Abstract: Methods for producing high purity fused silica (HPFS) glass having desired levels of dissolved hydrogen are provided. The methods involve measuring the level of hydrogen in the cavity of the furnace used to produce the glass and controlling the pressure within the furnace and/or gas flows to the furnace's burners so that the measured concentration has a desired value. In this way, the level of dissolved hydrogen in the glass can be controlled since, as shown in FIG. 3, there is a direct correlation between the hydrogen concentration in the cavity atmosphere and level of dissolved hydrogen in the glass.

Abstract: Negative thermal expansion materials, methods of preparation and uses therefor are disclosed. The materials are useful for negative thermal expansion substrates, such as those used for optical fiber gratings.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a power tool apparatus such as a table saw which includes a housing having a table top with an appropriate opening for a motor driven tool. Pivotally mounted within the housing is an assembly which in the disclosed embodiment includes a frame having a subassembly pivotally mounted therein. A subassembly includes the tool, such as a saw blade, and the means for driving same. A first control includes a lever connected to the subassembly for pivoting same. The pivotal movement effected by the lever allows for quick and coarse setting of the tool at a desired elevation with respect to the tabletop. The control lever further includes a locking arrangement disposed thereon which is manipulatable by the same hand used to coarsely set the tool elevation. The locking arrangement secures the lever to the frame at the desired coarse setting.

Abstract: There is described a kerf guide and cautionary marker device for use with a power tool, particularly one employing a cutting type rotating tool, which guide and marker includes a groove cut into the table top of the apparatus. The groove extends linearly from the front edge of the tool opening towards the front edge of the table top. Disposed in the groove is a colored material, such as polystyrene, which has an exposed surface which can receive a scribe mark and/or cautionary instructions. The contrasting color between the inserted material and the surrounding table top alerts the operator to the fact that he is approaching the rotating tool. The operator aligns the guide mark on the work piece with the scribe mark on the material disposed in the groove and is thus able to properly position his work for the subsequent cutting operation.

Abstract: A wire stripping machine for stripping the insulation from the end of a stranded-core, insulated wire and twisting the conductor strands includes upper and lower stripping heads mounted on a support for movement between an open position and a closed, operative position. Each stripping head includes an elongated stripping element assembled from a stripping bar having a serrated wire contacting surface and an insulation cutting knife that extends along the length of the stripping bar and that presents a cutting edge positioned a selected distance above the wire contacting surface. In operation, the entire machine is advanced from an initial position over the end of an insulated wire and the upper and lower stripping heads are moved from their open position to their operative position.