Ranjan Chrithranjan presented a paper entitled "An Analytical Solution for Calculating Stresses on Full Encirclement Sleeves Used on Pipes and Pressure Vessels" (Paper # PVP2015-45315) at the ASME PVP conference in Boston, MA in July.
George Antaki, the division manager of Becht Nuclear, presented the topic "Surcharge Loads (Medium and Heavy Loads) on Buried Pipe" at a workshop in July. Michael Shipley also from Becht helped with the presentation.
Eileen Chant and Ted Princiotto of Becht Engineering released a new MTI publication - "Inspection and Use of Equipment with Missing Documentation".
Ms. Chant also presented "Management of Aged Equipment Lacking Documentation" at the Managing Aging Plants Conference in March of this year in Dusseldorf, Germany. This conference was co-sponsored by MTI and KCI Publishing. Moreover, Eileen has been asked to write a paper on the same topic for Managing Aging Plants magazine.
Dr. Charles Becht IV led a training course entitled "B31.3 Intro For Inspectors".
Application of ASME Section VIII Division 3 to Compressed Natural Gas Transport"; J Robert Sims; Proceedings of the 2013 ASME/US Coast Guard Marine Technology and Standards Workshop, July 23-25, 2013, Arlington, VA, USA.
"Application of ASME Section VIII Division 3 Design Requirements To Offshore High Pressure Equipment"; J Robert Sims; Proceedings of the 2013 ASME/US Coast Guard Marine Technology and Standards Workshop, July 23-25, 2013, Arlington, VA, USA.
"An Evaluation of the Protection Against Local Failure in ASME Section VIII, Division 2: Finite Element ModelConsiderations"; Trevor G. Seipp; PVP2013-98028; presented at ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Division Conference, Paris, France.
"User's Design Specification Preparation for 2¼Cr-1Mo-¼V Reactors in Accordance with ASME Section VIII, Division 2 and Code Case 2605"; Radoslav Stefanovic, Alicia Avery, Ken Baria, Reza Kabganian, Vasile Oprea and Trevor Seipp; PVP2013-97720; presented at ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Division Conference, Paris, France.
"Local Thin Areas Adjacent to Other Local Thin Area in API-579/ASME FFS-1"; Charles Becht 5th, Greg Epremian, Eileen Chant, J Robert Sims and Derrick Pease; Presented at the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, Paris, France on July 16, 2013. Paper PVP2013-98169, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Two Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016.
"Design Analysis and Qualification of Buried Metallic Pipe"; George Antaki, Charles Becht V, Michael Shipley; ASME PVP 2013, Paris.
"A Novel Comparison of Design-By-Analysis Methods"; Mark Stonehouse, Trevor G. Seipp, Shinichiro Kanamaru, and Shawn Morrison; Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, ASME, Sept 2012.
"Solving the Puzzle of Bolted Joints"; Edward Hayman and Clyde Neely; published in July 2011 issue of MECHANICAL ENGINEERING.
"NOT BY GASKET ALONE—IT TAKES A WELL-DESIGNED AND IMPLEMENTED FLANGED JOINT"; Clyde C. Neely; presented at the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2011.
"Benchmark Analysis of Seismically Induced Fluid-Structure Interaction in Liquid-Containing Tanks with Insufficient Freeboard"; F. G. Abatt; presented at the 2011 Structures Congress, April 14-16 2011, Las Vegas, Nevada, and published in the ASCE Conference Proceedings.
"Risk-Based Inspection for Aboveground, Fiberglass-Reinforced Polymer Storage Tanks"; Eileen Chant and J. Robert Sims; NACE International Materials Performance Journal, Vol. 50, No. 1, January 2011.
"Risk-Based Inspection for Polymers"; Eileen Chant and J. Robert Sims; presented at NACE CORROSION 2010 Conference, March, 2010 and published in Materials Performance Journal, January 2011.
"Flexible Aerogel Insulation for Coker- and Sulfur-Unit Applications"; J. Williams and T. Seipp, presented at the Coking.com Conference, Calgary, September 2010.
"Considerations in Using FEA for Layered Vessel Construction"; Trevor Seipp, Mark Stonehouse, and Charles Ormsbee (Agrium); presented at ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2010.
"A Novel Comparison of Design-By-Analysis Methods"; Mark Stonehouse, Trevor Seipp, Shinichiro Kanamaru (JGC Corporation), and Shawn Morrison (M5 Engineering); presented at ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2010.
"User's Design Specification Recommendations for ASME Section VIII, Division 2"; Trevor Seipp and Shiju George; presented at ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2010.
"Introduction to the Process Piping Code, ASME B31.3", C. Becht IV, tutorial presented at the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2010.
"Guidelines for Pressure Boundary Bolted Joint Assembly - What's New in PCC-1-2010"; Clyde Neely and Clay Rodery; presented at the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2010.
"Guidance on Troubleshooting Flanged Joint Assemblies, Background on new ASME PCC-2010 Appendix P"; James R. Payne, Clyde C.Neely, and Edward W. Hayman; presented at the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2010.
"Seismic Response of Floating Roof Storage Tanks Part II: Contact Pressure Approach"; L. Magnus Gustafsson, Alexander Kozak, Philip J. Cacciatore; presented at ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2010.
"Roadmap To Develop Asme Code Rules For The Construction Of High Temperature Gas Cooled Reactors (HTGRS)"; ASME Standards Technology LLC, STP-NU-045, June 18, 2010.
"Assembling Knowledge"; Warren Brown, Clyde Neely, and Steve Rossi, published in March 2010 issue of MECHANICAL ENGINEERING.
"Status Report on ASME Section III Subgroup on Design Plan for Code Changes to Implement Environmental Fatigue Evaluation Methods"; Cole and Minichiello; PVP 2010-25677. "Finite Element Analysis of Large Columns During PWHT"; Mark L. Stonehouse; ICPVT-12: The 12 International Conference on Pressure Vessel Technology, Korea, September 2009.
"Special Techniques for Using Finite Element Analysis in Layered Vessels"; T. Seipp; ICPVT-12: The 12 International Conference on Pressure Vessel Technology, Korea, September 2009.
"ASME Section VIII, Division 2, New Design by Analysis Rules"; T. Seipp; tutorial presented at the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2009.
"ASME Section VIII, Division 3 Alternative Rules for Construction of High Pressure Vessels"; J. Robert Sims; tutorial presented at the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2009.
"Analysis of Waterhammer in Pipes with Non-condensable Gases"; C. Becht V; presented in 2009 Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference proceedings, ASME, 2009.
"Elevated Temperature Shakedown Concepts"; C. Becht IV; presented in 2009 Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference proceedings, ASME, 2009.
"Evaluation of a Welded Joint Using the Structural Stress Method"; S. George; presented at the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2009.
"Evaluation of Storage Tank Floating Roofs For Stress And Stability Due To Earthquake Induced Liquid Sloshing"; L. Magnus Gustafsson, Ben F. Hantz, Philip J. Cacciatore; presented at ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2008.
"Developing Methodology for Allowable Stresses for Short Term Loads for the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Div 1"; C. Becht IV and G. Hollinger; presented in 2008 Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference proceedings, ASME, 2008.
"An Analytical Solution for Calculating Stresses On Lap Patches Used on Pipes and Pressure Vessels"; C.Nadarajah; presented at ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Division Conference, PVP 2008, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
"Technical Basis and Application of New Rules on Fracture Control of High Pressure Hydrogen Vessel in ASME Section VIII, Division 3 Code"; J. Robert Sims, Mahendra D. Rana, George B. Rawls and Elmar Upitis; ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2007, and ASME Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, Volume May, 2008.
"Bolted Flange Joints Under External Moments: An Analysis Using the Compound Gasket Approach for Spiral Wound Gaskets"; T. Seipp, C. Reichert, and B. Messer; ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2007.
"Considerations in the Design and Analysis of an ASME Section VIII, Division 2 Reactor Support Skirt"; D. Williams, and T. Seipp; ASME Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, Volume 129, May 2007.
"Slip Blinds at Pressures Causing Permanent Deformations"; J. Taagepera and T. Seipp; ASME Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, Volume 129, May 2007.
"Passion, Preparation, Perseverance, A Journey to Excellence"; Rick Hoffman; presented to the first annual Air Liquide World Wide Reliability Conference.
"Passion, Preparation, Perseverance"; Rick Hoffman; presented to the Lean Manufacturing Conference, March 2007.
"Reliability Improvement Best Practice Identification Team (RIB-PIT)"; Rick Hoffman; presented at the Lyondell World Wide Reliability Forum, February 2007.
"Back to Basics of Reliability Management"; Rick Hoffman; presented at the Lyondell World Wide Reliability Forum, February, 2007.
"Passion, Preparation, Perseverance, A Journey to Excellence"; Rick Hoffman; presented to the People Management for Maintenance Excellence Conference, Perth, Australia, February 2007. Voted best paper at this international conference. "Developments in ASME and API Post Construction Codes and Standards"; invited presentation at the International Symposium on Structural Reliability in Energy Systems Innovation, The University of Tokyo, November 2006.
"Corrosion in Organic Acids"; Tony Scribner; Vol 13C, Corrosion: Environments and Industries ASM Handbook, September 2006.
"Introduction to Risk-Based Maintenance and Inspection Planning"; J. Robert Sims; Tutorial presented at the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2006.
"Recent Changes to ASME Section VIII, Divisions 3 and Chapter IX of B31.3"; J. Robert Sims; presented at the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, July 2006.
"Specification, In-service Inspection, Repair and Testing of PSA Vessels"; J. Robert Sims; presented at the American Petroleum Institute Spring Refining Meeting, May 2006.
"Specification, In-service Inspection, Repair and Testing of PSA Vessels"; presented at the American Petroleum Institute Spring Refining Meeting; May 2, 2006.
"Reliability, A Competitive Advantage"; Rick Hoffman; presented to the Lyondell European Reliability Forum, May 2006.
"Brittle Fracture Assessment Using Part 3 of API RP-579"; J. Robert Sims; presented at the American Institute of Chemical Engineers Spring Meeting, April 2006.
"Passion, Preparation, Perseverance, A Journey to Excellence"; Rick Hoffman; presented to the Society of Maintenance and Reliability Professionals, Birmingham, Alabama, March 2006.
"Maximizing Reliability and Profitability in Refineries – A Multi-Dimensional Approach"; C. Becht IV and A. T. Radhakrishnan; presented at the Seventh International Symposium on Risk, Economy and Safety, Failure Minimization and Analysis and published in conference proceedings, South Africa, March 2006.
"Developments in Post-Construction Codes and Standards in the United States"; C. Becht IV and J. R. Sims; presented at the Seventh International Symposium on Risk, Economy and Safety, Failure Minimization and Analysis and published in conference proceedings, South Africa, March 2006.
"New Piping Flexibility Rules in ASME B31.3, Appendix P"; C. Becht IV and D. Diehl; presented at the July 2005 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Design and Analysis of Piping and Piping Components, ASME, 2005 and the Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, Vol. 128, No. 1, February, 2006.
"LCCA Issues and Example Problem"; J. Robert Sims; presented at the Life Cycle Cost Analysis Workshop at the National Academy of Science, Washington DC, January 2006.
"ASME Post Construction Standards: Repair of Pressure Equipment and Piping, PCC-2, and Inspection Planning, PCC-3"; C. Becht IV, C. Rodery, and J. R. Sims, invited tutorial instructors, 2006 ASME Pressure Vessel and Piping Conference.
"New Weld Joint Strength Reduction Factors in the Creep Regime in ASME B31.3 Piping"; C. Becht IV; presented at the July 2005 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Design and Analysis of Piping and Piping Components, ASME, 2005 and the Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, Vol. 128, No. 1, February, 2006.
"Time Domain Soil-Structure Interaction Analysis of a Buried Tank Containing Fluid"; F. G. Abatt, B. Carpenter and C. Hendrix; presented at the 2006 MSC Software Virtual Product Development Conference, Huntington Beach, California.
"ASME Standards for Refineries and Chemical Plants"; J. Robert Sims; presented at the NIST Standards in Trade Workshops for India on Oil and Gas, July 2005.
"Understanding and Using ASME PCC-1-2000"; Clyde Neely; invited speaker, PVRC Conference on Best Practices for Flange Assembly and Maintenance, May 23-25, 2005, New Orleans.
"Status of the Development of a New Standard; Repair of Pressure Equipment and Piping"; C. Becht IV; presented at the July 2005 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in New Developments in Codes and Standards, ASME, 2005.
"Overview of the New B&PV Code Section XII Transport Tank Rules"; C. Becht IV; presented at the July 2005 ASME Pressure Vessel and Piping Conference and published in New Developments in Codes and Standards, ASME, 2005.
Kenneth R. Balkey, PE, Vice President-Elect, ASME Nuclear Codes and Standards; C. Wesley Rowley, PE, Vice President, ASME Nuclear Codes and Standards; Francis Dietz, Government Relations Representative, ASME Washington DC; John J. Koehr, Director, ASME Codes & Standards Technology.
"Guidance on the Application of Code Case 2211 – Overpressure Protection by Systems Design"; WRC Bulletin 498, January 2005, co-authored with W. G. Yeich. Welding Research Council, Inc. PO Box 1942, New York, NY 10156.
"Buckling and Instability Considerations: A Look at Pressure Vessels and Bellows"; D. Williams, T. Seipp, and C. Becht IV, invited tutorial instructors, 2005 ASME Pressure Vessel and Piping Conference.
"A parametric study of ASME B16.5 flanges which has experienced flange face corrosion"; C. Nadarajah; ASME; presented at International Conference on Pressure Vessel Technology, 2004, San Diego, USA.
"Common Terminology and Methodology for Homeland Security"; presented as a part of the Risk Analysis and Management Panel I at the ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exhibition; November, 2003.
"ASME BPV Section VIII Division 3 - Present and Future"; presented at the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference; July 2003.
"A Common Approach to Risk Analysis"; presented at the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference; July 2003.
"A Critical Comparison of Seismic Qualification Requirements for Safety Equipment in Various Codes and Standards"; F. G. Abatt, Q. Hossain and M. Meyer; presented at the 2003 ASME Pressure Vessel and Piping Conference, Cleveland, Ohio.
"Introduction to ASME B31.3, Process Piping Tutorial"; C. Becht IV; invited tutorial instructor, 2003 ASME Pressure Vessel and Piping Conference.
"Observations on the Evolution of Design Rules Considering the Computer"; invited speaker at the 2003 ASME Pressure Vessel and Piping Conference, Cleveland, OH.
"ASME B31.3 Code"; C. Becht IV; invited tutorial instructor, International Pipeline Conference, Calgary, Alberta, September 2002.
"The Use of Risk Analysis in Decision-Making for Critical Infrastructure Protection"; keynote address to the White House Critical Infrastructure Protection Priorities Workshop; September, 2002.
"Industry Experience with Fitness for Service Applications"; presented to the Petroleum Association of Japan; August, 2002.
"An Evaluation of EJMA Stress Calculations for Unreinforced Bellows"; C. Becht IV; presented at the July 2000 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Fitness for Service, Stress Classification and Expansion Joint Design, PVP-Vol 401, ASME, 2000 and published in the Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, Vol. 124, No. 1, February 2002.
"Summary of Single-Shell Tank In-Service Inspection Recommendations"; F. G. Abatt; Invited Presentation given at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory as part of the Proceedings of the Workshop on NDE of Concrete in Single-Shell Tanks, 2002.
"Behavior of Bellows"; WRC Bulletin 466, C. Becht IV; published by Welding Research Council, Inc., November 2001.
"Fatigue of Bellows, a New Design Approach"; C. Becht IV; International Journal of Pressure Vessel and Piping, Vol. 77, Number 13, November 2001.
"Recent Changes in the ASME B&PV Codes and Future Directions"; presented at the ASME Industry Breakfast; October, 2001. "Recent and Potential Future Changes in ASME B31.3, Process Piping"; C. Becht IV; invited speaker/panelist, July 2001 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, Atlanta, Georgia.
"Practical Fitness-For-Service Evaluation using API 579"; C. Becht IV, J. R. Sims, D. L. Bagnoli, and L. Loushin; presented at Cape 2001, South Africa, and published in Ageing of Materials and Methods for the Assessment of Lifetimes of Engineering Plant.
"Recent ASME/API Developments in Post Construction"; C. Becht IV and J. R. Sims; presented at Cape 2001, South Africa, and published in Ageing of Materials and Methods for the Assessment of Lifetimes of Engineering Plant.
"Practical Piping Vibration"; C. Becht IV; invited tutorial instructor, ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, 2000, and at Cape 2001.
"The Top 10 Myths of Reliability Management"; Rick Hoffman, presented at the 9th International Process Plant Reliability Conference and Exhibition, Houston, October 2000.
"Role of Engineering Consultancy in Assisting Industry"; C. Becht IV; invited speaker, 33rd Annual Technical Program of the International Metallographic Society, ASM International, Materials Solutions, St. Louis, October 2000.
"Pressure Vessel Maintenance"; J. R. Sims and C. Becht IV; Chemical Engineering, pp. 68-78, July 2000."A Century of Progress in Codes and Standards"; C. Becht IV; invited speaker/panelist, July 2000, ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, Seattle, Washington.
"The Use of Risk-Based Approaches in Post Construction Standards"; ASME Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, Special Millennium Edition; July, 2000; co-authored with Richard E. Feigel.
"The Effect of Bellows Convolution Profile on Stress Distribution and Plastic Strain Concentration"; C. Becht IV, presented at the July 2000 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Fitness For Service, Stress Classification and Expansion Joint Design, PVP-Vol. 401, ASME, 2000.
"Risk Based Assumptions in the ASME Pressure Vessel Code"; Keynote Speech, Plenary Session, Ninth International Conference on Pressure Vessel Technology, Sydney Australia; April 10, 2000; co-authored with Richard E. Feigel.
"Fatigue of Bellows"; C. Becht IV, published in Conference Proceedings, Vol. 1, Ninth International Conference on Pressure Vessel Technology, ICPVT-9, April 2000, Sydney, Australia.
"Vibration Analysis of BWR/5 Recirculation System Piping"; Torres, Cole, and Mostala; ICONE-8682, 8th International Conference on Nuclear Engineering, April 2000.
"A Comparison of Criteria for Acceptance of Risk"; Feb. 16, 2000; co-authored with Spencer H. Bush. PVRC Project 99-IP-01; sponsored by the ASME Council on Codes and Standards under a grant from the ASME Foundation.
"Vibration Testing of BWR/5 Recirculation Piping System"; Torres, Cole, and Mostala; 2000 PVP Vol. 409.
"Developments in Post Construction Codes and Standards in the United States"; C. Becht IV, J. R. Sims and Clyde Neely; invited keynote speaker at the 7th International Operating Pressure Equipment Conference in Sydney, Australia.
"Crack-Like Flaws And Local Thin Areas - Background and Evaluation Methodology", presented to the Petroleum Association of Japan, August 25 and 26, 1999.
"Evaluation of Plastic Strain Concentration in Bellows"; C. Becht , presented at the August 1999 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Fracture, Design Analysis of Pressure Vessels, Heat Exchangers, Piping Components, and Fitness For Service - 1999, PVP-Vol. 388, ASME, 1999.
"ASME Activities in Post-Construction - Briefing on New Standards"; C. Becht, presented at Cape '99, 5th International Colloquium Aging of Materials and Methods for the Assessment of Lifetimes of Engineering Plant, Wilderness, South Africa.
"What's New in ASME B31.3; What's New in ASME B&PV Codes; Rerating ASME Vessels Using the New, Higher Allowable Stress; ASME BPTCS Activities in Risk Management; Risk Based Maintenance Planning; Post Construction Standards"; C. Becht, invited speaker, Sasol Technology Seminar, April 1999, Secunda, South Africa.
"Horizontal vessels on fixed supports used for storing high-temperature liquid: an experimental validation of finite element modeling"; H.W.Ng, J.S.T.Cheung, L.S.Ong, A.S.Tooth, C.Nadarajah and Z.Ling; published in Journal of Strain Analysis Vol.34, No.2, 1999, UK.
"The support of Horizontal Vessels Containing High Temperature Fluids – A Design Study"; A.S.Tooth, J.S.T.Cheung, L.S.Ong, H.W.Ng and C.Nadarajah; published in Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, August 1998, Vol.120, USA.
"What's New in ASME B31.3, Besides the Name, Process Piping"; C. Becht, invited speaker/panelist July 1998 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference.
"Finite element study of keyed backing ring design for floating head"; C.Nadarajah and L.T.Foo; published in International Journal of Pressure Vessel and Piping 75, 1998, UK.
"An alternative way to support horizontal pressure vessels subject to thermal loading"; Alwyn S. Tooth, John S.T.Cheung, Heong W.Ng, Lin S. Ong, Chithranjan Nadarajah; published in International Journal of Pressure Vessels and Piping 75 (1998), pg. 17-623, UK.
"Evaluation of Creep Buckling of Thermoplastic Pipe"; C. Becht and M. Xue, presented at Failures '98 and published in Risk, Economy and Safety, Failure Minimisation and Analysis, 1998, South Africa.
"Vapor-Cloud Explosions, Surviving"; C. Benteftifa and C. Becht, Encyclopedia of Chemical Processing Design, Vol. 61, Marcel Dekker, 1997.
"External Pressure Evaluation for Existing Pressure Vessels"; C. Becht and Y. Chen, presented at the July 1997 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Fitness for Adverse Environments in Petroleum and Power Equipment, PVP-Vol. 359, ASME, 1997.
"Design and Operation of High Pressure Systems"; J. R. Sims; tutorial presented at the Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference; July 30, 1997.
"Span Limits for Elevated Temperature Piping"; C. Becht and Y. Chen, presented at the July 1997 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Approximate Methods in the Design and Analysis of Pressure Vessels and Piping Components - 1997, PVP-Vol. 347, ASME, 1997 and published in the Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, Vol. 122, No. 2, May 2000.
C.Nadarajah, H.W.Hg and L.S.Ong; ASME Asia 97 Congress and Exhibition, Singapore.
"A Comparison of Section VIII Division 2 and Division 3 on High Pressure Vessels"; J. R. Sims; ASME PVP Volume 353; 1997.
"Energy Theorems and Bounds in Linearized Elasticity with Residual Stress"; F. G. Abatt and D. E. Carlson; Presented at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Engineering Sciences and Applications Division, Engineering Analysis Group, 1997 and at MEET'N'93 Joint Conference of SES, ASME, and ASCE, University of Virginia at Charlottesville, Virginia, 1993.
"The radial loading of cylindrical vessels - Influence of large displacements"; C. Nadarajah, A.S. Tooth and J.Spence; Int. J. Press. Ves & Piping, Vol.67, June 1996, UK.
"Biaxial rattchetting and cyclic plasticity for bree-type loading - Part II: Comparison between finite element analysis and theory"; C. Nadarajah and H. W. Ng; ASME J. Press. Tech, Vol. 118, No.2, May 1996, USA.
"Biaxial Ratchetting and Cyclic Plasticity for Bree-Type Loading - Part 1: Finite Element Analysis"; H.W.Ng and C.Nadarajah; ASME J. Press. Tech, Vol. 118, No.2, May 1996, USA.
"Robust Limit Load Estimation Using Secant Modulus Techniques"; C. Becht and Y. Chen, presented at the Lazar M. Kachanov Symposium and published in Inelasticity and Damage in Solids Subject to Microstructural Change, 1996.
"Recent Changes to ASME B31.3"; C. Becht, E. Bane and D. Frikken, presented at the MTI Second International Symposium on the Mechanical Integrity of Process Piping and published in conference proceedings, 1996.
"Piping Flexibility Analysis, When Should It Be Performed?"; C. Becht, speaker/panelist 1996 MTI Piping Symposium.
"The support of horizontal vessels containing high temperature fluids - A design study"; A.S.Tooth, J.S.T.Cheung, C. Nadarajah, L. S. Ong and H. W. Ng; Int. Conf. On Press. Vess. Tech, Vol.2, 1996, USA. – PVP Best Publication Award.
"Limit and shakedown analysis of nozzle/cylinder intersection under internal pressure and in-plane moment loading"; C. Nadarajah, D Mackenzie, JT Boyle; published in International Journal of Pressure Vessel and Piping, Elsevier Science Ltd, 1996 Vol 68, Issue No 3, pp 261-272, ISSN: 0308-016.
"Improve Building Performance to Survive Vapor-Cloud Explosions"; C. Benteftifa and C. Becht, Hydrocarbon Processing, October 1995.
"A Parametric Study of Double-Shell Tank Response to Internal High-Frequency Pressure Loading"; F. G. Abatt, J. P. Strehlow, R. Baliga, K. Choi and J. S. Shulman; Presented at ASME-PVP Conference, Honolulu, Hawaii, July 17-23, 1995.
"B31.3 Appendix X Rules for Expansion Joints"; C. Becht, Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, Vol. 117, ASME, 1995.
"Fatigue Analysis Using Simplified Elastic-Plastic Analysis"l C. Becht and B. Lyow, presented at the July 1995 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Fatigue Behavior and Environmental Enhancement, PVP-95-MF4, ASME, 1995.
"Jacking to Correct Out-of-Roundness of a Ring-Stiffened Vessel"; C. Becht, Y. Chen and B. Lyow, presented at the July 1995 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Fitness for Service and Decisions for Petroleum and Chemical Equipment, PVP-95-MF3, ASME, 1995.
"Developments in Pressure Vessel and Piping Design and Analysis"; C. Becht, PVP - Vol. 95-DA3, cont. ed., ASME, 1995.
"Evaluations of Existing Piping Systems - API 570"; C. Becht, invited speaker, Technical Seminar, American Society for Nondestructive Testing, April 1995. "Estimating limit loads and surfaces using the elastic compensation method"; C.Nadarajah; Mindef-NTU joint R&D Seminar, January 1995, Singapore.
"Horizontal pressure vessels on fixed saddle supports under thermal expansion loading - A study of 3 different saddle designs"; J.S.T. Cheung, A.S.Tooth, C.Nadarajah, L.S.Ong and H.W.Ng; Solid Mechanics Conference, Singapore 1995.
"Problems with Pressure Relief Valves in High Pressure Ethylene Service"; J. R. Sims; ASME PVP Volume 297, 1995.
"Fitness for Service - Local Thin Areas - Comparison of Finite Element Analysis to Physical Test Results"; J. R. Sims; ASME PVP Volume 315, 1995.
"Fatigue Usage Factor Evaluation For an Integrally Reinforced Branch Connection Using NB-3600 and NB-3200 Analysis Methods"; Hwang, Cole, and Bosi; 1995 PVP Vol. 313-2.
"Introduction to the Chemical Plant and Petroleum Refinery Piping Code ASME B31.3"; C. Becht, invited tutorial instructor, ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference, 1992, 1993, 1995 and 2003; MTI Second International Symposium on the Mechanical Integrity of Process Piping, 1996; Cape 2001.
"Upper and lower bound limit surfaces of structures using the elastic compensation method"; C.Nadarajah; Journal of the Institution of Engineers, Singapore, Vol. 34, No.8, December 1994.
"High Temperature Materials/Design Issues"; C. Becht, invited speaker/panelist June 1994 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference.
"Service Experience and Reliability Improvement: Nuclear, Fossil, and Petrochemical Plants"; C. Becht, PVP - Vol. 288, cont. ed., ASME, 1994.
"Recertification and Stress Classification Issues"; C. Becht, PVP - Vol. 277, cont. ed., ASME 1994.
"Assessment of Older Cold Service Pressure Vessels for Brittle Fracture during Temperature Excursions below the Minimum Design Temperature"; J. R. Sims; ASME PVP Volume 288, 1994.
"Comparison of Local Thin Area Assessment Methodologies"; J. R. Sims; ASME PVP Volume 288, 1994.
"Simple bounds on limit loads using elastic finite element analysis"; D Mackenzie, C Nadarajah, S Jinhua and J T Boyle; ASME J. Press. Vess. Tech., Vol.115, No.1, Feb 1993, USA.
"New Rules for Bellows Expansion Joints in B31.3"; C. Becht, presented at the MTI/NACE First International Symposium on Process Piping and published in conference proceedings, 1993.
"Creep, Fatigue, Flaw Evaluation, and Leak - Before - Break Assessment"; C. Becht, PVP - Vol. 266, ed. Y. S. Garud, M. Aggarud, C. Becht, S. Bhandari, G. Wilkowski, ASME, 1993.
"A simple method of estimating limit loads by iterative elastic analysis II - Nozzle sphere intersections under internal pressure and radial load"; C Nadarajah, D Mackenzie & J T Boyle; Int.J.Pres.Vess and Piping, Vol.53, pp 97 -119, 1993, UK.
"Assessment of Older Equipment for Risk of Brittle Fracture"; J. R. Sims; ASME PVP Volume 261, 1993.
"Fitness for Service: Groove Like Local Thin Areas on Pressure Vessels and Storage Tanks"; J. R. Sims; ASME PVP Volume 252, 1993.
"Effect of Pipe Insertion On Slip-On Flange Performance"; C. Becht, Y. Chen, and C. Benteftifa, presented at the July 1992 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Design and Analysis of Pressure Vessels, Piping, and Components-1992, ASME, 1992.
"Stress Classification, Robust Methods, and Elevated Temperature Design"; C. Becht, PVP - Vol. 230, ed. C. Becht, ASME, 1992.
"Design and Analysis of Pressure Vessels, Piping, and Components-1992"; C. Becht, PVP - Vol. 235, ed. C. Becht, ASME, 1992.
"An iterative elastic analysis procedure for estimating lower bound limit loads"; D Mackenzie, J Shi, C Nadarajah & J T Boyle; Proc. ASME PVP, New Orleans, 1992, USA.
"A Basis for the Fitness for Service Evaluation of Thin Areas in Pressure Vessels and Storage Tanks"; J. R. Sims; ASME PVP Volume 233, 1992.
"Micro Electromechanical Actuators Based on Conducting Polymers"; R. H. Baughmann, L. W. Shaeklette, R. L. Elsenbaumer, E. Plichta, C. Becht, Molecular Electronics, (pp 267 - 289), P.I. Lazarez ed., Kluwer Academic Publishing, Netherlands, 1991.
"Fatigue, Degradation, and Fracture"; PVP - Vol 195, ed. W. Bamford, C. Becht, et al., ASME, 1990.
"Special Pressure Vessel Design: Very High Pressure Vessels"; J. R. Sims; Presentation to the Winter 1989 and Spring 1990 Pressure Vessel Seminars of the ASME South Texas Section.
Optoelectronics, and Molecular Electronics, Mons Belgium, Kluwer Academic Publishing, Netherlands, 1989.
"Design Experience and Feedback - Design For High-Integrity Elevated Temperature Components"; C. Becht, invited speaker/panelist July 1989 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference.
"Structural Design for Elevated Temperature Environments - Creep, Ratchet, Fatigue and Fracture"; PVP - Vol 163, ed. C. Becht et al, ASME 1989.
"Metallic Bellows and Expansion Joints - 1989"; PVP - Vol 168, ed. C. Becht et al, ASME, 1989.
"Fatigue and Elevated Temperature Design of Bellows"; C. Becht, presented at the July 1989 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Metallic Bellows and Expansion Joints - 1989, PVP - Vol 168, ASME, 1989.
"Considerations in Bellows Thrust Forces and Proof Testing"; C. Becht, presented at the July 1989 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Metallic Bellows and Expansion Joints - 1989, PVP - Vol 168, ASME, 1989.
"Section VIII, Division 3 High Pressure Vessel Code"; J. R. Sims; Moderator/Panel Member at the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors/ASME BPV Meeting in Tulsa, OK May, 1989.
"Fracture Mechanics, Creep and Fatigue Analysis"; PVP - Vol. 135, ed. C. Becht, S. K. Bhandari, and B. Tomkins, ASME, 1988.
"Elastic Follow-up Evaluation of a Piping System with a Hot Wall Slide Valve"; C. Becht, presented at the July 1988 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Design and Analysis of Piping, Pressure Vessels, and Components - 1988, PVP - Vol 139, ASME, 1988.
"Static Pressure Design of Thick Walled Cylinders"; B.Sims; tutorial presentation as a part of the PVP Tutorial Series on High Pressure Technology in Pittsburgh June, 1988.
"Section VIII High Pressure Vessel Rules"; J. R. Sims; presented to the 1988 PVP Conference.
"Effect of Creep Crack Growth on Life of Elevated Temperature Stainless Steel Components"; C. Becht and G. M. Buchheim, 87-PVP-24, presented at June/July 1987 Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in the Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, Vol. 111, No. 3, August 1989.
"Influence of Aging on High Temperature Creep Crack Growth in Type 304H Stainless Steel"; G. M. Buchheim, C. Becht, et al., presented at the September 1986, Third International Symposium on Non-Linear Fracture Mechanics and published in Non-Linear Fracture Mechanics, Vol 1.
"Behavior of Pressure Induced Discontinuity Stresses at Elevated Temperatures"; C. Becht, presented at the July 1986 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Pressure Vessels, Piping, and Components Design and Analysis, PVP -Vol 107, ASME 1986 and the Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, Vol. 111, No. 3, August 1989.
"Development of Design Criteria for a High Pressure Piping Code"; J. R. Sims; ASME PVP Vol. 110, 1986.
"ASME High Pressure Piping Code Development"; J. R. Sims; presented as part of two panel sessions at the Energy Sources Technology Conference and Exhibition in Dallas, TX – Feb. 1985. "Design and Analysis of a High Temperature, High Pressure Bellows Expansion Joint"; C. Becht, presented at the June 1984 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Metallic Bellows and Expansion Joints Part II, PVP - Vol 83, ASME, 1984.
"Predicting Bellows Response by Numerical and Theoretical Methods"; C. Becht, presented at the June 1984 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Metallic Bellows and Expansion Joints Part II, PVP - Vol 83, ASME, 1984, The Decade of Progress in Pressure Vessel and Piping Technology 1985, and Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, August, 1986.
"A Simplified Approach for Evaluating Secondary Stresses in Elevated Temperature Design"; C. Becht, 83-PVP-51, presented at the June 1983 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference.
"The Present Status of the Code being developed by ASME/ANSI B31.3 Sub Group on High Pressure Piping"; J. R. Sims; Vice Chairman of Panel Session at the ASME PVP Conference in Portland, OR June, 1983.
"Stress Analysis of Bellows"; C. Becht and G. Skopp, presented at the June 1981 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Metallic Bellows and Expansion Joints, PVP - Vol 51, ASME 1981.
"Root Bulge of Bellows"; C. Becht and G. Skopp, presented at the June 1981 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Metallic Bellows and Expansion Joints, PVP - Vol 51, ASME 1981.
"Verification of Theoretical Plastic Ratchet Boundaries for Bellows"; C. Becht, G. Skopp and P. Horton, presented at the June 1981 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and published in Metallic Bellows and Expansion Joints, PVP -Vol 51, ASME 1981.
"Design, Inspection and Operation of High Pressure Vessels and Piping Systems"; J. R. Sims; Editor, PVP Vol. 48, 1981.
"Transient and High Temperature Development Test Results for a Conventional Bare Pipe Clamp"; C. Becht, presented at the June 1980 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference.
"Seismic Evaluation of Liquid Sodium Pumps, Response to Rotational Excitation"; C. Becht, presented at the June 1979 ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference.
"Elastic/Inelastic Screening Rules for Nozzles"; C. Becht, presented at the Special Information Meeting on High-Temperature Structural Design Applications Experience, Department of Energy, Germantown, Maryland, Sept. 14-15, 1978.
"Computer Designed Dies for Tubular Film"; J. R. Sims; presented at the Society of Plastics Engineers Annual Technical Conference (ANTEC), 1974.
"Accuracy in Extrusion"; J. R. Sims; Guest Speaker at course sponsored by the Plastics Institute of America at Stevens University, October, 1973.
"HDPE as a Paper Replacement"; J. R. Sims; presented to the Society of Plastics Engineers of Canada Annual Meeting, 1973.
"Setting up a HDPE Grocery Sack Plant"; J. R. Sims; Modern Converter, July, 1973.
"Manufacturing Techniques for Plastics Paper"; J. R. Sims; presented to the Second National Annual Extrusion Conference at New York University April, 1973.
"Extruding Film Grocery Bags"; J. R. Sims; Modern Plastics, April, 1973.
"Plastics Paper"; J. R. Sims; presented to the Newark Section of the Society of Plastics Engineers Jan., 1973.
"Tubular Water Bath System Becomes Active Contender in the Film Sweepstakes"; J. R. Sims; Plastics World, Jan, 1973.
Subsection NB, NC, ND-3600 Piping, Companion Guide to the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Volume 1, Chapter 8, Fourth Edition, K.R. Rao, Editor, Jack R. Cole and Donald F. Landers, 2012.
"Process Piping: The Complete Guide to ASME B31.3"; C. Becht IV; ASME, 2002, 2nd edition 2004, 3rd edition 2009.
Fitness-for-Service and Integrity of Piping, Vessels, and Tanks; G. Antaki; published by McGraw-Hill, 2005.
Piping and Pipeline Engineering; G. Antaki; published by Dekker, 2003.
"Chapter 16, B31.1 Power Piping, and Chapter 17"; B31.3 Process Piping, C. Becht IV; Criteria and Commentary on Select Aspects of ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code and Piping Codes, ed. K. R. Rhao, ASME, 2002.
"Standards and codes to control hydrogen induced cracking in pressure vessels and pipes for hydrogen gas storage and transport", Volume 1, Chapter 6, Edited by Richard P. Gangloff and Brian P. Somerday. Woodhead Publishing Limited, 80 High Street, Sawston, Cambridge CB22 3HJ, UK.
"Design Factor Guidelines for High Pressure Composite H2 Tanks"; STP-PT-005, C. Becht IV and J. Smith; ASME, 2006.
"Time Dependent Allowable Stresses in Section VIII Div. 1"; STP-PT-024, C. Becht IV, G. Hollinger, and C. Becht V; ASME, 2008.
"Extended Fatigue Exemption Rules for Low Cr Alloys Slightly into the Time-Dependent Range"; STP-PT-025, C. Becht IV and C. Becht V; ASME, 2008.


text:
import json

from spiderfoot import SpiderFootEvent, SpiderFootPlugin

class sfp_hostio(SpiderFootPlugin):

    meta = {
        "name": "Host.io",
        "summary": "Obtain information about domain names from host.io.",
        'flags': ["apikey"],
        "useCases": ["Passive"],
        "categories": ["Passive DNS"],
        "dataSource": {
            "website": "https://host.io",
            "model": "FREE_AUTH_LIMITED",
            "references": ["https://host.io/docs"],
            "apiKeyInstructions": [
                "Visit https://host.io/signup",
                "Register a free account",
                "Visit https://host.io/dashboard and use the authentication token provided",
            ],
            "favIcon": "https://host.io/static/images/hostio/favicon.png?v2",
            "logo": "https://host.io/static/images/hostio/favicon.png?v2",  # Seems like they embed it as SVG
            "description": "We collect data on every known domain name, from every TLD, and update it every month. "
            "Our data includes DNS records and website data for each of the domains."
            "We process terabytes of data and summarize it to produce our final results. "
            "Browse through our site to see backlinks, redirects, server details or IP address "
            "and hosting provider details courtesy of IPinfo.io.",
        },
    }

    opts = {
        "api_key": "",
    }

    optdescs = {
        "api_key": "Host.io API Key.",
    }

    errorState = False

    def setup(self, sfc, userOpts=None):
        if userOpts is None:
            userOpts = {}
        self.sf = sfc
        self.results = self.tempStorage()
        self.opts.update(userOpts)

    def watchedEvents(self):
        return [
            "DOMAIN_NAME",
        ]

    # What events this module produces
    def producedEvents(self):
        return [
            "IP_ADDRESS",
            "RAW_RIR_DATA",
            "EMAILADDR",
            "WEB_ANALYTICS_ID",
            "WEBSERVER_TECHNOLOGY",
            "PHYSICAL_COORDINATES",
            "DESCRIPTION_ABSTRACT",
            "GEOINFO",
        ]

    # When querying third parties, it's best to have a dedicated function
    # to do so and avoid putting it in handleEvent()
    def handle_error_response(self, qry, res):
        try:
            error_info = json.loads(res["content"])
        except Exception:
            error_info = None
        if error_info:
            error_message = error_info.get("error")
        else:
            error_message = None
        if error_message:
            error_str = f", message {error_message}"
        else:
            error_str = ""
        self.info(f"Failed to get results for {qry}, code {res['code']}{error_str}")

    def query(self, qry):
        res = self.sf.fetchUrl(
            f"https://host.io/api/full/{qry}",
            headers={"Authorization": f"Bearer {self.opts['api_key']}"},
            timeout=self.opts["_fetchtimeout"],
            useragent="SpiderFoot",
        )
        if res["code"] != "200":
            self.handle_error_response(qry, res)
            return None

        if res["content"] is None:
            self.info(f"No Host.io info found for {qry}")
            return None

        try:
            return json.loads(res["content"])
        except Exception as e:
            self.error(f"Error processing JSON response from Host.io: {e}")

        return None

    def handleEvent(self, event):
        eventName = event.eventType
        srcModuleName = event.module
        eventData = event.data

        if self.errorState:
            return

        self.debug(f"Received event, {eventName}, from {srcModuleName}")

        if self.opts["api_key"] == "":
            self.error(
                f"You enabled {self.__class__.__name__} but did not set an API key!"
            )
            self.errorState = True
            return

        if eventData in self.results:
            self.debug(f"Skipping {eventData} as already mapped.")
            return

        self.results[eventData] = True

        data = self.query(event.data)
        if not data:
            self.error(f"No data received for {event.data}")
            return

        found = False
        ipinfo = data.get("ipinfo")
        if ipinfo and isinstance(ipinfo, dict):
            for address, ip_data in data["ipinfo"].items():
                # Not supporting co-hosted sites yet
                if not self.sf.validIP(address):
                    continue
                evt = SpiderFootEvent("IP_ADDRESS", address, self.__name__, event)
                self.notifyListeners(evt)
                found = True

                loc = ip_data.get("loc")
                if loc and isinstance(loc, str):
                    loc_evt = SpiderFootEvent(
                        "PHYSICAL_COORDINATES", loc, self.__name__, evt
                    )
                    self.notifyListeners(loc_evt)
                    found = True

                geo_info = ', '.join(filter(None, (ip_data.get(k) for k in ("city", "region", "country"))))
                if geo_info:
                    geo_info_evt = SpiderFootEvent(
                        "GEOINFO", geo_info, self.__name__, evt
                    )
                    self.notifyListeners(geo_info_evt)
                    found = True

        related = data.get("related")
        if related and isinstance(related, dict):
            email_section = related.get("email")
            if email_section and isinstance(email_section, list):
                for email_data in email_section:
                    if isinstance(email_data, dict):
                        value = email_data["value"]
                        if value and isinstance(value, str):
                            evt = SpiderFootEvent(
                                "EMAILADDR", value, self.__name__, event
                            )
                            self.notifyListeners(evt)
                            found = True

        web = data.get("web")
        if web and isinstance(web, dict):
            server = web.get("server")
            if server and isinstance(server, str):
                evt = SpiderFootEvent(
                    "WEBSERVER_TECHNOLOGY", server, self.__name__, event
                )
                self.notifyListeners(evt)
                found = True

            google_analytics = web.get("googleanalytics")
            if google_analytics and isinstance(google_analytics, str):
                evt = SpiderFootEvent(
                    "WEB_ANALYTICS_ID", google_analytics, self.__name__, event
                )
                self.notifyListeners(evt)
                found = True

            title = web.get("title")
            if title and isinstance(title, str):
                evt = SpiderFootEvent(
                    "DESCRIPTION_ABSTRACT", title, self.__name__, event
                )
                self.notifyListeners(evt)
                found = True

        if found:
            evt = SpiderFootEvent(
                "RAW_RIR_DATA", json.dumps(data), self.__name__, event
            )
            self.notifyListeners(evt)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


The common theme of her words reflect her work with the lonely, the sick, the dying and the destitute. Her unending love came through in her work and in her words. She was forever compassionate towards the loneliness felt by "wealthy" people who on surface had it all. She was also very concerned about the breakdown of families.
• Everytime you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.
• I have found the paradox, that if you love until it hurts, there can be no more hurt, only more love.
• If we want a love message to be heard, it has got to be sent out. To keep a lamp burning, we have to keep putting oil in it.
• Do not think that love, in order to be genuine, has to be extraordinary. What we need is to love without getting tired.
• Everybody today seems to be in such a terrible rush, anxious for greater developments and greater riches and so on, so that children have very little time for their parents. Parents have very little time for each other, and in the home begins the disruption of peace of the world.
• It is easy to love the people far away. It is not always easy to love those close to us. It is easier to give a cup of rice to relieve hunger than to relieve the loneliness and pain of someone unloved in our own home. Bring love into your home for this is where our love for each other must start.
• If you can't feed a hundred people, then feed just one.
• Even the rich are hungry for love, for being cared for, for being wanted, for having someone to call their own.
• Let us always meet each other with smile, for the smile is the beginning of love.
• Loneliness and the feeling of being unwanted is the most terrible poverty.
• Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do… but how much love we put in that action.
• Peace begins with a smile.
• Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.
• The biggest disease today is not leprosy or tuberculosis, but rather the feeling of being unwanted.
• The most terrible poverty is loneliness and the feeling of being unloved.
• The hunger for love is much more difficult to remove than the hunger for bread.
• The success of love is in the loving - it is not in the result of loving. Of course it is natural in love to want the best for the other person, but whether it turns out that way or not does not determine the value of what we have done.
• There is more hunger in the world for love and appreciation in this world than for bread.
• Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody, I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat.
• Good works are links that form a chain of love.
• In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love.
Mother Teresa's message of love and hope lives on - it is now up to all of us to continue her work and make the world a better place.


text:
Ford recalls fire plagued Kuga
Peterhansel wins 13th Dakar title
Bottas joins Silver Arrows
Published by reuben at January 17, 2017
ford kuga fire
jeff nemeth
national consumer commission
Ford South Africa has announced a recall of 4 556 units of its 1,6-litre Kuga model, sold between December 2012 and February 2014.
Affected cars require components in the cooling system to be replaced and software updated. The recall has been implemented following an approach to the company by the Government's National Consumer Commission (NCC) in the wake of media reports of under-bonnet fires in a number of Kugas.
The role of the NCC is to ensure the safety of products sold locally. "A product that poses a risk to consumers has no place in South Africa," said its director, Ebrahim Mohamed. "If Ford had not issued its voluntary recall now, the NCC would have made it mandatory."
He said the NCC would monitor Ford's progress for the duration of the recall period, and had issued instructions to the company for a report back on a bi-weekly basis.
Jeff Nemeth, CEO of Ford South Africa, said that, based on current data, engines of affected models had been found to be overheating due to a lack of coolant circulation which, in turn, could cause the cylinder head to crack, resulting in an oil leak. "If the leaking oil reaches a hot engine surface, it can potentially catch fire," he said.
In a statement, Ford said it was aware of 39 incidents of under-bonnet fires involving the Kuga 1,6 and had examined all units, sending engines and even entire cars to its headquarters in the United States for analysis.
"There have been zero injuries to drivers or passengers in these 39 cases," Nemeth said. "At this point, the case in which Reshall Jimmy burnt to death in his Ford Kuga in 2014 is not believed to have been caused by an under-bonnet fire."
However, Jimmy's family has established through private forensic investigators that the fire in the vehicle started behind the dashboard on the passenger side. They have vowed to make Ford accept responsibility for the death of Reshall and have instituted civil proceedings against the company.
According to Nemeth, inspection to the 39 units with fire damage as well as other 1,6-litre models examined as part of voluntary safety inspections allowed Ford to pinpoint the cause of the fires.
Jeff Nemeth, CEO Ford South Africa
However, the company was still trying to determine exactly why the cooling problem had manifested itself only in South Africa and not in other markets where the derivatives, which are manufactured in Spain, had been sold.
Nemeth said Ford was committed to keeping customers mobile and would provide courtesy cars for owners of Kugas whose vehicles were affected by the recall. He said repairs could take some time as Ford was currently experiencing a shortage of required parts.
Improvements to affected vehicles had been designed to make cooling systems more robust and would include improved early warning systems for indications of engine overheating.
However, a Ford representative said data was still being gathered, pointing to the possibility that modifications needed were more substantial than those disclosed by the company – an indication that customers could find themselves behind the steering wheels of courtesy cars for longer than anticipated.
On the question of whether the overheating fault could affect the lifespan of the vehicles, Ford representatives responded that they did not believe it would.
In response to questions on how the company would deal with the cars that had suffered fire damage, Nemeth said that each case would be assessed on merit. "Our top priority at this stage is the safety of our customers," he said.
Though other derivatives in the Kuga range were said not to have be affected by the overheating problem, company representatives said anything learnt from on-going investigations could be used to improve all models if necessary.
Ford representatives declined to comment on the cost implications of the recall programme.
In the wake of the recall, Ford South Africa – which ranks third in the country's vehicle sales charts – will need to work hard to win back the favour of affected customers and the motoring public in general.
The lethargy with which it is perceived to have reacted to initial reports of a potential problem regarding the Kuga – and the prodding needed by NCC before it issued a voluntary recall – doesn't augur well for the company's standing as a proactive, progressive motoring entity.
It is up to Ford to make right what is wrong, and the way the company deals with fallout from the recall will determine the extent of its reputational damage.
Reuben van Niekerk
@reubenvn

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


QlikView has replaced between 50 and 60 different reports with a single portal of data. It has changed our processes and supporting processes. The implementation of electronic timesheets has led the business to look at different ways of collecting and using the information we have available. It is changing the way we do things in the field.
Improve business decision-making by simplifying reporting across different business systems.
Active Tree Services is Australia's largest vegetation management company with more than 700 staff office in several states around a substantial fleet of specialist equipment and annual revenue of more than $100 million. The company works with local, state and federal governments, energy utilities, construction companies and other organisations, providing safe, reliable and efficient vegetation management services such as site inspections, tree pruning, large tree removal, chipping, bank stabilisation and more.
One of the things that sets Active Tree Services apart from its competitors is the company's resourceful adoption of information technologies as a means of driving efficiencies and a competitive edge.
For almost seven years it has worked closely with IT services partner, Professional Advantage, on projects ranging from deployment of a collaborative document management platform to a CRM [customer relationship management] solution and a financial system that has improved the organisation's ability to analyse management information.
Under the leadership of CIO, Justin Sheppherd, Active Tree Services' IT department has also developed its own systems such as a mobile data collection application that has dramatically improved information capture and productivity for work teams while on the road.
In 2013, as the quantity of data gathered by mobile teams began to accumulate, Sheppherd realised the company was going to need a better reporting strategy and new reporting tools. Reporting processes now involved up to 15 different data sources. Some of the information was held in databases, some was in spreadsheets. Much of it was in silos reflecting the different client contracts in each state. For operations managers and staff, senior business executives and others, it was increasingly difficult to obtain a consistent view of activity.
Sheppherd explains. "At the time we were primarily using SQL Reporting Services plus a little bit of Excel, extracting CSV files and using pivot tables. The main problems with this approach were there was no drill-through and it was very complex to build reports. It was taxing infrastructure-wise. We needed to consolidate our reporting tools and create one way of looking at all the data."
What Sheppherd wanted was a business intelligence (BI) platform that could consolidate all of Active Tree Services data sources within a single system. It had to be scalable, easy to use and adaptable, capable of being used for other reporting and analysis projects further down the track.
"We looked at the market of BI tools," he says. "In the last few years this really has become a popular area. Professional Advantage was offering QlikView. We looked at a couple of other companies offering the Microsoft stack and all the Microsoft BI tools, and other vendors."
In the end, Sheppherd selected QlikView. The solution offered the flexibility Active Tree Services needed and was able to cope with the vast amounts of data the company was generating. Whereas other BI tools relied heavily on additional technical resources, Sheppherd was confident QlikView could be managed in-house.
"Most other tools required that the IT department own the BI platform. The QlikView approach is different and that was the real selling point. QlikView is owned by the business and the business is much more involved in the creation of the dashboard and reports. It empowers analysts to create documents." Sheppherd states.
The idea that Professional Advantage would manage deployment was also attractive. "We had a previous relationship with Professional Advantage and they understand how we want to run our projects. We trust them and felt they were best positioned to help us," he adds.
The company decided that its initial QlikView project should examine team and equipment utilisation metrics so that the company could better identify cost per activity. To achieve this, the project was divided into two phases.
The first established the groundwork. It called for development of a data warehouse to bring together operational metrics relating to personnel and plant utilisation such as cutting and productivity, inspections productivity. At the same time, a new electronic timesheet system was created for mobile use. "This enabled us to get better information about what was going on out in the field and led to more accurate utilisation figures," Sheppherd explains.
Work on this phase was completed in early 2014 and all new client contracts are now being reported on, and can be analysed using QlikView.
The remaining phase of the project, which will deliver cost per activity analysis, is currently under way and is expected to be completed later this year.
"When taking on a project like this, the business tries to define what it wants in advance, but as people gain access to products and finished tools, the goals inevitably change. That's the nature of BI projects. Once people can see what is possible, priorities and wish lists change. It can be a bit of a project management hurdle but it's also great because it stimulates thought and stimulates the business to look at itself a different way," Sheppherd smiles.
The early users of QlikView include general managers, operations managers and supervisors across a variety of functions and departments. Adoption of the system continues to steadily increase, with each new user encouraging others to explore the variety of information now available.
Managers appreciate the drill-through capabilities that provide a fast and far more detailed view of information. "Previously, drilling down to an activity was quite slow and under SQL Reporting services, there was an awful lot of data tabulated on a page. If you wanted to find one particular activity or one particular period on a certain day, you had to trawl through all the data. With QlikView you can get to the information you want with just a few clicks," Sheppherd reports.
He says the system is slowly changing the way the company looks at and uses its data. "QlikView has replaced between 50 and 60 different reports with a single portal of data.
It has changed our processes and supporting processes.
The implementation of electronic timesheets has led the business to look at different ways of collecting and using the information we have available. It is changing the way we do things in the field," he admits.
The most obvious benefits to the business so far are time and visibility. The easy accessibility of data has cut the time required for reporting and analysis, and more useful data has become available.
Sheppherd points out, "The information means we've been able to look at trends and to identify things such as contractors who have been costing us too much time on-site. Timesheets and the productivity analysis are helping us to become more efficient and are reinforcing a culture of change and improvement."
Given the results to date, the business is eagerly awaiting the ability to analyse cost per activity. "It's something we've never done before and we're already finding some very interesting anomalies in the data," Sheppherd states. "In the past, when dealing with cost blow-outs, we relied on gut feel or interpretation. Now we are seeing mathematical representations of the data and it's scary but empowering at the same time."
This ability to see actual costs and to understand the true profitability of each client contract is likely to have far-reaching ramifications and will become a key input for future tenders.
Sheppherd praises the support that Professional Advantage has provided throughout the project, noting, "They know all of our line of business systems and have been very intimate with our Active Mobile system. They have a very good track record of success in bringing about change in our organisation. On top of that, they understand our approach. Active Tree Services has a very capable technology department, probably the most innovative and capable department of its type in this market.
Professional Advantage has always been willing to take the role of empowering and training us so we can be self-sufficient at the end of each project, allowing us to continue developing the system ourselves.
Sheppherd has plenty of plans to test that self-sufficiency once the current project is completed. He's already keenly examining ways to expand the use of BI, and is working on plans to include other lines of business such as human resources and fi as well using the company's spatial data.


Sangyou Lee, the designer of the highly celebrated Chevy Camaro, has announced that he has resigned his position with General Motors to take a role with Volkswagen/Audi as their chief designer of exterior, which may increase the visibility of used Chevrolet models in New Jersey.
Lee, who worked for GM for over a decade, is credited with bringing the Chevy Camaro back to national prominence after he redesigned the muscle car in 2005, according to CarDesignNews.com.
The Korean-born designer's concept debuted so successfully at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show GM decided to begin production immediately.
Chevy's '06 Camaro is a "retro-styled" two-door coupe with a 6.0 liter, 400 horsepower V-8 engine powered through a six-speed manual transmission. The show model contains Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation equipment, a fuel-saving technology that results in a highway fuel economy of 30 mpg or better, according to RSportsCars.com.
Before he unveiled the 2006 Camaro, Lee worked on a joint project between Bertone and GM in which he created the 2004 Buick Velite concept. He also contributed to the exterior design of the 50th anniversary Stingray.
Lee is expected to begin working for VW in mid-2010 in their California design facility. He is one of several designers to move on from the major U.S. automakers in the last 12 months. Pat Schiavone, Ford Motor Company's chief truck designer, announced last week that he will be resigning from the company in early 2010 to join the appliance manufacturer Whirlpool.
The departure of Chevy's award-winning exterior designer may increase the popularity in used Chevy models in New Jersey.
Officials at Ford Motor Company have recently announced that they expect to sell the Volvo car brand to China's Zhejiang Geely Holding Group by the first quarter of 2010, which may attract attention to used Volvo models in New Jersey.
The value of the deal is expected to be estimated at $1.8 billion, which pales in comparison to the $6.45 billion that Ford paid to purchase Volvo in 1999, according to Reuters.
In a statement, authorities at Ford said that the sale "would ensure Volvo has the resources, including the capital investment, necessary to further strengthen the business and build its global franchise, while enabling Ford to continue to focus on and implement its core ONE Ford strategy," according to AutoWeek.com.
Ford, the only U.S. automaker to avoid bankruptcy and a government bailout, may use the money to accelerate debt repayment in an effort to return to profitability by 2011.
Meanwhile, Li Shufu, the founder of the Zhejiang Holding Group, has announced that the Swedish auto brand will be left intact if the sale is finalized.
Ford has said that there is still a significant amount of work to be done before the sale is finalized, including Geely securing financing and having the Chinese government sign off on the deal. Ford does not plan on retaining a shareholding in Volvo after the deal is finalized.
The possibility of the Swedish automaker changing hands may increase the appeal of used Volvo models in New Jersey.
The popularity of used Subaru models in New York may be on the rise following the scene at a car lot where reality television star Jon Gosselin tried to trade-in his current vehicle for a used Subaru STI.
According to the celebrity gossip website TMZ.com, the former star of Jon and Kate Plus 8 was looking to trade his 2005 BMW M3 for a more recent Subaru model as well as $4,000 in cash. Unfortunately for Gosselin, his current vehicle was not worth quite as much as he thought, forcing him to leave the lot without making a trade.
Ironically, one of his alleged former flings, Stephanie Santoro, used to work at the car dealership that Gosselin visited.
Used Subaru models in New York may be more appealing to car buyers after Jon Gosselin's attempted trade-in at a local car lot.
An Ottawa, Kansas man has been hailed as a hero after lifting a car off of a trapped young girl, which may benefit used Mercury models in New Jersey.
Ashlyn Hough, age 6, was walking down her street on the way to school when she was hit by a neighbor who was backing out of their driveway. Ashlyn was pushed out into the street and was pinned under the car.
Nick Harris, who was dropping his 8-year-old daughter off at school, saw the incident and rushed over the help.
Harris carried Ashlyn over to the sidewalk and was going back to get his cell phone from his car to dial 911, but the first-grader asked him to stay with her. He told onlookers to get the child's mother who lives just down the street.
Ashlyn was sent to the hospital, but was later released after suffering a concussion and some minor bumps and bruises.
Harris, who is 5-foot-7 and 185 pounds, said he has no idea how he was able to lift the Mercury sedan off of the girl.
Ashlyn's family, who happen to be neighbors with Harris, have praised him as a hero.
Nick Harris' amazing story of heroism may attract more attention to used Mercury models in New Jersey.
The Ford Focus Hatchback has been named the used car of the decade by the car valuation expert CAP, which may attract additional attention to used Ford models in New Jersey.
Judges explained that the Ford Focus won the prestigious award because of its versatile nature and its outstanding value.
"As a used car, it has satisfied every [criterion] for the demanding consumer who requires a true five-seat family car with quality, comfort, performance, durability, reliability, safety, economy, practicality and style," he added.
The American car manufacturer took home several awards in the competition, including the Ford Ka's receipt of the best secondhand model award in the small car section, the highest award given to a vehicle used solely for personal transport. Judges stated that the Ka won the award due to its affordability, low running costs and reliable engineering.
Interest in used Ford models in New Jersey may increase following the news of Ford winning such prominent awards.
Used Ford models in New York may receive additional attention after Pat Schiavone, Ford Motor Company's chief truck designer, announced that he will be resigning from the company in early 2010.
Ford spokeswoman Marcey Evans confirmed Shiavone's resignation on Monday, stating that he was leaving the organization for an opportunity within a different industry.
According to PickupTrucks.com, Ford's North American Truck and SUV design director will be leaving the company to take on a new position with the appliance manufacturer Whirlpool.
Schiavone has worked for the company for the past 21 years and was responsible for the designing the 2002 F-350 Tonka Truck and the F-150 Lightning Rod, among others. He is also credited with re-designing the 1994 Mustang, Autonews.com reports.
Shiavone continues the trend of recent departures from Ford's senior design team. Earlier in the year, GT designer Camilo Pardo left the company after 24 years of service. Peter Horbury, executive director of Ford Americas, recently announced his return to lead vehicle design at Volvo.
Interest in used Ford models in New York may grow following the news of another key employee moving on from the company.
Used cars in New Jersey should attract significant attention following a recent announcement by the state's Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC).
Effective January 1 2010, used vehicles will no longer require a full inspection until they are at least four years old.
Acting MVC chief administrator Shawn Sheekey said that the motivation behind the change was to reduce the volume at inspection facilities and to save time for motorists, NJ.com reports.
For car buyers who purchase a used vehicle with a valid, up-to-date sticker, no inspection will be required until the sticker expires. If the vehicle does not have a valid inspection sticker, the buyer will be given a form during the registration process and must go to a certified inspection facility to conclude the process.
The popularity of used cars in New Jersey should grow in light of the MVC's recent announcement.
Used Lincoln models in New Jersey could appear to be even safer after Eric Patterson, mayor of Leeds, Alabama, crashed his 2001 Lincoln into a tree and survived.
Patterson had just concluded a long day at the office when he picked up his son John to take him to a friend's birthday party, according to the St. Claire Times.
On route, Patterson lost control of his vehicle and skidded off an embankment directly into a tree, splitting it in half.
While the official police report stated that there were no drugs or alcohol involved, Patterson was "apparently asleep" when he lost control of the vehicle.
Patterson broke his right leg, but his son, who was wearing a seatbelt, was left virtually unharmed.
Used Lincoln models in New Jersey might become more sought after following Eric Patterson's harrowing accident.
Soon, there will be only used Saab models in New York and elsewhere, as General Motors has decided to end the brand.
American opinions of GM haven't been especially high recently, as the automaker's flair for failure and flop do little to inspire confidence in or empathy for the blue badge. Rather, decades of models incapable of putting six digits on the odometer have left many motorists with a feeling of hopelessness. But now, in Saab's wake, even the despair is gone for some and only apathy remains.
Starting today, Jelter and thousands of other Saab fans, will likely begin appreciating every 900, 9000, 9-3, 9-5 and even every 9-2X they see at least a little bit more.
Of all these models, the 900 is the car that most motorists consider to be Saab's flagship. It was made for exactly a decade and was redesigned only once. The first 900 rolled out of Trollhattan in 1978, marking its territory as Saab's newest fastback. But the car's body wasn't its only distinguishing feature. Saab, the first manufacturer to have ever successfully applied a turbocharger to a street-legal automobile, made sure some of its 900s would come with a little bit of boost.
In addition to the high-end muscle, another 900 feature most first-time drivers no doubt noticed was the fact that their keys couldn't be inserted into the steering column since Saab decided igniting the motor would be more fun if you could do it without awkwardly leaning over the wheel with your face on the glass. So the Swedes put the keyhole between the gearshift and the handbrake for easier access.
The 900 was redesigned in 1994, which is when some purists think the end began, although GM already owned half of the company by 1989. Unlike the first generation 900, the '94 didn't have a memorable shape. Although the car became a bit more stylish when it evolved into the 9-3, the original 900 would always be Saab's biggest charmer. Indeed, some used Saab models in New York and elsewhere will certainly start getting the appreciation they deserve when more Americans learn the grinning griffin is no more.
Used Audi models in New York have continued to attract attention after the Audi A3 was named the Executive Used Car of the Decade by vehicle valuation specialist CAP.
Mark Norman of CAP described the A3 as a "genuine pioneer" that allowed consumers to accept the idea that a compact car can be as prestigious and luxurious as larger vehicles in the same class, according to EasierCar.com.
He went on to say that, while the A3 is not the cheapest used car on the market, the benefits of low depreciation will be realized at trade-in time.
Meanwhile, the Audi A3 TDI recently won the Green Car of the Year award at the L.A Auto Show.
The Associated Press reports that the A3 TDI gets 42 miles per gallon on the highway, which is a 50 percent better fuel efficiency rating than a gasoline-powered A3.
The A3's recent praise should come as good news for those in the market for used Audi models in New York.
Used Audi models in New Jersey may become even more popular following a minor car accident involving a black Audi owned by Anne Hathaway.
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, the Oscar-nominated actress and her boyfriend Adam Shulman, who was behind the wheel, were driving on Santa Monica Boulevard when an alleged member of the paparazzi smashed his bicycle into their car, the L.A. Times reports.
Neither Hathaway nor her boyfriend were injured. The bicyclist, identified as Freddy Ferraro, age 32, suffered only minor bumps and bruises and refused medical treatment, EOnline.com reports.
Sheriff's spokesman Steve Whitmore told the L.A. Times that Ferraro was "moving way too fast and could have avoided the accident." However, there were no arrests made following the incident.
When asked how he knew the bicyclist was paparazzo, Whitmore said that he was carrying a high-end camera with a telephoto lens.
"If he's not a paparazzo, he's an avid bird watcher," he said, quoted by the news source.
Fans of Anne Hathaway may become more interested in used Audi models in New Jersey.
The Volkswagen Passat has recently been named the Large Used Car of the Decade by the car valuation specialist CAP. This piece of news should greatly benefit used Volkswagen models in New Jersey.
The fifth generation Passat, produced between 1996 and 2005, set a new benchmark for refinement, style, performance and quality, according to EasierCars.com.
The 2005 model is one of the more popular mid-size sedans in its class. According to Edmunds.com, it is fun to drive, has an upscale interior and a wide range of features. The '05 Passat has terrific handling and comes with a diesel engine option that has a unique combination of performance and economy.
The Passat's recent attention may increase sales of used Volkswagen models in New Jersey.
Li Shufu, chairman of Geely Holding Group, says the company's deal with Volvo hasn't hit any hiccups so far, which could mean consumer confidence in used S60Rs in New Jersey could be on the uptick.
Geely doesn't want to talk too much about the Volvo deal right now. The Chinese company says there are too many rumors circulating around the acquisition, so discussing it probably wouldn't help. The possibility of a merger was first announced by Ford, currently Volvo's parent, in October.
In early December, indications of progress began to appear, as Ford and Geely reached an agreement regarding an intellectual rights issue that concerned Volvo, which some industry analysts believed was the deal's biggest obstacle.
Lately, Geely has been shopping around for transmissions for its vehicles with larger engines – motors with a displacement of bigger than 1.5 liters. The Chinese automaker seems to have taken an interest in DSI, an Australian manufacturer, meaning some Volvos might become more international than ever before.
The S60 could be one of the Volvos to receive an Australian transmission, as the all-new second generation model – whose production will begin in Ghent, Belgium, during the summer of 2010 – won't come with an engine that's smaller than 1.6 liters big.
Odell's claims are ambitious. Not because they seem exaggerated, but because the first generation S60R was quite an automobile. In 2003, Car and Driver tracked a 2004 S60R and it did nothing but produce results.
Hans Nilsson, R-car line manager, told the publication that Volvo spent 10 times more on the S60R than it had on any past R model, the most recent having been the 1995 T-5R wagon at the time. All that extra money got the Swedish manufacturer a 300-horsepower, all-wheel drive, Brembo brake-equipped powerhouse with a hefty price tag of roughly $37,500. As pricey as that may have sounded back then, the Mercedes C32 AMG of the same year was over $14,500 more expensive, making the Volvo a pretty good deal.
Though the second generation Swedish S60 will be built in Belgium, contain an Australian transmission and will likely be sold by a Chinese company, news of the Geely deal could boost the popularity of used Volvo S60Rs in New Jersey.
Last week, the Environmental Protection Agency officially declared greenhouse gases a threat to public health and welfare, which may lead to a growing interest in used Toyota models in New Jersey.
As automakers continue to transition toward creating more environmentally-friendly vehicles, used hybrid cars could gain more popularity.
The 2004 Toyota Prius was completely redesigned to be bigger, more powerful and even more fuel-efficient, according to Edmunds.com.
The Prius has ultra-low emissions, outstanding gas mileage and is reasonably priced. It earned both Super Ultra Low-Emission Vehicle and Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle ratings by reducing its exhaust emissions by 30 percent compared to the previous year.
Even with its spectacular gas mileage, the 2004 Prius can accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in 10 seconds. "With a combined city-highway rating of 55 miles to the gallon, the 2004 Toyota Prius is the most economical midsize sedan on the road," said the news source.
Newly available options include a DVD-based navigation system, xenon headlights and a keyless ignition system.
As the auto industry continues its push toward being more environmentally-friendly, used Toyota models in New Jersey could attract more attention.
Marcus Gronholm, World Rally Championship (WRC) star, recently announced he would be driving his Focus RS in Sweden's WRC event this February, which could get fans excited about used Ford models in New York.
Unfortunately, Ford's 305-horsepower Focus RS is only sold in Europe for the time being, according to AutoWeek. While the manufacturer is considering bringing it over to the U.S. in the future, right now one of the best Focuses available to Americans is the model built by the company's Special Vehicle Team – appropriately badged the SVT.
Edmunds says the Focus SVT is no longer manufactured, meaning car shoppers who find one for sale should think long and hard about whether or not passing up a chance to buy the hatch is a good idea. The first SVTs rolled out of Ford factories in late 2001, complete with 170-horsepower four-cylinder motors and six-speed manual gearboxes. The three letters added next to the Focus emblem meant the compact had received 25 more HP than stock and 17-inch alloys instead of 15-inch steel wheels.
Jared Holstein of Modified Magazine says Ford was going after the Honda Civic Si and the Sentra SE-R when it began building the SVT. In the late 1990s, automakers realized car shoppers wanted vehicles that could play two roles: that of the daily driver, and that of the weekend racer. Doing both without costing the consumer an arm and a leg of course meant compromising some power and performance for measures that would increase reliability and fuel efficiency. This meant Ford couldn't simply place a Cobra motor in a base model Focus, even if such a thing had been possible. Precise modifications were the objective.
Ford said the SVT's 2-liter Zetec engine was its most technologically advanced, reports Modified. The motor used variable cam timing on the intake cam and a dual-stage intake manifold to increase low-end torque.
Indeed, the SVT was no ordinary Focus and could remain Ford's feistiest hatch, unless the automaker gives in and brings the RS to the U.S. Either way, with news of Gronholm's entrance in Sweden's February WRC event, used Ford Focuses in New York could start attracting more attention.
Today, the Subaru Outback was nominated for the 2010 North American Truck of the Year award, which might have people wondering if used Subaru models in New Jersey are as equally acclaimed.
The 2006 Outback combines the all-terrain capability of previous models with the luxurious interior of the 21st century SUV, according to Edmunds.com.
Outbacks are renowned for their ability to handle various weather conditions, but the '06 version is "fun to drive even when the weather isn't terrible," quoted by the news source.
Although the base engine only provides adequate power compared to other cross-over SUV's, the turbo four and H6 engines have quick acceleration and enough power to handle any type of off-road driving.
The ground clearance on the 2006 Outback has been raised to 8.7 inches, a total of 10 inches higher than the previous year's model. Subaru also added a navigation system to the list of available options.
Used Subaru models in New Jersey should benefit from the recent accolades given to the 2010 Outback.
Mercedes-Benz recently unveiled the all-new 2011 E-Class convertible, which might help generate more interest in used Mercedes models in New Jersey.
The German automaker's new vehicle is the talk of the industry due to its unique drop-top technology designed to keep passengers safe from swirling winds, according to U.S. News and World Report.
The 2011 E-Class convertible comes standard with the Aircap system, which is a tiny spoiler that sits on the windshield's frame so that wind is deflected over the cabin.
The only drawback of the Aircap technology is that it raises the convertibles drag, which might affect fuel economy.
Meanwhile, the 2003 E-Class Mercedes-Benz models are some of the more powerful luxury sedans in their class.
The E-320 has a 224-horsepower 3.2-liter V6 engine and goes from 0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds. Contrastingly, the E500 has a 5.0-liter V8 engine and can go from 0 to 60 in less than 6 seconds.
That kind of power should generate more attention for used Mercedes-Benz models in New Jersey.
All used Chevrolet models in New Jersey were produced by General Motors, whose chairman Ed Whitacre said on Tuesday that he doesn't plan on being the interim CEO for long, although there is no timetable to replace him.
Whitacre, who took over for Fritz Henderson after he was forced to resign two weeks ago, said that the search for the next long-term CEO has yet to turn-up any qualified candidates.
Whitacre told reporters that he is not necessarily looking for someone with auto industry experience or even someone who has previously been a CEO.
"A person that's a motivating, inspirational leader that's familiar with big companies – manufacturing or industrial – would be helpful," he told reporters.
The search is complicated by the executive pay limits imposed by the U.S. government on companies that were bailed out by Congress.
Meanwhile, Whitacre confirmed on Tuesday that if General Motors doesn't sell Saab by December 31, it will close the brand for good, the Associated Press reports.
The possibility of new management at General Motors could be a good sign for car enthusiasts that are in the market for used Chevrolet models in New Jersey.


AceShowbiz - Sally Field doesn't want her granddaughters to read her memoir because it details her allegations of sexual assault against her stepfather.
The 71-year-old actress went public with the alleged molestation she suffered as a child at the hands of her late stepfather, actor and stuntman Jock Mahoney, in her book "In Pieces", which she started writing in 2011 after the death of her mother.
The "Norma Rae" star claimed Mahoney, who married her actress mother Margaret in 1952, would often call her to his bedroom when they were alone, writing: "I knew (what was going to happen). I felt both a child, helpless, and not a child. Powerful. This was power. And I owned it. But I wanted to be a child - and yet..."
"In Pieces" also includes stories of sexual misconduct involving two other stars - the first regarding a disturbing incident during Sally's relationship with singer Jimmy Webb.
And the nature of the tome means Sally is doing her utmost to prevent her grandchildren, who are high school and college age, from reading it.
"They are both chomping on the bit to read it, and I'm saying, 'Whoa, just wait for a moment longer. Just let me be Grammy just one moment longer,'" she said during an appearance at the Cheltenham Literature Festival. "But my oldest granddaughter is saying, 'As soon as the semester is over, time's up, I'm reading it.' "
"In Pieces" also details Sally's love affair with her "Smokey and the Bandit" co-star Burt Reynolds, who died last month. The couple dated for many years after meeting in the late 1970s, but the actress' soaring success drove a wedge between the stars, prompting them to part ways.