Abstract: A WC-based cemented carbide contains, in terms of mass %, Co of 10% to 40%; and Cu of 5% to 15%, the balance consisting of at least one selected from the group consisting of Ti, Zr and Cr, and W, B, C and inevitable impurities. Thus, it is possible to provide a WC-based cemented carbide having a high abrasion resistance while adopting a configuration advantageous for a high thermal conductivity.

Abstract: A magnetic azimuth measurement apparatus without arithmetic means nor any mechanical motion such as rotation, not affecting its mass production ability because of a simple configuration, and making it possible to measure a azimuth in higher precision, is provided. A trigger signal generates if a condition determining circuit detects that a switched output signal reaches a maximum (positive peak), and this trigger signal enables an output interface circuit to hold a switching signal. The switching signal held by the output interface circuit is a digital representation of a detection coil position parallel to an external magnetic field. Accordingly, it is possible to obtain the azimuth of the external magnetic field with respect to the sensor device.

Abstract: A magnetic azimuth measurement apparatus without arithmetic means nor any mechanical motion such as rotation, not affecting its mass production ability because of a simple configuration, and making it possible to measure a azimuth in higher precision, is provided. A trigger signal generates if a condition determining circuit detects that a switched output signal reaches a maximum (positive peak), and this trigger signal enables an output interface circuit to hold a switching signal. The switching signal held by the output interface circuit is a digital representation of a detection coil position parallel to an external magnetic field. Accordingly, it is possible to obtain the azimuth of the external magnetic field with respect to the sensor device.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for casting metal in an evacuated mold cavity. The apparatus has a preferential suction zone through which a mold can be preferentially and effectively evacuated and a suction head sealingly fitting the upper surface of the mold. To the apparatus, is further provided a pressing means for pressing, in cooperation with the suction head, the mold against the inner bottom surface of a mold support chamber. By evacuating the mold through the preferential suction zone while pressing the mold to the bottom of the mold support chamber, a mold cavity is easily filled with a molten metal in such a manner to avoid casting defects such as insufficient filling, blow hole, surface fold, under fill, etc.