger chemicals and their role in winning the battle against corrosion in the oil and gas sector.

Understanding Corrosion: A Persistent Menace

Corrosion, often referred to as the "silent enemy," poses significant challenges to the oil and gas industry.  It is a natural process where metals degrade due to various environmental factors, with oxygen being a primary catalyst.  The industry's extensive infrastructure, from pipelines to storage tanks, is at risk of corrosion-induced deterioration.  This not only compromises the structural integrity of these assets but also poses potential safety hazards and financial burdens.

Corrosion occurs when metal surfaces are exposed to oxygen, moisture, and other corrosive agents present in the environment.  In the oil and gas sector, pipelines and storage facilities are especially vulnerable to this phenomenon due to their exposure to moisture and oxygen-rich atmospheres.  The consequences of corrosion are far-reaching, encompassing financial losses, downtime for repairs, environmental hazards, and compromised safety standards.

Oxygen Scavenger Chemicals: A Formidable Defense

To combat corrosion effectively, the industry has turned to oxygen scavenger chemicals.  These specialized compounds act as a protective shield, intercepting and neutralizing oxygen molecules before they can react with metals, thereby thwarting the corrosion process.  Oxygen scavenger chemicals play a pivotal role in safeguarding critical infrastructure, prolonging the life of equipment, and minimizing operational disruptions.  Invest in product longevity.  Trust Oxygen Scavenger Chemicals exported by the most noteworthy Oxygen Scavenger Chemical exporter in Gujarat to combat oxygen damage.  Request a quote and secure your supply now!

How Oxygen Scavenger Chemicals Work?

Oxygen scavenger chemicals operate on a simple yet powerful principle.  They are formulated to aggressively bind with any oxygen present in the system, forming stable compounds that do not corrode metals.  By doing so, these chemicals deprive corrosive processes of their catalyst, effectively halting the progression of corrosion and preserving the integrity of the infrastructure.

Types of Oxygen Scavenger Chemicals:

There are various types of oxygen scavenger chemicals, each designed to cater to specific operational requirements within the oil and gas industry.  Some common types include:

Hydrazine-Based Scavengers:  Utilized in high-pressure boiler systems, hydrazine-based scavengers efficiently neutralize oxygen and inhibit corrosion.

Sulfite-Based Scavengers:  These scavengers are effective in systems with low to moderate pressure and are suitable for preventing oxygen-induced corrosion.

DEHA (Diethylhydroxylamine) Scavengers:  DEHA-based scavengers offer protection in low-pressure systems and can be used in both boiler and condensate systems.

Benefits of Using Oxygen Scavenger Chemicals:

The advantages of employing oxygen scavenger chemicals in the oil and gas industry are substantial:

Corrosion Prevention:  The primary function of these chemicals is to prevent corrosion by eliminating the catalyst for the corrosion process, i.e., oxygen.

Equipment Longevity:  By mitigating corrosion, oxygen scavenger chemicals extend the lifespan of critical infrastructure, reducing the frequency of repairs and replacements.

Cost-Efficiency:  The financial implications of corrosion can be staggering.  Oxygen scavenger chemicals help in cost savings by reducing maintenance and repair expenses, enhancing operational efficiency, and minimizing downtime.

Safety Enhancement:  Preserving the structural integrity of equipment enhances safety standards, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring a secure working environment for employees.

Best Practices for Effective Corrosion Management:

While oxygen scavenger chemicals are powerful tools in the fight against corrosion, a comprehensive approach to corrosion management is crucial.  Prevent oxidation and protect your brand.  Choose Oxygen Scavenger chemicals for unmatched quality.  Contact Imperial Oilfield Chemicals – an excellent Oxygen Scavenger Chemical manufacturer in India.

Regular Monitoring and Inspection:  Implement routine checks and inspections to identify signs of corrosion early, allowing for timely intervention and mitigation.

Proper Chemical Selection and Dosage:  Tailor the choice and amount of oxygen scavenger chemicals to suit specific system requirements, ensuring optimal effectiveness.

Professional Consultation:  Seek advice from corrosion experts to develop a customized corrosion management plan that aligns with your operational needs and infrastructure.

Final Thoughts:

In the oil and gas industry, the battle against corrosion is ongoing and paramount.  Oxygen scavenger chemicals represent a vital tool in this struggle, offering a proactive and effective approach to corrosion prevention.  By neutralizing the corrosive catalyst, oxygen scavenger chemicals help safeguard infrastructure, enhance safety, and contribute to a sustainable and thriving oil and gas sector.  Implementing these chemicals in tandem with a robust corrosion management strategy is a winning formula for ensuring the longevity and reliability of the industry's critical assets.  Preserve product integrity! Choose Oxygen scavenger chemicals in Vadodara, designed for excellence by Imperial Oilfield Chemicals Private Limited.  Contact today, for a solution tailored to your needs.

[beardedmrbean]

The export of video game controllers from the UK to Russia has been banned as they can be repurposed to pilot drones used to launch attacks on Ukraine.

It is part of a package of around 150 trade sanctions against Russia announced by the Foreign Office on Thursday.

The European Union enforced a similar ban on video games and joysticks earlier this year.

Other technology items used in the defence and energy sectors are among items which can also no longer be exported to Russia, including software used to search for new oil and gas wells.

Sanctions were also announced on exports of chemicals, electronics, machinery and metals to limit Russia's military capability.

This includes electronic circuits and other components that can be used in weapons systems.

"Gaming consoles will no longer be repurposed to kill in Ukraine," Foreign Office minister Stephen Doughty said.

He added: "Putin thought he could use British markets to boost his war effort, buying harmless goods and turning them into tools of war - but the UK is exposing and acting on this sinister trade.

"Today's action clamps down on Russia's sneaky trading and deprives Putin of the goods he desperately needs to fight his barbaric war."

He added that cutting off Russia's energy revenues "will drain Putin's war chest".

"And our tough new measures will also degrade Russia's military machine - new export sanctions mean Putin will no longer be able to get his hands on specialist technology used to produce weaponry for his illegal war."

The latest package is part of wider sanctions by the US, UK and EU on Russia, in response to its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Sanctions are penalties imposed by one country on another, to stop them acting aggressively or breaking international law.

The UK also condemned a Russian missile strike on Kyiv that killed nine people and injured dozens overnight on Thursday, one day after Ukrainian, US, UK and European officials met in London to discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine.

UK foreign minister David Lammy said on X: "While Ukrainian ministers were in London working towards peace, [President Vladimir] Putin's Russia was attacking the Ukrainian people."

[astrhae]

Hi! Sorry if this has already been asked, but I looked through your tags and did not see it previously mentioned. Do you have a gif tutorial for this post? https://www.tumblr.com/starklystar/726552560907026433/composed-by-david-arnold-good-omens-season-2?source=share

Thank you! 😁

hi!! glad you liked that gifset 💙 so, if you've looked through my previous tutorials, you'll know i use a very unconventional method of gif making, which consists of two steps: 1. make the main gif in photoshop, and 2. add all other elements in powerpoint.

to make the main gif in photoshop, here's a very comprehensive tutorial!

for the first gif in my soundtrack gifset, the main gif is the underlying gif of crowley and aziraphale:

then, i open up powerpoint to a blank presentation, and i change the slide size using custom slide size to be in the aspect ratio that i want it to be in -- for a square like this, i usually stick to 14 cm x 14 cm, but it doesn't really matter what size it is as long as it's the right ratio.

the next step is to make the template you want. for the soundtrack gifset, all i did was to make a square at the center, turn the fill to no fill, and the borders to white. to get the squiggly lines as outlines, you go to Shape Format > Outlines > Sketched, and then you choose the style you want.

then, i made four rectangles around the square, removed the outlines, filled it with a very light grey color, and changed the transparency to 70%

after that, i added in the "progress bar" for the music, which was just one long line that i set to have a dark grey outline with transparency set to 50%, overlayed with a shorter white line and a tiny circle. the pause and rewind and fast forward symbols come from powerpoint icons, and i added the text using simple text boxes! i also added a shadow effect to everything to make things stand out. finally, i insert the main gif and send it to back so that it's behind everything. alternatively, you can also insert a video clip into the slide, and send it to back, and it'll play exactly as a gif.

this is what each component looks like in powerpoint!

and if i move things back to their right alignment, it turns into what the final gif looks like!

finally, you export the powerpoint as a gif. you need to do this slide by slide, and you adjust the number of seconds for how long the main gif takes to run. for the gif quality, i usually go for medium or large, and if it's too large to upload to tumblr, i compress the gif via photoshop

alternatively, if you don't have the export as gif function in powerpoint, you can export the powerpoint as a video (.mp4) and then turn the video to a gif again using photoshop!

feel free to message me if you need any more details 💕