#hydrostatic bubble

[sw5w]

Well, Dat Smells Stinkowiff

STAR WARS EPISODE I: The Phantom Menace 00:19:29

[open-hearth-rpg]

#RPGaDay2024

Great Character Gear

Relationship Status: Complicated

There’s been a conversation about certain high tier rpgs and their pride in having rules-dense books and yet ignoring a metric f-ton of them. Encumbrance, movement rates, exhaustion, morale, etc. Like loving the idea of detail but not wanting to actually deal with it in play. 

That’s kind of how I feel about gear in rpgs. I grew up in an era of play with massive equipment and gear sections and lists, with each weapon lovingly detailed in reach, recoil, speed, and hydrostatic shock modifier. The Tri-Tac games had details for each different kind of bullet. Wounds tracked moving through a person’s body, with a chance of clipping bone or cutting arteries. 

I loved reading that but no way I’m resolving that at the table. It was an era where Palladium could sell– and sell a lot– of books just with guns or other weapons in them. We ate it up. It wore me out. I think by the 1990’s I’d already started to kind of hate granular equipment lists. Blades in the Dark, with its gear-marking and load system turned that around for me a little. It’s varied, easy-to-use, and has a clear mechanical impact. Mind you it flattens a lot of detail. 

A digression: I love the Monster Hunter video game franchise. VG rpgs have the advantage of computer tracking of gear but even that can get onerous when you’re trying to upgrade and manage a big party roster (see Suikoden). But in MH you have a single protagonist who never changes. They don’t grow and evolve. Instead everything comes from equipment– you get better gear and it does a lot beyond just providing armor and damage. And eventually you get decorations to tweak effects. There’s part of my old-school gear-list infected brain that wants something like that. 

Then I wake up.  

But I love books of weird magic items– not necessarily powerful, but odd and interesting. Too often tomes of relics & loot fall into one of two traps. The first is a lore dump without payoff– not unlike the “old family story” you get at the start of online recipes. You make your way through that to find the 1000 year old ancestral item forged in the heart of a star is +2 and lets you project your voice at a distance. The second is highly class specific and/or rules dense details for an item. Like I love both 13th Age Books of Loot, but a chunk of the items there require a couple of index cards worth of notes for the player and GM.

I like tight, quick lists of weird fucking stuff. That’s why I adore all of the old Rolemaster Creatures & Treasures Books (volumes I to III). Don’t get me wrong, there’s a lot of dross in there. Items just giving +X to a skill or +Y to defense. But buried in there are about 10% gems. And given that most entries are short, you get a lot of them. Things I remember from our campaigns

...A nail that when hammered into wood created a bubble of silence

...An awkward bathysphere helmet

...A rope with a hook which could attach to sunlight beams

...A blade which could make change anything to a flavor chosen by the bearer (aka The Pudding Sword)

I may be getting some of those misremembered from something else, but who cares. There’s a lot of inspiration in the old C&T books. When people talk about the positives of the streamlining of OSR, it’s this kind of stuff I think about. An item which does a truly odd thing and you have to figure out an actual use for it.

[hottubsontario]

How to Maximize Athletic Performance With Hot Tubs

Athletic performance is a culmination of various factors, including training, nutrition, and recovery. While many athletes focus intently on their workouts and diet plans, they often overlook the importance of recovery strategies. One such overlooked method that has gained significant attention in recent years is the use of hot tubs for hydrotherapy. Hot tub hydrotherapy offers a myriad of benefits that can significantly enhance an athlete's performance and overall well-being.

Understanding Hot Tub Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy involves the use of water for physical rehabilitation and relaxation. Hot tub hydrotherapy, specifically, utilizes warm water to promote healing, relaxation, and recovery. The combination of heat, buoyancy, and massage jets creates an optimal environment for athletes to recover from intense workouts and competitions.

Benefits for Athletic Performance

Muscle Recovery: After strenuous exercise, muscles often experience micro-tears and inflammation. Immersing in a hot tub helps to increase blood flow, delivering oxygen and essential nutrients to the muscles, while flushing out metabolic waste products. This accelerated recovery process reduces muscle soreness and fatigue, allowing athletes to bounce back quicker for their next training session or game.

Pain Relief: Many athletes deal with chronic pain resulting from repetitive movements and overuse injuries. The warm water and hydrostatic pressure of a hot tub help to alleviate joint pain and stiffness by promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation. This pain relief enables athletes to maintain their training regimens without being hindered by discomfort.

Improved Sleep Quality: Quality sleep is crucial for athletic performance and overall health. The relaxation induced by hot tub hydrotherapy can lead to improved sleep quality by reducing stress and promoting the release of endorphins. Athletes who consistently get adequate and restful sleep experience enhanced cognitive function, faster reaction times, and better physical recovery.

Enhanced Flexibility and Range of Motion: Regular hot tub sessions can improve flexibility and range of motion by loosening tight muscles and increasing joint mobility. This increased flexibility not only reduces the risk of injuries but also enhances athletic performance by allowing athletes to move more efficiently and effectively during training and competition.

Stress Reduction: The life of an athlete can be stressful, with intense training schedules, performance pressure, and constant scrutiny. Hot tub hydrotherapy provides a serene environment for relaxation and stress relief. The warm water, coupled with the soothing sound of bubbling jets, helps to calm the mind and promote mental well-being, allowing athletes to decompress and recharge both physically and mentally.

Incorporating Hot Tub Hydrotherapy Into Your Routine

To maximize the benefits of hot tub hydrotherapy, athletes should consider incorporating it into their regular recovery routine. Aim for sessions lasting between 15 to 30 minutes, preferably within two hours post-exercise when muscles are most receptive to the healing effects of hydrotherapy. It's essential to maintain proper hydration before, during, and after hot tub use to prevent dehydration.

Hot tub hydrotherapy is a valuable tool for athletes looking to optimize their performance and recovery. From speeding up muscle recovery to reducing pain and stress, the benefits of hot tubs extend far beyond relaxation. By incorporating regular hot tub sessions into their routine, athletes can gain a competitive edge and maintain peak physical condition throughout their careers.

So, the next time you hit the gym or step onto the field, consider the powerful impact that hot tub hydrotherapy can have on your athletic performance. Your body will thank you for it.

[gaugewisdom]

Navigating Pressure Measurement: The Essential Role of WIKA Manometers

Introducing Manometers in Industry

Precision in measuring pressure is pivotal across various sectors, from safeguarding operations to optimizing efficiency and ensuring product quality. مانومتر ویکا Manometers, particularly those from WIKA, are central to achieving this precision. These devices measure pressure via a liquid column within a U-shaped tube, offering a blend of accuracy and reliability essential for industrial applications.

How WIKA Manometers Function

WIKA, a leader in measurement technology, crafts manometers based on hydrostatic pressure principles. These devices gauge pressure changes through the movement of liquid in a tube, calibrated to provide exact measurements. WIKA's dedication to quality ensures that their manometers deliver dependable results, even in the toughest conditions.

Varieties of Manometers and Their Uses

Manometers come in different forms, each serving specific measurement needs. U-tube manometers, for instance, are versatile for low to medium pressures, while well manometers handle higher pressures, and inclined manometers offer enhanced accuracy for subtle pressure differentials. Each type finds its niche in industries requiring precise pressure monitoring.

Advantages of WIKA Pressure Gauges

WIKA pressure gauges stand out for their accuracy, resilience to harsh conditions, and long-lasting construction. Their reliability is paramount in sectors where pressure control is critical, such as pharmaceuticals and power generation. The robust build of WIKA gauges means they perform consistently over time, making them a valuable investment.

Selecting the Right Manometer

Choosing the appropriate manometer involves considering the pressure range, fluid type, environmental conditions, and cost. Whether dealing with corrosive substances or extreme temperatures, selecting a manometer that meets these criteria ensures reliable and accurate pressure measurement.

Maintaining Your WIKA Gauge

Ensuring your WIKA gauge's performance involves correct installation, regular calibration, and maintenance. This upkeep not only guarantees accurate readings but also extends the gauge's lifespan, making it a cost-effective solution for precise pressure measurement.

Troubleshooting Common Manometer Issues

Even the most reliable manometers can face issues. Addressing problems like blockages, air bubbles, or calibration drifts promptly ensures your pressure measurements remain accurate and your operations safe.

Manometers: Ensuring Industrial Safety and Efficiency

Manometers are indispensable in maintaining the safety and efficiency of industrial operations. They enable the precise control of pressure critical to avoiding hazards and optimizing process performance across sectors like oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and HVAC.

Why Choose a WIKA Gauge for Your Business

Investing in a WIKA pressure gauge is a strategic decision that supports the accuracy, safety, and quality of industrial processes. WIKA's reputation for precision and durability makes its manometers a wise choice for businesses aiming for optimal performance and reliability in pressure measurement.

In Summary

Understanding and selecting the right WIKA manometer involves recognizing the crucial role of accurate pressure measurement in industry. By choosing a WIKA gauge and maintaining it properly, businesses can ensure the safety, efficiency, and quality of their operations. Investing in a WIKA pressure gauge is not just a purchase; it's a commitment to excellence in pressure measurement.

[best-spa-in-delhi-karol-bagh]

The Ultimate Relaxation: Exploring the Delightful World of Jacuzzi Massage

In the pursuit of absolute relaxation and rejuvenation, few experiences can rival the indulgence of a Jacuzzi massage. The harmonious combination of soothing hydrotherapy and expert massage techniques creates a haven of tranquility that goes beyond the ordinary spa experience. Let's delve into the world of Jacuzzi massages, exploring the benefits, popular techniques, and the blissful escape they offer.

The Essence of Jacuzzi Massage: A Jacuzzi massage is a luxurious fusion of hydrotherapy and massage therapy, harnessing the therapeutic properties of warm water along with skilled hands-on techniques. The heart of this experience lies in the Jacuzzi, a bubbling oasis that not only relaxes the body but also prepares it for the subsequent massage.

The Benefits of Jacuzzi Massage:

Muscle Relaxation: The warm water of the Jacuzzi helps to relax muscles, making them more receptive to the massage that follows. This combination is particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with muscle tension and stiffness.

Stress Reduction: Immersing oneself in a Jacuzzi induces a state of deep relaxation, reducing stress levels. The buoyancy of the water combined with the gentle massage creates a serene environment that calms the mind.

Improved Blood Circulation: The hydrostatic pressure of the water in a Jacuzzi aids in enhancing blood circulation. This, coupled with the massage, promotes better oxygenation of tissues and improved overall cardiovascular health.

Joint Pain Relief: Individuals suffering from joint pain find relief in the buoyancy of the water, which reduces the impact on joints. The massage that follows can target specific areas of discomfort, providing targeted pain relief.

Popular Jacuzzi Massage Techniques:

Hydro-Massage Jets: The strategically placed jets in the Jacuzzi create a massaging effect as they target different areas of the body. This can range from a gentle pulsating massage to a more vigorous, deep-tissue experience.

Aromatherapy Infusion: Many establishments offering Jacuzzi massages incorporate aromatherapy to enhance the sensory experience. The soothing scents of essential oils complement the warm water, creating a multisensory journey.

Hot Stone Integration: Some Jacuzzi massages integrate hot stone therapy into the experience. The combination of warm water, skilled hands, and heated stones further amplifies the relaxation and therapeutic benefits.

Choosing the Right Jacuzzi Massage Experience:

Personalized Packages: Look for spas or wellness centers that offer personalized Jacuzzi massage packages. These may include additional services like exfoliation, facials, or even a glass of champagne for a truly indulgent experience.

Therapist Expertise: Ensure that the therapists conducting Jacuzzi massages are trained and experienced. A skilled therapist can tailor the experience to your specific needs, ensuring maximum benefits.

Ambiance Matters: The ambiance of the facility plays a crucial role in the overall experience. Opt for a spa with a serene atmosphere, dim lighting, and calming music to enhance the relaxation effect.

Conclusion:

In the fast-paced world we live in, the allure of a Jacuzzi massage beckons as a sanctuary of tranquility. The unique combination of hydrotherapy and massage therapy creates a sensory experience that transcends the ordinary, offering a retreat for the body, mind, and spirit. Consider indulging in a Jacuzzi massage to unlock the door to unparalleled relaxation and embark on a journey of holistic well-being. After all, in the world of wellness, a Jacuzzi massage is not just a treatment; it's an experience to be savored and cherished.

[binariesuns]

@prequelsnet mission 03: planets ➙ NABOO An idyllic world close to the border of the Outer Rim Territories, Naboo is inhabited by peaceful humans known as the Naboo, and an indigenous species of intelligent amphibians called the Gungans. Naboo's surface consists of swampy lakes, rolling plains and green hills. Its population centers are beautiful -- Naboo's river cities are filled with classical architecture and greenery, while the underwater Gungan settlements are a beautiful display of exotic hydrostatic bubble technology.

[greatworldwar2]

• British Bouncing Bomb

A bouncing bomb is a bomb designed to bounce to a target across water in a calculated manner to avoid obstacles such as torpedo nets, and to allow both the bomb's speed on arrival at the target and the timing of its detonation to be pre-determined, in a similar fashion to a regular naval depth charge.

Barnes Wallis' April 1942 paper "Spherical Bomb – Surface Torpedo" described a method of attack in which a weapon would be bounced across water until it struck its target, then sink to explode under water, much like a depth charge. Bouncing it across the surface would allow it to be aimed directly at its target, while avoiding underwater defences, as well as some above the surface, and such a weapon would take advantage of the "bubble pulse" effect typical of underwater explosions, greatly increasing its effectiveness: Wallis's paper identified suitable targets as hydro-electric dams "and floating vessels moored in calm waters such as the Norwegian fjords". Both types of target were already of great interest to the British military when Wallis wrote his paper (which itself was not his first on the subject); German hydro-electric dams had been identified as important bombing targets before the outbreak of World War II, but existing bombs and bombing methods had little effect on them, as torpedo nets protected them from attack by conventional torpedoes and a practical means of destroying them had yet to be devised. In 1942, the British were seeking a means of destroying the German battleship Tirpitz, which posed a threat to Allied shipping in the North Atlantic and had already survived a number of British attempts to destroy it. During this time, the Tirpitz was being kept safe from attack by being moored in Norwegian fjords, where it had the effect of a "fleet in being". Consequently, Wallis's proposed weapon attracted attention and underwent active testing and development.

On July 24th, 1942, a "spectacularly successful" demonstration of such a weapon's potential occurred when a redundant dam at Nant-y-Gro, near Rhayader, in Wales, was destroyed by a mine containing 279 pounds (127 kg) of explosive: this was detonated against the dam's side, under water, in a test undertaken by A.R. Collins, a scientific officer from the Road Research Laboratory, which was then based at Harmondsworth, Middlesex. A.R. Collins was among a large number of other people besides Barnes Wallis who made wide-ranging contributions to the development of a bouncing bomb and its method of delivery to a target, to the extent that, in a paper published in 1982, Collins himself made it evident that Wallis "did not play an all-important role in the development of this project and in particular, that very significant contributions were made by, for example, Sir William Glanville, Dr. G. Charlesworth, Dr. A.R. Collins and others of the Road Research Laboratory". However, the modification of a Vickers Wellington bomber, the design of which Wallis himself had contributed to, for work in early testing of his proposed weapon, has been cited as an example of how Wallis "would have been the first to acknowledge" the contributions of others. Also, in the words of Eric Allwright, who worked in the Drawing Office for Vickers Armstrongs at the time, "Wallis was trying to do his ordinary job [for Vickers Armstrongs] as well as all this – he was out at the Ministry and down to Fort Halstead and everywhere"; Wallis's pressing of his papers, ideas and ongoing developments on relevant authorities helped ensure that development continued; Wallis was principal designer of the models, prototypes and "live" versions of the weapon; and, perhaps most significantly, it was Wallis who explained the weapon in the final briefing for RAF crews before they set off on Operation Chastise, to use one of his designs in action.

A distinctive feature of the weapon, added in the course of development, was back-spin, which improved the height and stability of its flight and its ability to bounce, and helped the weapon to remain in contact with, or at least close proximity to, its target on arrival. Back-spin is a normal feature in the flight of golf balls, owing to the manner in which they are struck by the club, and it is perhaps for this reason that all forms of the weapon which were developed were known generically as "Golf mines", and some of the spherical prototypes featured dimples. It was decided in November 1942 to devise a larger version of Wallis's weapon for use against dams, and a smaller one for use against ships: these were code-named "Upkeep" and "Highball" respectively. Though each version derived from what was originally envisaged as a spherical bomb, early prototypes for both Upkeep and Highball consisted of a cylindrical bomb within a spherical casing. Development, testing and use of Upkeep and Highball were to be undertaken simultaneously, since it was important to retain the element of surprise: if one were to be used against a target independently, it was feared that German defences for similar targets would be strengthened, rendering the other useless. However, Upkeep was developed against a deadline, since its maximum effectiveness depended on target dams being as full as possible from seasonal rainfall, and the latest date for this was set at May 26th, 1943. In the event, as this date approached, Highball remained in development, whereas development of Upkeep had completed, and the decision was taken to deploy Upkeep independently.

Testing of Upkeep prototypes with inert filling was carried out at Chesil Beach, Dorset, flying from RAF Warmwell in December 1942, and at Reculver, Kent, flying from RAF Manston in April and May 1943, at first using a Vickers Wellington bomber. However, the dimensions and weight of the full-size Upkeep were such that it could only be carried by the largest British bomber available at the time, the Avro Lancaster, and even that had to undergo considerable modification in order to carry it. In testing, it was found that Upkeep's spherical casing would shatter on impact with water, but that the inner cylinder containing the bomb would continue across the surface of the water much as intended. As a result, Upkeep's spherical casing was eliminated from the design. Development and testing concluded on May 13th, 1943 with the dropping of a live, cylindrical Upkeep bomb 5 miles (8 km) out to sea from Broadstairs, Kent, by which time Wallis had specified that the bomb must be dropped at "precisely" 60 feet (18 m) above the water and 232 miles per hour (373 km/h) groundspeed, with back-spin at 500 rpm: the bomb "bounced seven times over some 800 yards, sank and detonated". In the operational version of Upkeep, known by its manufacturer as "Vickers Type 464", the explosive charge was Torpex, originally designed for use as a torpedo explosive, to provide a longer explosive pulse for greater effect against underwater targets; the principal means of detonation was by three hydrostatic pistols, as used in depth charges, set to fire at a depth of 30 feet (9 m); and its overall weight was 9,250 pounds (4,200 kg), of which 6,600 pounds (3,000 kg) was Torpex. Provision was also made for "self-destruct" detonation by a fuze, armed automatically as the bomb was dropped from the aircraft, and timed to fire after 90 seconds. Height was checked by a pair of intersecting spotlight beams, which, when converging on the surface of the water, indicated the correct height for the aircraft – a method devised for the raid by Benjamin Lockspeiser of MAP, and distance from the target by a simple, hand-held, triangular device: with one corner held up to the eye, projections on the other two corners would line up with pre-determined points on the target when it was at the correct distance for bomb release. In practice, this could prove awkward to handle, and some aircrews replaced it with their own arrangements, fixed within the aircraft itself, and involving chinagraph and string. On the night of May 17th 1943, Operation Chastise attacked dams in Germany's Ruhr Valley, using Upkeep. Two dams were breached, causing widespread flooding, damage, and loss of life. The significance of this attack upon the progress of the war is debated. British losses during the operation were heavy; eight of the 19 attacking aircraft failed to return, along with 53 of 113 RAF aircrew. Upkeep was not used again operationally. By the time the war ended, the remaining operational Upkeep bombs had started to deteriorate and were dumped into the North Sea without their detonation devices.

In April 1942, Wallis himself had described his proposed weapon as "essentially a weapon for the Fleet Air Arm". This naval aspect was later to be pressed by a minute issued by British prime minister Winston Churchill, in February 1943, asking "Have you given up all plans for doing anything to Tirpitz while she is in Trondheim? ... It is a terrible thing that this prize should be waiting and no one be able to think of a way of winning it." However, Highball was ultimately developed as an RAF weapon for use against various targets, including Tirpitz. From November 1942, development and testing for Highball continued alongside that of Upkeep, including the dropping of prototypes at both Chesil Beach and Reculver. While early prototypes dropped at Chesil Beach in December 1942 were forerunners for both versions of the bomb, those dropped at Chesil Beach in January and February 1943 and at Reculver in April 1943 included Highball prototypes. They were dropped by the modified Wellington bomber and at Reculver by a modified de Havilland Mosquito B Mk IV, one of two assigned to Vickers Armstrong for the purpose. By early February 1943, Wallis envisaged Highball as "comprising a 500 lb (230 kg) charge in a cylinder contained in a 35 in (89 cm) sphere with (an overall weight) of 950 lb (430 kg)", and a modified Mosquito could carry two such weapons. Further testing was carried out by three modified Mosquitoes flying from RAF Turnberry, north of Girvan, on the west coast of Scotland, against a target ship, the former French battleship Courbet, which had been moored for the purpose in Loch Striven. This series of tests was hampered by a number of errors: buoys intended to mark a point 1,200 yards (1,097 m) from Courbet, where the prototypes were to be dropped, were found to be too close to the ship by 400 yards (366 m), and, according to Wallis, other errors were due to "Variations in dimensions of [prototypes] after filling and [dimensionally incorrect] jigs for setting up the [caliper] arms". Because of these errors, the prototypes hit the target too fast and too hard, and two aircraft failed to release their prototypes, one of which then fell off while the aircraft was turning for a second attempt. By the end of May 1944, problems with releasing Highball had been resolved as had problems with aiming. Aiming Highball required a different method from Upkeep; the problem was solved by Wallis's design of a ring aperture sight fixed to a flying helmet. Highball was now a sphere with flattened poles and the explosive charge was Torpex, enclosed in a cylinder, as in Upkeep; detonation was by a single hydrostatic pistol, set to fire at a depth of 27 feet (8 m), and its weight was 1,280 pounds (581 kg), of which 600 pounds (272 kg) was Torpex. Highball was never used operationally: on 12 November 1944, in Operation Catechism, Lancasters with Tallboy bombs sank its primary target, Tirpitz. Other potential targets had been considered during Highball's development and later. These included the ships of the Italian navy, canals, dry docks, submarine pens, and railway tunnels (for which testing took place in 1943). But Italy surrendered in September 1943, and the other target ideas were dismissed as impracticable.

In January 1945, at the Vickers experimental facility at Foxwarren, near Cobham, Surrey, a Douglas A-26 Invader of the USAAF was adapted to carry two Highballs almost completely enclosed in the bomb bay, using parts from a Mosquito conversion. After brief flight testing in the UK, the kit was sent to Wright Field, Ohio, and installed in an A-26C Invader. Twenty-five inert Highballs, renamed "Speedee" bombs, were also sent for use in the USAAF trials. Drop tests were carried out over Choctawhatchee Bay near Eglin Field, Florida, but the programme was abandoned, after the bomb bounced back at A-26C-25-DT Invader 43-22644 on Water Range 60, causing loss of the rear fuselage and a fatal crash. Inert prototypes of both Upkeep and Highball that were dropped at Reculver have been recovered and these, along with a number of other examples, are displayed at various sites. In 2010, a diving project in Loch Striven successfully located several Highball prototypes, under around 114 feet (35 m) of water. In July 2017, two Highballs were successfully recovered from Loch Striven in a joint operation by teams from East Cheshire Sub-Aqua Club and the Royal Navy. One is now displayed at the de Havilland Aircraft Museum and the other arrived at Brooklands Museum in late 2019 after undergoing conservation at the Mary Rose Trust.

[misssquidtracy]

The Bravery of the Tracy

So I dipped my toe into the angst sandbox a little while ago...and nearly broke it off in the process.

I started my first and only fic to date (A Taste of the Tracy) at the start of lockdown, and my intention was (and still is) to keep it as humorous as possible. Unfortunately, I’ve found myself shifting between genres a bit more as the chapter count nears the big five zero landmark.   

My absolute favourite to write is (and always will be) Gordon, however I find John appealing in a scary kind of way. Appealing because I feel he’s much more multifaceted than what we see in the series, but scary because I find his identity hard to ascertain. He straddles both the older and younger camps, yet belongs to neither. The plight of every middle child.

I wanted to challenge this, and ol’ musey was up for it. I published this chapter a while ago, but recently re-read it and tightened a few things up. It’s well outside my comfort zone of Gordon and humour, but casting John as the heroic big brother was very satisfying, especially when considering his place in the Tracy age hierarchy. He may not be as old/experienced as Scotty and da Virg, but he’s just as much of a big bro to my boi and Alan as One and Two are. Maybe even better...*ducks flying chair and scurries back to Gordon’s corner*

P.S. This is chapter thirty two out of forty six. Gordon rescues a stray mutt in chapter twenty seven and names her Celery. She makes a brief appearance at the end.

                                                            -x-

John hated water.

It was wet, got everywhere and was frequently a lot dirtier than it looked.

It was also incredibly dangerous.

Hence the redhead’s displeasure when Lady Penelope sent him and his brothers the coordinates for Sydney Harbour, along with instructions to rendezvous with her and Kayo aboard FAB 2 for a private cruise.

It had taken the combined efforts of both Virgil and Gordon to manhandle John into Thunderbird Two, plus the assistance of Alan to secure him into a seat. It was only after Scott broke out some tranquiliser pills that John felt calm enough to stop puffing into the paper bag Gordon had handed him.

John’s fear of water was well justified. His aversion wasn’t the result of a lack of skill; like the rest of his brothers, he was a strong swimmer. Granted, he hadn’t enjoyed the swimming lessons their dad had forced them to take when they were young as much as Scott and Virgil had, but drop him in a body of water and he’d be quite capable of getting himself out safely.

It was the fear of one of his brothers drowning that fuelled John’s aquaphobia. The fear of looking away for a second, only to turn back and see one of them floating face-down. John swore he lost half his bodyweight in sweat every time Thunderbird Four was deployed.

The redhead’s fear hadn’t been born inside the four walls of his head. He’d had the misfortune of very nearly losing not one, but two of his brothers to the murky depths of aquatic oblivion.

It had been the middle of the summer holidays, and the entire Tracy clan had been enjoying a brief vacation at their mother’s ranch in Arizona. Jeff had been away at a NASA conference in Glasgow and Sally had been visiting some old friends in Phoenix. As the eldest and therefore the most responsible, Scott had been left in charge of the house and his brothers.

It had been a hot and sweaty day. Tempers had escalated alongside the thermometer and Scott had quickly found himself with four irritable younger siblings on his hands.

“I need an ice cream!” Virgil panted, fanning himself desperately with the hem of his shirt, “It’s too hot!”

Gordon, who had already shed most of his clothing and was padding around in just his shorts, pouted and gazed out the window, “I want to go swimming! Why can’t you take us swimming, Scotty?”

“I wanna go swimming too!” Alan cried, sipping angrily from a glass of juice, “You just don’t want us to have any fun because granny left you in charge!”

Scott sighed and dragged his hands across his face. He had a bunch of reading to catch up on before the new semester started in three weeks and copious interruptions from his brothers had already thrown him way off schedule.

John was also busying himself with schoolwork, however not quite on Scott’s level. While the eldest was reading for a degree in aeronautical engineering, John was preparing to graduate high school one year ahead of his peers.

Virgil was sailing through the first year of a degree in aerospace engineering, however wasn’t as preoccupied with studying as Scott and John were. As far as he was concerned, the summer vacation was for resting and spending time with family.

Gordon was in his second year of middle school and had zero intention of completing any of the homework his teachers had set him for the three month break. Stacks of untouched maths and history worksheets lay untouched in his schoolbag back on Tracy Island, along with the remains of a sandwich that had been in there for goodness knows how long.

Being in the middle of elementary school, Alan had bounded through what little homework he’d been assigned with some help from Scott. The youngest seemed unable (or unwilling) to understand why his brothers spent so much time on schoolwork when they were on holiday. Wouldn’t they much rather play video games and watch TV with him?

“Scotty!” Gordon whined, snatching the book on astrodynamics his brother’s nose was buried in and throwing it onto the floor, “Take us swimming! Take us swimming! Take us swimming!”

“Swimming! Swimming! Swimming!” Alan chanted, stamping his foot in time with Gordon’s pleas.

Scott groaned loudly and turned pathetically towards Virgil, his sapphire eyes wide and despairing, “Virg, could you take them outside and spray them with the hose? I haven’t got time to take them to the local pool.”

Virgil gave a sympathetic shake of his head, “Sorry bro, but I’ve got to be at the train station to meet Grandma in just over an hour.”

“John?” Scott tried, desperately switching his gaze to the redhead.

John remained silent for a few seconds, mulling over his options. He’d have to slap on at least three layers of sunscreen to stop himself from burning to a crisp, however schoolwork was getting dull and the weather was gorgeous…

“Fine,” John capitulated, wincing when Gordon and Alan screamed in elation, “But only for an hour.”

“Oh, thank you! Thank you!” Scott gushed, seizing the redhead around his waist and yanking him in for an awkward hug, “You are my favourite person in the whole world right now.”

John merely grunted and reached for the sunscreen.

It was the middle of the day by the time John, Gordon and Alan arrived at their local swimming hole. Gordon had insisted that they go to the old flooded quarry on the perimeter of the ranch’s land, arguing that the local pool would be too busy.

John hadn’t objected. Any plan that didn’t involve crowds got his instant approval.

The sun’s rays beat down on their heads and John cringed as he felt a bead of sweat run down his neck. After separately tackling both Gordon and Alan and smearing an appropriate amount of sunscreen across their wriggling bodies, the redhead dumped himself in the shade of an ironwood tree and returned to his essay on hydrostatics.

Gordon and Alan busied themselves over the next twenty minutes with swimming and cannonballing off every rock they could reach. Tuning out the excited screams and energetic splashing, John channelled all of his attention into the paragraph on Pascal’s law he was in the middle of writing.

It wasn’t until the splashing ceased that John glanced up, only to see the quarry empty and the water’s surface perfectly still.  

Panic coursed through the redhead as he scrambled to his feet and ran down to the bank, hoping desperately to catch a glimpse of Gordon’s bright green trunks or Alan’s blond head beneath the surface.

After being thwarted by the poor visibility of the water, John switched his focus to scouring the nearby rock formations, silently praying that his brothers were engaged in an impromptu game of hide and seek.

A lone bubble breaking the pond’s surface dashed that plan in a second.

John had never thought of himself as particularly brave, but the boldness with which he threw himself into the quarry would have stunned even Scott.

Without waiting for his eyes to adjust after crashing through the surface, John frantically swooped down towards the bottom of the pond, his long legs making short work of the journey. Panic turned to dread when the redhead realised that the water was a lot deeper than he’d originally thought.

The sight that met John’s turquoise eyes when he reached the bottom would go on to haunt him for the rest of his life.

Gordon’s leg was ensnared by a submerged section of wire, most likely from a discarded piece of machinery. Alan was tugging on his brother’s arm in an attempt to free him, however was expelling an alarming number of bubbles, a sure sign that he was seconds from falling unconscious.

Reacting purely on instinct, John seized Alan’s arm in a steel grip and began to drag the youngest towards the surface. He glanced down briefly to motion to Gordon that he’d be right back and instantly wished he hadn’t.

The look of despair in Gordon’s eyes as he watched John disappear with only Alan in tow was an image the redhead would take to his grave. It was the raw panic of an older sibling who’d been left to die so that the parent could save its helpless younger sibling.

It was a look of anguished rejection.

After surfacing and dumping a coughing Alan onto the first rock he could find, John dove back down only to find Gordon limp and unresponsive.

It took the redhead’s strategic mind only thirty seconds to disentangle his brother’s leg from the wire trapping it. Chillingly, he knew from his rescue training that it only took twenty for an exhausted child to drown.

The ascent with Gordon was much harder than with Alan, but John knew his own fatigue was mostly to blame. His lungs burned and the strain of propelling two bodies up to the surface was killing his legs.

Alan was sat on the rock John had left him on. He was white from cold and had several nasty looking cuts on his hands, no doubt from trying to remove the wire, however seemed otherwise stable.

Gordon was blue and unresponsive. John could feel a scream of dread building inside his lungs as he lay his brother down on the shore and began performing rescue breaths.

In the background, Alan started to cry.

“Come on you idiot!” John screamed as he surfaced for air, slapping Gordon across the face before starting a series of chest compressions, “Breathe! Breathe!”

Gordon didn’t stir.

John felt white hot anger crash over him like a tsunami. His previous fatigue long forgotten, he resumed the rescue breaths and chest compressions, barely flinching when Gordon’s sternum cracked under the pressure from his palms.

After one more gut-wrenching minute of CPR, Gordon exploded back to life. John felt himself sag as his brother violently vomited up the water he’d inhaled, his torso spasming in panic.

“He’s okay!” Alan cried, his cheeks red and tear stained, “You saved him!”

John barely heard his youngest brother, his vision blurring as the adrenalin wore off and shock began to set in. In the distance, he could just about make out the forms of Scott and Virgil sprinting in their direction, their yells fading to white noise as John’s drenched head hit the ground.

Two seconds later, his world went black.

                                                            -x-

“We’ll all wear lifejackets, so try not to panic too much,” Scott soothed as John planted himself like a mule in the doorway of Thunderbird Two, “FAB 2 also has a state of the art drowning detection system, so we’ll be as safe as if we were on dry land.”

John scowled and refused to budge. Scott hadn’t seen that air bubble. Or Gordon’s face when he thought he’d been left to a watery grave.

“C’mon John,” Virgil waded in behind Scott, “We’ve all had a rough week. Don’t you think you deserve a little pampering?”

John’s face flushed red, but he still refused to move. He felt a sudden affinity for cats and their aversion to water. Screw the joke about him being a ginger giraffe, he was most definitely a ginger tabby.

“Ten seconds,” Scott sighed, raising his eyebrows in impatience, “I’m giving you ten seconds to move and let us pass, otherwise I’m locking you below deck with Celery.”

John’s eyes widened accusingly, “You brought the dog along?”

“Of course,” Gordon responded, motioning to a yellow pet carrier that was stashed in the back corner of the cockpit, “I couldn’t leave her back home with just Grandma and Brains for company. She might get blown up. Or be made to sample Grandma’s new liver casserole.”

John scowled, suddenly aware of his nose twitching in irritation.

It didn’t matter. Dog or no dog, he wasn’t about to willingly let any of his brothers near water that wasn’t contained in either a shower or a bathtub.

Ten minutes later, the redhead found himself imprisoned beneath the swanky deck of FAB 2 while the others cast off. Celery sat obediently at his feet, gazing up with the same expression of ardent worship she used on Gordon.

Next to Celery, Sherbert yapped loudly, thrilled at finally having another doggy friend to play with. The tiny pug launched himself at Celery’s face, disturbing a large plume of fur when his claws playfully caught the mutt under her chin.

John groaned before sneezing loudly.

[sw5w]

Dis is Nutsen

STAR WARS EPISODE I: The Phantom Menace

[qldlining]

The Ultimate Guide To Pond Liners

Properly lining a fish pond or a pool needs a strong product that is able withstand the exceptionally demanding atmosphere of constant call with a body of water. A fish pond liner is in constant use with no relaxing factors, which suggests it needs to be strong as well as resistant to the requirements of lasting use.

This density is crucial to our fish pond liners' extra-tough, durable toughness. This lining boasts a ruptured stamina of 581 PSI, a leak resistance of 140 extra pounds, a grab tensile toughness of 362 pounds, a hydrostatic resistance of 269 PSI and also a tongue tear resistance of 49 pounds. Needless to say, it is among the best items Canopies and also Tarps has available for order.

All About Hdpe Pond Liner

Artificial pond linings typically have a twenty year guarantee because they damage down with direct exposure to sunlight and dirt processes. While it benefits the fish pond liner producers to provide a replacement lining, a lot more work is required to re-install it if the objective is a fish pond to last a lifetime.

Fish pond proprietors need to forecast their requirement for longevity in order to make a proper choice. Rubber pond linings or plastic fish pond liners are reasonably inexpensive for tiny fish ponds. They additionally are not typically anticipated to last greater than 10 years in a casually created or badly developed yard pond that is exposed to animals with sharp claws.

Take into consideration that extra care and a pair more layers of protective underlayer need to be employed to avoid damages to the liner during fish pond construction. If you recognize you will certainly build a much more permanent pond later on after that a plastic liner may be the way to go in the meantime. If you are developing something to last a life time, then among the improved planet or clay fish pond liners might be extra ideal.

Get The Best and High Quality pond Liner

All about Geomembrane Pond Liner

My fish pond is 30ft x 15ft and 3ft deep with difficult clay under-liner and also lining installed. i didnt staple my liners on to the ground (should i? ), I just have rocks and also crushed rock cover the liners on top. I need help to resolve the problem with water went underneath in between my under-liner as well as the liner which developed bubbles on the sides of my pond feel like the water beneath pushes the lining toward the center of pond since i have rocks as well as hefty things in the center.

Just Liners gives a selection of high quality items for all your pond and water horticulture needs. Whether your are constructing your initial fish pond, broadening an existing fish pond or a knowledgeable installer, we have what you require. We lug a total line of pondliners, fish pond filters, skimmers and pumps as well as pond maintenance products that will certainly keep your pond effective and running all year long.

The Basic Principles Of Clay Pond Liner

PVC fish pond lining has a shiny, high gloss coating on one side and also a somewhat structure dull coating on the opposite side. The liner works the same despite which side deals with up. This PVC liner is UV dealt with and also includes a 5 year producer's warranty. Please Note: PVC liner is built in panels so it is typical to see factory mounted joints at 5-10 foot periods.

The seal of a fish pond or lake is comparable to the foundation of a building; what happens right here affects everything above the lining or seal. Lots of people assume a fish pond lining has yet one function: to hold the water in the fish pond. In reality, there are other essential features that aid keep water tidy and also reduce the price to build a pond/ lake.

Getting My Clay Pond Liner To Work

Permalon go across laminated, alloyed are made to exacting standards and supply superior performance in nearly any environment. Handling water resources sought after environments is usually best achieved with what are normally labelled geomembranes or liners. Agricultural, aquaculture, recreational and also other markets profit from the use of hydraulic barriers that avoid water loss.

Permalon fish pond linings are readily available in supply setups for instant schedule or can be custom produced to precise job demands. An array of weights, thicknesses and the availability of outside composite reinforcement enable Permalon items to handle the most challenging site conditions. Developed to be light-weight as well as quickly took care of, Permalon pond linings are reputable as well as economical.

The 8-Minute Rule for Water Storage

"Toughness is crucial when installing a fish pond liner and your best source for top quality, inexpensive pond linings is A1 Tarpaulins. Our fish pond linings are included 30 mil black woven polyethylene products as well as contain as much as 362 pounds of tensile toughness. Several dimensions are readily available, so if you have a household or commercial task, an A1 Tarps fish pond lining is essential to successfully finishing the task.

This is the smallest dimension of fish pond lining offered at A1 Tarpaulins. Little does not suggest weak, as this pond dimension of pond liner has a Mullen Burst Stamina of 584 psi and also a tongue tear resistance of 49 extra pounds. The biggest fish pond liners that we have are 100x120 and perfect for commercial usages.

The 7-Minute Rule for Waste Water

Keep in mind that when determining actions, you need to err on the side of caution as well as consider having an excess amount of liner rather than being inches short. Our extensive line of discount rate pond linings is used products that are developed to endure the stress and anxieties of keeping pools as well as fish ponds contained for several years.

Make sure all stones or sharp objects are gotten rid of from the pond site prior to liner installation to make certain the quality of the lining. Please really feel complimentary to call us if you have any type of inquiries regarding these fish pond linings.

Little Known Questions About Waste Water

Many orders ship the very same day. We additionally carry control linings, pit linings and also rubber roof items for your other lining options. If you choose the correct products for your situation and mount them effectively, your task will give you with years of satisfaction.

PVC pond liner is a really common material used in water yards, koi ponds, water features, fountains as well as other jobs. This water resistant product is lighter weight and even more affordable than EPDM liners. PVC is typically used by very first time water garden enthusiasts as a result of its access, simplicity of installation and also resilience.

The 3-Minute Rule for Hdpe Pond Liner Price

Pond Liner is a secure, long lasting material that's quickly installed to fit the size and also shapes of any kind of water function and also provide even more imaginative freedom to one of the most tough styles. While eco safe for fish and also plant life, landscape specialists as well as homeowners value the visual and also practical advantages that Fish pond Liners bring to their outdoor space.

The smart Trick of Hdpe Pond Liner Price That Nobody is Discussing

This does raise the inquiry of requiring the 2nd seal. If 10 to 30 years is the objective, then there is much less worry concerning longevity. As an apart, we are seeing a pair plastic rubber lining companies write advice pages for those wanting to construct a lake. Certainly they suggest utilizing their items. We would certainly such as to see an environment designed by lining makers that could maintain up with our top quality. Boosted soil fish pond liners Soil additives such as salt bentonite clays and a chemical product known as ESS13 are a lot less pricey than artificial linings, specifically for large fish ponds as well as lakes.

[bobamaqqhiato]

Star Formation

The formation of a star begins with a gravitational instability within a molecular cloud, caused by regions of higher density --- often triggered by compression of clouds by radiation from massive stars, expanding bubbles in the interstellar medium, the collision of different molecular clouds, or the collision of galaxies (as in a starburst galaxy). When a region reaches a sufficient density of matter to satisfy the criteria of Jeans instability it begins to collapse under its own gravitational force.

As the cloud collapses, individual conglomerations of dense dust and gas form "Bok Globules". As a globule collapses and the density increases, the gravitational energy converts into heat, and the temperature rises. When the protostellar cloud has approximately reached the stable condition of hydrostatic equilibrium, a protostar form at the core. These pre-main-sequence stars are often surrounded by a protoplanetary disk and powered mainly by the conversion of gravitational energy. The period of gravitational contraction lasts about 10 million years for a star like a sun, up to 100 million years for a red dwarf.

Early stars of less than 2 M, are called T Tauri stars, while those with greater mass are Herbig Ae/Be stars. These newly formed stars emit jets of gas along their axis of rotation, which may reduce the angular momentum of the collapsing star and result in small patches of nebulosity known as Herbig–Haro objects. These jets, in combination with radiation from nearby massive stars, may help to drive away from the surrounding cloud from which the star was formed.

Most stars are observed to be members of binary star systems, and the properties of those binaries are the result of the conditions in which they formed. A gas cloud must lose its angular momentum in order to collapse and form a star. The fragmentation of the cloud into multiple stars distributes some of that angular momentum. The primordial binaries transfer some angular momentum by gravitational interactions during close encounters with other stars in young stellar clusters. These interactions tend to split apart more widely separated (soft) binaries while causing hard binaries to become more tightly bound. This produces the separation of binaries into their two observed populations distributions.

[seltzerrecords]

A stirring and rapturous tribute to the Gungans of Naboo, 16 Bubbles includes the hits “Hydrostatic Field Receptors” and “Ohma-D’un”. Enjoy a listen while chewing some gooberfish and meditating on the accomplishments of Rugor Nass.

[digitalyogesh]

Dashang lep

Dashang Lep Indications and Precautions | Ayurcentralonline

Dashanga Lepa is an Ayurvedic home grown glue clinically utilized as a mitigating specialist and generally suggested for treating a large number of skin issues including herpes wounds, dermatitis and irritation.

Elements of Dashanga Lepa

Dashang Lep is a polyherbal plan ready by mixing ten distinct spices, viz Shirisha, Yashtimadhu, Tagara, Rakta chandana, Ela, Jatamanshi, Haridra, Daruharidra, Kushta, and Sugandha bala.

Snap HERE TO ORDER DASHANGA LEPA …!!!

Signs for Dashanga Lepa

Dashanga Lepa is produced using ten powerful spices which have a mysterious impact in different skin diseases like Herpes, skin ejections, non-recuperating wound, swellings, bubbles, headache, migraine, ulcer, skin harming, erysipelas and so forth It is likewise used to treat:

Skin break out

Skin inflammation

Rosaceae

Bubbles

Cellulitis

Erysipelas

Fever

Parasitic disease

Hyperpigmentation

Aggravation/growing

Tingling

Rheumatoid joint pain

Chickenpox rankles

Agony and irritation in bosoms.

Exploration on Dashanga Lepa in clinical practice

Ayurvedic drugs are utilized since days of yore to address a horde of infirmities. In the previous few decades, Ayurveda has gathered its due revamping which brought up numerous issues in regards to the logical proof of adequacy and wellbeing of such medications. Numerous investigates are directed to set up the utilization of Dashanga lepa for skin issues and joint pain.

Adequacy of Dashang Lep in the Management of Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a typical yet conceivably genuine bacterial skin disease whose effect goes from gentle distress to extreme blood poisoning bringing about death. In the clinical investigation, the organization of Dashang lepa showed a genuinely critical decrease of torment, edema, erythema, delicacy and fever in the patients. Hence the outcomes uncovered Dashanga lepa is extremely powerful against shallow provocative growing.

Agony the board

Dashanga lepa is discovered to be exceptionally powerful in diminishing agony which is brought about by an expanded degree of prostaglandins during an incendiary response. Study on the medication Dashang lepa uncovered its pain relieving impact which helps in battling irritation.

Oedema

Oedema increments because of a height of nearby hydrostatic pressing factor and gathering of sweated liquid. Dashanga lepa showed profoundly critical outcomes as far as diminishing oedema.

Erythema

Erythema in incendiary cycle is because of expanded blood supply over harmed region because of vasodilatation. Dashanga lepa has shown genuinely critical outcomes in decrease of erythema (redness).

Fever

Dashang lepa has shown antipyretic impact that is gainful in decreasing summed up temperature. It likewise decreases neighborhood temperature.

Clinical Study of Dashang Lep in Acute Inflammatory Swellings

Clinical examination demonstrated that Dashanga Lepa was profoundly powerful in decreasing agony. There was profoundly huge decrease in oedema, delicacy, erythema and fever among the patients treated with Dashanga Lepa.

Dashang Lepa blend for joint inflammation

If there should arise an occurrence of osteoarthritis or joint torment because of wounds, a glue of Dashanga taila and sesame oil is applied over the influenced region. The outcomes expressed that the glue is valuable in alleviating the irritation, lessening solidness, destroying torment and facilitating development of the joints.

Dashanga Lepa for mumps

Dashang lepa, when recommended in mumps, showed expected outcomes in diminishing growing in mumps.

Security Profile of Dashang Lep

Dashang lepa is discovered to be protected in practically all cases and dermatological signs are incredibly uncommon. In uncommon events it might cause expanded warmth or consuming sensation.

Ideas and Precautions on utilization of Dashang Lep

[indiacenosphere-blog]

Application of Hollow Glass Microsphere in Oil and Gas Sector and Construction Sector

Why are Hollow Glass Microspheres used in Drilling Fluids?

The hollow glass microspheres are inert in nature and are mostly used as agents to reduce the density of something. In the oil and gas industry, hollow glass microspheres are used by adding them to the drilling fluids in order to reduce their density. Along with being inert they are also stable thermally and have strength thus can be used with both water and oil. They offer a reduction of around 2.086 lbm/gal in the fluid when they are added.

The reduction in density associated with the hollow glass spheres allows for a more effective circulating density. The sphere when added to the drilling fluid results in high viscosity and stability which enables easy management and measurement while drilling. These fluids containing hollow glass microspheres can be utilised in drilling in various conditions which may be either balanced or underbalanced. The use of these spheres also results in the depletion of reservoirs as well as high permeability formations. The differential pressure thus increases the productivity while conducting drilling operations as well as during production.

Hollow glass sphere due to its high strength can adjust to the conditions present in the downhole while drilling and also work well with equipment used for control and pumping. These spheres can help in increasing the drilling rate by reduction in the bottom-hole fluid pressures. But this to a great extent depends on the pressure of the hydrostatic column and other forces which might be present whilst drilling.

Hollow glass microspheres in oil extractions and drilling not only results in the conservation of energy but also reduces costs. The other factor is that because the hollow glass microspheres drilling fluid can be re-used it also becomes environmental friendly and more sustainable to an extent. PETRA MicroLite Glass Microspheres extensively used in drilling fluids because they are economical and of high quality.

Why Hollow Glass Microspheres are used for Energy Saving?

Hollow glass spheres have wide uses in thermal insulation due to their high strength, low density, and chemical resistance. One method of saving energy through glass hollow spheres is using it in drilling and extraction as discussed above. But this energy-saving feature is also very integral to the construction industry as energy is being used significantly in residential sectors. The increase in use of energy is a result of many things such as bad insulation in buildings as well as air conditioners which sometimes even result in 50% of the total energy consumption.

The most effective solution to conserve energy and cut down on costs is to reduce the impact of solar heat and the dissemination of this heat which occurs through rooftops, walls by using insulation that reduces thermal conductivity and increased infrared radiation reflectivity. The most feasible option is to add multiple layers of this insulation through coatings. PETRA MicroLite Glass Microspheres are excellent for thermal insulation applications.

The effectiveness of the thermal property of the hollow glass microsphere has been proved in numerous studies by inspection of its various facets including transfer of heat and the reaction of incorporating hollow glass microspheres in diverse kinds of materials. One such study was conducted in terms of soda-lime silicate under an SEM which showed that the bubbles formed after the incorporation of hollow glass microspheres are spherical in nature and have a very broad surface distribution.

When using the material for insulation, one important observation has to be made in regard to durability as long-term durability is essential in terms of different external factors such as pressure, water, and temperature. The size of the microsphere needs to be proper in order to make it balanced as well as anticorrosive in terms of performance. Further, it should also guard the surface against becoming foul thus extending its durability. Studies have also proved that hollow glass microspheres result in increased thermal and mechanical characteristics of foams used for insulating. One of the examples is that of a polysiloxane-made foam which is made by crosslinking and foaming procedures and reinforcing it with hollow glass microspheres. This has been shown to result in enhanced thermal stability and increased uniformity.

[heydenblog]

Vacuum drainage preloading method

Vacuum drainage preloading method is a relatively new soft soil reinforcement technology, it is to belong to a kind of drainage consolidation method, level of it by laying drainage sand cushion and setting up the vertical row of water in the soft soil foundation, and laying on the sand cushion is not breathable film sealing device, with the aid of pipeline buried in the sand cushion, through vacuum device, negative pressure generated in the soil, The pore water in the soil is pumped out, so as to reduce the pore water pressure, increase the effective stress, so that the soil consolidation, reduce the late settlement, improve the bearing capacity of the foundation. When vacuum is pumped, negative pressure gradually forms in the surface sand cushion and the vertical drainage channel successively, resulting in the pressure difference between the soil and the drainage channel and the cushion. Under the action of this pressure difference, the pore water in the soil is constantly discharged from the drainage channel, so that the soil is consolidated. It is mainly reflected in the following aspects:

1) The load on the film is equal to the pressure difference between inside and outside the film.

2) The groundwater level decreases and the additional stress increases accordingly.

3) The closed air bubbles are discharged, and the permeability of the soil is increased. Layout of measurement line → laying of main branch filter and drainage pipe → laying of upper sand cushion → leveling of sand surface → laying of PVC film → construction of sealing ditch → setting of measurement marks → installation of vacuum pump → vacuum preloading and consolidation soil layer.

The construction content of vacuum drainage preloading method is mainly composed of four parts:

(1) the construction of a vertical and horizontal drainage channel, that is, the construction of plastic drainage plate and sand cushion;

(2) to the construction of a reinforced foundation and atmospheric isolation of the guarantee of an airtight sealing layer;

(3) to set up a set of high efficiency vacuum device. That is, in the sand cushion layer laid in the main and filter pipe network and the installation of vacuum pump and other equipment outside the sealing system;

(4) to set up a set of inspection system to ensure that the construction can be carried out according to the design requirements. Vacuum preloading is to vacuum under the sealing membrane covering the ground, so that the pressure difference is formed inside and outside the membrane, so that the consolidation pressure of the clay layer is generated. That is, under the condition of constant total stress, the effective stress can be increased by reducing pore water pressure. Vacuum preloading and precipitation preloading are drainage consolidation under negative excess hydrostatic pressure, which is called negative pressure consolidation.

Related products:

Screw vacuum pump in real immersion equipment Application

https://vacuumfurnace.enjin.com/forum/m/50056207/viewforum/9291042 https://yibomine.proboards.com/board/1/general-discussion

[fuckyeahfluiddynamics]

One of the most striking things about snorkeling in the Galapagos was how loud it was underwater. There were hardly any boats nearby, but every time my ears dipped below the surface, I could hear a constant cacophony of sound. Some it came from waves against the sand, some of it was the sound of parrotfish nibbling on coral, but a lot of it was likely the work of a culprit I couldn’t see hidden in the sand: the pistol shrimp.

These small crustaceans hunt with an oversized claw capable of snapping shut at around 100 kph. When the two halves of the claw come together, they push out a high-speed jet of water. High velocity means low pressure - a low enough pressure, in fact, to drop nearby water below its vapor pressure, causing bubbles to form and expand. These cavitation bubbles collapse quickly under the hydrostatic pressure of the surrounding water, creating a distinctive pop that makes the pistol shrimp one of the loudest sea creatures around. (Image credit: BBC Earth Unplugged, source; research credit: M. Versluis et al.)

All week we’re celebrating the Galapagos Islands here on FYFD. Check out previous posts in the series here.