Abstract: A performer lift has abase portion (10) and an extension portion (12). The base portion (10) comprises a platform (16) and a lifting mechanism (18). The extension portion (12) is attachable to the base portion (10) to extend the height of the performer lift. The extension portion (12) allows a performer lift to be provided having a desired height. The performer lift can therefore be adapted to be used in different stage sets, by reusing the same base portion (10) and attaching different extension portions (12), having different heights.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices of administering investment products, such as investment products with withdrawal benefits, are provided.

Abstract: An improved method of forming an abradable thermal barrier coating comprises providing a spray-dried powder of M-CrAlY and a solid lubricant, such as CoNiCrAlY—BN. Unlike powders provided for use with plasma spray guns, the powder is essentially free of polyester or other organic fugitive additives provided to increase porosity. The powder is applied using a combustion spray process and results in a M-CrAlY abradable coating that has an average porosity comparable to that of a plasma-applied coating but with smaller and more uniform pore distribution, and without requiring post-application heat treatments to remove fugitive materials. Deposition efficiency is also increased.

Abstract: An improved method of forming an abradable thermal barrier coating comprises providing a spray-dried powder of M-CrAlY and a solid lubricant, such as CoNiCrAlY—BN. Unlike powders provided for use with plasma spray guns, the powder is essentially free of polyester or other organic fugitive additives provided to increase porosity. The powder is applied using a combustion spray process and results in a M-CrAlY abradable coating that has an average porosity comparable to that of a plasma-applied coating but with smaller and more uniform pore distribution, and without requiring post-application heat treatments to remove fugitive materials. Deposition efficiency is also increased.

Abstract: A fixing device, such as an anchor or cavity wall tie, employs a deformable (radially expandible) sleeve element (6) to lock an end of a rod (1) in a bore (12) of a wall or like structure (11). Radial expansion may be achieved by axially compressing the sleeve element between a stop member (2) and an internally threaded member 9 arranged on a threaded portion (5) of the rod (1). The sleeve includes a rib (10), projecting from its radially outermost circumferential surface, which provides an interference fit for the sleeve in the bore prior to axial compression and thus substantially prevents rotation of the sleeve during compression.