10 YEARS AGO — 2003
PTFE-coated fabric takes on Mother Nature: Architect Axel Schultes constructed this hightech, translucent 2,600-ft2 (240-m2) canopy out of glass fabric coated with PTFE and fluorothermoplastic materials from Dyneon, a 3M Co., Oakdale, Minn. The distinctivelooking canopy blends in with existing architecture while still affording optimum lighting conditions.
The high-performance fluoropolymer coatings increase the fabric’s service life and reduce maintenance. PTFE and fluorothermoplastic coatings provide smooth, nonstick surfaces, makings the glass fabric virtually self-cleaning with every rainfall. The canopy membrane weighs less than 1.5 kg/m2 and has a tensile strength greater than 11 tons/m2 letting it stand up to harsh weather.
30 YEARS AGO — 1983
Actuators survive trial by fire: New actuators for valves from Jamesbury Corp. continued to operate during recent tests while subjected for 40 min to 1,400 to 1,800°F fire. The spring-return and doubleacting actuators were specifically prepared with a protective coating that covers critical sections of the spring housing. Acting as an insulator, the coating is credited with preventing internal heat buildup during a fire. The actuators can be serviced without damaging the coating. Also available are spring-diaphragm models and spring-return piston units with fusible plugs that melt in a fire, causing immediate return of the valve to its spring-driven position.
50 YEARS AGO — 1963
Panels coated with Teflon slide out of the new Hallmark electric range to facilitate cleaning. The unit also has a Vacuum-Aire ventilation system which sends a spiral of air from just below the ovens over the surface cooking units. Air jets draw odors and fumes through a glassfiber and charcoal filter, and filtered air is exhausted into the kitchen from ducts located beneath the burners. The range is made by the Hotpoint Div. of General Electric Co.