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Adjustable Pin Wrenches

What Is an Adjustable Pin Wrench?

An adjustable pin wrench is a tool used in mechanical and repair work to tighten or loosen bolts and nuts.

While conventional wrenches are designed to fit specific fixed sizes, the adjustable pin wrench, as the name suggests, can accommodate various sizes of bolts and nuts by adjusting its pins.

The adjustable pin wrench proves extremely useful in environments where bolts and nuts of different sizes are frequently handled. Operators can quickly and easily adapt to different sizes of bolts and nuts. As a result, it eliminates the need to use multiple wrenches to handle various sizes of bolts and nuts, streamlining the work process and allowing for more efficient operations.

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Walchem

What Is a Walchem?

Walchem is a comprehensive water treatment controller developed by Iwaki Corporation.

Walchem is a collective term for water treatment controllers developed by Iwaki Corporation. In the realm of water treatment, various indicators gauge the purity of water, including pH, ORP (Oxidation-Reduction Potential), and electrical conductivity.

pH serves as an indicator to assess the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, and in the context of wastewater, it is crucial to adjust the pH within the range of 5.8 to 8.6 to ensure that it does not adversely affect organisms and crops.

ORP measures the strength of water’s oxidizing or reducing power, indicating the adequacy of oxygen in the water. Unlike the similar indicator DO (Dissolved Oxygen), ORP is advantageous in detecting oxygen deficiency as it can take negative values.

Electrical conductivity reflects the ease with which electricity flows through a substance, and it increases when there is a high concentration of impurities such as ions. This becomes crucial in industries like semiconductor manufacturing where ultra-pure water is a necessity.

Walchem has the capability to measure and control these three indicators simultaneously in a single unit.

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Underground Pipe Locators

What Is an Underground Pipe Locator?

An underground pipe locator is a device used to non-destructively examine the location, depth, and installation direction of buried utilities such as water pipes, gas pipes, and electrical cables.

By utilizing underground pipe inspection equipment, one can confirm the presence and location of underground pipelines and structures without causing damage before construction projects on roads or buildings. This capability helps prevent excavation accidents and damage to pipelines.

There are two main types of underground pipe inspection equipment: those based on the electromagnetic wave radar method and those based on the electromagnetic induction method. The choice between them depends on the type of buried utility you want to explore.

Applications of Underground Pipe Locators

Underground pipe inspection equipment is primarily used for the following applications:

Surveying the location, depth, and direction of buried items such as water pipes, gas pipes, electrical cables, hume pipes, and PVC pipes.Confirming the presence, absence, and location of underground pipelines and structures before construction to prevent accidents and damage.

Assessing the need for repair or reinforcement of deteriorated bridge decks, tunnel walls, or other structures.Investigating changes in underground voids and strata for evaluating ground stability and seismic impact.

Excavation surveys for the discovery and assessment of the position and shape of underground relics and buried cultural properties.

Principles of Underground Pipe Locators

Underground pipe inspection equipment includes methods based on electromagnetic wave radar and electromagnetic induction.

1. Electromagnetic Wave Radar Method

This method involves emitting electromagnetic waves towards buried utilities and detecting reflected waves to explore underground objects.

Microwaves are commonly used in this radar system. When these microwaves are directed towards the ground, they travel through the medium at a constant speed and reflect upon encountering boundaries between different media.

By directing electromagnetic waves towards the location where a utility is buried, reflections occur, and the detection of these reflections allows the determination of the distance and position. This method is non-destructive, similar to X-ray inspections, without the associated risks of harmful radiation.

2. Electromagnetic Induction Method

In this method, a magnetic field is generated from the surface towards buried utilities, inducing a weak eddy current in conductive materials.

The induced eddy current is then detected to explore underground pipes. By generating a magnetic field from a coil carrying alternating current, the conductive surface of buried pipes produces overcurrent, creating an induced magnetic field.

Detecting this induced magnetic field confirms the presence of buried pipes. The strength of the induced magnetic field varies with the distance from the buried pipe, allowing measurement of the position and depth of the buried utility.

Other Information on Underground Pipe Locators

Selecting the Appropriate Equipment

The choice between electromagnetic wave radar and electromagnetic induction methods depends on the type of buried utility being explored. Electromagnetic induction is suitable for conductive buried pipes, while electromagnetic wave radar is versatile, exploring buried utilities regardless of material.

Buried utilities that can be explored using underground pipe inspection equipment include water pipes, gas pipes, electrical cable protection pipes, hume pipes, and others.

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Transformer Cores

What Is a Transformer Core?

A transformer core, also known as the iron core of a transformer, refers to the central component of the transformer.

Transformers are devices used to convert voltage to the required level when utilizing electricity. The iron core is situated at the heart of the transformer, with coils wound around it.

The iron core plays a crucial role in facilitating the passage of magnetic flux. When an electric current flows through the coil, it generates magnetic flux, inducing voltage in the coil by traveling through the iron core. Typically, iron is used for the core, although other materials may be employed.

For instance, using a magnetic substance called ferrite allows for the creation of an effective core for high-frequency currents. Transformer cores come in various shapes such as “E-shaped,” “I-shaped,” and “U-shaped,” with the performance of the transformer varying based on its shape.

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Tilt Switches

What Is a Tilt Switch?

A tilt switch is a device used to detect inclination or tilt.

When the switch tilts beyond a specific angle, it toggles between ON and OFF states. Providing information only about whether it is tilted, tilt switches offer features such as cost-effectiveness, easy handling, and stable operation when compared to accelerometer or gyroscope sensors used for angle measurement.

A typical tilt switch consists of a rod-shaped tube electrode containing a steel ball. When tilted, the steel ball rolls, making contact with the opposite electrode, thus completing the circuit. Tilt switches are compact and versatile in terms of installation locations.

In the past, mercury was used in the steel ball, but due to its toxicity, production and import/export of mercury-containing devices have been prohibited. Alternatives began to be supplied in the 1990s, and by the 2010s, these alternatives became widely adopted.

Currently, tilt switches are used in applications such as fluorescent lights and medical devices. However, with the ongoing development of low-cost accelerometer sensors, they are poised to become alternatives to mercury switches in the future.

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Three Phase Surge Suppressors

What Is a Three-Phase Surge Suppressor?

A three-phase surge suppressor is a device used to protect electrical devices from voltage spikes.

It is commonly employed to safeguard the prevalent three-phase alternating current (AC) power circuits in modern power systems. These circuits utilize three sets of alternating currents transmitted through three wires, typically colored red, white, and blue, with a phase shift to the power direction.

Installed in distribution panels or control panels, the three-phase surge suppressor functions to prevent overvoltage and overcurrent when the power is subjected to abnormal conditions such as lightning surges or other voltage spikes. This instantaneous protection helps shield equipment from damage or malfunction.

When selecting a three-phase surge suppressor, it is crucial to verify the protection levels, such as the maximum current of the equipment to be protected. Subsequently, choose a surge suppressor with an appropriate voltage withstand capability and interrupting current. Using an unsuitable suppressor may lead to the loss of protective functions.

Additionally, pay attention to the environmental conditions at the installation site to ensure optimal performance.

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Speed Detectors

What Is a Speed Detector?

A speed detector, also known as a speed sensor, is a device designed to detect the speed of a target object.

It is utilized to measure how fast a target object is moving, and many products can transmit this information to control systems or displays. Speed detectors are commonly installed and used in vehicles and machinery.

When installed in vehicles like automobiles, speed detectors assist in maintaining an appropriate speed, preventing speeding. This, in turn, reduces the risk of traffic accidents and enhances overall safety. Additionally, maintaining a constant speed contributes to improved fuel efficiency.

In industrial processes and industrial machinery, speed detectors are often installed to precisely measure operating speeds and serve as sensors to adjust control systems appropriately. This contributes to enhancing product quality and energy efficiency.

Applications of Speed Detectors: Speed detectors find applications in various fields. The following are some of the common applications:

  1. Automobiles: Speedometers in automobiles display the vehicle’s speed to the driver, aiding in adhering to speed limits and driving safely. Advanced driving assistance systems utilize speed detectors to measure the current speed, controlling the accelerator and brakes to maintain a set speed. This reduces the need for frequent acceleration adjustments, making long-distance drives more comfortable.

  2. Industrial: Speed detectors for conveyor belts are used in manufacturing and warehouse management to monitor the speed of moving items, improving efficiency. In the printing industry, speed sensors are employed in printing machines to adjust the printing speed accurately, producing high-quality prints.

  3. Aircraft and Maritime: Speed information obtained through aircraft speed detectors significantly influences the aircraft’s attitude and control during flight, contributing to safe piloting. Maritime speed sensors monitor a vessel’s speed, affecting navigation planning and the vessel’s overall safety, particularly when approaching navigational charts or ports.

  4. Railway: Speed detectors measure the speed of railway vehicles, aiding in managing train operations and safety. This allows for the precise adherence to schedules while safely transporting passengers or cargo.

Principle of Speed Detectors: Speed detectors use various principles to measure the speed of a target object. Commonly employed principles include ultrasonics, optical reflection, and electromagnetic induction.

  1. Ultrasonics: Ultrasonic speed detectors transmit ultrasonic pulses to the target object and measure the time it takes for the pulse to be reflected back. The speed of the target object is determined by calculating the distance traveled by the reflected pulse over time. Ultrasonic speed sensors are often used for non-contact speed measurement, applied in scenarios such as liquid flow speed measurement and object position tracking.

  2. Optical: Optical speed detectors detect the pattern of light reflected from the surface of an object to measure its speed. Consisting of a light source and a light receiver, these sensors shine light onto the object’s surface and receive the reflected light. As the object moves, changes in the reflected light pattern allow for the calculation of speed.

  3. Electromagnetic Induction: Sensors based on electromagnetic induction detect changes in induced currents generated when a metallic object passes by. Equipped with a sensor head containing coils, when a metallic object passes near the coils, it induces a current change. The variation in induced current is proportional to the object’s speed, allowing for speed measurement.

Choosing Speed Detectors: Several factors should be considered when selecting speed detectors. The following are key considerations:

  1. Operating Principle: Different speed detectors operate based on various principles. Ultrasonic sensors, optical sensors, and pulse sensors based on electromagnetic induction are among the options available. The selection of the operating principle depends on the intended application.

  2. Power Source: Ensuring an adequate power supply for the operation of speed detectors is crucial. Typically, these sensors are installed on conveyors and vehicles, often powered by a 12VDC battery. Selecting a product that aligns with the power supply constraints is essential.

  3. Measurement Range: The measurement range of speed detectors must align with the desired speed range for accurate measurements. If the sensor’s measurement range is too broad, there may be a decrease in speed measurement accuracy. Conversely, if it is too narrow, the sensor may not provide the necessary information. Checking the sensor specifications and selecting one that covers the required speed range is critical.

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Safety Mats

What Is a Safety Mat?

A safety mat is a specialized mat designed to protect individuals from impacts or falls.

By using safety mats, the risk of injuries can be significantly reduced. These mats are designed to absorb and dissipate impacts, thereby reducing the physical stress on the body during falls or accidents. This helps prevent accidents and injuries, particularly in settings such as sports facilities and children’s play areas.

In facilities such as elderly care homes and welfare institutions, safety mats are employed to protect seniors and individuals with physical limitations from injuries resulting from falls. Even in situations where falls are unavoidable, safety mats absorb the impact, mitigating the risk of fractures and contusions.

However, it’s essential to repair or replace mats when they are damaged, cracked, or show signs of wear. Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary if abnormal wear or dirt is observed.

Applications of Safety Mats: Safety mats find applications in various scenarios to ensure people’s safety. Here are some common applications:

  1. Sports: Safety mats used in gymnastics are deployed in gyms and gymnastic competitions. These mats typically have high impact absorption, mitigating the impact during landings while practicing jumps and maneuvers. Safety mats allow athletes to try new techniques and practice safely.

  2. Children’s Play Areas: Surrounding indoor play equipment for children, safety mats are placed to protect them from falls and impacts. These mats provide cushioning, assisting children in playing safely. Colorful safety mats are often installed on the floors of play areas to support enjoyable play.

  3. Elderly Care Facilities: In elderly care facilities, safety mats are often placed to prevent injuries when seniors fall. Given that falls are a common cause of injuries for seniors with reduced physical abilities and balance, safety mats play a crucial role. The mats absorb the impact of falls, reducing the risk of injuries.

  4. Factories: Factory walkways can become slippery due to oil leaks, and safety mats are laid down to protect workers. This prevents accidents caused by slips or falls.

Principle of Safety Mats: Safety mats are commonly made from high-density foam or gel materials. These materials absorb external impacts or pressure and disperse the energy. As a result, the force transmitted to the body during an impact decreases, reducing the risk of injury.

Common materials include expanded polyurethane foam, polyethylene, rubber, among others.

  1. Expanded Polyurethane Foam: This material combines softness with durability, making it a common choice for safety mats. It is widely used in gymnastic arenas and gyms, offering high impact absorption and moderate cushioning. Additionally, it is lightweight and easy to handle.

  2. Polyethylene: Polyethylene foam is lightweight and has excellent water resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use. It is used as a material for safety mats in pools and outdoor sports events.

  3. Nitrile Rubber: Nitrile rubber is resistant to oil and fat, making it suitable for use in the food processing industry and kitchens. It is slip-resistant and has high wear resistance.

Choosing Safety Mats: Consider various factors when selecting safety mats:

  1. Material: The material significantly influences the characteristics of safety mats. Common materials include expanded polyurethane, polyethylene, and nitrile rubber. Consider requirements such as impact absorption, water resistance, and chemical resistance when choosing the material.

  2. Paint Color: The paint color of safety mats aids in visual identification. Hazardous areas may use mats in distinctive colors to indicate specific work zones. Bright colors are commonly used for safety mats in children’s play areas and general walkways.

  3. Dimensions: Select the dimensions of safety mats based on the available space and intended use. Properly choose the length, width, and thickness to ensure the mats meet requirements without excess or deficiency.

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Outdoor Staircases

What Is an Outdoor Staircase?

An outdoor staircase refers to staircase installed on the exterior of a building.

As per the Building Standards Act, outdoor staircases are defined by the following criteria:

  1. The staircase has two or more open sides, and approximately more than half of its circumference is exposed to the outside air.
  2. The upper part of the handrail is at least 1.1m high and open to the outside air.

For emergency outdoor staircases, the exposed part in the open air must meet the following criteria:

  1. Ensure a distance of at least 50 cm from the neighboring boundary line.
  2. Ensure a distance of at least 1m from buildings within the property.

It is worth noting that the installation of outdoor wooden stairs for direct access is generally prohibited.

Applications of Outdoor Staircases

Outdoor staircases are used for general access and emergency purposes. In general use, they are installed in buildings such as office buildings and apartments. In single-family homes, they might be installed when there is a need to access the second floor or higher without entering the interior of the first floor.

Examples include homes with an entrance on the second floor or multi-generational homes where separate entrances are required. Additionally, outdoor staircases can be incorporated into design and aesthetics, such as installing a terrace on the second floor and an accompanying outdoor staircase.

For emergency purposes, specific conditions mandate the installation of outdoor escape stairs. These stairs, providing a direct route without passing through doors, are necessary for buildings:

  1. With 5 to 14 floors
  2. With 2 basement levels
  3. With the 3rd and 4th floors designated as retail stores with a total floor area exceeding 1500m2

For buildings taller than 15 floors, special evacuation stairs are mandated instead of regular outdoor escape stairs. Outdoor staircases prove effective as an evacuation route in situations where elevators malfunction or internal staircases are inaccessible due to a fire. However, buildings, especially tall ones, may require additional measures for wind protection, and not all cases strictly meet the definition of complete outdoor stairs.

Principles of Outdoor Staircases

General Outdoor Staircases

The Building Standards Act, Enforcement Ordinance Article 23, specifies the conditions that outdoor staircases must meet:

  1. Two or more open sides, and approximately more than half of its circumference is exposed to the outside air.
  2. The upper part of the handrail is at least 1.1m high and open to the outside air.

Outdoor staircases, defined as “landing edges and the like” in the Building Standards Act, fall under the same classification as balconies, verandas, and terraces. Generally, areas enclosed by external walls or columns are included in the building’s floor area. When calculating the building area, the measurement typically involves a 1m setback from the tip of the protruding part.

The term “open to the outside air” in the regulation refers to ensuring the “vacant dimensions to the adjacent boundary line” and “vacant dimensions to the building facing the stairs”. These conditions vary depending on the specific local government, necessitating caution.

Outdoor staircases with the following two conditions can be excluded from floor area calculations:

  1. The length of the open part exposed to the outside air is more than half the circumference of the staircase.
  2. The height of the open upper part of the handrail exposed to the outside air is more than 1.1m and exceeds half the height of the staircase ceiling.

Outdoor Escape Stairs

In the “Explanation of Fire Prevention and Evacuation Regulations for Buildings,” outdoor escape stairs must meet the following additional conditions:

  1. The open part of the staircase exposed to the outside air must be at least 50 cm from the facing adjacent boundary line (excluding parks and water surfaces) and at least 1m from buildings within the same property.

Furthermore, outdoor escape stairs are mandatory for buildings that meet the following conditions:

  1. with 5 to 14 floors
  2. with 2 basement levels
  3. with the 3rd and 4th floors designated as retail stores with a total floor area exceeding 1500m2

However, for fire-resistant buildings meeting certain conditions, the obligation to install outdoor escape stairs might be exempted for buildings with five floors or more.

Types of Outdoor Staircases

Classification by Use

Various types of outdoor staircases are available for different purposes. Representative types include steel stairs unitized with corridors for condominiums, residential stairs enhanced with louvers for safety and design, and small truck bars and platforms for warehouses and factories. Additionally, there are straight stairs for evacuation in nurseries and emergency slides.

Classification by Material

Materials used for outdoor staircases include aluminum, aluminum alloys, steel, and other materials such as precast concrete and resin.

Classification by Shape

Outdoor staircases come in various shapes, such as circular stairs, turning stairs, spiral stairs, and straight stairs.

Classification by Functionality

Some outdoor staircases are designed with enhanced functionalities like noise reduction and rust prevention.

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Live Centers

What Is a Live Center?

A live center (also known as Live Centers) is a rotating support tool primarily used in lathe operations to support the center of long workpieces, preventing the workpiece from deflecting during machining.

Lathe operations involve machining materials, such as metal, by rotating the desired workpiece while applying a cutting tool. Typically, a chuck is attached to the rotating spindle side to secure the workpiece.

However, when dealing with long-shaped objects, relying solely on the chuck can result in a cantilever-like situation, making it challenging to machine precisely. By using a live center for support, the workpiece can be securely held, allowing for efficient and accurate machining.