A model to predict the life of pneumatic conveyor bends

A new approach to the prediction of bend lifetime in pneumatic conveyors, subject to erosive wear is described. Mathematical modelling is exploited. Commercial Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software is used for the prediction of air flow and particle tracks, and custom code for the modelling of bend erosion and lifetime prediction. The custom code uses a toroidal geometry, and employs a range of empirical data rather than trying to fit classical erosion models to a particular circumstance. The data used was obtained relatively quickly and easily from a gas-blast erosion tester. A full-scale pneumatic conveying rig was used to validate a sample of the bend lifetime predictions, and the results suggest accuracy of within ±65%, using calibration methods. Finally, the work is distilled into user-friendly interactive software that will make erosion lifetime predictions for a wide range of bends under varying conveying conditions. This could be a valuable tool for the pneumatic conveyor design or maintenance engineer.

Cinderella comes to the Ball: Article 14 and the right to non-discrimination in the ECHR

Article 14 ECHR has often been derided as a Cinderella provision, but during the last few years, this has started to change. This article examines how Article 14 has developed, and may live up to its potential as a powerful non-discrimination principle. The case law developments in relation to the “ambit” requirement in Article 14, the development of indirect discrimination case law, and the approval of positive action, all point to a more substantive conception of equality, which offers protection to disadvantaged and vulnerable groups.

On How to Build a Positive Understanding of the Child’s Right to Freedom of Expression

This article looks at the child’s right to freedom of expression under UN treaties. It defines the legal basis, the scope and the extent of the child’s right and it compares it with the adult’s right to freedom of expression. It argues that freedom of expression has both a developmental and an autonomy aspect, and that Article 12 UNCRC does a better job at encapsulating the child’s right than Article 13. It concludes that the child’s right is very much based on the positive obligations of the state, to the difference of traditional international law on freedom of expression.