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A simple catalytic device that is easily installed into vehicles, small engines, and industrial exhaust stacks is provided. The simple catalytic device has a ridged and stable backbone structure that withstands expected mechanical forces. In one example, the backbone is a highly gas permeable mesh or screen. A fibrous material is disposed on the backbone, with a catalytic material coating applied to the fibrous material. The catalytic device is constructed to be installable in an exhaust path, where it provides a catalytic conversion for non-particulate matter.
1. A catalytic device, comprising:
a fluid permeable backbone portion defining a plurality of apertures;
a substantially fibrous porous nonwoven material portion at least partially disposed on and adhered to the backbone portion, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material comprising intertangled refractory fibers bonded into a porous matrix;
the plurality of apertures and substantially fibrous porous nonwoven material forming corresponding exhaust channels; and
a catalytic material portion disposed on at least some of the fibrous material.
2. The catalytic device according to
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18. A catalytic system, comprising:
an exhaust path; and
at least one catalytic screen positioned in the exhaust path;
wherein the at least one catalytic screens further comprises:
a highly gas permeable backbone;
a substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material disposed on and adhered to the backbone, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material comprising intertangled refractory fibers bonded into a porous matrix;
the gas permeable backbone and substantially fibrous porous nonwoven material forming a plurality of exhaust channels; and
a catalytic material disposed on at least some of the fibrous material.
19. The catalytic system according to
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25. The catalytic system according to
26. A screening device, comprising:
a backbone portion;
a plurality of apertures formed in the backbone portion;
a substantially fibrous porous nonwoven material portion coupled to the backbone portion, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material comprising intertangled refractory fibers bonded into a porous matrix;
the plurality of apertures and substantially fibrous porous nonwoven material forming corresponding exhaust channels; and
a catalytic material portion at least partially covering the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven material portion.
27. The screening device according to
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The present invention relates generally to a device for catalyzing the conversion of pollutant gasses into non-pollutant gasses, and more particularly, to a catalytic converter device for quick installation or replacement on a vehicle or other like exhaust system.
Exhaust systems perform several functions for a modern engine. For example, the exhaust system is expected to manage heat, reduce pollutants, control noise, and sometimes filter particulate matter from exhaust emissions. Generally, these individual functions are performed by separate and distinct components. Take, for example, the exhaust system of a typical small gasoline engine. The small engine exhaust system may use a set of heat exchangers or external baffles to capture and dissipate heat. A separate muffler may be coupled to the exhaust outlet to control noise, while a catalytic converter assembly may be placed in the exhaust fluid path to reduce the concentration of non-particulate pollutants. Although particulates may not generally be a concern in the small gasoline engine, some applications may benefit from the use of a separate particulate filter. Due to space limitations, costs, and engine performance issues, it is not always possible to include separate devices to perform all the desired functions, thereby resulting in an exhaust system that is undesirably hot, polluting, or noisy.
Known exhaust systems are often supplied with catalytic devices to support non-particulate emission control. Due to the physical size, mass and reactivity requirements for these devices, their placement options are quite limited. Each device that must be placed adds additional design time, cost, and weight and also consumes valuable and limited space in the product. As emission requirements tighten, it is likely that more catalytic effect will be required, as well as further particulate control. In other engines, it has not always been possible to find a safe and effective placement location for catalytic devices. These engines, such as small internal combustion engines (ICE), are often found in on-road vehicles, off-road vehicles, motorcycles, lawn equipment, construction and mining equipment, small utility engines, and the like. Unfortunately, these small engines have not been able to fully benefit from catalytic technologies. Additionally, other pollution sources and/or areas where catalytic conversion of pollutant gasses could be beneficial include environmental cleanup, ozone reduction, industrial processes, gas compression, power generation, fuel cells, and the like. In many applications, there is a need for a flexible, yet highly effective method to catalyze and remove the harmful emissions. The ability to reduce noise pollution, as well as prevent injuries or harm due to excess heat generation is also desirable.
In both gasoline and (especially) diesel engines, a major pollutant is particulate matter (such as soot). Soot particles are small, usually ranging from an effective diameter of 10 nm to about 1 micron and above. While there are general EPA guidelines regarding overall particulate matter concentrations that may be emitted, there are also strict regulations regarding soot emissions from engines. Diesel engines produce significantly more soot than do gasoline engines, but with certain emission control systems included in the diesel exhaust system, the particulate matter pollution arising from gasoline engines may now be the same or worse. Additionally, older automobiles (also known as gross-emitters) have considerably higher particulate and non-particulate emission levels. In some applications where particulate emissions need to be controlled, diesel particulate filters, either catalyzed or uncatalyzed, in combination with other emission control technologies (such as a diesel oxidation catalyst) have been found to be effective.
Known catalytic systems do not effectively operate until a threshold operational temperature is reached. During this "light-off" period, substantial particulate and non-particulate pollution is emitted into the atmosphere. Accordingly, it is often desirable to place a catalytic device close to the engine manifold, where exhaust gasses are hottest. In this way, the catalyst may more quickly reach its operational temperature. However, design or safety constraints may limit placement of the catalytic converter to a position spaced away from the manifold. Since these catalytic converters are spaced away from the manifold, light off time is increased, and additional pollutants are exhausted to the atmosphere.
Certain catalytic devices, such as the typical honeycomb catalytic converters developed for the automobile industry, cause significant back-pressure, occupy large volumes to reach high conversion at large spatial velocities, and add significant weight to the vehicle. Unfortunately, other catalytic or filtering solutions are heretofore unable to withstand the harsh operating environments that are associated with these applications (i.e., vibration, shock, acceleration, temperature, thermal shock, acid or alkaline chemical environments, etc . . . ).
Many engines are in current operation with non-working, limited, or no catalytic converters. For example, many older cars have no converter at all, and those manufactured just a few years ago were required to meet exhaust standards much less stringent than current standards. Also, many vehicles have failing or under-performing emission systems. Some states have emission testing to identify these vehicles, and require that the vehicle emission system be repaired. However, most states have limits as to how much a vehicle owner must spend to repair the emission system, and if the repair would exceed this amount, the owner is not required to make the repair. Since emission system repair is quite expensive, many vehicles are allowed to continue exceeding pollution standards because no cost-effective repair solution is available. Similarly, school busses, trucks, and other diesel vehicles currently do not have any filters installed on them and there is thus the need for retrofit installation to meet current and projected regulations, reduce and reverse environments damage, and protect human life and livelihood.
Air pollution standards, particularly vehicle exhaust gasses, are coming under increased pressure from governments and environmental organizations. The consequence of continued emissions is well recognized, with additional regulations being added and existing regulations more aggressively enforced. However, reduced emissions and more stringent emission regulations may have a short-term negative impact on the overall economy, as additional monies must be spent to meet higher standards. Indeed, governments have been relatively slow to adapt tighter regulations, citing competitive and economic consequences. Accordingly, a more cost effective and efficient catalytic device may ease the transition to a cleaner world, without substantial detrimental economic effects. In particular, it would desirable to provide a cost effective catalytic device that is capable of easy installation on vehicles, small engines, and in industrial exhaust stacks.
Briefly, the present invention provides a simple catalytic device that is easily installed into vehicles, small engines, industrial exhaust stacks and other locations where catalytic conversion of exhaust gasses and/or filtration of particulates is required. The simple catalytic device has a refractive and stable backbone structure that withstands expected mechanical forces. In one example, the backbone is a highly fluid-permeable mesh or screen. A substantially fibrous nonwoven refractory material is at least partially disposed on the backbone, with a catalytic material coating applied to the fibrous material. In one example only the solid structural components of the backbone are covered with a fibrous refractory layer. In another example, the entire backbone structure, including the gaps between the solid portions, is fully enclosed within the fibrous layer. The catalytic device is constructed to be installable in an exhaust path, where it provides a catalytic conversion for non-particulate matter.
In a more specific example, the catalytic device is constructed as a catalytic screen. The catalytic screen is an essentially flat or planar device and includes a housing portion, a strong, typically rigid gas permeable backbone portion operationally connected to the housing portion, a substantially fibrous nonwoven refractory material portion disposed on the backbone portion, and a catalyst material portion adhered to the substantially fibrous nonwoven refractory material portion. The screen may be operationally connected in an exhaust path extending from an exhaust gas source, such as an engine, to the atmosphere to capture particulate matter and/or catalyze the conversion of pollutants in the exhaust gas into non-pollutants.
In another specific example, the catalytic device is constructed as a catalytic tube. The catalytic tube is an essentially cylindrical device and typically includes a housing portion, a strong and typically rigid gas permeable backbone portion operationally connected to the housing portion, a substantially fibrous nonwoven refractory material portion disposed on the backbone portion, and a catalyst material portion adhered to the substantially fibrous nonwoven refractory material portion. The backbone is typically formed as the main body of the cylinder. The tube may be solid or apertured/perforated. The tube may be operationally connected in an exhaust path extending from an exhaust gas source, such as an engine, to the atmosphere to capture particulate matter and/or catalyze the conversion of pollutants in the exhaust gas into non-pollutants. Exhaust gasses must thus pass through the elongated cylindrical portion of the tube as they travel toward the atmosphere.
In another specific example, more suited to applications where particulate trapping is desirable, the catalytic screening device is constructed as a wall-flow honeycomb diesel particulate filter or a doughnut-shaped wall-flow diesel particulate filter, wherein the walls of the substrate through which the affluent flows contain an internal backbone structure composed of rigid, structural material (such as wire mesh).
Advantageously, the catalytic device provides a simplified and cost effective means for reducing dangerous exhaust gases. For example, the catalytic device may be attached to a small engine, either as the sole catalytic device or to assist existing devices. In another example, the catalytic device may be coupled into an existing vehicle exhaust system, thereby enabling a cost-effective way to reduce emissions for existing vehicles. Also, the catalytic device may be constructed as a replacement part. This is particularly useful in an application, such as with 2-cycle engines, where the catalytic effect of original equipment diminishes over time due to expelled oil. Further, industrial and residential applications may also benefit from a simple catalytic device. Stoves, heaters, furnaces, evaporators, and other exhausting devices may be provided with cost effective and enhanced emission control. The catalytic device may be disposable or readily serviceable to remove debris resulting from oil, fuel, soot, or ash deposition. The catalytic device may be used as a retrofit device on equipment using diesel engines, such as mining equipment, trucks, power generators, backup generators, marine engines, agricultural engines, automobiles, and the like.
The catalytic device may be incorporated in series, parallel, or on within other emission control or catalytic conversion and/or filtration equipment, such as catalytic converters, mufflers, diesel oxidation catalysts, catalyzed exhaust tubes, catalytic combustors, incinerators, and the like.
These and other features of the present invention will become apparent from a reading of the following description, and may be realized by means of the instrumentalities and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. It is to be understood that in some instances various aspects of the invention may be shown exaggerated or enlarged to facilitate an understanding of the invention.
Detailed descriptions of examples of the invention are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be exemplified in various forms. Therefore, the specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to employ the present invention in virtually any detailed system, structure, or manner.
The drawing figures herein illustrate and refer to an exhaust system pathway that is specifically described as a component of an internal combustion engine exhaust system. However, it should be appreciated that exhaust pathway may be used on other types of exhaust systems. For example, the exhaust system may be for the petrochemical, biomedical, chemical processing, painting shops, laundromat, industrial exhaust, generation plant, or commercial kitchen applications.
Generally, a catalytic converting device consists of a host or a structural substrate support, and a catalyst that coats the support. A catalytic device contains the appropriate type and mass of support and catalyst so that it can fulfill a precise catalytic function. For example, it may perform a conversion function, such as the conversion of gases into other gaseous products, liquids into other liquids, liquids into gaseous products, solids into liquids, solids into gaseous products or any combination of these specific conversions. Generally, the conversion reaction or reactions are deliberate and well-defined in the context of a particular application, e.g. simultaneous conversion of NOx, HC, CO, conversion of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) to CO2 and steam, soot to CO2 and steam, and the like.
Referring now to
Generally, catalytic screen 10 includes a structural housing portion 12 to which a backbone support structure 14 is connected. A substantially fibrous, typically nonwoven refractory material 16 is disposed on the backbone 14. The backbone 14 may be a screen, mesh, perforated sheet, wire construct, or the like that is permeable to the flow of gas therethrough. Typically, the backbone 14 is formed from a structural refractory material, such as steel, a highly densified ceramic, or a cer-met composite material; while the backbone 14 itself is gas permeable, its constituent material may be impervious and substantially non-porous. A catalytic material 18 is disposed on at least some of the fibrous material 16 layer. The catalyst material 18 may be added during the formation of the fibrous layer 16, such as at the slurry or green body stage, or may be applied later at the finished body stage. Typically, the fibrous material 16 is disposed on backbone portion 14 so as to leave relatively large exhaust apertures or channels 21, although the fibrous material 16 may be sufficiently thick so as to leave small channels 21, or even substantially no channels 21. It will be appreciated that overall catalytic conversion efficiency and backpressure may be adjusted according to the density of support structure 14, the porosity and thickness of fibrous material 16 attached thereto, the degree of coverage of the fibrous material 16 over the support structure 14, and the type and amount of catalytic material 18 coated to the fibrous layer 16. Likewise, the characteristic porosity and/or pore dimensions of the material 16 may be adjusted to optimize the reaction of particular species with particular reactive agents/catalysts 18.
The housing 12 is typically ring shaped, more typically with a generally circular cross-section, and still more typically is sized for insertion into a generally circular cross-sectioned pipe so as to substantially intersect the flow of exhaust gasses therethrough. Of course, the housing may have any regular or irregular shape convenient for positioning in the flow of an exhaust gas such that the flow is substantially intersected and forced through the area defined by the housing and filled by the support structure 14.
The housing 12 may be made of a structural material, such as aluminum, steel, or the like, and may further include a pair of couplers 22 such that the housing 12 may be inserted as a joint between two sections of conduit 24 that make up a part of the exhaust pathway from the engine to the atmosphere 26. The couplers 22 are typically threaded with matable threading formed on the ends of the pipe sections 24, such that the pipe sections 24 may be threadedly connected to the housing 12 via the couplers 22. Alternately, the housing 12 may be welded into place in the exhaust path, may be snapped into place, may be held in place by an interference fit/by frictional forces, or by any convenient attachment technique or mechanism. More typically, the housing 12 and screen 10 are disposable, i.e., easily removed and replaced.
The backbone or support structure 14 is a gas permeable structure that offers little resistance to the flow of fluids therethrough so as to cause minimal backpressure when inserted into the gas flow of an exhaust system. The backbone 14 may have the form of a screen, a mesh, a donut, a honeycomb, a perforated surface, a plurality of interconnected, criss-crossed wires, a perforated tube, single or multiple 'hole' or gap' distributions, or the like and may be made from any convenient structural material, typically metal or metal alloy, but may also include coated metals, metal fibers or whiskers, cements, structural ceramics (such as cordierite, silicon carbide, mullite, zirconia, alumina or the like, typically prepared from powdered precursors), densified substantially fibrous ceramic materials, cermets, or the like. For lower temperature applications, plastics and the like may be suitable backbone 14 materials.
The substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material 16 is typically adhered substantially uniformly to the backbone 14. Typically, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material 16 is coated onto to the backbone 14 with sufficient thickness such that there remain gaps or exhaust gas channels 21 between adjacent coated portions of the backbone 14. (See
The substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material 16 coating the backbone structure 16 is typically made of a matrix of tangled (non-woven) refractory fibers. The fibers are typically chopped to a relatively short length and more typically have diameter to length aspect rations of between about 1:3 to about 1:500. Typical fiber diameters range from about 1.5 to about 15 microns and greater. Typical fiber lengths range from several microns to about 1-2 centimeters or longer, more typically exceed at least about 6 microns, and still more typically may range from about 1 to about 3 centimeters in length. Shorter lengths are typically more convenient for certain ceramic formation processes, such as extrusion. More typically, a bimodal or multimodal distribution of fiber aspect rations is used to enhance the strength of the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer portion 16. For example, the aspect ratios may peak at about 1:10 and about 1:90.
The substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material 16 is typically a refractory material, is more typically a metal oxide, metal carbide and/or metal nitride composition, and is still more typically made of one or more of the following materials: mullite, alumina, silica, alumina-silica, mixtures of alumina and silica, alumina enhanced thermal barrier ("AETB") material (made from aluminoborosilicate fibers, silica fibers, and alumina fibers), OCTB or HTP material (made from alumina fibers, silica fibers, and boron nitride), fibrous refractory ceramic insulation (FRCI) material (mostly silica fibers), zirconia, aluminum titanate, titania, yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG), aluminoborosilicate, alumina-zirconia, alumina-silica-zirconia, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, mixtures of the same, and the like. For example, AETB is an attractive material for fibers since AETB has a high melting point, low heat conductance, low coefficient of thermal expansion, the ability to withstand thermal and vibrational shock, good chemical resistance to corrosion and weakening, low density, and very high porosity and permeability. Alternately, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material 16 comprises ceramic fibers having toughened unipiece fibrous insulation (TUFI) and/or reaction cured glass (RCG) coatings, TEOS coatings, alumina-silica sol-gel coatings, cotronics coatings and other strengthening and/or thermally stabilizing and/or mechanically stabilizing coatings. The refractory fibers may be amorphous, vitreous, partially crystalline, crystalline or polycrystalline. Further, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material 16 may include an opacifier for improving its thermal insulation properties, especially its insulation from the radiant transfer of heat.
Example substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material 16 compositions include: (1) 70% silica fibers—28% alumina fibers—2% boron nitride; (2) 80% mullite fibers—20% bentonite clay; (3) 90% mullite fibers—10% kaolinite; (4) 100% aluminoborosilicate fibers (such as a homogenous mixture of 62% alumina—24% silica—14% boria); (5) AETB composition; (6) 90% aluminosilicate fibers—10% silica fibers (all compositions are expressed in weight percents); (7) 90% alumina fibers—10% clay; (8) 80% alumina fibers—20% colloidal silica. The compositions may be present as combinations of individual fibers (i.e., the 'mullite' of composition (2) may be present as alumina and silica fibers in a ration of four silica fibers for every alumina fiber) or as homogeneous fibers (i.e., composition 1 may be homogenous fibers of an aluminoborosilicate composition). Additionally, alumina, silica, zirconia, titania or the like may be added as sols, such as via dispersion, infiltration, dipping, or like techniques, to further densify the fibrous refractory material 16. The sol will convert to one or more stable ceramic material compositions (as a function of its composition) upon firing and will provide additional strength and structural support to the fibrous material 16 and may also act as a site for catalyst deposition. Alternately, the sol may contain clays that include silica, alumina, zirconia or the like. Clay-based binders such as bentonite, attapulgite, playgoprsite, montmorillonite, pyrophylite, kaolinite and the like may also be used in the forming process, added as dry mix or in a binder solution.
In one embodiment, the screen 10 includes a substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory matrix 16 is formed between a pair of backbone members 14. (See
Further, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory matrix 16 may be formed on one or more backbone members in discrete layers 46 (see
The fibers form a substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory matrix 16 and are typically sintered or otherwise bonded together at their intersections. The substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material 16 is typically at least about 60% porous, is more typically at least about 80% porous, and is still more typically at least about 90% porous. Alternately, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material 16 may be coated onto the backbone 14 with a porosity gradient, such that the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 is more porous (or less porous) adjacent the backbone 14 and less porous (or more porous) away from the backbone 14 (i.e., adjacent the exhaust pathway from the engine to the atmosphere 26). Likewise, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 may have a uniform and typically low density or, alternately, may have a density gradient such that it is denser adjacent the respective pathway component(s) 21 and less dense away from the respective pathway component(s) 21. This may be accomplished by varying the density and porosity of a single fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 composition, or, alternately, by forming a fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 from a plurality of sublayers, wherein each sublayer is characterized by fibers of different size, aspect ratio and/or density.
Typically, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material 16 is selected such that its coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) is similar to that of the backbone 14 to which it is to be connected. This CTE matching is desirable but not critical, since the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material 16 is fibrous and typically highly porous, such that there is some 'give' built into the material 16. In other words, compressive forces will first cause the material 16 to deform and not crack or fail.
The fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 may be formed through a variety of means. For example, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 may be disposed upon the backbone 14 through such ceramic processing techniques as coating, spraying, dipping, injection molding, compression, cementation, sol-gel application, lamination, solid or liquid phase sintering, vacuum forming, or the like. Alternately, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material 16 may be applied on a flat metal backbone 14, which is then perforated and either utilized as a substantially flat planar screen 10 or, alternately, rolled into a cylinder or donut shape for insertion into a pipe section 24. Still alternately, the fibrous layer 16 may be formed onto a backbone 14 made of like, but substantially densified, fibrous material.
Likewise, the substantially porous nonwoven refractory fibrous portion 16 may be formed to varying degrees of thickness. For example, the fibrous portion 16 may be formed as a thick, porous membrane and attached in situ to the backbone portion 14. Alternately, the fibrous portion 16 may be applied with sufficient thickness onto the backbone 14 so as to have more significant particulate capturing capability.
The fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 typically includes a catalyst material 18 at least partially coated thereon, typically coating at least portions of the individual fibers. The catalyst material 18 is typically chosen from the noble metals, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium (either alone or as alloys or combinations), and oxides thereof, but may also be selected from chromium, nickel, rhenium, ruthenium, silver, osmium, iridium, vanadium, gold, binary oxides of palladium and rate earth metals/oxides (such as Sm4PdO7, Nd4PdO7, Pr4PdO7 and/or La4 PdO7), certain perovskite-structured compositions, and the like. The catalyst 18 is typically a material that lowers the potential barrier for a pollutant to nonpollutant reaction (i.e., helping the reaction to occur faster and/or at lower temperatures). Since different catalysts 18 require different threshold temperatures to begin to function, the fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 may include more than one catalyst material 18 coated thereupon (either in discrete regions or intermixed with one and other). For example, the fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 may include a first catalyst material 18 that begins to function at a first, relatively low temperature and a second catalyst material 18 that activates at a second, higher temperature. The second material 18 may be added because it is cheaper, more chemically and/or thermally stable, has a higher top end temperature for catalyst function, and/or is a more efficient catalyst 18.
Typically, a washcoat layer, such as alumina, ceria, zirconia, titania or the like, is provided between the fibers and the catalyst material 18 to promote adhesion and to improve catalyst efficiency. Both the layer 16 thickness and degree of catalyst 18 coating on the fibers may be increased and/or decreased to tailor the temperature (i.e., the degree of thermal insulation provided) and catalytic activity (catalyst 18 is expensive, and thus it is desirable to not use more than is necessary for a given exhaust gas environment) of the exhaust system. The system 10 allows catalytic benefits coincident with temperature management to increase vehicle safety (such as by lowering exhaust system outer temperature), shorten light-off time, utilize otherwise wasted heat, and the like while simultaneously decreasing pollution emissions. The system 10 may be used in tandem with conventional and pre-existing pollution control methodology, or may be used alone to address pollution emissions from heretofore uncontrolled sources, such as lawn mowers. Since the screen 10 typically includes open exhaust channels 21, replacing conventional catalytic converters with one or more screens 10 reduces the complexity of the typical vehicular exhaust system (as well as its weight) and potentially simultaneously decreases the effective back pressure and cost as well.
The screen 10 may also capture particulate matter, such as via the porous nature of the fibrous material 16. In these cases, the catalyst material 18 may be utilized to facilitate oxidation of the particulate matter at relatively low temperatures. In exhaust streams with high concentrations of particulate matter, the fibrous layer 16 will be called upon to efficiently trap and store soot, ash, and other particulate matter contributions without significantly increasing exhaust stream back pressure. Further, the catalyst material 18 is typically selected to oxidize soot and ash as well as exhaust gasses; this may be accomplished via the judicious selection of a single catalyst material 18 or by selecting a combination of catalyst materials 18 matched to the various pollutants desired to be catalyzed. Since particulate filtration is typically a more depth-oriented process than non-particulate conversion, the catalyst 18 is typically applied not just on the surface of the fibrous layer 16 but also into the porosity extending away from the surface.
In operation, pollutant-containing exhaust gas from the engine 25 typically flows through the exhaust gas pathway 26, flows through the screen 10 positioned therein. The screen 10 acts to catalytically remove some of the pollutants from the gas flowing therethrough, such that less-polluted exhaust gas 27 then flows from the screen 10 to the atmosphere. Since the fibrous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 portion of the screen is typically substantially porous, diffusion forces urge the exhaust gas into the pores of the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16. The fibrous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 is typically thick enough to provide substantial surface area for significant exhaust gas 25 contact, but not so thick so as to significantly impeded the flow of exhaust fluids from the engine to the atmosphere and thus contribute to an unacceptable build-up of back pressure. Typically, the fibrous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 is between about 5 and about 10 millimeters thick, although the thickness may vary with exhaust system size, positioning in the pathway 10, and the like.
Typically, the exhaust gas 25 does not penetrate completely into the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16, since the diffusion forces are relatively weak as compared to the pressure differential between the engine and the atmospheres, thereby urging the cleaned exhaust gas 27 along and out of the pathway 10 and into the atmosphere. Also, the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 14 tends to become denser and less porous moving from its inner surface (adjacent the exhaust gas) to its outer surface (adjacent the backbone 14 portion), so exhaust gas is less likely to fully penetrate.
Due to the typically very high surface area to volume ratio of the screen 10, the exhaust gas transfers heat into the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16, which tends to quickly raise the temperature of at least the inner surface of layer 16 until it is in equilibrium with the exhaust gas temperature, since the substantially fibrous porous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 typically has a low thermal conductivity value. If a catalyst 18 material is present thereon, its temperature is likewise quickly increased into its operating range, whereupon the catalyst material 18 begins to convert pollutants in the exhaust gas into relatively harmless nonpollutant gasses. If the screen 10 is located sufficiently close to the engine, the exhaust gasses will not have had time to significantly cool, and the screen 10 may thus be nearly instantaneously heated to its operating temperature. Furthermore, the screen 10 may be preheated, such as by a resistance heater or the flow of electricity therethrough (i.e., the backbone 14 and/or the fibrous material 16 is the resistance heater) so as to further shorten the light-off time.
The screen 10 may be used with any source of pollutant fluids, such as gasoline and diesel engines, including those in automobiles, motorcycles, lawn mowers, recreational equipment, power tools, chemical plants, and the like, to further reduce pollution emissions therefrom. Further, as mentioned above, the screen 10 provides an additional function of trapping particulate emissions in fibrous nonwoven refractory material layer 16 for later burnout or removal. The system may be present in the form of an insert into an existing exhaust system 16, as an add-on screen 10 having couplings or connectors 22 operationally connected at one or both ends (see
Referring now to
In yet another alternate configuration, as illustrated in
While the preceding examples relate generally to screen devices 10 for the removal of pollutants (both gaseous and particulate) from exhaust gas streams, and more specifically to screen filters 10 for use with internal combustion engines, the screens 10 may also be used in a variety of other applications wherein fluids are desired to be treated or processed. For example, a screen 10 may be useful in low temperature catalytic air filtration applications (such as in vehicular cabin air conditioning/heating applications). Moreover, various fluids may be filtered through a screen 10, including liquids, emulsions, suspensions, potable fluids (such as beer, beer flavorants, wine, juice, water, milk and whey) laboratory grade water, wastewater, pharmaceuticals, medicines, and cosmetics. The screens 10 may be generally useful in the fields of chemistry, biotechnology, gene technology, environmental protection and in general laboratory work. Filters 10 may be utilized in cross-flow and other filtration units for the recovery of valuable material, for the separation of substances such as macromolecules and biomolecules, for the depyrogenation and sterilization of solutions, for the separation of corrosive substances from fluids, for the filtration and concentration of biological solutions, for the separation of microorganisms such as bacteria, yeasts, virus and cell components, for the desalination of protein solutions and other biological media, nano-materials, precious metals, catalysts, hot metals, and the like. By means of example, filters 10 may be utilized in such endeavors as Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, catalytic cracking and reforming, isomerization, fuel-cells technology, molecular sieves, shape selective reactions, biosynthetic reactions such as growth and repair of tissues, ozone abatement in high flying aircraft, nitrous oxide decomposition, low-temperature oxidation, and the like.
In an alternate embodiment, the screen 10 is incorporated into an emissions control system where active regeneration is employed. The temperature of the screen 10 is raised in a controlled fashion using techniques known in the art (such as by the injection of excess unburnt fuel into the exhaust stream, via electrical or microwave heaters, through pressure buildup, or the like) until soot caught in the screen 10 ignites and is substantially completely burnt off. The system could also contain control systems that would allow the onboard diagnostics computer to conduct thermal management of the exhaust system.
Another use for the screen 10 is as a component of a cross-flow filter. Cross flow filters utilize the preferential attraction or filtration potential of a porous material to separate two fluids (such as separating oil from air or water) or condensed matter (e.g. particulates) from a fluid stream. In a typical cross-flow filter, the inlet channels and the outlet channels run perpendicular to each other, and typically lie on a different plan from each other. The inlet and the outlet channels may contain blocks that would prevent easy flow of material in the channels. The walls of the cross-flow filter could be coated with a reactive agent 18, such as a membrane, chemical coating, or a catalyst coating. The role of the reactive agent 18 is to have a particular attraction/affinity for certain molecules or material and not for others. For example, a pore-specific membrane may allow smaller molecules to pass through the membrane but not larger molecules, thereby separating smaller molecules from larger molecules. In such an example, a mixture of small and large molecules could enter in a fluid stream into the inlet channels and as the fluid flows in the inlet channel, and over the separation membrane, the small molecules may diffuse into the membrane and emerge into the outlet channel where they could flow perpendicular to the inlet flow and be extracted at the outlet channels. The larger molecules will continue to flow down the inlet channels and exit at the other end. The entire system, in this manner, works to separate one set of species from other species.
The reactive agents 18 could contain chemically active components or materials that have attraction to hydrophilic or hydrophobic molecules. Similarly, the reactive agent could wholly or only partially cover the walls. The reactive agent 18 could exist only on the surface of the wall or be embedded throughout the wall thickness. The reactive agent 18 could be layered such that each layer contains a different composition or the same composition but in different concentrations. The cross-flow filters are efficient filters, which work to continuously separate fluids or particulates from fluids. Once the crow-flow filters are packed or clogged, they can either be cleaned or replaced in the filtration system.
Substantially fibrous nonwoven gas permeable materials 16 offer great advantages to cross-flow filtration. Such substrates may be readily formed into desired shapes and forms, have very high porosities and/or permeabilities, offer easy control of pore-size, contribute relatively little backpressure, have a high filtration capacity, are typically suitable for hosting a number of reactive agents 18, are characterized by chemical stability, and are typically refractory. Moreover, the open fibrous network reduces or minimizes the likelihood of clogging the system during filtration or separation are very low, thereby prolonging the time required before replacement or cleanup.
While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character. It is understood that the embodiments have been shown and described in the foregoing specification in satisfaction of the best mode and enablement requirements. It is understood that one of ordinary skill in the art could readily make a nigh-infinite number of insubstantial changes and modifications to the above-described embodiments and that it would be impractical to attempt to describe all such embodiment variations in the present specification. Accordingly, it is understood that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.
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Ikipr has been writing music which parallels his exploration of alternative science, technology and magick for over 10 years. By using musical note correspondences found in the journal of Charles Henry Allan Bennett by Paul Foster Case, Ikipr attempts to map symbolic & archetypal forces through sound & art. His music is written in parameters ascribed to astrological signs, planets, tarot, Hebrew, Qabbalah and Alchemy. In this manner songs are similar to a ritualistic setting in which every aspect of sound goes toward building an aural-environment akin to a magickal space or ritual.
Read more about Ikipr on Last.fm.
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Action Boat Rentals of Pine Island offers kayak, boat rentals, and destination and fishing trips in Bokeelia, Florida.
With 20 years' experience in water tourism, fishing trips, fishing training, and local industries, we have the knowledge and expertise to ensure that you have a perfect day out on the water. We feature unbeatable prices and a remarkable inventory and stop at nothing to make sure you have the time of your life.
Boat RentalsFull- and half-day rentals are available for family and fishing boats. We offer free delivery and will beat all competitive prices, so you can have a blast without breaking the bank. Our top priority is making sure you are completely satisfied.
Lunch and Dinner Destination TripsFor lunch and dinner excursions, we will take you anywhere you want to go. All you have to do is let us know and arrangements will be made at your convenience. There are many fun things to do around Pine Island, including:


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"How to Make Sushi" Workshop"How to Make Sushi" Workshophttp://www.haverford.edu/calendar/details/235701Stokes Multicultural Center2013-04-24T17:00:002013-04-24T19:00:00
April 24,2013 5:00PM–7:00PM
Stokes Multicultural Center
Interested in making a quick snack? Join us on April 24th from 5-7PM to learn how to make Japanese sushi rolls with Prof. Yoko Koike! And yes you can make as many as you want and eat them all! We will also be showing the anime "Fullmetal Alchemist."
For More Info
Maria Bojorquez-Gomez


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1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk, supercharged, excellent original condition, taking offers, estate sale... More
1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Tiera Gold and Arctic White, 289/275HP Supercharged V8 , Automatic Vinyl Interior, Radio , Dual Antenna's Judging sheets, restoration photos... More
1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk,tastefully refinished in Apache Red and Arctic White,over a solid body,with a complimenting red and white interior.It is equipped with the... More
STUDEBAKER: 1957 Golden Hawk, complete but rough, sitting for many years, make a great donor car or ? Needs complete restoration, probably easier with... More
1957 Studebaker Supercharged Golden Hawk Finished in Tiara Gold, Arctic White leather, extremely rare California estate classic underwent professional award-winning restoration. Over $100k invested.... More
STUDEBAKER: 1957 Golden Hawk, runs, drives, good running car, needs paint and some cosmetics, $11,500 obo. 909-754-1130, CA.... More


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From: Rob Steen
Location: Ireland
Date: 12/04/2009
I was just wondering if there were any new short stories planned or published in any magazines or books?
I've always thought elements of Schrodinger's Plague would be an interesting idea to send out as an e-mail updated a little.
From: Greg Bear
Date: 12/17/2009
Not at the moment--still working through novels!


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- Home
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April is the perfect time to enjoy the beautiful spring weather on two wheels. Participate in biking events throughout the Valley, such as family fun rides, bike expos and safety events.
From high speed races to kids' bike safety rodeos to a Bike "Prom" find all the Valley Bike Month events here. Click the event name for details.
Register and log your trips to win great prizes at ShareTheRide. Grab a few friends or co-workers to form a team for challenge prizes. To view Valley Bike Month contests and challenge flyer click here.
Ride your bike to any of these great places in April and get sweet deals.
Bicycling can be used for short trips or to extend a transit trip. To learn how and where you can check out a public bike 24/7 visit Grid Bike Share.
When you carpool, ride the bus or light rail, walk to work, ride your bike to the office or even take advantage of your employer's telework or compressed work week options, you are contributing to an important Valley wide objective: cleaner air. Not only do you save money and ease traffic congestion by using alternative modes, you help to reduce the estimated 770 tons of carbon monoxide and 3,000 tons of particulates released in Valley skies every day. Learn more about each mode by visiting SharetheRide.com.
Open original version of this page.


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Subtle, geometric, and modern, the Box Quilt and Sham Set layers beautifully with other linens but also looks terrifically sophisticated all by itself. Combine the reversible, lightweight quilt with extra blankets in chillier temps or use it on its own during the summer months to stay nice and cool in slumber land.
King size. Set includes 1 ultra-soft, lightweight quilt and 2 shams.
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They told her her husband had moved on,
She didn't bewail,
The children needed her with all her composure.
She burnt the midnight oil, studying.
The brightness of day brought with it financial commitments of its own
For the 15 year old.
She lived in a village untouched by cosmopolitanism
That inebriated chap they claimed was her husband, beat her.
Yet, everyday she prayed for his success
The Mother was old. Withering really,
Her ambitious son stood exalted on the threshold of professional success.
'The boss must be pleased' He said and she ever-willing, obliged.
The napkins matched the curtains at the party she organized,
But she remained inconspicuous by her absence.
The hallmark of womanhood is the uncanny ability one possesses to assemble one's life on the edifice of sacrifice.
No stab at acknowledgement, if any at all, of her true worth, can hope to suffice.
Yet she tirelessly toils, yet she quells,
Her desires, for another's well.
Entrenched in that cataclysm we call emotion,
Yet always magnanimous, always generous,
The brilliance of faith, trust and commitment notwithstanding
She works relentlessly, but from within the wings,
And puts forth for all others,
The masterstroke of her greatness,
A society most welcoming in its stability.


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For those who can't wait until February to be surprised by the special Valentine's Day episode of Glee, Soaps.com has learned that the show's song list has been leaked online.
The track listing includes:
"Firework" by Katy Perry (Rachel)
"Fat Bottomed Girls" by Queen (Puck)
"P.Y.T." by Michael Jackson (Artie)
"My Funny Valentine" by Babes in Arms (Tina)
"When I Get You Alone/Silly Love Songs" by Robin Thicke/Paul McCartney (Blaine and the Warblers)
Which song are you most looking forward to during "Glee's" Valentine's Day episode? Let Soaps.com know by voting in the poll below.
Missed an episode this season? Check out our Glee Updates. We also invite you to join us on Twitter @soapoperafan for more news on Glee, Vampire Diaries, Grey's Anatomy and all current soap operas, and to "like us" on Soaps.com's Official Facebook Page. Come and let your voice be heard!


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Basyx VL171 Series Black Leather Mid-Back Chair
Item #861474
- Leather Mid-Back Chair
- Plush black leather upholstery for comfort and style
- Five-star base with casters for easy mobility
- Assembly required
- Black
- Each
- Arms Included
- Arms Style: Loop
- Armrest Color: Black
- Armrest Material: Polypropylene
- Distance Between Arms: 19-3/8"
- Overall Depth: 34-1/2"
- Overall Width: 25-3/8"
- Overall Height: 35"
- Seat Depth: 17-3/4"
- Seat Width: 19-3/8"
- Seat Height: 16-3/4" to 20-1/2"
- Back Dimensions: 18-3/4"W x 21-3/4"
- Seat Material: Leather
- Back Material: Leather
- Seat Color: Black
- Base Color: Black
- Base Material: Nylon
- Caster Base: Five casters
- Weight Capacity: Supports up to 250 lbs.
- Pneumatic Seat Height Adjustment
- Tilt Tension
- Tilt Lock
Model: BSX VL171SB11
Brand: basyx by HON
Color: Black
Depth: 17.75 in.
Height: 38.75 in.
Model: BSX VL171SB11
Upholstery Material: Leather
The estimated delivery time will be 1-3 business days from the day of order.
Please note: Depending on order size, orders may be shipped using an alternative shipping method which may add a day to the delivery window.
*Delivery is available to Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. An additional Shipping and Handling fee will apply to shipments going to Alaska, Hawaii or Puerto Rico. This fee will be quoted at checkout. Additional transit time may be required.
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Please be sure to inspect your order at time of delivery for any issues or damage and if possible note any damage with delivery driver.
Please call 1-888-320-3277 with questions or concerns regarding your order.
Costco.com products can be returned to any of our more than 600 Costco warehouses worldwide.
How to Return: For an immediate refund (including shipping and handling), simply return your purchase at any one of our Costco warehouses worldwide. If you are unable to return your order at one of our warehouses, please email customer service or call our customer service center at 1-800-955-2292 for assistance. To expedite the processing of your return, please reference your order number.
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View Costco's Return Policy.
For information or a written copy of the manufacturer's warranty, please contact us at: firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Application Process
Application for positions in the Johns Hopkins Neurosurgery residency program must be made through ERAS (Electronic Residency Application Service). All candidates must be registered for the match with the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP).
The Johns Hopkins deadline to submit your application for the 2015 match for a PGY-1 position beginning July 2015 is October 15, 2014. Applications received through ERAS after that date will not be accepted.
We anticipate contacting prospective candidates regarding interviews by mid-November, after we have had the opportunity to review the Dean's letters. Around this time, we strongly urge you to check daily both e-mail and voice-mail for messages regarding interviews, however, our primary method of notification regarding selection for interviews will be via e-mail messages.
Monday, December 8, 2014 and Monday January 5, 2015
When the review process is complete and applicants for interview have been determined, all those selected will be notified simultaneously by e-mail, followed by telephone calls if no response via e-mail received within 24 hours. Because we can only accommodate a limited number of applicants on each date, appointments are scheduled based on the order in which applicants respond to notification of being selected.
All interviewees are invited to dinner with our residents the evening prior to their interview. A second dinner is held for all candidates to attend with our faculty at the conclusion of their interview day. We understand that travel constraints may make it difficult to attend these events, and therefore your attendance is not mandatory but you are strongly encouraged to attend if possible. We feel that these casual dinners provide an ideal opportunity for candidates to learn more details.


text: No recent wiki edits to this page. CareerDuane Swierczynski is a prominent crime novelist who broke into comics writing numerous titles for Marvel, most known for his runs on Cable and The Immortal Iron Fist. Starting in September, 2011, Swierczynski was part of DC Comics' The New 52 initiative, writing the new Birds of Prey volume, where he reformed the team and introduced the new character Starling.


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Lurie Cancer Center Member
H William William Schnaper, MD
Academic Title:
Professor, Pediatrics; Feinberg School of Medicine
Member of:
Tumor Invasion, Metastasis & Angiogenesis
View Publications Listing
Cancer-Focused Research:
Our laboratory has spent the past 15 years seeking to understand the mechanisms of fibrosis that occur in chronic, progressive kidney disease. We have been studying the role of transforming growth factor (TGF-beta) because it has been associated with a number of kidney diseases. However, the classically described TGF-beta/Smad signaling pathway is too simple to account for the multiple, sometimes contradictory effects of TGF-beta on cell function. Therefore, we have sought to understand how cell phenotype and the molecular signature of a cell determine whether TGF- signaling leads to fibrosis. We have identified a number of non-canonical signaling pathways that interact with classical Smad signaling, including phosphatidylyinositide-3-kinase, ERK MAP kinase and hypoxia-inducible factors. We have begun to establish a hierarchy among these pathways and are studying the manipulation of these pathways in vitro and in mouse models in an effort to translate our basic findings into therapeutic approaches to halting or preventing the progression of kidney disease.


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Teen Mom
16 and Pregnant's Danielle Cunningham Reveals Her Pregnancy Weight Gain
16 and Pregnant's Danielle Cunningham is pregnant with her second baby, and she couldn't be more excited. Despite the fact that this sweet girl-next-door isn't currently dating her baby daddy, Jamie Sr., Danielle is thrilled about the baby in her oven, and can't wait to give Jamie Jr. a sibling!
Danielle is about 23 weeks pregnant with her daughter (who she named Jayleigh!), and has already gained quite a bit of weight — which is totally normal for someone who's five months pregnant!
"I've currently gained 14 pounds :/" Danielle Cunningham posted on Sulia. "But im starting my pregnancy workout routine tomarrow ! Only 4 more months till you guys get to meet Jayleigh ! <3"
It's definitely a good idea for Danielle to stay in shape during her pregnancy, but who knows if she'll be able to — apparently this gal is suffering from terrible heartburn! " MY heart burn is kicking in like CRAZY though but TUMS has became my bestfriend," she posted.
In other news, Danielle has just started to feel Jayleigh move around in her belly, and she says it's "amazing." Awww, we're so happy that this gal is having such a great pregnancy — especially since she's going it alone!
Source: Sulia


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Revd Karen Rooms: Benefit sanctions lose sight of compassion
Posted: January 20, 2014|
QUITE recently I was feeling very angry indeed. I couldn't believe the reports of the debate in the House of Commons around food banks and welfare reforms – and the veiled accusation that the charities that provide food and advice were motivated by profit and a desire for publicity.
No-one wants to open a food bank! No-one wants people's lives to be so difficult that they can't afford to put food on the table. But the truth is that 18 or more food banks have opened in Nottingham in the last two years.
It is not only shocking that people are hungry in Britain today, but truly shocking that two thirds of the people who are advised and assisted by the food bank in St Ann's seek help because of benefit sanctions.
Their money just stops. And things are so tight paying water, gas and electric, bus fares and maybe a loan, that pretty quickly there is literally no food on the table. There are no savings and no safety nets.
Related content
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Revd Karen Rooms: St Ann's Advent will have Mexican flavour
Revd Karen Rooms: Vital job shop work needs to continue
Revd Karen Rooms: Tax fraud is the real problem
Revd Karen Rooms: St Ann's should not be a food desert
Revd Karen Rooms: Lobbying Bill is targeting wrong groups
Revd Karen Rooms: Why I'm fasting to try and end hunger
Revd Karen Rooms: Being close to death can be healing
Revd Karen Rooms: How to get women into top positions
Imagine for a moment that you have been signing on as usual, you have applied for the 20 or 30 jobs that the Job Centre requires of you, filled out all the forms, been to the interviews and done your best, only to be disappointed again. But one week your money just isn't there.
When you ask you may be told your benefits have been sanctioned. Or you may be told they are being reviewed and could be sanctioned, but while the decision is being made you will not receive any money.
You may or may not be told why. You seek advice. The advice worker can be told that the computer system is down or that a TV crew are in the building and so access to the client's records is not possible at the moment.
When you do find out, you discover you have been sanctioned because you did not put your full post code on a form.
Sanctions are the experience of hundreds of people in our city. While it may or may not be intended, benefit sanctions are pushing some families and vulnerable adults towards real hunger and desperation. Hardship support takes two weeks to process.
Jesus said, 'Treat others the way you would like to be treated yourself'. It seems to me that in seeking what some will argue is greater fairness in the welfare system, we are losing sight of basic human compassion.
Pushing people into hunger does not change behaviour. It is highly stressful and impacts on health, which becomes a cost to us all in the long-term.
I am not sure benefit sanctions are protecting taxpayers' money. They can look like a blunt instrument used against some of the most vulnerable.
What do you think? Email email@example.com


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LONDON (TrustLaw) - Britain's Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has brokered an agreement between defence giant BAE Systems, the Government of Tanzania and the UK's Department for International Development (DFID) in which BAE agreed to pay 29.5 million pounds plus interest towards educating children in Tanzania, the anti-corruption agency announced on Thursday.
The payment is part of a February 2010 settlement negotiated between BAE and the SFO following a lengthy enquiry by the SFO into a 28-million-pound deal by the defence company to sell radar systems to Tanzania, for use at Dar-es-Salaam airport.
As part of the settlement, BAE was ordered to pay the money to Tanzania for failing to keep proper records of payments to an adviser in the East African country.
"This agreement is a first for the SFO which piloted it through the UK legal system. It provides a satisfactory outcome for all concerned but most of all for the Tanzanian people and I am personally delighted that SFO staff were able to achieve this," Richard Alderman, director of the SFO said in a statement.
The payment will be spent on textbooks and desks for Tanzanian primary school children and teaching guides, syllabi and syllabi guides for Tanzanian teachers, the SFO said.
The procurement process will be "rigorously and independently monitored" the SFO added.


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Quote:You took their chairs away? Why? That is the shotgun approach, don't you think?Yes, cashiers stand all day, but they are allowed breaks, often have a padded floor, and probably wear very comfortable shoes. A teller typically doesn't have a floor pad and may be wearing high heels.We have several offices similar to yours and we established a policy that we will ALWAYS stand when helping a customer. A chair is provided for each teller, but when a customer approaches, we are to get off the chair and stand to help.Give them back their chairs and you may not have any problems with the pregnant teller. Once you've done that, set some customer service and professional behavior standards. If you're worried that they look less professional than the checkers, it is time to review your dress code.As for the pregnant teller, please make sure you meet her needs. If her doctor wants her to sit all day, then by all means, allow it.
Quote:I think tellers should stand all day. We should keep our banks open 7-days a week. And if we really want to be like the Wal-Marts and grocery stores then we should keep our banks open 24 hours a day. We really should eliminate some of the holidays that we get. Most don't celebrate what they stand for anyway. After all for as much as we pay our tellers we should really get a lot more out of them. By the way...I am not a teller.
Quote:Ken, believe it. I still work for the bank that made me stand, and that is their policy to this day.


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If you would like to speak with someone regarding joining the Club, please leave your details in an email at the address below, or feel free to come along to one of our monthly meetings to discuss in person.
If you have an enquiry about Club Permit Registration, please read the Club Rego page before contacting us, as it may already answer your question.
For all other enquiries please email firstname.lastname@example.com and we will get back to you as soon as practical, or for those who prefer using Australia Post, our mailing address is,
P.O. Box 71
South Melbourne 3205
Comments or questions are welcome.


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World Cafe
2:32 pm
Thu July 25, 2013
Latin Roots: Argentine Reggae Legend Fidel Nadal
By David Dye
Originally published on Wed October 2, 2013 3:50 pm
In this installment of Latin Roots, the World Cafe team travels to Fidel Nadal's home studio in Buenos Aires for a session with a reggae performer who truly owns his genre. Nadal has 15 solo records to his name, and his album Forever Together was nominated for a Latin Grammy in 2011.
Before fully going solo, Nadal spent a lot of time as a member of the punk-reggae band Todos Tus Muertos, which made six albums between 1988 and 2010. Hear three songs in this World Cafe session, recorded live in Buenos Aires.
Latin Roots from World Cafe is made possible by a grant from the Wyncote Foundation.
Copyright 2013 WXPN-FM. To see more, visit http://www.xpn.org/.


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August 4, 2015
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - - Police say a South Texas woman who is accused of driving drunk did her best Michael Jackson impersonation as she moonwalked during her sobriety test.
Corpus Christi police say Coral Rape was stopped after she drove down a street in the wrong direction early Friday morning.
Authorities say that when asked to perform a standard sobriety test, Rape "moonwalked" towards officers.
The 23-year-old was arrested and placed in the city detention center. Police say she had a blood-alcohol level of 0.15 percent, nearly twice the legal limit for driving.
She faces a misdemeanor charge of driving while intoxicated, which carries a sentence of up to a year in jail.
She is free on $1,000 bond. Jail records did not list an attorney for her.
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Bobcat soccer teams sweep SMCC; qualify for playoffsOctober 17, 2013
SUMMIT – Kevin Ndongo's goal at the 102:00 mark lifted Jones County Junior College to a 3-2 victory over Southwest Mississippi in double overtime here Wednesday evening.
The victory improves the JCJC men to 10-2-1 overall, 6-2 in the MACJC South Division. The win also assures the Bobcats of a playoff berth.
In the women's game, the 13th-ranked Lady Bobcats blanked Southwest, 7-0. The JCJC women are now 13-1 overall, 7-1 in division play and have also qualified for the playoffs.
The Bobcat soccer teams will conclude the home portion of their schedule by hosting Meridian Community College for "Sophomore Day" on Saturday. The women's game begins at 2 p.m., followed by the men's contest at 4:30 p.m. Follow the games via Livestats at http://livestats.prestosports.com/jonescountyjc
JCJC concludes regular season play at Mississippi Gulf Coast on Tuesday.
Southwest goes to Pearl River on Saturday.
Bobcats 3, Bears 2 (2OT)
Conner Masters scored at 3:33 to give Southwest a 1-0 lead.
JCJC tied it when Souleymane Diakite scored off an Eric Johnson assist at 6:14. The Bears took a 2-1 lead into intermission when Masters scored again at 21:31.
The Bobcats tied the game up at 74:25 when Eddie Ramirez scored off an assist by Austin May.
After a scoreless first overtime, Ndongo scored the game-winner off an assist by Johnson two minutes into the second overtime.
Gabe Brown was in goal for the Bobcats and regarded two saves.
JCJC took 11 shots, nine shots on goal. SMCC took six shots, four shots on goal. JCJC had seven corner kicks, compared to three for Southwest.
The Bears are now 1-13-1 overall, 1-7 in division play.
Lady Bobcats 7, Lady Bears 0
Kelsey Cochran had three goals and an assist as JCJC cruised to the win.
Cochran scored the game's first goal at 15:54 off an Anna Mills assist. Seconds later, Danielle Fortin scored off another Mills' assist as JCJC took a 2-0 lead at halftime.
Fortin then assisted Cochran at the 55:09 mark. Cochran then assisted Kelsey Simms at 62:13 to make it 4-0. Cochran then scored off a Lauren Arnold assist at 70:36.
Arnold then scored an unassisted goal at 82:44. Lindy Tabor scored the game's final goal in the 89th minute off an assist by Karlee Mullins.
JCJC took 24 shots in the game, 15 on goal. Southwest did not take a shot.
The Lady Bears fall to 0-14-1 overall, 0-7-1 in the division.


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This 1977 photo shows the petrol station on the corner of Nicholson and Johnston streets, facing the Carlton public housing flats. Apart from the design of the petrol station forecourt, little has changed.
Courtesy David Wadelton / Flickr / ID: 6443917055 / photographer: David Wadelton / copyright: used with permission / c1977


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Gabel named Vt. state court administratorThe Associated Press | May 20,2013The Vermont Supreme Court has announced that Patricia Gabel will become the next state court administrator.
The appointment takes effect on July 27.
Gabel is now serving as general counsel to the Supreme Court and Vermont's deputy state court administrator.
She will replace Bob Greemore, who is retiring after more than 30 years as an administrator in the Vermont court system.MORE IN This Just InThe family of a Connecticut man who was killed in a car accident on Route 4 last Friday night is... Full StoryAssociated Press Full StoryIt seems like I just started to warm up from last winter and I see back-to-school displays. Full Story
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- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day 1739, 'Richard Palmer' identified in prison at York Castle as the notorious outlaw DICK TURPIN; IN 1836, Battle of the Alamo begins near San Antonio de Bexar, Texas; 1896, the Tootsie Roll invented by LEO HIRSCHFELD.
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1472, Orkney, Shetland islands put up as collateral by Norway to Scotland in lieu of dowry for MARGARET OF DENMARK on her marriage with JAMES III, king of Scotland; 1962, JOHN GLENN first American to orbit Earth.
- TOMORROW'S HEADLINES TODAY: City mayoral candidates debate campaign issues; Hartford, Conn., woman still missing; Neal Goswami reports attempts to legislate suicide; local woman loses 100 pounds through TOPS program.
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1878, JOHN TUNSTALL murdered near Lincoln, New Mexico, by the outlaw JESSE EVANS; in 1930, ELM FARM OLLIE first cow to fly in aircraft, first to be milked airborne; 1955, nuke test WASP; '79, snow in Sahara.
- TOMORROW'S HEADLINES TODAY: Rutland Herald News Editor Alan J. Keays and staff writer Gordon Dritschilo discuss stories planned for the February 18, 2015, edition of the newspaper: Winter budgets maxed, legal marijuana, Springfield bank job, USPS slowdown
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1249 AD, ANDRE of LONGJUMEAU is dispatched by LOUIS IX of France to meet the KHAGAN, ruler of the Mongol Empire; in 1804, during 1st Barbary War, STEPHEN DECATUR scuttles the pirate-held USS Philadelphia in Tripoli.


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Yes, we're still talking about patch 4.1 on the PTR. To be fair, Blizzard keeps making tweaks and changes, so many that it seems like we can't talk about them all. But with the rapid flurry of changes comes a need to at least try and suss out what we're looking at.
The most recent changes mean that in total, warriors probably have the most patch notes changes of any class in the game. This is somewhat baffling considering how many times we've been told over the past weeks that warrior DPS and tanking were right about where they should be. It seems astonishing to me that a class that is performing in the zone it should receive so many iterative changes in one patch. But let's take a look at the complete (as of March 3, anyway) notes for warriors first, before we get into discussing what these changes tell us about the class as a whole.
- Charge and Intercept no longer have diminishing returns on their stun effects.
- Colossus Smash now ignores 70% of an opponent's armor, down from 100%.
- Heroic Throw is now available from trainers at level 20.
- Inner Rage is now available at level 56.
- Intercept now has a 1.5-second stun, down from 3 seconds.
- Overpower damage has been increased to 140% weapon damage, up from 125%.
- Pummel is now usable in all stances.
- Rallying Cry (new ability) is available from trainers at level 83. It temporarily grants the warrior and all party or raid members within 30 yards 20% of maximum health for 10 seconds. After the effect expires, the health is lost. It has no cost, no stance requirements, and is not on the global cooldown. It has a 3-minute cooldown, but also shares a cooldown with Last Stand.
- Shield Bash has been removed from the game.
- Spell Reflection cooldown has been increased to 25 seconds, up from 10.
- Whirlwind now has its cooldown reduced by 6 seconds when it deals damage to 4 or more targets. The Whirlwind effect caused by Bladestorm remains unchanged.
- Improved Hamstring now reduces the global cooldown on Hamstring by 0.5/1 seconds in addition to its current effects.
- Improved Slam increases Slam damage by 20/40%, up from 10/20%.
- Juggernaut no longer adds 2 seconds to the Charge stun, but instead lowers the cooldown of Charge by 2 seconds (to 13 seconds total without the glyph).
- Lambs to the Slaughter now causes Mortal Strike to refresh Rend in addition to its current effects.
- Mortal Strike damage has been increased to 175% weapon damage, up from 150%.
- Strikes of Opportunity damage has been increased by 10% to keep stat parity with other strike changes.
- Precision (passive) now increase auto-attack damage by 40%, in addition to the 3% hit it offers currently.
- Raging Blow damage has been increased back to 120% weapon damage, up from 100%.
- Unshackled Fury now only grants 2 base points of mastery, down from 8.
- Shield Mastery no longer affects the cooldown of Spell Reflection, however, it now allows Shield Block to proc a second aura that reduces magic damage by 7/14/20% for 6 seconds.
- Gag Order now only affects Heroic Throw.
- Glyph of Spell Reflection reduces the cooldown of Spell Reflection by 5 seconds, up from 1 second.
That is a significant allotment of change for a class that is supposedly performing to par.
So what does all this mean?
For starters, you can see that in just one week, the arms and protection changes have been fairly consistent, at least, while fury has been all over the place. Last week's announcement of Flurry seeing a 50% buff is now completely gone from the patch notes, instead replaced by Precision adding 40% damage to auto-attacks in addition to its bonus hit. Frankly, I had thought the two together were enough to balance the ludicrously savage mauling our mastery took, but now I see that in fact such is not the case. The Precision buff by itself is not going to make up for all the damage you're going to lose, fury warriors. Not even by half.
Shield Mastery also took a hit, as the bonus magic damage reduction dropped from 25% to 20% in the space of two days. It's still a buff to the ability and probably an even trade for the increased duration on Spell Reflection, but it does nothing at all to address the loss of SR as a threat move on caster mobs, and already it's been whittled down in terms of its strength. I really like the concept behind the new Shield Mastery; I just don't want to see it get pecked apart.
Many of these changes are PvP-inspired, as I (and many others) pointed out two days ago. The change to Gag Order is motivated by prot silences in PvP, as is the increased cooldown on Spell Reflection. Meanwhile, the arms changes seem motivated both to make arms more viable in PvP while simultaneously cutting down on its stun potential in PvP but letting it resist kiting and keep targets in range for focusing attacks. The ability to refresh rend via Lambs To the Slaughter is in my eyes primarily a PvE change, but it'll work for PvP as well, since in either situation you're using Mortal Strike. With both Improved Hamstring and Juggernaut redesigned, the intention to allow arms to retain its mobility and beef up its snared in exchange for losing stun ability seems clear enough.
What interests me most, though, are the fury changes, which absoluetly seem aimed at reducing the spec's current PvP viability without completely gutting its PvE damage. (I'm telling you now, if you're a fury warrior, you will lose DPS as soon as patch 4.1 drops, and you will have to reforge and regem to get a portion of it back.)
The fury changes interest me due to their strange iteration process. Frankly, due to what several other warriors have told me and my own experience recently, mastery for fury is very good in PvP. Specifically, it's very good to stack a load of mastery, hit either Death Wish or Berserker Rage as soon as you're in range of a target, and Raging Blow his bloody face off with massive Raging Blow hits boosted with raw mastery. Since hit isn't as valuable in PvP (your miss chance against a player of equal level is lower), you can pretty easily cap it, and a high-mastery Raging Blow hit can easily rock someone's face. Fury is basically capable of some rather astonishing burst right now. (Just ask the warlock I globaled in Tol Barad tonight.) With the addition of Colossus Smash to the mix, fury in PvP basically ignores the entirety of your target's armor for 6 horrible (for them) seconds while you're slamming a Raging Blow > Heroic Strike > Bloodthirst combo off onto their defenseless, effectively naked hide.
Now, this doesn't happen constantly. Fury isn't godly in PvP by any stretch. But it can really ruin someone's day to be Intercepted and then, while standing there stunned, have all of their armor ripped off, followed by that aforementioned high-mastery Raging Blow.
Frankly, I'm not surprised it's being triple-nerfed. Reducing Intercept's stun duration, mastery for fury and the Colossus Smash armor penetration ability will all reduce the ludicrous amount of burst fury can put out when properly geared. No more 112% extra damage RBs. It's also clear that the increase to Raging Blow's base damage and addition of extra damage from Precision are aimed at compensating not for the loss of Colossus Smash's armor pen (as was originally stated) but rather for the really intense reduction to our base mastery level. (Now, if the Flurry change is in fact not intended to have been rolled back, then we'll probably be all right in PvE.)
The only fury change I don't see as either stemming from or compensating for PvP is the Whirlwind change, which is just going to make us even more inflated on trash. I already top the meters on trash, guys. I don't need Whirlwind every 4 seconds to do that. I guess it will make people love me on Conclave.
What it really comes down to this: At this time, I believe both the fury and protection changes are aimed at PvP, and a case can be made for some of the arms changes being PvP-related as well -- not their damage increases, which were needed to help make them more even with fury in PvE (although with the mastery nerf, they frankly may make arms the powerhouse of the two).
I titled this post The complete patch 4.1 conniption because frankly, I'm not happy at all with it. And it's not that I believe the sky is falling and that warriors will stop being viable tanks or DPS or be unable to PvP.
Let's look at the facts:
- This game has been out for over six years.
- Blizzard has yet to stop us from tanking, from DPSing, or from PvPing.
- Blizzard has changed the class countless times for PvP or PvE reasons.
- We're still here.
Hopefully, the pace of changes will slow down long enough to really give them a good shakedown in the next couple of weeks. Right now, I'm hoping to do some in-depth talk about tanking next week.
At the center of the dury of battle stand the warriors: protection, arms and fury. Check out more strategies and tips especially for warriors, including Cataclysm 101 for DPS warriors, a guide to new reputation gear for warriors, and a look back at six years of warrior trends.


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This week's question is: What is the best way about moving on, and finding a new server to play on? WoW has so many possibilities when it comes to servers, but what's the best way to find a good one? I play on a US PVE server (won't say the name to protect the lousy players) and I've reached a point where the server doesn't do anything for me anymore. The economy is terrible, the players are terrible, and finding a decent group of players to do anything is just this side of impossible. So how do I move on? Read the forums? Ask WoW Insider? Just take a random stab in the dark with a new toon and then move my old ones over to the new server when I get a feel for the new one? I have 4 toons I want to move, so I'm looking at $100 to move them. I want to be sure before I move any of them to a new home.We've looked at correlated issues before, particularly how to find a good guild, but switching servers en masse presents a different set of problems as well. How would you go about finding a new home for your toons, or do you have experiences to relate about having gone through the process?
What do you think?
LFG KZ has had some ideas on this topic, and of course before you make the leap you'll want to know the best way to /gquit (does anyone else feel a mashup coming on?). Let us know your tried and true methods for finding the best server for you in the comments, and send us your questions for next week to ask AT wowinsider DOT com.


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