Abstract: An object is to provide a photoelectric conversion device which has little loss of light absorption in a window layer and has high conversion efficiency. A photoelectric conversion device including a crystalline silicon substrate having n-type conductivity and a light-transmitting semiconductor layer having p-type conductivity between a pair of electrodes is formed. In the photoelectric conversion device, a p-n junction is formed between the crystalline silicon, substrate and the light-transmitting semiconductor layer, and the light-transmitting semiconductor layer serves as a window layer. The light-transmitting semiconductor layer includes an organic compound and an inorganic compound. As the organic compound and the inorganic compound, a material having a high hole-transport property and a transition metal oxide having an electron-accepting property are respectively used.

Abstract: There is provides a photoelectric conversion device material which can be used as an electrode buffer material for a solar cell or the like and can improve durability while maintaining the interaction with an electrode and mobility; a photoelectric conversion device using the photoelectric conversion device material; and a solar cell using the photoelectric conversion device. A photoelectric conversion device containing a buffer layer and an active layer, wherein the buffer layer contains a compound represented by the following general formula (I), the active layer contains an n-type semiconductor, and the n-type semiconductor is a compound having a solubility in toluene of 0.5% by weight or more at 25° C. and having an electron mobility of 1.0×10?6 cm2/Vs or more.

Abstract: Provided is a method for manufacturing an organic thin film solar cell module that can be manufactured by simple steps. As the method for manufacturing an organic thin film solar cell module, the method for manufacturing an organic thin film solar cell module in which a plurality of organic photovoltaic cells (100A1) and (100A2) comprising a pair of electrodes comprising a first electrode (20) and a second electrode (70) and an active layer (50) that is placed between the pair of electrodes are arranged on a substrate (10), the method comprises: forming the first electrodes on the substrate; and forming a lyophobic pattern (30a) on a part of each of the first electrodes.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to emulsions, and more particularly, to multiple emulsions. In one aspect, multiple emulsions are formed by urging a fluid into a channel, e.g., by causing the fluid to enter the channel as a “jet.” Side channels can be used to encapsulate the fluid with a surrounding fluid. In some cases, multiple fluids may flow through a channel collinearly before multiple emulsion droplets are formed. The fluidic channels may also, in certain embodiments, include varying degrees of hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity. As examples, the fluidic channel may be relatively hydrophilic upstream of an intersection (or other region within the channel) and relatively hydrophobic downstream of the intersection, or vice versa. In some cases, the average cross-sectional dimension may change, e.g., at an intersection. For instance, the average cross-sectional dimension may increase at the intersection.

Abstract: A liquid distribution system having at least one liquid conduit extending from a liquid source to a liquid tap and a method for substantially retaining the temperature of a liquid in the liquid distribution system. When a tapping operation is finished, the liquid is evacuated from the liquid conduit, and a gas is brought into the liquid conduit in order to replace the liquid therein and cause the liquid to flow backwards to the liquid source. When liquid is to be tapped from the liquid tap, the gas is evacuated from the liquid conduit.

Abstract: A method of controlling water supply by a sensitive faucet capable of automatically adjusting a detected distance comprises steps of: (A) automatically adjusting a detected distance which uses a transmitting unit to emit a pulse to a background, detects a reflection value of the pulse and adjusts the pulse width via a controlling unit; (B) defining a background value which emits the pulse to the background and detects the reflected pulse for setting the reflection value as a background value; and (C) determining a user state which periodically emits the pulse, detects the reflected pulse and determines a user state according to the reflection value for the controlling unit to control a faucet unit open to supply water. Accordingly, the sensitive faucet automatically adjusts a detected distance, for saving water and electricity.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for monitoring a fuel vapor recovery system including a fuel tank isolation valve coupled between a fuel tank and a canister. During selected conditions, the valve is modulated and pressure pulsations in the fuel vapor recovery system are monitored. Valve degradation is identified based on correlations between the valve modulation and the resultant pressure pulsations.

Abstract: A receptacle having a plurality of interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps or processes to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector. The actuator system can be arranged to concentrate an analyte present in a sample.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for simulating production conditions in hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs, as an example, by flooding of core samples from such reservoirs, are described. Full recirculation flow measurements permit several fluids (for example, crude oil, brine, and gas) to be simultaneously injected into core samples having varying dimensions. Accurate and stable back pressures are maintained at total flow rates of as high as 200 cc/min., for a large range of fluid viscosities. Accurate and stable net overburden pressures relative to pore pressure are also maintained, thereby simulating the formations at depth. Core samples from formations may also be investigated using the apparatus and method hereof, for carbon dioxide sequestration potential, as another example.

Abstract: A valve assembly configured for a clean-in-place operation for processing systems includes a valve body with a valve seat and inner cavity extending into the valve body. A shaft extends through the valve body and a stopper is connected to one end of the shaft for movement between a normally closed position wherein the stopper sealingly engages the valve seat and an open position wherein the stopper is spaced from the valve seat to permit cleaning fluid to enter and exit the inner cavity only through the valve. An actuator is connected to the valve body and includes a plunger adapted for contacting an opposite end of the shaft for moving the stopper toward the open position when activated. An air inlet extends through the valve body and into the inner cavity.

Abstract: An in-line flush valve, comprising a t-shaped hollow body having a central flow passageway, at least three spaced-apart hollow ends in flow communication with the central flow passageway, wherein a first hollow end and a second hollow end share a common radial axis, are disposed in opposing relation, and define a pass-through conduit, wherein a radial axis of a third hollow end is substantially perpendicular with respect to the common axis of the first hollow end and the second hollow end, wherein the pass-through conduit is disposed between and in flow communication with an inlet of a pump and a fluid source, and wherein the third hollow end is adapted to receive fluid to flush said pump.

Abstract: A cleaning arrangement (15, 26) for cleaning the drain area (13, 14) of a valve (1) with a cleaning media, where the cleaning arrangement includes at least one cleaning device (15, 26), which is preferably arranged in a mix proof valve (1) comprising at least a valve body (2), one or more valve seats (4, 7), a first valve plug (5) with a first stem (6) and a second valve plug (8) with a second stem (9), the second valve plug (8) having a central hollow part (10) for guiding the first stem (6), where the at least one cleaning device (15, 26) is rotationally arranged inside the valve housing (2), where the at least one cleaning device (15, 26) is rotated by the pressurized cleaning media and where the at least one cleaning device (15, 26) is provided with a screen arrangement (18) creating a spray of cleaning media for cleaning the drain area (13, 14) of the valve (1).

Abstract: Pumps are disclosed that include a pump housing and at least one movable pumping element situated in the housing. The pumping element(s) are magnetically driven by magnetically coupling an external magnet driver (e.g., a stator) to a driven magnet located in the housing. A control circuit selectively operates the stator and a heat-producing element, so as to energize the heat-producing element especially in a potential freezing condition when the pump is not being otherwise operated. Thus, the fluid in the pump is prevented from freezing, and freeze-related pump damage is avoided. The heat-producing element can be the stator itself energized differently from when the stator is used for driving the pump.

Abstract: A device to shut-off a water supply to a toilet diverts water from a toilet fill valve to a shut-off valve that has a housing that includes a valve mechanism, a trip mechanism, and a trip circuit. The trip mechanism includes a rotational spring that urges closing of the valve mechanism. A trip latch is adapted to prevent closing of the valve mechanism except when withdrawn from the valve mechanism by a solenoid that is electrically connected to the trip circuit. The trip circuit includes at least one trip sensor input and a power source, such that when the trip circuit detects a fault condition on any of the trip sensors, the trip circuit connects power to the solenoid to withdraw the solenoid to close the valve mechanism. A rest knob may then be rotated to reset the valve mechanism into a valve-open position.

Abstract: Elastomeric check valves for use, e.g., in small pump devices, may include a molded elastomeric valve body forming a pocket that extends from an opening at the valve inlet to a terminus inside the valve body, and having a slit extending from the terminus to a valve outlet.

Abstract: A check valve includes a case body, a piston device, and a blocking plate. The case body includes a first case part and a second case part. The first case part has a first opening. The second case part has a second opening and a third opening. The second opening faces the first opening, and the third opening is located at one side of the second opening. The first case part and the second case part are combined to form the case body, and the case body has a fluid passage therein. The piston device is aligned to the second opening and mounted on the second case part. The blocking plate is disposed on the piston device. When the piston device operates, the piston device pushes the blocking plate to seal the first opening.

Abstract: A valve that can be actuated by a position controller via a drive, wherein the position controller has a housing and is fastened to the valve by the housing. A first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor are attached on or in the housing. As a result of the position of both sensors, the temperature measured using the first temperature sensor is more readily influenced by the valve and the temperature registered by the second temperature sensor is more readily influenced by the environment. If a gas leak occurs in the valve, a temperature difference occurs that is evaluated for diagnosis of a leak. The diagnostic system is particularly easy to minor implement with minimal effort.

Abstract: A ball valve includes a valve housing that has a main passage defined therein and a valve assembly that includes a valve body, which is movable within the main passage between open and closed positions, and a valve stem that fixedly engages the valve body. A handle is disposed on the valve housing that is connected to the valve stem and is operable to rotate the valve body between the open and closed positions via the valve stem. A switch is disposed within the housing, which operatively engages the valve assembly and is configured to transmit a signal to an operator's station regarding the position of the valve body.

Abstract: A pneumatic manifold which can be constructed using standard PCB (Printed Circuit Board) construction techniques provides customised flow distribution around (and/or between) different members. By virtue of its PCB construction the manifold also may include conductive electrical tracks and fixing points common to other PCBs and possibly serving electrical pneumatic components.

Abstract: A gas supply system that is easily assembled and/or installed and includes an initially flexible clamping system that allows for the gas supply system to adapt to the gas components. As the assembly of the gas components is complete, the clamping system becomes rigid thereby securing the gas components to a support rail. The slide lock gas delivery system allows a gas system component bottom surface to establish the sealing plane for the inlet and outlet seals independently. The lateral spacing for the gas component mounting holes float during assembly to reduce the opportunity for misalignment.

Abstract: A hydraulic control valve to control a double-acting working cylinder having a piston with a piston rod on one side, whereby the control valve formed in the structure to move the piston has at least four external connections, P, A, B, T and a device to feed the fluid forced out of the small stroke space into the large stroke space back while the piston rod is moving out, and further, for independent switching of the working cylinder from the work stroke to slow movement with a subsequent holding state to release pressure from the small stroke space of the working cylinder, a connection of the small stroke space to the tank can be switched on, is characterized in that on the control valve (20) having five control edges (recesses 32,33,34), two separate line paths (41,42) are formed to feed the fluid forced out of the small stroke space (14) of the working cylinder (10) back with a back-feed control edge (recess 33) and a pressure-release control edge (recess 34) is formed to release pressure from the small str

Abstract: A fluid passage closure system in a compressor includes a fluid passage, a seal cap unit and a flow space. The fluid passage formed in the housing of the compressor includes a large-diameter and the small-diameter passages, a step formed between the large-diameter and the small-diameter passages and a flat portion formed in the step. The large-diameter passage is formed on the opening side of the fluid passage and connected to the small-diameter passage. The seal cap unit closing the fluid passage includes a flat sealing surface and a press-contact surface. The flat sealing surface is in contact with the flat portion to close the fluid passage. The press-contact surface is formed to be pressed against the peripheral wall surface so that the seal cap unit is kept in the fluid passage. The flow space is formed between the press-contact surface and the peripheral wall surface.

Abstract: A water pressure backup device has a water tank mounted between a water source and interior plumbing lines and containing an air bladder that is inflated by a battery powered compressor when water pressure is lost at the source, bladder inflation within the tank thereby providing auxiliary water pressure to the interior plumbing lines. A control unit detects when water pressure at the source is lost, and monitors air pressure in the bladder and water pressure in the tank. When water pressure is restored at the source, the control unit shuts off the compressor and opens an air pressure relief valve at the bladder.

Abstract: A control valve (8) for a medical suction device (1) is provided, with the control valve (8) having an actuating element for freeing and closing a flow path (15) through a valve chamber (11) through the use of a valve plunger (12). Additional air intake openings (16) are formed on the actuating element (10) and define an additional flow path (21) through the valve chamber (11).

Abstract: A system for storing an ammonia precursor, comprising: a tank configured to hold the ammonia precursor; a filler opening closed by a cap, said cap being removable for refilling the tank; and a semi-permeable membrane positioned within said cap, wherein the semi-permeable membrane is configured to block liquid from the ammonia precursor and configured to allow air and vapors from the ammonia precursor to pass there through when the cap is closing the filler opening, and wherein when the cap is closing the filler opening, a pathway allowing a substantial amount of vapors to escape from the tank to the atmosphere is provided so that the total internal volume of the reservoir (l) divided by the flow rate through the membrane at 10 mbar (l/h) is lower than 20 h.

Abstract: A high performance single control lever mixing cartridge, characterized in that said mixing cartridge comprises a holding body housing at least a bottom fixed plate and at least a top movable plate, with an indirect driving system including a driving member, said holding body including side windows allowing the top movable plate and driving member to exit said holding body, during its stroke on the end limits from the full hot water to the full cold water position.

Abstract: A full flow quick connect fluid coupling that reduces spillage using a convex and a concave ball valve mounted each in a separate coupling body that are joined together where the ball valves seal together and are sequentially rotated using one activation lever to first rotate a first ball valve 90 degrees and then rotating a second ball valve 90 degrees using a gear drive mechanism. A handle button release lock and a secondary handle lock ensure that the valves are not opened until the bodies are joined and locked together in sealing engagement. A lock mechanism is used to lock the bodies together and to provide a lock tab that prevents the ball valves from being opened until the lock mechanism is closed.

Abstract: A faucet assembly comprising an outlet portion, a switching valve, a locking pipe and a water inlet pipe assembly. The outlet portion is a tubular body having a water outlet end on a front end, a hole provided above the water outlet end, an inner periphery of the outlet portion provided with a switching port adjacent to the water outlet end, the outlet portion integrally formed with a connecting pipe at the switching port, the connecting pipe provided with a locking thread, a lower end of the connecting pipe provided with a locking hole, and a lower end of the water outlet portion is provided with a through-hole opposite to the locking hole. Since the outlet portion includes the connecting pipe, the locking pipe is disposed through the through-hole of the water outlet portion and locked with the locking hole, which provides for a more simple assembly and lower costs.

Abstract: Macroscopic volumes of fluid can be moved across a surface, including windshields, without mechanical assistance. Insulated electrodes, which for windshields and windows are preferably transparent, are embedded in the surface of the windshield. Varying voltages are supplied to the electrodes to generate intense surface fringe electric fields moving in a given direction across the surface. The intense surface fringe electric fields exert strong electrical forces on the polar molecules of the fluid. These forces move the fluid in specific directions dependent on the geometry of the electrode array and the manner in which voltage is applied to each electrode within an array of electrodes.

Abstract: A hydraulic accumulator, especially a pulsation damper, comprises a metal bellows (19) that has a terminal element (35) which can be displaced along the wall of a housing (1) at least on one bellows end (31) during expansion and compression of the bellows (19), a guiding means (47) being interposed between the terminal element and the housing (1). Said guiding means comprises, on at least one peripheral zone of the terminal element (35), on its outer periphery, first annular sections (51) that are radially spaced apart from the wall of the housing (1) and that are separated from each other by second annular sections (53) that radially project over the first annular sections (51). The terminal element (35) is axially elongated by a peripheral sleeve part (63) which extends towards the immobile bellows end (29), the end of the sleeve part (63) resting as a stop element on a part (25) which is fixed to the housing when the bellows (19) is compressed.

Abstract: A guiding device for metal bellows (19) which comprises a terminal element (35) on at least one bellows end (31), said terminal element being movable along the wall of a housing (1) during expansion and compression of the bellows (19), a guiding means (47) being interposed between the terminal element and the housing (1). The guiding device is characterized in that the guiding means comprises at least one annular element (47) which surrounds a peripheral zone of the terminal element (35), said annular element, on its outer periphery, forming first annular sections which are radially spaced apart from the wall of the housing (1) and which are separated from each other by second annular sections that radially project over the first annular sections.

Abstract: The invention is an accumulator system in which multiple elastomeric accumulators are attached in series or parallel in order to generate total differential pressure in excess of that generated in a non-series system. Also disclosed is a “stacked” accumulator system. The system stores energy when the accumulators deform from their original shape in response to the flow of a pressurized fluid. The stored energy is available for use when the fluid is released from the accumulators and the accumulators return to their original shape.

Abstract: A sealing apparatus suitable for use as a subsea repair clamp includes a sealing membrane with first and second portions for engaging an outer surface of a pipe. Retaining members are located in opposing relationship to each other about the sealing membrane and are secured to each other by a closure member. The retaining members retain sealing engagement between the sealing membrane and the pipe. Each of the retaining members can include axially spaced plates arranged generally transversely to a longitudinal axis of the sealing membrane.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for installing a liner in a pipe, which apparatus comprises a flexible tube assembly (2) with a proximal and a distal end, where the proximal end is attached to a proximal collar fitting (3) and the distal end is attached to a distal collar fitting (4). An inflatable bladder (110) is disposed over the tube (2) and the ends of the bladder (110) are secured to the collar fittings (3,4) forming sealed connections with the collar fittings. The proximal collar fitting (3) has connection means to connect to a guide hose (5), and comprises at least one conduit for a fluid to inflate the inflatable and deflate bladder. The invention also relates to a method for placing a liner in a pipe.

Abstract: A pipe enclosure apparatus includes an L-shaped main portion having a first wall and a second wall, a first flange formed integrally with the first wall, and a second flange formed integrally with the second wall. The thickness of the first wall, the second wall, the first flange, and the second flange is substantially equivalent. At a first end of the pipe enclosure apparatus, the pipe enclosure forms a connecting region. The connecting region is offset inwardly toward a pipe receiving region formed by the pipe enclosure apparatus.

Abstract: A method of fabricating a decomposition conduit with an in-line static mixer, the method comprising molding a decomposition conduit housing around a sand core by inserting molding material into a cavity between a decomposition conduit housing mold and the sand core, where the sand core includes a static mixer and, where the act of molding the decomposition conduit housing is operative to mount the static mixer to the molded decomposition conduit housing.

Abstract: An adjustable jacket for an insulated conduit is provided, the adjustable includes inner and outer surface, first and second axial ends, and first and second longitudinal ends that each extends between the first and second axial ends. The first and second longitudinal ends form a longitudinal seal, which includes an outer seal formed by a terminal edge of one of the first and second longitudinal ends in contact with the outer surface of the adjustable jacket, and an inner seal formed by a terminal edge of another one of the first and second longitudinal ends in contact with the inner surface of the adjustable jacket.

Abstract: A multilayer tube for the hydraulic connection and wiring of solar panels, which comprises at least two tubes, one for delivery and one for return, for a heat transfer fluid designed to circulate in at least one solar panel with which the multilayer tube is associated, the tubes being extended along parallel paths, at least one thermal insulation layer based on Aerogel, arranged so as to wrap around each tube, a protection and containment sheath, which is arranged so as to surround all of the tubes with an insulating layer made of Aerogel, the sheath being contoured so as to form a longitudinal containment channel for at least one electrical wiring cable.

Abstract: Methods of joining pipe section and joined pipe assemblies are described. The pipe sections, e.g., pipes and couplers, are joined by a mechanical interference bond formed using a shape memory polymer key. The key can be inserted into a first keyway of one pipe section, the pipes fitted to align first keyway with a second keyway of the second pipe section, and the shape memory polymer activated to at least partially fill both keyways.

Abstract: An implantable graft device having treated yarn is disclosed. The device comprises a graft body forming a lumen defining a longitudinal axis and comprising proximal and distal ends. The graft body comprises a woven fabric having warp yarns aligned in a first direction and a weft yarns aligned in a second direction. At least one of the weft yarns and the warp yarns has an agent applied thereto defining treated yarns of the graft body.

Abstract: The invention provides an image forming liquid cartridge including a container having an opening portion from which an image forming liquid is fed or discharged; a cap portion connected to the opening portion; and an image forming liquid contained in the container, the image forming liquid including a colorant, urea and water, and having a pH of 7.5 or more, wherein the cap portion includes a sealing portion that seals the opening portion, a contact portion provided at the center of the sealing portion, and at least one first breakage portion that extends from the contact portion to an outer periphery of the sealing portion, and has a thickness of from 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, the thickness of the at least one first breakage portion being smaller than a thickness of the sealing portion.

Abstract: A method for producing a carbonitrided member comprising the steps of carburizing a steel part having a composition of, by mass percent, C: 0.10 to 0.35%, Si: 0.15 to 1.0%, Mn: 0.30 to 1.0%, Cr: 0.40 to 2.0%, S: 0.05% or less with the balance being Fe and impurities in a carburizing atmosphere of 900 to 950° C. The carburized steel part is carbonitrided in a carbonitriding atmosphere with the temperature of 800 to 900° C. and the nitrogen potential of 0.2 to 0.6%. The carbonitrided steel part is qhenched and then shot peened. The shot peening treatment may be further performed while heating to a temperature not higher than 350° C. or immediately after heating to a temperature not higher than 350° C. After quenching, the shot peening treatment may be further performed after tempering in the temperature range exceeding 250° C. and not higher than 350° C.

Abstract: A galvannealed steel sheet includes: a steel sheet; a galvannealed layer which is formed on at least one surface of the steel sheet and includes Al, Fe, and the balance composed of Zn and inevitable impurities; and a composite oxide layer of Mn, Zn, and P which is formed on the surface of the galvannealed layer, includes Mn, P, and Zn, and has the P/Mn ratio of equal to or higher than 0.3 and equal to or lower than 50. The galvannealed layer includes a flat portion having an area ratio of equal to or higher than 10% and equal to or lower than 70% and a rough portion which is at a position closer to the steel sheet than the flat portion at the interface of the galvannealed layer and the composite oxide layer 5. The composite oxide layer of Mn, Zn, and P contains an amorphous compound.

Abstract: The galvannealed steel sheet includes: a galvannealed layer formed on at least one surface of a steel sheet and contains includes an amount of 0.05 mass % to 0.5 mass % of Al, an amount of 6 mass % of 12 mass % of Fe, and the balance composed of Zn and inevitable impurities; and a mixed layer formed on a surface of the galvannealed layer and includes a composite oxide of Mn, Zn, and P and an aqueous P compound, wherein the composite oxide includes 0.1 mg/m2 to 100 mg/m2 of Mn, an amount of 1 mg/m2 to 100 mg/m2 of P, and Zn, and a P/Mn ratio is 0.3 to 50, and wherein the total size of an area of the mixed layer in which an attached amount of P is equal to or more than 20 mg/m2 is 20% to 80% of a surface area of the mixed layer.

Abstract: Provided are a hollow shaft capable of increasing a static torsional strength and torsional fatigue strength of a small diameter portion (small diameter portion having a smooth outer peripheral surface) formed near a spline at an end portion of the hollow shaft, and capable of reducing cost, and a constant velocity universal joint using the hollow shaft. A hollow shaft (1) is molded by plastic working from a tubular blank, and subjected to quench hardening treatment. The quench hardening treatment includes carburizing and quenching treatment. The hollow shaft (1) includes a softened section (M) formed in a part of the hollow shaft (1) by local heating treatment after carrying out the carburizing and quenching treatment.

Abstract: An induction hardening heat treatment method comprises the steps of induction heating a metal part or component, particularly a part fabricated of a high strength material, and then exposing the part to a sequence or series of partial, intermittent or interrupted quenches. Such intermittent or interrupted quenching achieves the necessary change in surface temperature with time to achieve a martensitic transformation of the surface adjacent metal or material while minimizing surface to core temperature differentials during the process which could result in cracking of the part, especially if it is fabricated of high strength materials.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hollow drilling steel rod including a stem portion and a thread portion positioned at an end portion in an axial direction with respect to the stem portion, the hollow drilling steel rod being constituted of a steel having a specific composition described in the present specification, in which the thread portion includes a thread having been subjected to a high frequency quenching, and the thread portion and the stem portion separate from each other have been joined by a friction welding.

Abstract: A steel part having a homogeneous multiphase microstructure in each region of the part, the microstructure containing ferrite, wherein the steel part is obtained by a process involving: cutting a blank from a strip of steel, having a specified composition; optionally, the blank undergoes prior cold deformation; the blank is heated to reach a soak temperature Ts above Ac1 but below Ac3 and held at this soak temperature Ts for a soak time ts adjusted so that the steel, after the blank has been heated, has an austenite content equal to or greater than 25% by area; the heated blank is transferred into a forming tool to hot-form the part; and the part is cooled within the tool at a cooling rate V such that the microstructure of the steel, after cooling the part, is a multiphase microstructure containing ferrite and being homogeneous in each region of the part.

Abstract: On at least one surface of a base metal plate (1) of an ?-? transforming Fe or Fe alloy, a metal layer (2) containing ferrite former is formed. Next, the base metal plate (1) and the metal layer (2) are heated to an A3 point of the Fe or the Fe alloy, whereby the ferrite former are diffused into the base metal plate (1) to form an alloy region (1b) in a ferrite phase in which an accumulation degree of {200} planes is 25% or more and an accumulation degree of {222} planes is 40% or less. Next, the base metal plate (1) is heated to a temperature higher than the A3 point of the Fe or the Fe alloy, whereby the accumulation degree of the {200} planes is increased and the accumulation degree of the {222} planes is decreased while the alloy region (11b) is maintained in the ferrite phase.

Abstract: A high-elongation rate aluminum alloy material and preparation method thereof. The high-elongation aluminum alloy material contains, in weight percentage, 0.30-1.20% of iron, 0.03-0.10% of silicon, 0.01-0.30% of rare earth elements, namely cerium and lanthanum, and the remaining aluminum and inevitable impurities. The aluminum alloy is made from materials through a fusion casting process and a half-annealing treatment. An aluminum alloy conductor made thereof has a high-elongation rate and good safety and stability in use.