Features Table of Contents

August 1998

feature articles

how did the titanic sink?
Recent engineering evidence suggests that the unsinkable ship experienced a hull failure at the surface and broke into pieces before it went down.

flow controller cuts project costs
An intelligent control valve harnesses the power of advanced modular electronics.

dynamic analysis step-by-step
As high-rise escalators gain in popularity, engineers are relying on dynamic analysis to improve their understanding of loading and operating conditions.

mechanical engineering power '98

fuel-saving warship drives
A gas tubine engine featuring intercooling and heat recuperation is being developed top power a new generation of warships.

a next generation reactor
Electricite de France's N4 nuclear technology increases European standards of power, efficiency, and safety.

compressed air on demand
Instead of rebuilding aging equipment, a manufacturer of gear motors retrofitted its system to provide a more reliable supply of air—and cut its energy bills by over $40,000 a year.

partners in power
As investors back major new projects throughout Africa, they're also working jointly with local businesses and governments to improve infrastructures and raise living standards.

proving wind power in new england
The largest windmill-based power plant east of the Mississippi is exceeding performance expectations, despite the challenging weather conditions.