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Kevin
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Joined: 13 Apr 2004
Posts: 1346
Location: Eugene, Oregon
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 Posted: Thu Jul 02, 2009 1:39 pm Post subject: engineers are finding that in manufacturing components... |
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Note: Incorrect author shown due to system error
I just read some pieces...
One, there was a recent train wreck wherein a train was travelling in heavy rain, near-flood conditions, and it was suspected that "hydroplaning" may have contributed to the collision and loss of control. Can you imagine hydroplaning on a train car, just 3 inches of steel-to-steel contact and such massive weight, you can still hydroplane?
Second, engineers are finding that in manufacturing components, there was a false assumption that carbon fiber parts, when attached to aluminum parts, via some aluminum flange, that they would have the same performance results as aluminum parts attached to other aluminum parts, via some aluminum flange.
Not at all true. Something about, there are differentials in vibration capabilities, strength issues, heat expansion issues, that do not make them one-for-one performance compatible, and need extra support.
So this is where engineers from industry categories, can cross polinate their findings on life critical manufacturing details. Otherwise, we might have the "doomsday logic" of waiting till someone dies to find out why parts failed.
On that note, 25 years ago, I suggested that a sidewalk be built on Route 208 in New York, since I came around a bend on a shoulderless portion and nearly killed a teenager at night (dressed in dark clothes, only his white sneakers alerted me).
The answer given to me in deliberate disgust was "The State needs one more death to justify building a sidewalk. Unless another person dies, it is considered statistically safe!"
She was disgusted, and I am disgusted, of course. It could be our children, and everyone knew it was unsafe. Likewise, if engineers/designers of one manufacturer find out something unsafe about a new material, they should be required by law to share the information with even their competition.
Very valuable dialogue here, thanks to you!!! |
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