Abstract: A method for producing an aluminum layer is provided. The method includes depositing a metallic seed layer on a substrate, the seed layer having a thickness of not more than 5 nm, and also includes applying the aluminum layer to the seed layer, wherein the aluminum layer has a thickness of more than 30 nm. Further, an optical element, which can be a mirror layer, is provided including the metallic seed layer and the aluminum layer.

Abstract: A method for producing an aluminum layer is provided. The method includes depositing a metallic seed layer on a substrate, the seed layer having a thickness of not more than 5 nm, and also includes applying the aluminum layer to the seed layer, wherein the aluminum layer has a thickness of more than 30 nm. Further, an optical element, which can be a mirror layer, is provided including the metallic seed layer and the aluminum layer.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are provided for the two-step rolling of predominantly profiled rings, for example, anti-friction bearing rings, with diameter enlargement in two rolling steps in one working sequence for the considerable reduction of the stress on the rolling mandrel.

Abstract: A water flow control valve has a ceramic shutter plate which is slidable relative to a pressure member having a flat face against which the shutter plate slides. The pressure member is urged against the shutter plate by a tubular resilient sealing element which is subjected to axial compression to produce barrel deformation.

Abstract: An engine coolant flow controlling valve for governing the flow of engine coolant to a heater core comprises a valve housing defining first and second ports for respectively introducing coolant to the valve housing from the engine and directing coolant to the engine from the housing, said first and second ports opening into said housing adjacent each other in a housing wall, and third and fourth ports for respectively directing coolant from the housing to the heater core and introducing coolant from the heater core to the housing; a ceramic valving member supported for translational movement in the housing between a first position wherein coolant flows to said heater core via the first and third ports and returns to the engine via the second and fourth ports and a second position wherein the valving member blocks flow through the third and fourth ports and coolant flows from the first port to the second port bypassing said heater core.