2012年2月15日星期三

A special gift for your special someone this Valentine's Day

ARIES (March 21-April 19): They are inviting, attractive, passionate and impulsive. This regal sign calls for something for the head: a cap, hat or hair accessory.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Lusty, discriminating and possessing a great capacity for love, Taureans will enjoy a gift card for a massage or a scarf for their beautiful neck.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Their key to love is mental satisfaction, so consider buying your warm and affectionate Gemini a nice pen, a diary or even a smartphone.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): This sign relishes security, so keep the home fires burning. Cancer treasures anything for the house - where they are romantic and imaginative.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): They give their all in love; they live on affection. A gift of theater tickets or a framed family photo would be perfect.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Virgos obtain satisfaction when others only dream. Give them books, finely milled bath soaps or a gift card to a health-food market.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Togetherness means a lot to this sign. Libras might say they want candy, but give them a heart-shaped box of unsalted nuts, costume jewelry - or even real jewelry.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Scorpios are intense in work - and in love. Give them a CD of romantic music to play in your presence, a mystery novel or sexy underwear.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): They are active, dynamic and fun - and have a sense of humor about romance. Take them on a picnic, horseback riding or to a sporting event.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): To earthy Capricorns, life without love is a routine, a duty. For them, only with love is life worth living. Give them a tree, a houseplant - or, of course, money.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Their grand mentality can contain all the emotions of the heart - and they are faithful. Consider giving your Aquarian a sweater or something for the computer.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): For this sign, love is all-engulfing and private. Give them fragrances, recite poetry or take them out for a special dinner near a lake or the ocean.

The ins and outs of copiers and toners

My office printer stopped working a few months ago, and I couldn't figure out why.
I changed ink cartridges. I ran cleaning and alignment pages. I reloaded the software. I could occasionally get some text printed, but that was rare.
Finally, I gave up and asked for help - no, I don't ask for directions while lost when driving either, until at utmost need.
The technician - a lady much smarter than me - determined the black ink cartridge was bad. No, the cartridge wasn't empty - I'm not THAT office equipment-illiterate. But it seems that when I replaced an empty cartridge, the new one was faulty.
More adventures with cartridges: Many years ago, working as an instructor for a technical college in South Carolina, I needed to make some copies in our department office. The copier, unfortunately, had run out of toner.
I pulled out the old toner cartridge and made ready to replace it - and promptly dropped the new one.
Fortunately, the new cartridge didn't break. Unfortunately, I did spill toner all over the floor. Toner, in case you haven't experienced it, is the darkest, stickiest substance known to humanity. The mess took me a good hour to clean.
What have I learned? First, "cartridge" is an evil word. Second, I'm letting other people replace them from now on. Third, this gives me a chance to talk about how copiers (and toner) work.
A copier is a relatively simple device - at least in the appearance of its output - but uses several different aspects of modern physics.
Toner isn't ink, but rather a fine power made from, of all things, a special kind of plastic. Colors come from various pigments - black being a blend of several.
Toner particles, which are very small, are stuck to slightly larger particles called "beads" while inside a cartridge. Each bead has a very slight amount of positive electric charge, and the toner particles, with negative charges, are attracted to the beads.
This therefore explains the mess when toner is spilled - individual toner particles are both tiny and sticky.
When making a copy, a bright light flashes and scrolls across the paper you want copied. This light reflects off your original and onto a rotating drum that is both positively charged and is covered by a photoconductive material.
The light kicks electrons off the photoconductive material, which then are pulled toward the positively charged drum. Thus, blank spots from the original are seen as electrically neutral, and don't attract any toner.
Dark regions from the original don't reflect light, and so their corresponding places on the drum remain positively charged. These regions attract the negatively charged toner particles. The copier heats the paper to fuse the toner particles in place, and your copy is literally hot off the press.

Pro bike: Denis Menchov's Katusha Canyon Aeroad CF

Former Giro d'Italia winner Denis Menchov returns to his Russian roots for the 2012 season after just a single year with the ill-fated Geox-TMC squad. His move to Katusha means he'll be competing on bikes from German company Canyon instead of his previous Fujis.
Menchov will likely have any number of Canyon's road and time trial bikes at his disposal this year but for now, his primary machine is the Aeroad CF – the same chassis that Philippe Gilbert (Omega Pharma-Lotto) rode to huge successes last season.
Canyon didn't design the Aeroad in the wind tunnel, instead focusing on building the frame with nominally aero tube profiles and minimizing frontal area. As compared to the company's more traditional Ultimate CF SLX, the Aeroad isn't as stiff either in torsion or at the drivetrain – particularly with the downsized 1-1/8 to 1-1/4in steerer instead of Canyon's usual OneOneFour fork – but it's still up to the task and clearly didn't seem to slow Gilbert down.
Frame weight is a touch heavier than the Ultimate CF SLX at just over 1,000g for Menchov's medium size – not an especially impressive number as compared to true lightweights but given the realities of the UCI's minimum weight rule, Katusha will still have no problem keeping Menchov's new bike right at that mark. Even with an SRM power meter, an SRM PowerControl 7 computer head, Elite bottle cages and Mavic Cosmic Carbone SLR training clinchers installed, weight is just 7.19kg (15.85lb), according to team officials.
Other key components include a Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 group and carbon bodied pedals, a Ritchey WCS aluminum semi-anatomic bar and forged aluminum stem, a Selle Italia Flite Team Edition saddle, an Acros integrated headset, and Canyon's own shock-absorbing VCLS carbon and basalt fiber aero-profile seatpost.
Menchov's biggest result came in 2009 when he won the Giro d'Italia but subsequent years have been less satisfying – he wasn't even able to contend last year's Tour de France as Geox-TMC didn't receive a wild card invitation. The Russian has publicly declared the Tour to be his main objective this year, however, so we can expect to see more of this Aeroad – along with Canyon's new time trial bike – later this season.

Carbon fiber in civil engineering applications 

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer- has over the past two decades become an increasingly notable material used in structural engineering applications. Studied in an academic context as to its potential benefits in construction, it has also proved itself cost-effective in a number of field applications strengthening concrete, masonry, steel, cast iron, and timber structures. Its use in industry can be either for retrofitting to strengthen an existing structure or as an alternative reinforcing (or prestressing material) instead of steel from the outset of a project.

Fiberglass hand lay-up operation

Resin is mixed with a catalyst or hardener if working with epoxy, otherwise it will not cure (harden) for days/weeks. Next, the mold is wetted out with the mixture. The sheets of fiberglass are placed over the mold and rolled down into the mold using steel rollers. The material must be securely attached to the mold, air must not be trapped in between the fiberglass and the mold. Additional resin is applied and possibly additional sheets of fiberglass. Rollers are used to make sure the resin is between all the layers, the glass is wetted throughout the entire thickness of the laminate, and any air pockets are removed. The work must be done quickly enough to complete the job before the resin starts to cure. Various curing times can be achieved by altering the amount of catalyst employed. It is important to use the correct ratio of catalyst to resin to ensure the correct curing time. 1% catalyst is a slow cure, 2% is the recommended ratio, and 3% will give a fast cure. Adding more than 4% may result in the resin failing to cure at all.[6] To finish the process, a weight is applied from the top to press out any excess resin and trapped air. Stops (like coins) are used to maintain the thickness which the weight could otherwise compress beyond the desired limit.

2012年2月8日星期三

Styling Hair Using Hair Accessories

Sparkling hair clips and dazzling jewel like accessories make hair look well dressed. Clips, ties, bands can hold hair neatly and preserve the well combed look for a long time. They aren't pricey and can be bought easily. Hair accessories are available in attractive colours and designs. Today, we will suggest a few fashion and styling tips on how best to use them. Take a look.
Fashion & Styling Tips Using Hair Accessories
1. Hair Clips – There are multiple varieties of hair clips available in fancy street shops. Bobby pins are used to clip little hair and hair claws can hold any amount. There are some clips that can be used only at the crown of head, some near the ear lobe etc. Bobby pins are versatile as they can are multi purpose. Chinese women fancy hair clips a lot and they are one of the biggest hair accessory manufacturers in the world.
When you plan to buy hair clips, you need to consider the length and thickness of the hair. Prefer blunt edged claws so that the clip won't chop your hair whenever you wear. Do not clip hair too tightly
2. Salon Clips – For thicker hair, salon clip are best as they are expandable and can gently hold good amount of hair. Many even use it to roll their hair on crown (head crown). For a casual look, many women prefer salon clips.
3. Hair Extension Clips – You might have observed stars changing hairstyles in every other movie so how is it possible? Well, there are hair extension clips used to attach and detach the amount of hair whenever required. For coloured streaks and braids, women prefer wearing artificial hair as it can be taken off anytime and clips are very useful for the same.
4. Hair Bands & Ties – However fashionable the clips are, the usage isn't as comfortable as the hair bands and ties. Bands and ties are for any hair type, they are soft, expandable and won't pain after a long use. Ties are very reasonable and come in any colour you ask for. You can also style your hair into a messy bun using ties.
Nowadays, you can find stone studded, feathery, beaded or sequined hair clips that can worn for a party, wedding or any grand event. Clips look best for straight/ soft curls. Frizzy, rough hair look even messy with clips so it is best to avoid hair accessories for such a hair type.
The length of the hair is never a problem as clips ranging sizes are available. Remember to take off all the hair clips/ hair accessories before you go to bed as it may twist hair when you flip sides in sleep and damage badly.

Recycled Carbon Fibers Save Money

A UK consortium has launched a new family of yarns and fabrics made from recycled carbon fibers that offer properties rivaling those of virgin carbon fibers but cost less.
The six consortium members -- Advanced Composites Group (part of Umeco Composites Structural Materials), Exel Composites UK, NetComposites, Sigmatex, Tilsatec, and the University of Leeds -- debuted the family of materials at the recent Composites Engineering Show in Birmingham.
The materials are the result of the consortium's recently concluded FibreCycle collaborative project, which developed technology for recovering waste carbon fibers, blending them with resins such as PET, and converting them into different types of materials. It recovered carbon fiber from all stages of manufacturing, and it developed reprocessing techniques within a representative supply chain.
The new carbon-fiber materials are continuous, highly aligned reinforcements, including yarns, woven textiles, noncrimp fabrics, prepreg tapes, and preconsolidated sheets. Like other commingled and blended materials, the fabrics are molded under pressure and pass through a heating and cooling cycle. Several demonstrator products, including press-molded automotive parts, have been produced. The commercial members of the consortium serve multiple industries, including automotive, aerospace, and industrial.
Composite laminates made from 50 percent recycled carbon and 50 percent recycled PET, measured by weight, can deliver at least 90 percent of the tensile modulus, or stiffness, and 50 percent of the tensile strength of an equivalent composite made from virgin fibers.
"The properties achieved mean that" the materials are "suitable for many applications, especially in the automotive, aerospace, sports and leisure, medical and energy sectors," Dr. Sophie Cozien-Cazuc, FiberCycle project director and collaborative R&T project manager for Umeco Composites Structural Materials, said in a press release. Though these new fibers and fabrics have almost the same stiffness as virgin materials, the carbon-fiber feedstock on which they are based costs less than virgin fibers and fabrics would.

Facts About Recycling Toner Cartridges

Toner cartridges can make up a large part of an office supply budget, and contribute significantly to office waste. Recycling toner cartridges and using recycled toner cartridges can address both of these issues. Many states, have guidelines in place regarding the disposal and purchase of toner cartridges. Some, including California, require that a certain percentage of toner cartridges meet standards for recycled content.
Components
Toner cartridges weigh about three pounds and are made up of 40 percent plastic, 40 percent metal and 20 percent foam, paper, rubber and toner. Cartridges aren't recycled like many other products, which are melted or otherwise changed to create new products. Toner cartridges are reconditioned and refilled. Up to 97 percent of the components of a toner cartridge can be recycled.
History
When the recycling of toner cartridges began, companies used a "drill and fill" method. This involved drilling a hole in the cartridge and refilling it, without regard for the condition of the cartridge. This led to ink leaks and damage to printers, earning recycled cartridges a bad reputation.
Quality Control
Recycled toner cartridges are now generally as high-quality as new toner cartridges. When the cartridges are recycled, they are disassembled and inspected, and any worn or damaged parts are replaced. All parts are thoroughly cleaned and the cartridge is filled with new toner before it is sealed and packaged for resale. Before buying a recycled printer cartridge, make sure it is produced by a reputable company and meets the specifications for remanufactured cartridges.
Some printer makers recommend not using recycled cartridges in their machines. Some of these manufacturers void the warranty on the printer or copier for damage caused by any cartridges other than the new ones recommended by the manufacturer.
Economics
Recycled toner cartridges run 30 to 50 percent less expensive than new cartridges. This cost reduction comes from not having to buy and work with the raw materials for the cartridge. The cost savings are passed on to the consumer. This has added up to huge savings for large companies and state governments that have switched to recycled cartridges.
Environment
Every year, millions of toner cartridges are dumped into landfills or incinerated. Since they can take up to 1,000 years to decompose, according to Green California, these cartridges can add up to a huge burden for landfills. Most cartridges can be reused up to four times, so recycling even one cartridge may save four cartridges from ending up in a landfill. The environmental impact is not limited to the landfills. It takes about three quarts of oil to make one toner cartridge, so by reusing the cartridges, consumers reduce oil consumption too.

How to Refill Epson Ink Cartridges

Most Epson printers use several ink cartridges in order to print out color and black ink documents. If you need to replace an Epson ink cartridge, you can save money by buying and using one of the compatible refill kits available.
1 Buy an Epson ink refill kit. A refill kit gives you all the tools you need to refill Epson ink cartridges. Kits typically include a syringe, rivets, ink, and instructions on how to refill the cartridge. You can find Epson ink refill kits on the Printer Filling Station along with instructions for each specific model (see Resources).
2 Cover your workspace with a paper towel and fill up the syringe with the ink color you need. Epson refill kits will either include black ink or the color combination cyan, yellow and magenta. On average, you'll need 10 ml of black ink or 5 ml of color ink for Epson ink cartridges.
3 Find the rubber seals on the back of the Epson ink cartridge. Insert the rivets into each seal.
4 Empty the contents of the syringe into the Epson ink cartridge. You'll want to perform this action slowly in order to avoid spilling or overfilling the cartridge.
5 Remove the rivets. Use tape to cover the holes you made in the ink cartridge. Return the ink cartridge to the printer. Allow the printer to go through several print cycles in order to ensure that the Epson printer operates properly.
Related enterprises recommended:

Company name:Shenzhen lamborink Technology Co., Ltd
Contact us:Phone: 86-755-81768533
Fax:86-755-81724664
Web site:http://www.lamborink.com/
The main products: Dye Ink Pigment Ink

2012年2月1日星期三

Flirty Hair Accessories

Hot news for the upcoming spring season! These flirty hair accessory will add a modern and joyful vibe to your perfectly polished or messy locks.
Fashionistas just love to play with accessories from different style periods. These gorgeous headbands and bows offer them the chance to show off their refined and original style. Join the style armada in popularizing the hottest staples everyone can incorporate into a high-street wardrobe regardless of age and personality. Add a springsih vibe to your apparel with one of these ideas for flirty hair accessories.
To find out which of the recent trends suit you, be sure to take a closer look at our repertoire. After an amazing style update it is important to devote special attention to accessorizing. Now, it's the time to sport playful headbands and head wraps similarly to the lovely girls presented below.
Floral headbands come in a dazzling variety. If you're craving for a statement look, purchase some of the skinny headbands decorated with an oversized artificial flower. Tinted with vibrant or neutral shades, these hair accessories will attract immediate attention and give your look a Boho chic and romantic look. Embrace your feminine side and team up your breezy spring outfits with these faddish headbands. Channel your vintage or Bohemian goddess style ambitions into a versatile combination of a dazzling do and a chic hair accessory.
If floral headbands are not sufficiently revitalizing for your look, check out the new hair accessory designs presented below. Bows, fake plait headbands and head wraps will definitely find their way to your heart. Draw some inspiration from these picture-perfect looks and get innovative by sporting these hair accessories in a unique and glam way. Visit online and local stores to pile up on similar must have fashion items. Keep them at hand when it comes to complementing your casual or formal chic ensembles with an extra wow factor.

The increased demand for high performance basalt fiber ?

The increased demand for high performance and environmentally friendly materials creates new challenges for producers. To improve products properties and cut costs of production, the leading companies on the market have to permanently search for new materials with enhanced characteristics.
One of the most prominent material to meet the challenge is high performance and inexpensive basalt fiber which is ideally suited for applications requiring combination of high mechanical properties, alkali/acid/water resistance, heat stability and environmental friendliness.
Successfully supplying Basfiber? products for auto headliners, car’s exhausting systems, brake pads and thermo insulation, Kamenny Vek is currently focusing on development of products for fiber-reinforced thermoplastics.
We will be proud to provide our visitors with any information about our products and discuss possibility of using basalt fiber in their projects.

How to Refill a Brother Printer Ink Cartridge

Brother makes a large assortment of printers for you choose from. One of the only downfalls about a Brother printer is the cost of the ink for it. You can spend a fortune on purchasing ink for your printer, but you do not have to. One of the easiest and cheapest ways to cut down on the cost of printer ink is to refill your Brother printer cartridges yourself. This will save you a lot of money.
1 Establish your Brother printer ink requirements. You must be exact on which model of printer you have. The assorted varieties of Brother printers use dissimilar ink cartridges and refill kits. For this reason, you have to confirm the model and/or the precise ink cartridge required. This information should be on either the front, top, side or back of your Brother printer. You can also find it in your manual or on the actual ink cartridges. Remember the Brother printer's specific name and ink cartridge number(s).
2 Obtain your Brother printer refill kit. Get a refill kit that will work specifically with your Brother printer model. The ink cartridges of the different printers are frequently dissimilar; therefore, the Brother printer refill kits may be also. The kits include precise tools essential for every type of cartridge and you need to have the one for your exact Brother printer.
3 Understand the refill directions. The refill kit will include thorough directions on how to correctly refill the ink cartridge. It is very important that you know every part of the instructions first. Review areas of the instructions another time that you do not grasp the first time.
4 Organize your work area. If this is the first time you ever attempted refilling ink cartridges, you need to understand that this process can turn into a very messy task. You should place several layers of newspaper on a flat surface, be dressed in an old shirt and wear some rubber gloves. Set the kit's contents on the newspaper and have a roll of paper towels close at hand to clean any spills.
5 Refill your Brother printer ink cartridges. Take out the ink cartridges. Each model could vary slightly, but the fundamental process of refilling the cartridges will consist of creating a hole in the cartridge with a tiny tool supplied, or widening an accessible hole or by means of taking off a cover over a hole. Use the syringes supplied to gradually refill the Brother ink cartridge. Do not allow the ink to overflow. Cover the hole with a cover or apply scotch tape. Reinsert the cartridge into the printer.