Advances in Materials and Manufacturing

The increasing use of high strength materials in various industrial sectors, such as automotive, tool and die, and aerospace, poses the requirement of appropriate machining techniques, which are capable enough to machine these materials. When machining these difficult to machine materials, along with the dimensional and shape accuracy, the efficiency of machining and economic aspects of the machining are paramount importance. The present study investigates the effectiveness of hard turning in machining of alloy steels over conventional turning process which required grinding as a secondary finishing process to achieve desired surface roughness. Therefore, this study is an attempt to bracket the range of input parameters: speed, feed, and depth of cut that affect the surface roughness of part in a complex way. The range of process parameters obtained through this study will be further utilized for detailed experimental analysis of hard turning of alloy steel. The preliminary investigation is carried out using one factor at a time approach (OFAT) where one process parameter is varied throughout working range of machine, while other parameters are kept at central levels.

Composites are a combination of two or more materials, each of which has unique desired properties that affect the absolute properties of the composite. The main goal of aluminum composite production is to improve the properties of the matrix material. Dry wear analysis has been conducted on LM13/B4C/graphite composite on a pin-on-disk tribometer apparatus supplied by DUCOM (TR-20LE). Response surface methodology (RSM) was cast-off for experimentation, and corresponding pin temperature has been calculated for the fabricated composites. Three input process parameters, namely applied load, sliding speed, and time, have been considered for the present effort. A mathematical model was developed to analyze the effect of the above parameters on pin temperature. The best presentation of process parameters has been assessed by RSM desirability. It has been established further appropriate for minimizing the pin temperature and delivering a concentrated desirability. Importance and relevancy of the proposed model has also been performed with ANOVA. The proposed model delivers more precise results and the wear performance with minimum pin temperature of the cast composites enhanced. According to the data, applied load had the greatest influence, followed by sliding speed and time.

The primary need of machining industries is to manufacture parts of the appropriate quality at a high rate of production while utilizing limited resources. Therefore, industries are working at high rate of feed and high cutting speed to increase MRR (rate of material removal) during machining. But, this type of machining increases surface roughness and generates cutting tool marks on the surface of the machined part. To overcome these problems, there is a need to optimize different machining parameters (cutting speed, cutting rate of feed, and depth of cut) at different levels, to enhance surface finish and increase the rate of material removal. For selecting the best optimum value for these machining parameters in order to lessen the impact on output, optimization techniques are used. The primary investigation of this study is to review the recent findings and developments in milling operations so that surface finish can be maintained. Additionally, the paper explored several cooling techniques employed in machining processes to improve surface finish outcomes. The review reveals that cutting speed had a greater impact on the surface roughness followed by cutting rate of feed and depth of cut. The cooling/lubrication technique has consistently yielded superior outcomes in several studies, since it effectively enhances surface finish and decreases tool damage by reducing the cutting temperature in the cutting area during machining.

The demand for crude oil is huge in the transportation sector, and due to the high rate of consumption, there are severe impacts on climate. Dangerous atmospheric deviation of the environment is considered another reason to reduce the dependency on crude oil and protect the atmosphere from harmful gasses. The future of electric vehicles (EVs) mainly depends on the country's charging infrastructure. In this paper, the present scenario of three charging technologies of EVs, conductive, inductive, and battery swap, are discussed. A few worldwide norms have also been discussed which are essential for the improvement of charging stations (CS). EVs penetration in India is slow compared to that of developed countries. India needs to adopt a practical charging framework to provide clear guidelines for charging stations, as this will enhance the utilization of electric vehicles. Examining the potential growth of EV charging stations in India is the inspiration for the study. In addition to that, the outcome of this paper gives information about the norm of prerequisites for CS. Finally, various Indian charging standards, which include both AC and DC charging, are compared on the basis of power, voltage, and current levels and the duration of the charging for each standard is discussed.

The role of composite material has become highly significant in both electric and hybrid vehicles, and one of the chief tasks is to minimize the weight of the automobile without compromising the build quality and also reducing the consumption of energy to the largest possible extent. Material with optimum mechanical properties like strength-to-weight ratio is considered to be the best option for the fabrication and design of lightweight components for automobiles. The present work focuses on the fabrication, microstructural and mechanical characterization of Al 6063-based composite which can be employed for components such as rim, motor housings and battery housings. In this study, Al6063/SiC/TiO2 composites were fabricated using the stir casting. Hybrid composite samples with varying weight percentages 3, 6, 9 and 12 of (SiC + TiO2) mixture were investigated. SEM and X-ray diffraction patterns were employed to examine the microstructure of the composites. The inclusion of SiC and TiO2 particles improved the grain size, hardness and tensile strength of base alloy, and the sample having 9% reinforcement showed optimum mechanical and physical properties. Pin on disk apparatus was employed to figure out the wear behavior of the hybrid composites. The investigation was conducted under varying load, sliding distance and sliding speed. It was observed that wear in the composites escalates with the increase of load and sliding distance whereas wear declined with the increase of sliding speed. The results revealed that hybrid composite possesses better hardness, tensile strength and wear resistance which makes it a suitable material in automotive sector.

Friction crush welding (FCW) is a method that utilizes friction to create strong bonds between similar and dissimilar materials. Several modern applications need the combining of dissimilar and similar materials via solid-state methods. In this work, the FCW between stainless steel (AISI—304) and low carbon steel (AISI—1015) was investigated experimentally to find the impact of selected welding parameters, specifically feed rate and tool rotational speed, on the bond strength of weldments. Experiments were carried out utilizing different feed rates (15, 30, and 45 mm per min) and different tool rotational speeds (2000, 4000 and 6000 rpm) for analysis. The output data are used to evaluate the optimal settings, and at 6000 rpm and 30 mm/min feed rate, maximum tensile strength of 300 MPa was attained. Tool rotation was determined to be the most significant component in boosting bond strength utilizing the technique. Increase in tool rotation leads to increased bond strength.

This study examines the fabrication method and different characteristics of fused filaments created for 3D printing applications. The filaments were produced by mechanically blending secondary (2°) recycled polylactic acid (PLA) with almond skin (AS) as the reinforcement. AS, an industrial by product known for its high hardness, strength, and thermal stability, was used to enhance properties of PLA matrix. The fused filaments have been manufactured using different twin screw extrusion (TSE) parameters—specifically load, temperature, torque to evaluate their mechanical and rheological properties. Results showed that AS reinforcement improved the melt flow rate (MFR) of the fused filament compared to 2°PLA. However, increasing the %age of reinforcement beyond a certain level led to a decrease in MFR. Additionally, the study explored the mechanical properties of filaments reinforced with 6%wt. AS, finding that a load of 10 kg, an extrusion temperature of 175 °C, and a torque of 0.3 Nm produced the optimal results for break elongation (5.2%).

Micro features on borosilicate glass necessitates its applications in micro domain for wireless transmission systems. Due to constraints of contemporary methods, ECDM is emerging as a feasible alternative for glass micro drilling. However, inadequate electrolyte coupled with feeble flushing in the processing zone deteriorates the surface smoothness of micro drilled glass vias (required for the packaging of RF-MEMS), resulting in the deterioration of transmission signal in high frequency wireless networks. Therefore, the current study provides the solution with Temperature cum Stirring assisted ECDM that utilizes a magnetic stirrer to improve the smoothness (i.e., to reduce the surface roughness) of machined micro holes. The response outcomes from this study shows that the synergy between electrolyte stirring and temperature plays a significant role in achieving good surface finish of micro holes, meant for glass vias. Thus, enhancing the industrial feasibility of the process.

As an integral part of mechatronics, MEMS technology plays a crucial role in fault detection in bearings and gears. It provides the essential sensing and actuation capabilities required for developing intelligent, efficient, compact systems for condition monitoring. Therefore, this research article is focused on developing a comprehensive MEMS-based framework for fault detection of gears and bearings using vibration signal analysis. The MEMS system includes a CPU (Raspberry Pi), STM32 MCU (NuceloF401), MEMS ADXL1002z sensor for vibration signal acquisition and a display screen. The framework leverages the synergy of mechanical, electronic, and computational components to achieve efficient fault detection and classification. Machine learning (ML) models employing Random Forest (RF), Multi-Class Support Vector Machine (MSVM), and Backpropagation Neural Network (BPNN) are used to analyse the extracted features from the vibration data. These three models are compared and analysed to determine their performance in classifying various types of faults and assessing the effectiveness of the MEMS-based system. The integration of MEMS technology with sophisticated ML techniques underscores the potential of mechatronics to enhance condition monitoring and fault diagnosis in rolling bearings and gears.

The conventional drilling process is a critical machining operation widely used in manufacturing, where the optimization of process parameters plays a significant role in enhancing efficiency, product quality, and tool longevity. This paper explores the application of human-inspired metaheuristic algorithms for the parametric optimization of conventional drilling operations. Human-based metaheuristics, inspired by human behaviors and decision-making processes, such as teamwork optimization algorithm (TOA), teaching learning-based optimization (TLBO), search and rescue optimization (SAR), human conception optimizer (HCO), and queuing search algorithm (QSA), provide innovative and adaptable strategies for solving complex optimization problems. For the example of the drilling process of polymer nano-composites, TLBO outperforms other considered algorithms and their optimization performance is compared concerning solution accuracy, variability, and computational effort. It provides improvements of 2.93, 1.18, and 37.35% for single objective optimization; and 2.39, 0.49, and 11.69% for multi-objective optimization, the optimal machining parameters’ setting for minimum delamination factor at entry and ex it and thrust force respectively against the observations of the past researchers. Metaheuristic algorithms are optimized by multi-objective optimization, leading to the computation of a Pareto optimum front that includes the optimized replies. Results of two quality metrics (spacing and hypervolume) and non-parametric statistical tests (Friedman’s mean rank test) also prove the superiority of TLBO against the other human-inspired algorithms under consideration.

This study investigates the impact of additive manufacturing on the mechanical properties of engineering components, emphasizing the optimization of fabrication process parameters. Standard specimens were fabricated and analyzed, with an experimentally determined maximum tensile strength (TS) of 39.574 MPa at a 0.10 mm layer height and 90° raster orientation. A genetic algorithm was employed to optimize the parameters, predicting a TS of 40.04512 MPa with a 0.12 mm layer height and 89° raster orientation. Experimental validation resulted in a TS of 41.34 MPa, representing a 4.47% improvement over the initial maximum value and a prediction error of 3.13%. These optimized parameters were then applied to fabricate the non-sensing encasing of strain electrodes using ABS material, ensuring enhanced durability and performance with a Fused Deposition Modelling printer. The finalized encasing, following post-processing, is ready for future testing as an embedded strain sensor. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of the optimized parameters in improving TS and their applicability in advanced manufacturing.

This article investigates the impact of the type of carrier medium, varying particle proportions, types of particles, and additive proportions on the sedimentation ratio as well as off-state viscosity of the synthesized MR fluid samples. The MR fluid sample comprising silicon oil as a carrier fluid, carbonyl iron particle with 6 mm average particle size (APS), 24% proportion of Fe particles by volume, and 2% ethylene glycol monostearate exhibits the best sedimentation stability. The MR fluid sample containing silicon oil as a carrier fluid, the electrolytic iron particle with 32 mm APS, 16% proportion of Fe particles by volume, and 1.5% ethylene glycol monostearate exhibits the best (lowest) value for the off-state viscosity. The value of off-state viscosity for all 18 prepared MR samples ranges from 0.284 to 0.612 Pas at a shear rate of 1000 s−1 & this rheological property exhibits a decline with a rise in shear rate. The optimal results obtained through the design of experiment (DoE) methodology have been validated using a confirmation experiment.

This experimental work aims to evaluate the corrosive performance of various NiCr-reinforced Cr3C2 coatings on boiler tube steel at a temperature of 700 °C. Coatings were applied using the high velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) method, incorporating 10, 20, and 35 wt% of NiCr into Cr3C2. The coated samples were subjected to a simulated boiler environment with molten salt at 700 °C, and corrosion parameters were monitored through weight gain measurements. Surface analysis of the corroded samples was conducted using different microstructure analysis techniques. All coatings on boiler steel exhibited resistance to corrosion under these harsh conditions, with 90 Cr3C2–10 NiCr and NiCr coatings demonstrating superior corrosion resistance.

Predicting the mechanical strength of 2 × 2 twill weave fabrics and inter-yarn hybrid twill weave fabric composites reinforced with natural fibres is the main goal of this research since it is essential for both manufacturing and practical applications. To achieve this, the study utilizes TexGen for geometric modelling and ABAQUS for Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to model and forecast the mechanical behaviour of hybrid natural fibre composites with polypropylene (PP) matrix under compression; the model offers a cost-effective alternative to costly experimental setups. A detailed Finite Element (FE) model of a 2 × 2 twill-woven fabric unit cell is created and analysed for various natural fibres, including flax, basalt, and jute, as well as their hybrid combinations. The study shows that the FE model reliably predicts the mechanical performance of woven textile fabrics, regardless of variations in material properties, geometric designs, and working conditions. Stress is mainly concentrated at yarn crossovers under uniform compression, impacting the fabric’s load-bearing capacity. Additionally, twill weave patterns distribute larger areas to bear external loads, resulting in broader warp-weft contact regions.

Electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) is the modern non-conventional method for machining conductive and non-conductive materials such as silicon, glass, ceramics, composites, quartz, polymer. In the ECDM process, there are various input parameters like pulse duration, duty cycle, applied voltage, electrolyte concentration, gas film formation, different types of electrolytes, etc. affect the performance of the machined surface. In this research paper, an experimental study on silicon wafer material is done by the ECDM process. By varying the applied voltage and tool feed rate (TFR), an effort was made to make a microhole on the silicon wafer. The experimental study has shown that a microhole has been made on the surface of the material at a voltage of 60 V. At a constant tool feed rate of 115 µm/min and an electrolyte concentration of 20wt%/vol, the experimental results in case 1 showed that MRR and radial overcut increase as the applied voltage increases. The material removal rate (MRR) and radial overcut both fall when the tool feed rate rises in Case 2, which has a fixed electrolyte concentration of 20wt%/vol and a voltage of 62.5 V.

The optimization of machine and crop parameters for removal of wheat straw from field is an important aspect of agricultural efficiency. Optimizing these parameters can greatly improve the harvesting process’s productivity, profitability and effectiveness. This paper designed Taguchi’s methodology-based experimental plan to optimize the machine crop parameters during wheat harvesting. Moisture content, forward speed, and cylinder speed were selected as input parameters, whereas field capacity, fuel consumption, and straw split were selected as response parameters. ANOVA was performed to obtain the most significant parameter during machine operation. The results revealed that the forward speed, moisture content, and cylinder speed significantly influenced field capacity, while the moisture content, forward speed, and cylinder speed primarily affected fuel consumption. The results demonstrated that the moisture content has the highest contribution to the combined straw split performance, followed by cylinder speed and forward speed.

Corrosion of boiler tubes at high temperature has been one of the serious issues resulting in maximum shutdown of boilers. Boiler tubes and superheaters are mainly made of stainless steel. In this paper, SS316 and Superni-718 have been used for comparative study of corrosion mechanism in actual husk-fired boiler environment. Flyash characterization has been reported in this paper along with SEM/EDS analysis of samples. XRD analysis has also been discussed to determine the phases formed on the specimens. An attempt has been made to develop a two-step corrosion mechanism for the corroded samples. The findings showed that for 800 h of boiler exposure, the minimum thickness loss of 0.29 mm was obtained for Superni-718 and so, minimum corrosion rate was also obtained for the superalloy whereas, SS316 showed an increase of 85.05% in the corrosion rate. Volatile oxides of chlorine and unprotective Fe2O3 might have been responsible for corrosion that had occurred in SS316 sample. In the case of Superni-718, formation of adherent oxides and protective CrMn2O4 might have been responsible for the high-temperature corrosion resistance. From the results, Superni-718 has proved to be more effective due to the formation of protective and adherent oxides.

Aluminium–silicon alloys are commonly used to manufacture automotive pistons due to their favourable strength to weight ratio. This project investigates how alloying elements affect the microstructure and wear behaviour of both eutectic (Al-12.6Si-2.3Ni-5.5Cu) and hyper eutectic (Al-18Si-2.3Ni-5.5Cu) aluminium–silicon alloys used in pistons. The alloys were produced through gravity die casting and subjected to T6 heat treatment. Wear and friction properties were assessed using a pin-on-disc tribometer at various sliding velocities (0.4–1 m/s) and normal loads (15–60 N) over a sliding distance of 500 m. Results indicate that wear rate initially decreases with increased sliding speed but eventually increases, with a critical sliding speed identified at 0.6 m/s. The decrease in wear rate at higher speeds is attributed to reduced contact time between surfaces. Additionally, the coefficient of friction decreases with increasing speed and normal load, while wear rate increases with higher load. Eutectic alloys exhibited lower wear rates compared to hyper eutectic alloys.

The industry for 3D printing is increasing rapidly due to its numerous advantages, including enhanced safety, cost-effectiveness, faster construction, reduced waste, complex geometries, and environmental friendliness. Mechanical qualities such as flexural strength and tensile strength are crucial when printing parts with variable process parameters for diverse applications. To optimize manufacturing processes, predictive models are essential; otherwise, the task can be costly. The tensile behavior of carbon fiber-reinforced polylactic acid specimens made by fused filament manufacturing is predicted using categorical boost, extreme gradient boosting, and decision tree regression. To determine their microstructural integrity, the specimens were subjected to stringent tensile testing and fractography examination. The resulting dataset was then utilized to gauge how well the machine learning regression methods performed. Layer height (0.1 mm, 0.15 mm, 0.2 mm), feed rate (20 mm/s, 40 mm/s, 60 mm/s), and raster angle (0°, 45°, 90°) were among the 27 possible combinations of process parameters that were examined. The results directed that the categorical boost regression was the most effective in predicting tensile strength, achieving coefficients of determination value 0.99. SHapely Additive ExPlanation (SHAP) analysis further highlighted the importance of each feature in tensile strength prediction.

Wire electrical discharge machining is a widely utilized non-traditional machining process known for its ability to produce complex shapes and precise components in hard-to-machine materials. However, optimizing the process variables to achieve superior surface finish and dimensional accuracy presents significant challenges. This investigation focuses on the optimization of process parameters in wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) with the objective of minimizing surface roughness. Utilizing the Taguchi technique, an L9 orthogonal array was employed to systematically evaluate the effects of critical process variables, including pulse on time, pulse off time, wire feed rate, and peak current, on surface finish. The signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio served as the primary analytical tool to identify the optimal parameter levels. The findings demonstrate that the selection of optimal process settings can achieve a substantial improvement in surface roughness, reducing it to a precision level of approximately 35 µm.

It is startling to learn that in the same country India there are states having water requirement met and produced much higher than the required levels prescribed by Central Public Health & Environmental Engineering Organization (CPHEEO) manual for drinking water . Concurrently there are states present in the same country or same zone that are struck by water shortages. Chandigarh City presently provides drinking water at 225 L per capita per day (LPCD) which is much higher than the 150 LPCD norms as per CPHEEO manual . As per the reports collected from the department of Water Supply and Sanitation Punjab which runs Punjab Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project (PRWSS) engaged in providing potable drinking water to the rural areas at 70 LPCD as compared to 225 LPCD of Chandigarh. Apart from this the neighbouring states are also struggling to meet water requirements for their agricultural and industrial purposes . Reused treated water comes as an option for such neighbouring critical areas. The data collected reflects that Chandigarh city produces tertiary treated water of nearly 216.20 million litres per day whereas some sewage treatment plants after rehabilitation will produce 31.78 million litres per day more treated water for Chandigarh. The use of treated water from one city to another would require a robust design, pipe line layouts and interstate water regulations. The case study here attempts to put light on the possibility that the reuse of treated water can be a boon for neighbouring states facing water crises in their industrial and agricultural areas. The graphs, charts, pareto diagrams and other required data tables have been prepared according to the data collected from the visits. The case study has been conducted by collecting data from the departments working in Chandigarh in water sector which showcase how the challenges to provide water to water shortage states can be mitigated .

This paper introduces an innovative alpha Stirling engine system integrated with a steam-based cylinder to optimize power generation. This system addresses inefficiencies of typical traditional Stirling engines, particularly the absence of compression stroke and the challenges associated with inadequate heat exchange on cold side. By incorporating a three-cylinder design that combines a compression and expansion cylinder with a steam-injecting cylinder, this system minimizes dead volume and enhances the efficiency of power generation. The synchronized operation of these cylinders, driven by a valve-cam mechanism, allows for precise control over the phase differences, resulting in optimized power output. This advancement not only improves the performance of Stirling engines but also contributes to more sustainable and efficient decentralized micro-power generation processes, potentially reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Straw reaper is an agricultural machine that performs the pooled tasks of cutting, threshing, and cleaning straw in a single operation. It is well-appreciated machinery in the farming sector because it clears fields faster for the next crop cycle by covering a larger area in a shorter period of time. Cutting straw in abrasive environments and at high temperatures causes significant surface damage to the cutting blade. This surface damage increases the machine's cutting costs and shortens the blade's life. To overcome this problem, the surface improvement of the straw reaper blade emerged as a substantial solution. The current study applied a cryogenic treatment to the blade material and evaluated it using a pin-on-disk wear test setup with Taguchi's L18 orthogonal array. The workpiece type, time, load, and sliding velocity were selected as process parameters and wear loss was observed as output response. The results revealed that cryogenic treatment improved the blade's wear resistance by 14.28% compared to an untreated surface, and ANOVA showed that workpiece type, load, and sliding velocity have a significant role in controlling the blade's wear behavior. The optimized parametric setting for the lesser wear was found as A2 (Treated workpiece); B1 (Load 15 N); C1 (Sliding Velocity 1.31 m/s); D3 (Time 15 min). The FE-SEM analysis revealed that the cryogenic treatment refined the grain structure, which improved the wear resistance of the material.

This review paper focuses on structural optimization and dynamic characterization of Nanoclay reinforced laminated plates made up of hybrid composites. By using shear deformation theory with higher order which bounds within a method of finite element formulation for surveys, such a governing differential equations of motion for such plates as well have been justified. The study aims to highlight the properties of composite plates like stiffness and damping which are crucially varies with different percentage of Nanoclay reinforced and different Nanoclay aspect ratios. As well, discussions have been done which gone through the finite element method upon comparing the natural frequencies in experimental results in variety of literatures. Additionally, the exploration effects of Nanoclay aspect ratios, Ply onboarding, Nanoclay, bounding conditions on the natural frequencies, and Nanoclay reinforced composite plate’s mode shapes are conducted by the way various parametric studies. Small fly configuration aspect ratios are identified by the research and formulating multi-objective optimization identifies the Nanoclay volume fraction. These issues are mainly aimed at reducing the modal damping factors and stiffness of the composite plates. Also, this research highlights the importance of Nanoclay reinforcement with the results offering valuable guidelines for designing the structures of hybrid composite plates used in aerospace and automobile applications. Likewise, study also focuses and shows the use of reference for the fibre-reinforced plastics to apply various devices and structures like various field components including automotive industries and aerospace, bicycle helmets, wind turbines, spacecraft, space elevator and solar panels.

In order to minimize environmental effect and maintain the long-term viability of our food supply, sustainable food production systems are crucial. Conventional farming methods have been a major factor in environmental problems such as soil erosion, shortages of water, climate change, and biodiversity loss. These issues endanger future food security in addition to harming the environment. To solve these issues, a shift to sustainable agriculture is essential. Sustainable practices promote approaches that are socially, economically, and environmentally responsible, thereby improving all four pillars of food security: availability, access, utilization, and stability. Humans can reduce farming's detrimental effects on the environment, protect natural resources, and increase the resilience of agricultural ecosystems by implementing sustainable food production systems. By using a comprehensive strategy, food production may be made to fulfil current requirements without sacrificing the ability of future generations to meet their own. In the end, sustainable agriculture aims to ensure a stable and secure food supply for all by promoting a positive link between farming and the environment. It goes beyond simply producing food. This paper explains how green technologies can support sustainable food production. Digital agriculture, urban farming, and food nanotechnologies are deeply explained and highlighted for promoting sustainable practices. This paper stresses on the need for sustainable practices that balances long-term food security.

This study looks into the density gradients in mixes of diesel and vegetable oil to determine how they might affect injection dynamics and combustion kinetics. The main emphasis is on how the vegetable oil volume ratio is increased in order to control the drop in viscosity and energy content that results from a reduced calorific value. Because fuels derived from vegetable oils usually have a high viscosity, mixing them with diesel can significantly reduce this problem. Optimizing the disintegration of fuel droplets guarantees enhanced combustion efficiency and mitigates the possibility of nozzle blockage. In order to maximize the effectiveness of these mixes, the study highlights how crucial it is to balance their viscosity as well as energy content. Through an examination of various characteristics of combustion of diesel–vegetable oil blends in an industrial fuel burner, the study seeks to offer guidance on how to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. The outcomes may aid in the creation of more economical and environmentally friendly fuel alternatives for applications in industry.

Industry 4.0, or the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is a technology revolution that integrates advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), cyber-physical systems (CPS), and the Internet of Things (IoT) to revolutionize manufacturing processes. This review paper examined the adoption of Industry 4.0 across various industries and geographical areas, focusing on its advantages, challenges, and critical success factors. The paper highlights key technologies such as cloud computing, IoT, AI, and CPS, which enable real-time data interchange, automation, and smart manufacturing processes. The development of Industry 4.0 from mechanization to digital and networked systems is reviewed, examining each phase's technical developments and how IoT, big data, and AI are used to build a networked ecosystem for better decision-making and operational efficiency. The paper also examines the essential elements and architecture of Industry 4.0, including physical assets, robots, PLCs, sensors, and data analytics. It tells the challenges faced which include scalability, security, and data quality, while advantages include increased productivity and efficiency. The paper also examines the implementation of Industry 4.0 worldwide, with a particular focus on growing economies and regions like Brazil, India, and Europe. Key success elements for Industry 4.0 implementation include visionary leadership, strong digital infrastructure, and trained labor. Challenges include long-term planning, knowledge gaps, and apathy, emphasizing the need for comprehensive solutions and stakeholder participation. The study emphasizes the importance of customization and ongoing enhancement in Industry 4.0, with mass customization enabled by technologies like 3D printing and IoT. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need to keep up with market and technology changes.

Resistance spot welding is widely utilized in industrial applications, particularly in the automotive and aerospace industries, due to its high quality and efficiency. This review paper provides a complete summary of the essential techniques and parameters that influence RSW. It digs into critical processes like Joule heating for energy production, nugget creation, and phase transitions. The impacts of welding current, electrode force, welding time, and weld quality are thoroughly explored. The paper also discusses the issues of welding high-quality materials such as steel and aluminum alloys, emphasizing the importance of clear visibility during the welding process in order to avoid defects such as spalling, voids, and fractures. Furthermore, the article investigates the significance of real-time process monitoring, variable control, and technological improvements in welding as viable avenues for producing consistent and high-quality welds. It emphasizes the important aspects that contribute to superior weld quality while also highlighting accomplishments and future research goals in the discipline.

Modern industries use traditional casting methods for fabricating various structural and engineering components. The cast components are often subjected to dynamic loading conditions and can fail or damage due to matching resonance conditions. Microwave casting has a novel heating ability that can change the dynamic properties of the structure. So it is important to measure the vibrational characteristics of the structural components after their microwave casting. On the other side, metal matrix composites (MMCs) are employed in the high-performance applications, including automotive, aerospace, and structural components. This is due to their superior strength and light weight characteristics compared to conventional metals. In this study, an experimental setup is designed to cast both pure copper and Cu-SiC powder MMC specimens using microwave energy. The casting is performed with a household microwave applicator operating at 2.45 GHz frequency and 900 W power output. The damping characteristics of the microwave-cast specimens are evaluated using experimental modal analysis. The study compares the damping characteristics of pure copper and Cu-SiC specimens and examines how varying the weight percentage of silicon carbide affects the intermolecular damping of Cu-SiC MMC. Results indicate that increasing the SiC content in the copper matrix enhances the damping characteristics of the cast MMC.

Microwave casting is an innovative method for melting and processing metallic materials using microwave energy. This novel technique offers green and faster processing with greater energy efficiency and less setup requirement compared to traditional methods. This approach can cast various cross-sectional shapes, including I, L, and T sections. I-shaped cross-section is a specifically designed cross-sectional shape with high specific strength. That is why it is widely used in numerous engineering applications such as for fabricating aircraft wings, fuselage structures, and automotive frames. Nickel-based alloys and metal matrix composites (MMCs) are preferred for aircraft and automotive components because of their strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand in extreme temperature environments. In this work, a simulation study is conducted to analyze the casting of nickel powder into an I-shaped cross-section using microwave radiation at 2.45 GHz. The simulation employed the COMSOL Multiphysics tool to develop a 3D Finite element (FE) model of the microwave-assisted casting setup. In this study, the impacts of different microwave power levels (700, 900, and 1400 W) are investigated on microwave hybrid heating (MHH) during the casting process. Comparative analysis at different applicator power levels demonstrated that higher power levels enable uniform and rapid heating of the I-section nickel cast, regardless of its complexity.

This research aims to improve the performance of solar dryers, especially during periods of low light, through the integration of optimization techniques involving phase change materials (PCMs). Solar drying is recognized as a sustainable method for preserving agricultural products; however, its effectiveness is often constrained by variable solar radiation. The main objective of this study was to develop a mathematical model with parameters that enhance the efficiency of solar dryers using PCM to regulate the drying temperature and boost overall performance. The research utilized both experimental and computational methods, including the creation of a mathematical model and CFD simulations. The key findings indicate that incorporating PCM significantly reduces drying time by maintaining a more consistent temperature within the drying chamber, even under low sunlight conditions. The mathematical model successfully predicted the dryer’s performance, and the simulation outcomes closely aligned with the experimental results. Additionally, the analysis of the linear programming problem (LLP) highlighted the significance of optimizing solar intensity to improve energy efficiency. In summary, this study demonstrates that solar dryers enhanced with PCM provide a practical and efficient approach to improving reliability and performance, particularly in areas with inconsistent solar availability.

Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is an excellent method of surface modification of biomaterials. The EDM method can change the microstructure and deposit bioactive materials on the surfaces simultaneously to improve biological responses by increasing MRR, microhardness, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and surface roughness. Additionally, surface modification through EDM enhanced the biocompatibility and adhesions of host cells. The main aim of this work, the one-variable-at-a-time (OVAT) method, is to evaluate the effective range of EDM process parameters for AZ31BMg on responses like material removal rate (MRR), surface roughness (SR), and dimensional deviation (DD). Experimentally, it is observed that the range of CP 2–6 A, Ton 150–250 µs, Toff 50–150 µs, SV 40–60 V, Pc 4–6 g/l, and cryogenically treated electrodes notably influences the response parameters.

Casting has remained the main industrial manufacturing process for many years. Casting performed through conventional processes results in excessive energy consumption and nonuniform heating. It causes waste of energy and materials, and most pertinent of all, they pose serious hazards to the environment. Also, the rules and regulations revealing the environmental concerns of the government have provided stimulus to investigate novel casting methods. Hence, the focus of all material processing industries has shifted toward the adoption of new technologies for environment-friendly manufacturing. Microwave casting is a newly emerging way of casting a variety of materials by making use of microwaves. It is an energy-efficient and novel manufacturing process. Microwave casting is mainly of two types, viz. in-situ and ex-situ casing. In this novel heating technique, material gets heated from inside, and heat is convected outside. Microwaves have been employed in different utilities like microwave sintering, enclosure, hard soldering, joining, drilling, and casting. In this domain, aluminum and its alloys, steel, nickel, ceramics, and metal matrix composites have been successfully cast using microwaves. In this research work, microwave casting of copper of size 125 × 35 × 2 mm3 has been done using an LG domestic microwave oven of rating 900 W with a workspace volume of 20 L having a pulsation rate of 2.45 GHz. Charcoal powder has been used as susceptor material and graphite sheet as the separator sheet.

This paper presents the design and analysis of the transmission system designed for an ATV intended for the SAE Baja competition. A two-stage reduction gearbox was developed for the all-wheel-drive vehicle, adhering to the regulations set by SAE Baja. The appropriate gear ratio was calculated to balance torque and speed based on competition requirements. The gears were designed, modeled using CAD software, and tested using analysis software. The study aims to demonstrate a reliable and efficient gearbox design suitable for competitive off-road racing scenarios.

Inflatable structures, composed of very thin membranes, have the unique capability to form intricate shapes once deployed. Their lightweight nature and low mass make them a preferred alternative to traditional solid structures, especially in the aerospace industry. This preference is due to their benefits, such as compact storage, ease of deployment, and cost-effectiveness, for specific aerospace missions. In this work, analytical formula has been derived for the deformation of an inflatable beam using mechanics-based approach. The validation of results is carried out by comparing analytical formulation with the deformation equations obtained from energy-based methods. Dynamic study is also carried out to find the natural frequencies of the structure. The mechanical characterization thus obtained offers a broad range of design possibilities by exploring different design parameters and providing active control strategies. This expanded design space enables the development of more efficient, adaptable, and advanced structures that can better meet the specific needs of various applications.

Basalt fibres, derived from volcanic rocks, have emerged as a highly promising reinforcement in composite materials due to their outstanding thermo-mechanical properties and environment friendly applications. It is known that addition of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) as a secondary nanofiller reinforcement significantly improves the tribological properties of polymer matrix composites (PMCs). However limited research is available on the effect of GNP on the tribological properties of basalt fibre-reinforced polymer composites. This study investigates the tribological characteristics of a symmetric basalt-FRP composite integrated with 1% GNP, utilising a pin-on-disc tribometer in accordance with ASTM G99. The frictional characteristics of the composite were evaluated under the dry sliding condition. This comprehensive analysis aims to elucidate the material’s performance metrics and assess its viability as a sustainable alternative to conventional tribological materials. The experimental data reveal the variation of following tribological parameters with time: the coefficient of friction, frictional force and wear rates. The results provide crucial insights into the composite's effectiveness in reducing ecological impact compared to traditional materials, thereby advancing the development of environment friendly composite solutions.

Hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) is widely used to develop lightweight nanocomposites for structural purposes because of its exceptional mechanical properties. Understanding the mechanical properties of hBN is essential for developing these nanocomposites, as these properties are greatly affected by atomic defects that naturally occur during synthesis. In this study, we conducted molecular dynamics simulations using a more precise reactive force field to explore the tensile strength of monocrystalline and bicrystalline hBN configurations. Our simulations revealed that in bicrystalline hBN configurations, the tensile strength decreased by 20% compared to monocrystalline configurations when the loading was perpendicular to the grain boundary (GB). This perpendicular loading caused an opening mode of fracture against the GB, resulting in early fracture. On the other hand, when the loading was parallel to the GB, it created a sliding mode of fracture against the GB, preserving the tensile strength of hBN. This comprehensive study on the tensile strength of monocrystalline and bicrystalline hBN is valuable for the development of nanocomposites for aircraft and railway structural applications.

This study presents the design of a passive cylindrical ring vibration isolator made from a viscoelastic material, with its linear isolation effectiveness evaluated. Nitrile rubber is chosen as a viscoelastic material for the rubber isolators due to its high shear modulus, which enhances energy dissipation and damping in the system. The ring is constrained at the top and bottom, with the bottom part is fixed to the base and the mass positioned on top. The dynamic properties of viscoelastic materials are characterized using a four-parameter fractional order Zener constitutive model. A static load is applied in the diametrical direction to the top of the ring. A finite element model is used to evaluate the displacement transmissibility of the viscoelastic ring under base excitation, considering different geometrical parameters. The results show that the isolator exhibits a relatively low vibration amplitude and a wide range of working frequencies, with its performance significantly influenced by the radius and thickness of the viscoelastic material.

In earthquake-affected environments, the need for safe and effective disaster response is critical, particularly in navigating unstable structures and conducting search and rescue operations. Rescue workers face significant safety hazards as it includes the risk of aftershocks. In such scenarios, robotic systems offer a promising solution, allowing for the safe execution of critical tasks such as removal of debris without exposing human lives to unnecessary risks. Traditional robotic systems, while valuable, often lack the intuitive control and adaptability required for such dynamic and hazardous conditions. This paper focuses on the design and development of a 3D-printed robotic arm with six degrees of freedom (DoF), which is remotely controlled via hand gestures, specifically designed for safe operations in earthquake-affected areas. The system uses a glove equipped with three flex sensors to manage the gripper’s movements and an accelerometer to control wrist and elbow movements. A prototype of this robotic arm has been constructed and tested to evaluate its performance across a range of hand movements.

In injection mold technology, family mold is use for manufacturing two or more plastic components in industry. Molding process is influenced by parameters like mold temperature, injection pressure, holding pressure, cooling temperature, part mass, runner and gate parameter, plastic melt temperature or combination of above, which affect component quality and molding cycle time. The control of molten plastic material flow within runner system is very critical factor for optimized part production. The current research is focused on manufacturing of four different parts (A, B, C, and D-all are alphabets) in family mold with two types of mechanisms, i.e., sprue rotating gear and cam and follower. This system allows the mold to produce any one or combination of two, three, or four components in a single go. Mechanism is used in mold for these switching. This work also focusing on comparative study of sprue rotating in one mold and combination of both mechanisms in another mold. And also studied about required fill time and effect of injection pressure in process on all molding conditions.

In the current research, hybrid aluminium composite of AA6082, graphene and TiC was developed using stir-casting. The varying percentage of reinforcements was used for the fabrication of hybrid composites. These reinforcement percentage varies from 1 to 6%. The two particulates, viz.: graphene and TiC were used. After the development of composite, the confirmation of elements and microstructure were made using energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The confirmation of elements distribution was also made with the SEM micrographs. The porosity and density of the developed composites are increasing with the increase in the weight percentage of the particulates. The density of hybrid composite increases from 2.62 to 2.85 g/cm3 with the increase in reinforcement from 1 to 6%. The porosity is also increases from 0.41% (for 1% reinforcement) to 1.47% (for 6% reinforcement).

In this study, we examined the water quality in Bathinda District, Punjab, India, focusing on its impact on human health and the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. Water samples of the last two years i.e. 2023–2024 were analyzed for physicochemical properties and heavy metal concentration, revealing alarming levels of contaminants. The results indicate that the water quality in this region in some parameters is alarming as approaching the acceptable limits for Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Calcium (90 mg/l), Magnesium (48 mg/l), Fluoride (1.05 mg/l), and Uranium (42.09 ± 10.00 µg/l). Contaminated or polluted water, when consumed directly or indirectly like when used to irrigate crops and vegetables, poses serious health risks such as cancer, neurological diseases, gastrointestinal issues, and renal damage. This highlights the need for sustainable water management techniques in Punjab, India’s agricultural region, which was once known as the “food bowl” as contaminated water negatively impacts human health directly and indirectly. In order to ensure clean water for agricultural practice and human intake, the study recommends utilizing sustainable water management techniques, such as periodic monitoring and water treatment technologies. This is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 6 and SDG 3 (excellent health and well-being). Thus, the SDG 6 is fulfilled by this work. The finding of this work stresses the importance of providing clean water for agricultural usage and human consumption.

Al-6061 is a lightweight metal alloy with good strength and corrosion resistance. It is widely used in the aerospace, automobile, and biomedical indus-tries. However, its mechanical properties can be further enhanced by reinforcing it with other materials. In this study, a hybrid metal matrix composite (MMC) was fabricated by reinforcing aluminium 6061 with silicon carbide (SiC) and an-imal bones powder (ABP). The MMC was fabricated using the stir casting meth-od, the mechanical properties of the MMCs were evaluated by tensile, hardness, and impact tests. The experimental results demonstrated significant improvements in hardness and tensile strength i.e. 17.1% and 32.1% over base alloy, while 10.7% decrement in impact strength with increasing reinforcement content. This paper concludes that SiC and ABP particles significantly enhanced the mechanical properties of aluminium 6061, offering potential applications in a different kind of industries, including automotive, aerospace, and biomedical.

In this comparative study, physical and mechanical results of microwave hybrid heating (MHH)-based joints have been compared. Two different experimental set-ups have been used, both being an extension of the original MHH set-up. Similar joints of SAF2507 have been fabricated in both the setups without any filler material. In the first setup, slots are cut into the insulation brick, wherein the specimens to be joined are placed. While in the second set-up, insulation brick is replaced with the ceramic wool, leading to reduction in overall assembly time, set-up labour, processing time, as well as production cost. Moreover, the second setup results in joints with enhanced productivity and cleanliness. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) studies were used for characterizing the physical properties of joints. The microhardness (428 HV) and ultimate tensile strength (292.84 MPa) of the joints was found superior for the second setup-based joints as compared to microhardness (417 HV) and ultimate tensile strength (252 MPa) for the first setup-based joints.

This study explores both experimental and theoretical aspects of a bubble’s terminal velocity as it rises through a confined channel using a Hele-Shaw cell. This cell, featuring two closely spaced parallel plates, creates a nearly two-dimensional flow environment. Understanding bubble dynamics in such constrained spaces is crucial for fields like microfluidics, chemical processing, and enhanced oil recovery. We use glycerine with varying viscosities as the working fluid and apply a sophisticated object detection algorithm utilizing Python and OpenCV to monitor the bubble’s centroid trajectories. This approach enables a comprehensive analysis of the bubble’s terminal velocity under different conditions, including variations in fluid viscosity and bubble size. The analysis provides valuable insights into how confinement and fluid viscosity affect the bubble’s terminal velocity. These results are significant for improving systems that require precise control over bubble dynamics in confined spaces.

Hearing loss, a prevalent condition affecting millions, often arises from disruptions in the complex process of sound transmission and perception in the human ear. This study aims to explore the mechanical impact of middle-ear fluid on auditory function using a lumped parameter model, simplifying the ear’s biomechanics into an analyzable system of masses, springs, and dampers. By simulating both normal and pathological ear states, the model effectively demonstrates the relationship between middle-ear fluid and hearing loss, offering valuable insights into the auditory system's dynamic behavior. This research highlights the practical application of lumped models in bridging detailed anatomical knowledge with audiology and the advancement of hearing aid technologies, supporting future developments in medical device engineering.

A piezoelectric actuator requires voltage for actuation purpose. In certain applications, like space, a source of voltage is not available. Recently, researchers have proposed the photostrictive actuator. This paper explores a composite material composed of piezoceramic menger sponge fractal shapes with square and circular cavity-based fibers of various orders, which are embedded within a soft and non-piezoelectric matrix. Numerical analysis is conducted to determine the effective properties of different hierarchical orders with circular and square-shaped cavities using the finite element method. The average volume method is used to simulate all modes of overall deformation resulting from arbitrary combinations of electrical and mechanical loading. Numerical study shows that menger sponge-based photostrictive composite provides higher actuation than the simple photostrictive composite.

The increasing demand for material handling solutions has led to the development of this hydraulic pallet loader. This project focuses on design, development and analysis of such hydraulic loaders. Pallet jack is frequently used in material handling tasks and due to their simplicity and advantages, employees often pull the pallet jack behind themselves. Analysis was done on push–pull force, discomfort and usability. Instead of, manual pallet loader, we have provided the system with a hydraulic cylinder so as to ease the use of loading and unloading. The design has the capacity to carry 1 ton of load. This project also focuses on finite element analysis of the model developed. This product can be used on the shop floors, also in industries, for moving inventory or raw materials from one point to another without any difficulties. Solid Works was utilized to create the model, and the simulations were performed on ANSYS. The results assured the design can handle the amount of load for which it is designed. Thus, Hydraulic Pallet Loaders offers a robust framework and development in material handling equipment.

Gears and gearboxes are employed in various mechanical devices; one of such is the Cycloidal Gear. This drive is exceptionally efficient for equipment that requires high-speed reduction or higher torque transmission. It is mostly applied in fields that demand precise output and large payload drives. As per the application, the cycloidal gearbox can be designed in SOLIDWORKS© with the help of formulas. The proposed gearbox has a total torque transmission ratio of 100:1 in single stage and a factor of safety of 5. Simulation of the cycloidal gearbox according to the specifications has been performed in the ANSYS© software. A comparison between the simulation of spur gearbox and cycloidal gearbox has been done. The hardness test and load test of the gearbox have been executed in a safe manner and noted down. The lifting capacity of the gearbox is the same as the spur gearbox, but it occupies less space and also has a lower input torque requirement. The fabricated gearbox can be employed in areas where high output torque, high precision, major speed reduction, or lifting of heavy objects are needed. This depicts that the cycloidal gearbox is safer, more reliable, and better than the currently used spur or helical gearbox in the industrial workshop.

Carbon nanostructures propose a promising solution for ballistic protection of human aids which has been possible due to its excellent mechanical properties and low specific weight. Many researchers have investigated the behavior of graphene under impact conditions and revealed exceptional properties in both energy absorption an energy dissipation through its volume. However, there is a limit reported numerical and experimental values, and they differ by large order of magnitude. With this work, we provide a new shoe sole design regarding impact force experienced by the soldiers due to the overwhelming explosive force caused due to AP mines. A finite element study is presented as evidence that gives a layer-by-layer design of a new military shoe that can substantially decrease the trauma experienced by the human skeleton with the assistance of a ‘deflector’ and corresponding layers of different thickness.

A governor regulates an engine's mean speed by adjusting the supply of working fluid based on load variations, using centrifugal forces from revolving balls. The balls rise or fall with spindle speed changes, automatically controlling the fluid supply to maintain speed within limits. This work is primarily based on Structural Design study using Mathematical Modelling and Simulation based on ANSYS Workbench, through recursive modelling. In this study structural integrity of a three-flyball Watt governor is compared with the two-flyball Watt governor. This study analyses the modern top-to-bottom design approach based on ASTM principles coupled with numerical analysis and Computer Aided Engineering to solve this modern-day problem. The results acknowledge the fact that the three-flyball version would lead to a reduction in the maximum stress produced at various parts of the machine and thus would be a better choice structurally, if not monetarily. The two-flyball version is designed to entail two 5 kg flyballs whereas the three-flyball version entails both three-flyballs with three 5 kg flyballs and three flyballs with three 3.3 kg flyballs. The result concludes that the three flyball with 5 kg flyballs each would turn out to be the optimum choice in case of longevity and structural performance.

This paper describes the design of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for a dive mission. The dive is completed autonomously in order to hit the stationary target. The dive control input is constructed with a classical Proportional, Derivative, and Integral controller. The design process comprises UAV sizing, performance, and stability studies. The flight performance and stability analyses are performed first to validate the design. The dive is then done using a PID (Proportional, Integral, and Derivative) controller. According to the UAV response and control input history, the current design is capable of conducting the dive, and PID can effectively execute the dive maneuver.

The rapid increase in use of lithium-ion battery-powered electric vehicles (EVs) has brought about new safety challenges, particularly in the event of thermal runaway fires. This project presents a novel approach to mitigate the risks associated with EV fires by developing a specialized fire suppression system tailored to the unique characteristics of lithium-ion battery fires. The system employs a carefully designed network of fire detection tubes which is strategically placed within the vehicle’s battery compartment. These tubes burst open when exposed to high flames and temperatures, ensuring rapid response and targeted suppression. By combining “Direct Release Fire Extinguishing Tube System” (DLP) technology with an efficient methodology, this project aims to enhance the safety and reliability of lithium-ion batteries of EVs while minimizing environmental impact. The research and development undertaken in this project will contribute to the ongoing efforts to make electric vehicles not only sustainable but also safer for widespread adoption, making a significant stride towards cleaner and safer transportation solutions. A prototype for the same was fabricated using a lithium-ion battery and DLP system. The pressure inside the detection tube was monitored and calibrated to the pressure of fire extinguisher. This setup was tested using a controlled fire in an acrylic composite box and it was able to extinguish the fire successfully. Through this prototype, we were able to obtain results necessary for further research and development of this project to install it in road EVs.

Supply chain disruptions caused by the prevailing uncertainty in the dynamic business environment have hindered supply chain sustainability substantially. This paper aims to determine and evaluate the most plausible solutions for financing the working capital needs of smart supply chains efficiently. DeMaTEL approach was utilized on the opinions gathered through expert interviews to understand the dynamics and interactions within the system. Factoring has been identified as the most pertinent factor. Additionally, Smart Contracts, Purchase Order Finance, Confirming, and Reverse Factoring depict causal relationships and are identified to have an impact on the occurrence of other factors. Through the use of visual aid, the study provides a structured approach to decision-making providing useful insights for supply chain stakeholders to improve supply chain sustainability.

In this paper, author discussed the overview of circular economy with reference to maritime sector including shipping, ports, and offshore activities, has a significant impact on the environment due to its energy consumption, emissions, and waste generation. Circular economy approach is not well-established in the maritime industry, which currently lags behind different transport modes. Applying the principles of the circular economy in the maritime sector can help mitigate these environmental impacts and promote sustainability. In this paper, application of circular economy in maritime sector and growth strategies was discussed. Furthermore, the use of latest tools like AI, ML for improving the productivity was also discussed by author also gave insight into sustainable marine operation through optimum use of resources, effective sharing of maritime resources, recycle, and reuse in maritime sector. Various new opportunities in the latest era were also discussed by the author.

Glass fiber-reinforced composite materials are broadly adopted in automobile, aircraft, and naval applications due to their versatile mechanical characteristics. Structures made up of such composites are usually flexible and prone to vibrational behavior under the influence of dynamic loading. The possibility of structural failure increases at resonating vibration conditions under dynamic loadings. In this context, the composite structures should be designed in such a way that the resonance condition may be avoided. The various parameters, while fabricating the composite structures, such as fiber volume fraction, fiber orientation, dimensions, and in-elastic properties, are important for its dynamic behavior. These parameters may influence the modal characteristics of the composite structures. In this paper, the influence of fiber orientation on the natural frequencies and its related vibration modes of the glass fiber-reinforced epoxy composite material is studied experimentally. The vibrating modes of the composite plate are visualized by developing a Chladni setup. It is found that as the orientation of the fiber varies from 0° to 45°, the mode shapes also change. This shows that the fiber orientation has a major impact on the mode shapes of the structures made up of composites. Also, the influence of fiber orientation on the specific damping capacity of the composite material is studied in the present work. It is noticed that the specific damping capacity of the material increases as the fiber orientation varies from 0° to 45°.

The Indian automobile supply chains (IASCs) are currently experiencing a significant shift as it adapts to the demands of the Industry 4.0 era, marked by the collaboration of several new digital technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (I0T), big data analytics and cyber physical systems, etc. This study delves into the complex challenges faced by different stakeholders among the supply chain units that consist of tier-1, tier-2, and tier-3 suppliers, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), dealers and service providers. Key issues identified include the financial strain associated with technology upgrades, concerns over data privacy and security, the ethical dilemmas posed by automation and the socio-economic effects on local communities. The paper also discusses operational challenges related to digitizing supply chains, adapting to the lean manufacturing cultures & Just in Time (JIT), managing inventory and navigating logistics. Furthermore, it addresses the economic pressures stemming from competitive market forces and the regulatory hurdles that stakeholders must overcome. By examining these challenges, the paper offers a thorough understanding of the obstacles to effective Industry 4.0 adoption within the Indian automobile industry. The conclusions emphasize the importance of strategic investments, strengthened cyber security, ethical labor practices and collaborative initiatives to facilitate a seamless transition to a digitally powered supply chain. Feedback and improvement ideas are also discussed identifying potential solutions and best practices.

The sliding tribological performance of AlCrN (Alcroma) and AlTiN (Latuma) coatings by PVD DC Magnetron Sputtering deposited on EN-19 balls has been investigated using ball-on-disc apparatus. Ball–on-disc tests were conducted at varied sliding velocities and by keeping load constant and vice-versa at ambient temperature without lubrication. The morphology of these coatings was evaluated by using SEM/EDAX. The results reveal that AlCrN coating has good anti-abrasive properties when compared with AlTiN coatings.

This paper evaluates the effectiveness and limitations of the reliability, availability, maintainability, and safety (RAMS) methodologies in the complex industrial systems. In many sectors, understanding and optimizing RAMS characteristics has become crucial in an era where system performance is paramount. The study examines how RAMS approaches have changed over time and examines their importance in ensuring the smooth functioning of complex systems. This also provides valuable insights into the historical context and present status of RAMS processes in both academic research and industrial applications. The numerous academic and scholarly articles of the past 20 years, books, journals, etc., have been critically examined to widen the study with a particular emphasis on methods for assessing RAMS procedures in various industrial applications and research fields.

High-performance electronics benefit greatly from the use of microchannel heat dissipation devices, which are sophisticated cooling systems that increase heat transfer efficiency by using microchannels. These devices enable for better cooling performance in situations where space is limited due to their small sizes and high heat transfer coefficients. In this work, 3-dimensional numerical simulations are performed to analyse the effects of varying aspect ratio (AR) from 0.5 to 1.5 in microchannels for enhancing the thermal performance of microchannel heat sinks keeping constant hydraulic diameter (Dh), within the range of inlet velocity (Vin) from 0.05 to 0.45 m/s. Additionally, the performance of circular microchannel is also compared with the rectangular ones having same Dh. The highest temperature difference between rectangular microchannel with AR = 0.5 and circular is 34 K at lowest Vin = 0.05 m/s and 11 K at highest Vin = 0.45 m/s. Circular microchannel shows highest average Nusselt number (Nuavg) and thermo-hydraulic performance at all considered Vin. For rectangular models, microchannel with lowest AR = 0.5 and highest AR = 1.5 show highest Nuavg and thermo-hydraulic performance at lower velocities (Vin < 0.25) and higher velocities (Vin > 0.25), respectively. According to this study, low AR at lower Vin and high AR at higher Vin in microchannels are suggested for thermo-hydraulic performance enhancement in microchannel-based heat dissipation devices.

The purpose of this research was to investigate the impact that near-field ground motion has on buildings of varying heights, including low-rise, mid-rise, and high-rise structures. Modelling a building with four stories, eight stories, and twelve stories was accomplished with the help of the SAP2000v22 software. The responses: base shear, drift ratio and storey displacement were found to be proportional to peak ground acceleration (PGA) in low-rise buildings, but proportional to frequency content of the ground motion in mid and high-rise buildings, according to the findings of a dynamic analysis that was performed on all of the models. Because of the normalized base shear, it was made abundantly clear that the influence of high PGA and peak ground velocity (PGV) decreases as the number of storeys in the building increases, while the influence of frequency content increases.

This study aims to verify the IS 1893: 2022 target time period for isolation bearing in a base isolated (BI) building (part 6). In SAP2000v22, a nine-storey 2D RC frame building was modelled for this purpose. Using “high damping rubber bearing” HDRB, BI variants for different target time periods—1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5 s—were generated. The fixed base (FB) building's modal time period was determined to be 0.64 s. The study discovered that while storey displacement increased over time, the rate of increase was found to have slowed. The BI building's response increased for target time periods of 1 to 1.5 s, according to the drift ratio (IDR) and base shear plots. However, for target time periods of 2 to 2.5 s, a significant reduction in the IDR and base shear was observed, as these time periods were close to the triple of 0.64. Therefore, this study confirms the target time period of the elastomeric isolation bearing under near field earthquake minimum criteria.

This paper outlines a comprehensive technique for the sensing and recognizing of faults in rolling bearings used in rotary machines. The methodology integrates time-domain features with a hybrid EEMD & DWT technique. Signals from both faulty and healthy bearing systems, subjected to a range of operating conditions, are decomposed using EEMD-DWT to extract meaningful features. To further evaluate the effectiveness of this approach, a comparative analysis is conducted by applying the same set of time-domain features with EEMD and the conventional discrete wavelet transform (DWT) methods. After feature extraction based on the reconstructed signals, the resulting feature sets are classified using three machine learning algorithms: support vector machine (SVM), random forest, and XGBoost. The performance of these classifiers in detecting different fault types and sizes is analyzed, and the classification finding across all techniques are assessed to establish the success of the proposed approach.

In developing countries, solid waste management is a serious problem. This leads to several issues such as air pollution, soil pollution, etc. Increased population and people's unawareness of solid waste management are reasons for such problems. Sometimes, there will be an overflow of waste in the bin or garbage collection is often not done at a time which causes a bad odor. This also leads to the rise of many pathogens which can cause many diseases. In India, two dustbin systems, i.e. blue and green are used for the collection of garbage. The green one is for wet waste and the blue colored dustbin is for dry waste. But, as most people are unaware of these, so they throw their garbage into any of the dustbins irrespective of their usability. The complexity of waste management increases in places like hospitals, where four or five dustbins are used. The present study aims in design and development of waste collection system with an integrated sorting mechanism. A sorting mechanism was designed and fabricated for metallic, plastic, and paper waste from mixed waste. Inductive and capacitive sensors were used in integration with programmed Arduino Uno to sort different types of waste. A Wi-Fi module-based alert system was also integrated with the bins so that overflow of waste could be avoided.

The ability of electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) to manufacture micro-features in materials that are difficult to machine, such composites, glass, and ceramics, has drawn a lot of interest. These materials are difficult to machine using traditional methods because of their great hardness, brittleness, or toughness. They are often employed in the aerospace, biomedical, MEMS, and microelectronics industries. By combining the concepts of electrical discharge machining (EDM) and electrochemical machining (ECM), ECDM is able to address shortcomings of conventional techniques. The assistance of ultrasonic vibrations to ECDM process enhances its performance by improving circulation of electrolyte and forming stable gas film. As a new machining technique, ultrasonic-assisted electrochemical discharge machining (UAECDM) appears to be used for machining non-conductive materials. This paper provides a brief description of the gas film formation in terms of bubble formation, its amalgamation and detachment, influential parameters of gas film stability followed by summary of investigations carried out using UAECDM.

Modern robot arms are capable of doing complex tasks autonomously with high precision. The availability of advanced features in a robot is suitable but that also increases the overall cost, which is a major driving factor in some applications. Fruit harvesting is one such application, where the cost is one of the major barriers to the ongoing development of robotic arms in agriculture. This paper shows a cost-effective robot arm that has been designed by selectively keeping only the required features and omitting the unwanted ones, along with some other changes. The developed robot arm is cost effective than the similar arms in the market and suitable for fruit harvesting and other such agricultural applications.

This study explores the mechanical behavior of sisal fiber-reinforced epoxy composites fabricated using hand-layup technique. Sisal fiber, recognized for high cellulosic content and abundant availability, was used as reinforcement, while epoxy resin as the matrix. Mechanical behavior, in terms of tensile strength, was evaluated for unexposed and environmentally exposed samples. The samples were exposed to five common environmental conditions such as kerosene, petrol, tap water, used engine oil, and soil and the effect of the exposure was analyzed over a two-week period. The unexposed samples demonstrated the highest tensile strength (86.425 MPa), while tap water exposure resulted in the lowest strength (36.9 MPa) due to fiber swelling and degradation. The exposure to other environments such as petrol and engine oil caused moderate strength reductions. These findings validates the potential of sisal fiber-reinforced composites for industrial applications requiring lightweight, sustainable materials, particularly in automotive interiors, construction, and packaging applications.

Bone tissue is like a blend of tiny building blocks, made up of both organic and inorganic materials. The organic part is mainly collagen, while the inorganic part is similar to a ceramic called hydroxyapatite (HA), found in vertebrate bones. However, HA, while similar to bone mineral, is not strong enough on its own for bone repairs. To address this, researchers mix HA with different polymers and strengthening agents to create composite coatings. These composites can help to improve the mechanical properties of the material, making it more suitable for bone repairs. Recent research focuses on combining HA with various polymers and cross-linkers to create better materials for bone regeneration. These composites are generally found to be compatible with the body. However, the results from human trials are still debated. In essence, this review discusses the latest advancements in HA-based composite coatings for bone repair, including the different materials used, how they are made and their performance in laboratory and clinical settings. It aims to provide a helpful overview for researchers exploring these materials for medical applications.

Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are highly valued in the automotive, aerospace, electronics, and sports industries for their diverse range of applications. However, owing to its anisotropic and abrasive behavior, the traditional techniques have become difficult to fabricate micro-holes in CFRP composite. These days, a novel hybrid technology called electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) is widely utilized to manufacture these kinds of materials in order to reduce this problem. In this study, machined micro-holes produced by the ECDM method on CFRP composites are examined experimentally and statistically. The experiments were conducted using the L16 orthogonal array proposed by Taguchi. There are four input parameters divided into four levels: concentration of electrolyte, rotational speed of tool, tool travel rate, and duty cycle. The output responses were MRR and hole overcut. The concentration of electrolyte and duty cycle were the most critical parameters affecting both MRR and overcut. The selected parameters were optimized using a multi-response optimization technique based on TOPSIS-Entropy. The optimal parametric combination for output responses was found at 35%, 480 RPM, 1.0 mm/min, and 90%, respectively. SEM images revealed that some damaged surroundings, heat-affected cone, crater were present on the machined surfaces at high duty cycle and electrolyte concentration.

Stainless steel 316L (SS316L) is commonly used in biomedical implants due to its mechanical strength and corrosion resistance, but its biocompatibility issues and potential for stress shielding remain concerns. Incorporating hydroxyapatite (HA) improves bioactivity, making SS316L/HA composites promising for orthopedic applications. This review examines fabrication methods like powder metallurgy, spark plasma sintering (SPS), and selective laser melting (SLM), emphasizing the effects of HA content and sintering parameters on composite properties. While HA enhances bioactivity, challenges such as decomposition and microcracking persist. Optimizing sintering parameters is crucial to overcoming these issues and achieving composites with superior mechanical performance and long-term stability for biomedical use.

Lifestyle changes, accidents, and poor diets have led to a rise in bone issues like fractures and osteoporosis, impacting quality of life for many. Tissue engineering (TE) offers a promising solution by enabling the regeneration of damaged tissues through biomaterial-based scaffolds that mimic the body's extracellular matrix. These scaffolds, with their porous structures and interconnected pores, support tissue growth and bone ingrowth. Polylactic acid (PLA) is frequently used in scaffold fabrication due to its easy printability, customizable strength, biocompatibility, and controlled degradation, especially with fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing. This technique allows for precise control over micro-and macroporosity, essential for cell attachment, nutrient delivery, and vascularization. Although achieving an ideal balance between porosity and strength is challenging, coating PLA scaffolds with bioactive materials that simulate natural bone surfaces has significantly improved scaffold properties. These enhancements address the diverse strengths and limitations of materials used in bone scaffolds. This review aims to provide valuable insights for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers on the application of 3D-printed PLA porous scaffolds with surface modifications for bone regeneration and localized drug delivery.

Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is a unique, noncontact type machining process that depends on electrical discharges to remove material from a workpiece that is conductive in nature. This is accomplished by delivering current to the workpiece by using a conductive tool electrodes submerged in dielectric fluid, resulting in workpiece material to melt and vaporize. Vibration-assisted EDM has proven to be an efficient method as vibrations enhance debris flushing from the spark gap. This research aims to utilize low-frequency vibration on an AISI H13 die steel workpiece during EDM machining. Vibration has been applied to the workpiece base, expelling debris from the sparking gap through the reciprocating movement of the tool along the Z-axis. The values of Peak Current has been taken as 5 A, 10 A and 15 A to evaluate their impact on material removal rate (MRR), surface roughness (SR), and tool wear rate (TWR) for AISI H13 die steel. Results demonstrate that applying low-frequency vibration during the EDM process improves MRR, TWR, SR.

Natural fibers have garnered significant interest from both industry and researchers for their environmentally friendly properties and contribution to sustainable practices. This study investigates the thermo-structural performance of a car dashboard made from natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites (NFRP), focusing on scenarios where the vehicle is parked directly under sunlight. Exposure to such conditions may affect the dashboard’s functionality due to the thermal loads experienced. A numerical simulation was performed to analyze solar radiation and passenger compartment air duct airflow affect the dashboard's temperature, tension, and structural deformation. The NFRP composite, with natural fibers as reinforcement and epoxy resin as the matrix, exhibited a minor temperature gradient under these conditions. The material's performance was evaluated using mechanical tests, which included tensile and bending tests, carried out using a universal testing machine (UTM). The results were compared to conventional dashboard materials, highlighting the potential of NFRP composites in automotive applications.

Friction stir spot welding (FSSW) has emerged as a viable alternative to resistance spot welding (RSW) for joining dissimilar metals like aluminum and steel, effectively addressing challenges associated with heat transfer disparities and thick intermetallic compound (IMC) formation. However, the issue of exit holes left by the withdrawing tool in FSSW can lead to stress concentrations and reduce joint durability. This study introduces an innovative exit hole refilling technique, utilizing Fe–Zn powder, which is consolidated through a pinless tool to improve weld integrity. The refilled joints were evaluated using metallographic analysis, elemental mapping, and shear-tensile testing to assess surface morphology, material distribution, and mechanical strength. Results demonstrated that the Fe–Zn powder refilling technique significantly enhances joint surface morphology and mitigates stress risers. The study confirms that optimized FSSW, combined with exit hole refilling, can provide superior performance in dissimilar metal joints, making it suitable for demanding applications in automotive and industrial settings.

The present study explores the process optimization for production of chemical-free and iron-fortified jaggery with focus to improve its quality and nutritional value. Traditional jaggery production has limitations in terms of quality, yield, high moisture and harmful chemical usage. The present study emphasized on development of scientific process for chemical-free jaggery production using optimal sugarcane variety, maturity harvesting index, better juice recovery with horizontal cane crushers, natural clarificants for removing impurities and tools for accurate striking temperature measurement. Further, the research also involved optimal production process for development of iron-fortified jaggery. For this, food-grade iron compounds, i.e. Ferrous Fumarate (C4H2FeO4), Ferrous Ascorbate (C12H14FeO12) and Ferric Ammonium Citrate (C6H8FeNO7) were used for fortification. Jaggery fortified with Ferric Ammonium Citrate showed highest acceptability with maximum score in terms of stability, taste, colour and texture. Bio-accessibility studies indicated that jaggery fortified with 2 mg of iron showed optimal absorption, while increased iron levels diminished absorption due to saturation and solubility issues. This study established an optimized process for manufacturing of chemical-free and fortified jaggery with enhanced nutritional benefits contributing to food safety and public health.

Spark erosion machine has significant impact for machining of harder work pieces, it was only option in industries to remove material from hardened jobs like die tools and press tools. This paper is about machining of Inconel 718 alloy with different techniques by spark erosion process. The limited thermal conductivity of hard-to-machine materials makes it impossible for standard twist drills to build highly precise micro components on them. Because of its exceptional strength at the highest temperature, Inconel 718 super alloy is utilised to make aeronautical components. Response parameters like surface roughness and material removal rate were observed for each and every kind of approach are mentioned clearly. It gives clear picture of recent studies of machining of Inconel 718 alloy by spark erosion process and also shows research gaps to explore more in specific by altering different input conditions to optimise the process parameters.

The Zinc has good properties in terms of bio-degradation and biocompatibility. Zinc was found to exhibit near-ideal corrosion rate in the biological environment. Keeping in view, biodegradable composite was developed by reinforcement of Fe, Ag and Mg powders through a stream of argon gas into the molten zinc via ultrasonic vibration-assisted stir casting. The mechanical properties of the composites were studied through various tests. The mechanical characteristics of the developed zinc reinforced with Ag, Fe, and Mg particles match the general requirements for a bio-absorbable material, according to test results, and it could be used as a substitute material for medical implants. The effect of parameters on MRR (mg/min) and TWR (mg/min) was examined experimentally during µ-drilling of hybridized Zn/(Fe + Ag + Mg) biodegradable composite to fabricate stents mini-tube on first drill EDM. The appearance of the drilled holes was also depicted in SEM images.

This study explores the application of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) methodology, specifically the Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control (DMAIC) framework, in improving process yield and energy efficiency in the glass manufacturing industry. Key challenges, including defects in glass bending operations, energy inefficiencies, and process optimization, are addressed. The study employs a combination of LSS tools such as Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Design of Experiments (DOE), and Kaizen to identify and resolve issues affecting production quality and sustainability systematically. Results indicate significant improvements in process yield, quality, and energy consumption, with reductions in defects like curvature deviations and blast head breakages. Energy efficiency was notably enhanced, leading to lower specific energy consumption and reduced production costs. The findings suggest that the integration of LSS can provide sustainable long-term improvements in manufacturing processes, offering both economic and environmental benefits. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the application of LSS in process-driven industries, providing a practical framework for achieving operational excellence and sustainability in manufacturing settings.