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Science, Maths & Technology
Low pressure sand casting
To reduce porosity in the cast 3D component, molten metal is poured slowly, to avoid turbulence, into a holding furnace. The molten metal is then gravity fed upwards, through a riser tube, and into a sand mould to solidify.
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Science, Maths & Technology
"V" Process (Vacuum sealed moulding process)
Plastic films and sand are sculpted over a pattern using heat, vibration and vacuum to form a mould in the shape of the component to be cast. Suction by vacuum is used to hold the mould in place until the molten metal has solidified.
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Science, Maths & Technology
Sand casting
Sand is used as the mould material. Sand is compacted round a pattern, into a two part mould, to form a cavity in the shape of the component to be cast.
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Science, Maths & Technology
Injection moulding
A process where polymer pellets are melted, then hydraulically injected into a mould to solidify into 3D thermoplastic components.
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Science, Maths & Technology
What part did citizen science play in hurricane disaster relief?
The Caribbean was hit by two powerful hurricanes in quick succession - Irma and Maria. Citizen scientists were amongst those who swung into action to help, explains Rebekah Yore.
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Science, Maths & Technology
Why is discovering gravitational waves from a neutron star collision a big deal?
Scientists have detected gravitational waves by the violent collision of two huge stars weighing more than the sun and more than 100m light years from the Earth. Here's why it matters.
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Science, Maths & Technology
Exploring comets: A short introduction
As Rosetta brings us more knowledge of what comets are, Dave Rothery celebrates a growing understanding of these hurtling space rocks.
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Health, Sports & Psychology
Why going dairy-free can hit your iodine levels
Replacing cows milk with non-dairy alternatives can put you at risk of not getting enough iodine. Here's why that matters - and what you can do about it.
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Science, Maths & Technology
Uncertainty within the Realm of Statistics
Mathematician and tutor, Katie Chicot, questions the role of "certainty" within the realm of statistical data. She interviews Carol Calvert on the issue, following her talk entitled 'Data – love the uncertainty'.
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Nature & Environment
The Legacy of Nuclear Power: Part 1
How do local communities respond to the risks and opportunities of nuclear power?
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Nature & Environment
How do fire controls harm biodiversity?
Attempts to control human created fire in Brazil has seen a growth of dense forest - but it comes at a cost, reports Rodrigo de Oliveira Andrade.
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Science, Maths & Technology
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