Abstract: An idler roller is disclosed which includes a non-rotating shaft, a roller shell positioned around the non-rotating shaft and a bearing assembly proximate each end of the roller shell. The bearing assembly includes an outer labyrinth member and an inner labyrinth member having an integrally formed shaft seal, wherein the inner and outer labyrinth members define a labyrinth seal and the integrally formed shaft seal sealingly engages an outer surface of the non-rotating shaft.

Abstract: A vehicle braking apparatus includes a braking mat assembly, a mounting unit for securing the mat assembly to the vehicle chassis, and a shock absorbing unit. The mat assembly includes a drum mounted on a shaft and a braking mat. The braking mat has a first portion secured to and wound around the shaft, an apron portion and a second portion intermediate the apron portion and the first portion. The apron portion forms an extension which has a free end secured by a restraining member to normally maintain the mat in an inoperative position. A release unit enables the retaining unit to release the mat from its inoperative position so that the mat can be unwound from the shaft and moved to its operative position between the vehicle wheels and the road surface. The shock absorbing unit includes a stop member extending parallel to and spaced from the shaft.

Abstract: Use of a strong reducing agent such as calcium metal allows complete reduction of refractory and difficulty reducible mixed metal iron oxides to form alloys. The powdered iron-based alloys can thus be prepared at significantly lower temperature than by the conventional melt technique.