Vinoth Kumar M. and Balasubramanian V.
Super 304HCu super austenitic stainless steel tubes containing 2.3 to 3 (Wt.%) of copper (Cu) is used in superheaters and reheater tubings of nuclear power plants. In general…
Abstract
Purpose
Super 304HCu super austenitic stainless steel tubes containing 2.3 to 3 (Wt.%) of copper (Cu) is used in superheaters and reheater tubings of nuclear power plants. In general, austenitic stainless steels welded by conventional constant current gas tungsten arc welding (CC-GTAW) produce coarse columnar grains, alloy segregation and may result in inferior mechanical properties. Pulsed current gas tungsten arc welding (PC-GTAW) can control the solidification structure by altering the prevailing thermal gradients in the weld pool.
Design/methodology/approach
Super 304HCu tubes of Ø 57.1 mm and the wall thickness of 3.5 mm were autogenously welded using CC and PC-GTAW processes. Joints are characterized using optical microscopy, electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) techniques. Hot tensile properties of the weld joints were evaluated and correlated with their microstructural features.
Findings
Current pulsing in GTAW has resulted in minimal eutectic film segregation, lower volume % of delta ferrite and appreciable improvement in tensile properties than CC-GTAW joints.
Originality/value
The EBSD boundary map and inverse pole orientation map of Super 304HCu weld joints evidence the grain refinement and much frequent high angle grain boundaries achieved using weld current pulsing.
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Sashank Sravan, S. Rajakumar, Karthikeyan Rajagopalan and Kavitha Subramanian
Dissimilar joining of austenitic stainless steels and ferritic steels is a challenging task and has a wide range of applications due to its excellent mechanical and thermal…
Abstract
Purpose
Dissimilar joining of austenitic stainless steels and ferritic steels is a challenging task and has a wide range of applications due to its excellent mechanical and thermal characteristics. They are joined mostly by using conventional modes. In the current investigation, the study and optimization of hot wire TIG welding parameters was carried out.
Design/methodology/approach
These parameters will govern the desired characteristics of the joint. Solutions were found out through multi-response optimization by using response surface methodology and single response optimization using particle swarm optimization.
Findings
Optimized input welding parameters that were achieved are electrode current 180 amps, wire feed rate 1870 mm/min and hot wire current 98 amps and the optimized UTS is 665.45 MPa. The results from PSO were compared with RSM and the optimized input welding parameters for the electrode current, hot wire current and wire feed rate exhibited maximum ultimate tensile strength which were also confirmed from response and contour plots.
Originality/value
Sensitivity analysis was also performed to understand the effect of each individual parameters on the response. Microstructure features were evaluated for the joints and was found that the characteristics are within the desired criteria.
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Vinoth Kumar Annamalai and Selvakumaran Thunaipragasam
The purpose of this study is to design a flight control model for a control surface-less (CSL) tri-tilt-rotor (TTR) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) based on a Proportional Integral…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to design a flight control model for a control surface-less (CSL) tri-tilt-rotor (TTR) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) based on a Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) controller to stabilize the altitude and attitude of the UAV subjected to various flying conditions.
Design/methodology/approach
First, the proposed UAV with a tilting mechanism is designed and analyzed to obtain the aerodynamic parameters. Second, the dynamics of the proposed UAV are mathematically modeled using Newton-Euler formation. Then, the PID controller is implemented in the simulation model to control flight maneuvers. The model parameters were implemented in a mathematical model to find the system’s stability for various flight conditions. The model was linearized to determine the PID gain values for vertical take-off and landing, cruise and transition mode. The PID controller was tuned to obtain the desired altitude and attitude in a short period. The tuned PID gain values were implemented in the PID controller and the model was simulated.
Findings
The main contribution of this study is the mathematical model and controller for a UAV without any control surface and uses only a thrust vector control mechanism which reduces the complexity of the controller. The simulation has been carried out for various flight conditions. The altitude PID controller and the attitude PID controller for CSL-TTR-UAV were tuned to obtain desired altitude and attitude within the optimum duration of 4 s and deviation in the attitude of 8%, which is within the allowable limit of 14%. The findings obtained from the simulation revels that the altitude and attitude control of the CSL-TTR-UAV was achieved by controlling the rpm of the rotor and tilt angle using the PID controller.
Originality/value
A novel CSL TTR UAV mathematical model is developed with a dual tilting mechanism for a tail rotor and single axis tilt for the rotors in the wing. The flight control model controls the UAV without a control surface using a PID controller for the thrust vector mechanism.
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Anand Gurumurthy, Vinoth Kumar Nair and S. Vinodh
The cost of providing healthcare is spiralling up in recent times. On the one hand, patients expect the highest quality of service, while on the other hand, the managers of the…
Abstract
Purpose
The cost of providing healthcare is spiralling up in recent times. On the one hand, patients expect the highest quality of service, while on the other hand, the managers of the healthcare services want to minimise the total operating expenses. Hence, healthcare organisations implement lean thinking (LT) to achieve these twin objectives. LT reduces the eight wastes that are prevalent in the healthcare processes and functions. In particular, if the wasteful inventories related to expensive medical supplies are reduced, the resulting cost savings can help in providing affordable and accessible healthcare.
Design/methodology/approach
Hence, in this paper, a case study of a hospital is presented where LT is implemented. One of the projects was related to inventory reduction in the store of the catheterisation laboratory (cath lab). A hybrid methodology called multi-unit selective inventory control (MUSIC) that combined these three dimensions (3D), namely, consumption value, criticality and lead time or ease of availability was used to classify the medical supplies into different categories.
Findings
Based on the results obtained, various inventory systems and the associated tools and techniques of LT were proposed. For example, a deep dive into the A-class items revealed that some of the medical supplies fell under both vital and scarce categories. Hence, it was recommended that the case hospital should follow the economic order quantity (EOQ) with safety stock approach as these items were to be shipped from other states in India. Subsequently, the focus should be on developing a local supplier and attempts should be made to establish a kanban system with adequate information sharing.
Practical implications
This study demonstrates the step-by-step methodology of MUSIC-3D which would guide the procurement managers to apply the same in their organisation. It also helps them in identifying appropriate elements of LT for inventory reduction before the actual deployment.
Originality/value
None of the papers has utilised the MUSIC-3D methodology as a precursor for inventory reduction, specifically within the domain of LT. Similarly, identifying and proposing different type of inventory systems and various LT practices based on this unique method is a novel attempt.
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M.P. Jenarthanan, Raahul Kumar S and Vinoth S
This study aimed to develop a mathematical model for delamination and surface roughness during end milling by using grey relational analysis (GRA) and to determine how the input…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aimed to develop a mathematical model for delamination and surface roughness during end milling by using grey relational analysis (GRA) and to determine how the input parameters (cutting speed, depth of cut, helix angle and feed rate) influence the output response (delamination and surface roughness) in machining of hybrid glass fibre-reinforced plastic (GFRP) (abaca and glass) composite using solid carbide end mill cutter.
Design/methodology/approach
The Four factors, three levels Taguchi orthogonal array design in GRA is used to conduct the experimental investigation. The Shop Vision inspection system is used to measure the width of maximum damage of the machined hybrid GFRP composite. The Shop Handysurf E-35A surface roughness tester is used to measure the surface roughness of the machined hybrid GFRP composite. “Minitab 14” is used to analyse the data collected graphically. Analysis of variance is conducted to validate the model in determining the most significant parameter.
Findings
The GRA is used to predict the input factors influencing the delamination and surface roughness on the machined surfaces of the hybrid GFRP composite at different cutting conditions with the chosen range of 95 per cent confidence intervals. Analysis on the influences of the entire individual input machining parameters on the delamination and surface roughness has been conducted using GRA.
Originality/value
Effect of milling of the hybrid GFRP composite on delamination and surface roughness with various helix angle solid carbide end mill has not been analysed yet using the GRA technique.
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Vinoth Kumar K., Loganathan T.G. and Jagadeesh G.
The Purpose of this study is to prove the possibility of developing low cost mechanical anti – lock braking system (ABS) for the passenger’s safety.
Abstract
Purpose
The Purpose of this study is to prove the possibility of developing low cost mechanical anti – lock braking system (ABS) for the passenger’s safety.
Design/methodology/approach
The design methodology of the proposed newer mechanical ABS comprises of two units, namely, the braking unit and wheel lock prevention unit. The braking unit actuates the wheel stopping as and when the driver applies the brake, whereas the wheel lock prevention unit initiates wheel release to prevent locking and subsequent slip/skidding. The brake pedal with master cylinder assembly and double-arm cylinder forms the braking unit, brake pad cylinder, movable brake pad, solenoid valve and dynamo forms the wheel lock prevention unit. The dynamo coupled with the rotor energises/de-energises the solenoid values to direct airflow for applying brake and release it, which makes the system less energy-dependent.
Findings
The braking unit aids in vehicle stops, by locking the disc with the brake pad actuated by a double-arm cylinder. The dynamo energises the solenoid valve to activate the brake pad cylinder piston for applying the brake on the disc. Instantaneously, on applying the brake the dynamo de-energises the solenoid to divert the pneumatic flow for retracting the brake pad thereby minimizing the braking torque. The baking torque reduction revives the wheel rotating and prevents slip/skidding.
Originality/value
Mechanical ABS preventing wheel lock by torque reduction principle is a novel method that has not been evolved so far. The system was designed with repair/replacement of the parts and subcomponents to support higher affordability on safety grounds.
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Vinoth S., Nidhi Srivastava and Amit Mittal
This paper aims to examine the influence of environmental concerns and consumers’ knowledge of green brands on their purchasing decisions of green products, utilising green trust…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine the influence of environmental concerns and consumers’ knowledge of green brands on their purchasing decisions of green products, utilising green trust as a mediator.
Design/methodology/approach
Responses from 383 Indian consumers were collected, which was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The causal relationships between latent variables and mediating effect of green trust were investigated by performing Structural Equation modelling.
Findings
Green trust served as a crucial factor in mediating the relationship between environmental concern and green purchase decision. Trust in eco-friendly products significantly influenced the consumers’ decisions to make green purchases. The study further validated that environmental concern significantly influences individuals’ decisions to make green purchases.
Research limitations/implications
The study employed a cross-sectional research design to elucidate the relationship among the factors. However, a longitudinal research design is recommended for further study to ascertain the actual purchase decision and evaluate the reliability of the results.
Practical implications
Marketers can use the study findings to understand consumer knowledge better and trust in green and sustainable products. The proposed model will support marketers and policymakers in developing appropriate marketing strategies as well as facilitate educating consumers about the nuances of green products and the habit of buying eco-friendly products.
Originality/value
Study’s novel contribution is mediation between environmental concern and green purchase decision through green trust.
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Rajyalakshmi K. and Nageswara Rao Boggarapu
Scatter in the outcome of repeated experiments is unavoidable due to measurement errors in addition to the non-linear nature of the output responses with unknown influential input…
Abstract
Purpose
Scatter in the outcome of repeated experiments is unavoidable due to measurement errors in addition to the non-linear nature of the output responses with unknown influential input parameters. It is a standard practice to select an orthogonal array in the Taguchi approach for tracing optimum input parameters by conducting a few number of experiments and confirm them through additional experimentation (if necessary). The purpose of this paper is to present a simple methodology and its validation with existing test results in finding the expected range of the output response by suggesting modifications in the Taguchi method.
Design/methodology/approach
The modified Taguchi approach is proposed to find the optimum process parameters and the expected range of the output response.
Findings
This paper presents a simple methodology and its validation with existing test results in finding the expected range of the output response by suggesting modifications in the Taguchi method.
Research limitations/implications
Adequacy of this methodology should be examined by considering the test data on different materials and structures.
Originality/value
The introduction of Chauvenet’s criterion and opposing the signal-to-noise ratio transformation on repeated experiments of each test run will provide fruitful results and less computation burden.
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Rabinarayan Patnaik and Sukanta Kumar Baral
Banking sector is an important subset of any economy and plays a very crucial and significant part in its growth and development. The expansion and credibility of banking sector…
Abstract
Banking sector is an important subset of any economy and plays a very crucial and significant part in its growth and development. The expansion and credibility of banking sector is attributed to the fact that it caters to the financial needs and accordingly provides customised solutions for the people at large. The new millennium has witnessed metamorphosis in the banking sector. The pace and trend of transformation is all set to accelerate in the coming decade. The process of Liberalisation, Privatisation and Globalisation Model (LPG Model) banking practices which being unleashed a few decades back will reach to greater heights as we step into the next decade. The innovative technology has brought about a paradigm shift in all aspects of banking like routine operations, transactions, products and processes, delivery of services in terms of various e-channels, credit administration and credit management, audit and compliance and Fin-Techs partnership. Digital transformations in the banking sector have received much needed thrust because of ‘The Digital India Moment’. The current study attempts to highlight the role of technology in banking and how technology-led innovations and initiatives will determine the business of banking as a whole. The significance of these technology-driven innovations and transformations is that they put both banker and customer in a win-win situation as drawn from existing literature related to financial institutions. The focus is on investigating the digital innovations adopted by the different banks both public and private to understand the economic structural changes resulted out of it.
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G. Vennira Selvi, V. Muthukumaran, A.C. Kaladevi, S. Satheesh Kumar and B. Swapna
In wireless sensor networks, improving the network lifetime is considered as the prime objective that needs to be significantly addressed during data aggregation. Among the…
Abstract
Purpose
In wireless sensor networks, improving the network lifetime is considered as the prime objective that needs to be significantly addressed during data aggregation. Among the traditional data aggregation techniques, cluster-based dominating set algorithms are identified as more effective in aggregating data through cluster heads. But, the existing cluster-based dominating set algorithms suffer from a major drawback of energy deficiency when a large number of communicating nodes need to collaborate for transferring the aggregated data. Further, due to this reason, the energy of each communicating node is gradually decreased and the network lifetime is also decreased. To increase the lifetime of the network, the proposed algorithm uses two sets: Dominating set and hit set.
Design/methodology/approach
The proposed algorithm uses two sets: Dominating set and hit set. The dominating set constructs an unequal clustering, and the hit set minimizes the number of communicating nodes by selecting the optimized cluster head for transferring the aggregated data to the base station. The simulation results also infer that the proposed optimized unequal clustering algorithm (OUCA) is greater in improving the network lifetime to a maximum amount of 22% than the existing cluster head selection approach considered for examination.
Findings
In this paper, lifetime of the network is prolonged by constructing an unequal cluster using the dominating set and electing an optimized cluster head using hit set. The dominator set chooses the dominator based on the remaining energy and its node degree of each node. The optimized cluster head is chosen by the hit set to minimize the number of communicating nodes in the network. The proposed algorithm effectively constructs the clusters with a minimum number of communicating nodes using the dominating and hit set. The simulation result confirms that the proposed algorithm prolonging the lifetime of the network efficiently when compared with the existing algorithms.
Originality/value
The proposed algorithm effectively constructs the clusters with a minimum number of communicating nodes using the dominating and hit sets. The simulation result confirms that the proposed algorithm is prolonging the lifetime of the network efficiently when compared with the existing algorithms.