Engineering Trends, September 2009, Part II

GE recently acquired ScanWind, a Norway-based turbine generator technology company. With the acquisition GE is attempting to reduce the repair costs and downtime in their wind turbines.

ScanWind specializes in turbines that utilize a “novel direct-drive generator” instead of a gearbox. Read full article

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Researchers from Richland lab (WA) believe that new nanomaterials could add the energy and heat necessary to “help make geothermal (sources) a more practical resource by allowing efficient energy production at lower temperatures.”

Geothermal power generation is “nearly pollution-free” but geothermal energy has not been economical since the early 80s. Read the article to learn more about why these new nanomaterials could make geothermal energy production viable again.

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Engineers at Nissan have announced that their new electric car will emit a “beautiful and futuristic” noise, similar to the noise of the flying cars from Ridley Scott’s “Blade Runner” film.

Issues have been reported with the silent nature of the engine in new electric cars. In an effort to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists, Nissan plans to have the car emit the noise described as “a bit different, something closer to the world of art.” Read article

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