#flexible plastic tubing

[wedesignyouny]

How Custom Plastic Extrusions are Redefining Water Treatment Systems

Introduction

Water treatment systems play a critical role in ensuring access to clean and safe water for communities around the world. As technology advances and environmental concerns grow, the demand for innovative solutions in water treatment continues to rise. Custom plastic extrusions have emerged as a game-changer in this field, offering versatile and cost-effective solutions that are revolutionizing the way water treatment systems are designed and implemented. In this blog post, we’ll explore how custom plastic extrusions are redefining water treatment systems and driving progress in water purification and filtration.

The Importance of Water Treatment Systems

Access to clean and safe water is essential for human health, environmental sustainability, and economic development. Water treatment systems are designed to remove contaminants, pathogens, and pollutants from water sources, making it suitable for consumption, sanitation, and industrial use. From municipal water treatment plants to residential filtration systems, water treatment technologies play a vital role in safeguarding public health and protecting natural resources.

Advantages of Custom Plastic Extrusions

Custom plastic extrusions offer several advantages that make them well-suited for use in water treatment systems. Unlike traditional materials such as metal or glass, plastic extrusions are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective. They can be molded into complex shapes and profiles with high precision, allowing for customized designs that meet the specific requirements of water treatment applications. Additionally, plastic extrusions are durable, chemically inert, and easy to maintain, making them ideal for long-term use in harsh environments.

Applications in Water Treatment Systems

Custom plastic extrusions find applications across various components of water treatment systems, including filtration, disinfection, and distribution. In filtration systems, extruded plastic profiles are used to construct filter housings, membranes, and media supports. Their precise dimensions and uniform properties ensure a tight seal and optimal filtration performance.

In disinfection systems, extruded plastic tubing and piping are used to transport chemicals such as chlorine or ozone for water treatment. Their corrosion-resistant properties and smooth interior surfaces prevent contamination and ensure safe and efficient disinfection. In distribution systems, extruded plastic pipes and fittings are used to convey treated water from treatment plants to distribution networks and end-users. Their lightweight and flexible nature make them easy to install and maintain, reducing labor costs and minimizing disruptions to water supply.

Custom Plastic Extrusions in Action

One example of custom plastic extrusions redefining water treatment systems is the development of modular filtration units for decentralized water treatment. These units consist of extruded plastic panels and frames that can be assembled on-site to create compact and scalable filtration systems for small communities, remote areas, and emergency situations. 

Modern Designing

The modular design allows for easy customization and integration with existing infrastructure, enabling rapid deployment and cost-effective operation. Another example is the use of extruded plastic profiles in submerged membrane filtration systems for wastewater treatment. These profiles provide structural support for membrane modules, ensuring consistent performance and efficient operation. Their lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties make them ideal for use in aggressive wastewater environments, where traditional materials may degrade or fail over time.

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions

What materials can be used in extrusion, and which industries benefit the most?

Extrusion can be performed with a variety of materials, including metals such as aluminum, steel, and titanium, as well as plastics such as PVC, ABS, and HDPE. Industries that benefit the most from extrusion include automotive, aerospace, packaging, construction, and electronics.

How does design flexibility in extrusion contribute to product innovation?

Design flexibility in extrusion allows manufacturers to create complex shapes and profiles that were previously difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing methods. This enables product designers to innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of form, function, and aesthetics.

3. What Are some examples of innovative products made possible by extrusion?

Examples of innovative products made possible by extrusion include lightweight automotive components for electric vehicles, high-strength structural profiles for skyscrapers, and intricate heat exchangers for HVAC systems. Extrusion also enables the production of customized medical devices, consumer electronics, and architectural features.

4. How does extrusion compare to other manufacturing processes in terms of cost and efficiency?

Extrusion is often more cost-effective and efficient than other manufacturing processes, particularly for large-scale production runs or complex shapes. The ability to extrude continuous lengths of material and achieve high tolerances with minimal waste makes extrusion a preferred choice for many industries.

5. What factors should manufacturers consider when designing for extrusion?

When designing for extrusion, manufacturers should consider factors such as material selection, die design, profile complexity, dimensional tolerances, and surface finish requirements. Collaboration between design engineers and extrusion experts is essential to optimize the design for manufacturability and ensure a successful outcome.

Contact Us – We’d love to work with you

Lakeland Plastics, Inc.

1019 Noel Ave. | Wheeling IL 60090 | USA 1-847-680-1550 | 1-847-680-1595 fax

[conspiracydawg]

hey does anyone have any resources on water efficient landscape irrigation without plastics? preferably at medium to large scale? it's something I've been struggling to think of solutions for

[icu-fetish]

Cassie in coma

Cassie, fragile and defenseless, fights for her life in a hospital bed. Her consciousness is obscured by a coma, and her breathing is supported by artificial ventilation. A long plastic tube, like a thread, woven into her body, becomes the key to her recovery, giving hope that one day she will be able to breathe on her own again.

She lay motionless as the nurses carefully placed a smooth, blue plastic retainer over her face. This device, made of a strong but flexible material, was supposed to fix the breathing tube, giving it stability and comfort.

Surrounded by a web of tubes and wires, Cassie lies motionless, connected to life support machines. Droppers, like saving arteries, carry the necessary medicines and nutrients to her. Special catheters inserted into her body ensure the delivery of this fluid and the removal of waste products. There are monitors by her bed, recording the slightest changes in her condition.

After a long period of uncertainty, the doctors decided on the next step. The surgery, which involves a tracheostomy, will be Cassie's chance of survival, but at the same time, it carries certain risks and uncertainty about the further development of events. The creation of a tracheostomy will provide her with direct access to the respiratory tract, which will allow artificial ventilation of the lungs and support life.

A ventilator, placed on a standby Cassie's bed, supports her life-giving breaths. Two tubes, like an artificial airway, connect the machine to a tracheostomy tube, delivering oxygen to her lungs and removing carbon dioxide.

In view of the data obtained during constant monitoring and comprehensive examination, the doctors made a reasoned decision to stop artificial ventilation of the lungs, which for a considerable period ensured the patient's vital activity.

In one of the tense moments, when it seemed that all chances were lost, Cassie suddenly showed signs of life. Her eyelids, which had remained motionless for days, twitched slightly, and a shadow of a smile flashed across her pale face. This barely perceptible movement became a signal for the doctors, who with a sinking heart were waiting for the patient's first independent breath. And then, after a few anxious seconds, Cassie's chest rose and then fell, filled with air without the aid of a machine.

Cassie finally woke up. Cassie slowly opened her eyes, returning from the depths of sleep to harsh reality. Looking around, Cassie tried to figure out where she was. Her gaze wandered around the unfamiliar room, stopping at the multitude of tubes, catheters, and wires entwined around her body. Despite her fear and weakness, Cassie believed she would recover.

Tiny Pretty Things (2020)

[transgenderer]

okay so you know how if you have a gogurt or other portable yogurt storage made of a tube of thin flexible plastic, you have to sort of put a finger on either end of the tube and run your fingers up to push the yogurt into your mouth? if not, im sure you can imagine it. anyway, imagine if instead, you wanted to eat the plastic container, and didnt want to eat any yogurt. maybe youre lactose intolerant. so you still open the container, but this time you run your fingers the other way to push the yogurt out, and bite off the yogurtless wrapper at the end. this is how moles eat worms. earthworms are basically just flex tubes full of dirt, but they have valves to stop the dirt going up towards their heads, so the mole has to eat them headfirst, and push the dirt out of the worm as they eat it

[thinking1bee]

You Haven't Failed Part 16

Requested by Anonymous

Pairings: Wanda Maximoff x Reader

Tags: Spidey!Reader, Venom!Reader, So Much Angst, Fluff, Established Relationship, Graphic Depictions of Injuries, Blood, Violence, Explicit Language, Explicit Sexual Content, Smut

Everything Taglist: @ara-a-bird,

Series Taglist: @alexawynters @dorabledewdroop

“Let me know if you can feel this.”

You stared at her, feeling empty and apathetic as Dr. Cho pressed a pen against your foot. She dragged it up and down against you. The result was the same as the last. You couldn’t feel anything. Wanda was by your side and holding your hand. Tony left awhile ago to give you privacy. Dr. Cho looked at you and you shook your head. She pressed her lips together but didn’t offer any other reaction.

“Do I have your permission to touch you?” she asked, and you nodded again.

She put her clipboard down and used her hands to grab both of your calves. Her fingers dug into them deeply, deep enough that it should hurt. However…

“Anything?”

You shook your head, your apathy crumbling to make room for something else. Dr. Cho came to stand by your side. She grabbed another pen and with both hands, pressed the tips of the plastic object into your thighs. She didn’t ask this time. She only looked at you and you shook your head again. With every no, Wanda held your hand tighter, and Dr. Cho looked at your joined hands.

“Can you feel that?”

At that, you nodded. After more poking and prodding, you discovered that you were paralyzed from the waist down. The moment Dr. Cho said it, you felt your jaw begin to tremble. Despite trying to remain strong, tears came to your eyes.

“The symbiote bonding to you caused the extensive damage to your nervous system. While you were in your coma, I took pictures of your spine. Would you like to see them?”

You nodded and watched as she grabbed and clicked a remote in her hand. The tv screen in front of you flashed to life, and you saw a rather detailed picture of your vertebrae from a camera.

“How did you get these?” Wanda asked as she looked between the monitor and Dr. Cho.

“I made a small incision in their back and inserted a flexible camera on a tube. Think of the cameras that they use for colonoscopies. It’s the same.”

She turned her attention to the monitor and clicked the remote to reveal the first picture. You weren’t a doctor. You were far from it actually, but what you saw was horrific. It looked like someone set parts of your spine on fire. There were black, ashy patches sprinkled intermittently up and down the length of it. Your nerves were scorched. Wanda couldn’t contain her alarmed gasp. She sat up straight and covered her mouth with her free hand. Soft, Russian expletives fell from her mouth. Fear tore through you, the feeling harrowing and heavy in your chest. You closed your eyes and turned your face away from the monitor. Dr. Cho, seeing your reaction, immediately turned it off and waited quietly with a somber expression. The dam inside of you broke, the pressure of everything that happened to you too much to deal with, and the tears you tried to hide finally fell. The crushing defeat at failing Wanda and your friends was so overwhelming that when you tried to inhale, you took a gasping and shuddering breath instead. From beside you, you felt Wanda stand up and encircle you in a warm and loving hug, the smell of her detergent and perfume grounding you minutely as you leaned into her. She looked at you in exasperation as she placed a kiss in your hair.

“Is there anything that we can do?”

“I’ve consulted with Dr. Banner and Dr. Strange about a possible treatment plan, and we agreed that the best course of action would be to not introduce anything. Because of Y/n’s powers and their unique anatomy, we believe that this is going to heal itself.”

You couldn’t speak. It felt like you couldn’t breathe. Wanda didn’t have to read your mind to feel your distress. Your body was trembling in her hold.

“So, there’s nothing that we can do?” she asked in disbelief. Wanda was finding that hard to believe. With all their access to science, magic, and technology, there was nothing to do?

“If this happened in any other part of their body, then I would suggest anything and everything to ensure that they regain full control of their body again, Ms. Maximoff. My suggestion stems from the fear that because this is in the nervous system, we shouldn’t try experimental procedures that may or may not work, or worse, do more damage than what was already done.”

Dr. Cho looked at you both with beseeching eyes and an intense gaze.

“I’m not saying all hope is lost. I’m saying the complete opposite. It will get better, but what you need is time for your body to heal. As of right now, what I would like to start is physical therapy. The sooner the better. I’m worried that once your nerves heal, the muscles will atrophy.”

Dr. Cho kept talking, but it was background noise to you. You couldn’t walk. You wouldn’t be able to stand. That meant that Wanda would have to help you with everything. Cooking. Cleaning. Bathing, and everything else in between. Whatever was said, you lost interest. All you could do was lean into Wanda and choke down your sobs. This. You did this. Tony and Wanda tried to tell you. They tried to warn you about the symbiote, and you didn’t listen. You deserved this and there was no one to blame but yourself.

***

As it turned out, Tony already had a wheelchair ready for you. It was powered with the same technology as his suit, which meant that it was built with a miniature arc reactor and moved via repulsion. FRIDAY was also programmed into the chair to help monitor your surroundings and adjust the chair accordingly. That meant that it hovered, which was quite nice. You didn’t have to worry about getting stuck on stairs or curbs. FRIDAY would sense the obstruction and adjust the repulsors so that you glided over anything. It would have been a feature to take full advantage of if you left your room. For the past month and a half, you locked yourself away. You barely had the energy to talk to Wanda. Most of her questions were reduced to one-word answers. Yes. No. A shrug. It was all you could manage as you stared off into space and sat in your desolation. Wanda was trying. She was always there for you. She did the cleaning, and the cooking. She changed your diaper when you shit yourself, and though she did it with patience and with a loving expression, you felt humiliated. She helped you bathe. She helped you dress. She helped you with your physical therapy. She helped you do the bare minimum that you used to be able to do yourself. Wanda wasn’t your girlfriend anymore. She was your damn caregiver and the knowledge of that had anger and self hatred boiling hotly inside of your chest. When she wasn’t home, you drove yourself crazy trying to get your legs back. You did everything that you could think of. Wiggling your toes. Flexing a muscle. Anything! When nothing worked, you snarled in frustration, and your head fell into your hands in defeat. Your skin was greasy. Your hair wasn’t much better. You were exhausted. Nightmares plagued you at night. Every time you closed your eyes, you saw Venom’s face. There were many nights where you woke up screaming, your terror bleeding into the waking world while Wanda tried to calm you down and comfort you. You were a mess. By the time you were trying and failing to wiggle your toes, you were at your wits end. You looked at your hands, the limbs trembling when a thought occurred to you.

Your webs.

One thing that Peter told you many, many times was that he was jealous of your organic webs. Your body made yours while his webs were made in a chem lab. It was something that Peter brought up every time he had to go to Tony to make more for himself. You still had your arms, and they worked. There was no reason for your webs to be gone, right? With that in mind, you aimed and curled your middle fingers into your palm. Nothing happened. Not even a spurt. Tears blurred your vision as you tried again, your panic forcing your heart into overdrive. The result was the same. Nothing. A heavy breath fell from you before a pained sob tore from your lips. You aggressively rubbed at your palms to try and stimulate your body into doing what you wanted. You knew that you were only breaking your own heart, that this was all so fucking pointless, but you couldn’t help it. You needed something for yourself. You needed this. Everything couldn’t be gone. When nothing happened again, your hand flopped back into your lap as you closed your eyes and fell apart. You couldn’t stop it. Your heavy breaths turned into hyperventilating gasps and your sobs turned into agonized wails. Tears poured down your cheeks, your useless body folding and leaning on the armrest. It was your fault. This was all your fault.

You didn’t hear the door open, and you didn’t know that Wanda was in the living room until she ran to you and dropped to her knees in front of you.

“Y/n? Baby, talk to me,” she urged as she took your hands in between hers and kissed the backs of them.

You looked at her and swallowed thickly. Your eyes were horribly red, and your cheeks were wet and splotchy from your crying. “Break up with me.”

Wanda stared at you, her body leaning back as she looked you up and down in shock. Her eyebrows furrowed, your words working through her brain as she picked apart every word.

“What?”

“Wanda,” you repeated, some anger bleeding into your voice. “Break. Up. With. Me.”

“No.”

You sat up in your chair and balled your hands into fists. “Break up with me, Wanda.”

Irritation marred her face, her jaw clenching as she looked into your eyes. “No!”

“It’s literally a simple request! Just fucking break up with me!”

At your outburst, Wanda was briefly stunned, and she stared at you with disbelief. Until now, you never yelled, or at least, you’ve never once yelled at her. Wanda couldn’t recall a single time in her relationship with you when you even raised your voice. You were always a calm communicator, telling her your thoughts and voicing your needs in a way that was respectful. So, when you yelled at her, her irritation bled into anger, but she didn’t let you go. She held your hands tighter as she uncurled your fingers and laced hers through them.

“I plan on being with you for the rest of my life, Y/n,” she murmured simply, her green eyes focused on you intensely. “But you cannot talk to me that way. Do you understand? You’re going through an exceedingly difficult time, and I know that this is hard. I’m going to be with you every step of the way, but this? I will not accept. Please take a few deep breaths and calmly tell me what you’re thinking.”

You squeezed your eyes closed and nodded. She was right. Wanda was right. You were losing your mind and you were pissed at yourself, but that wasn’t an excuse to disrespect her or take your anger out on her. Wanda let your hands go and gently wiped your tears away with her thumbs. With her so close to you, you could smell the scent of her shampoo and perfume. It grounded you and allowed for rational thought to make its way into your fragmented brain.

“You deserve better,” you whimpered. You couldn’t meet her eyes when you admitted it. “You deserve more than this. You deserve someone that will listen to you. You deserve someone who can take care of you. I don’t want you taking care of me for the rest of my life. You deserve-”

“Stop it.”

Instantly, you shut your mouth and looked at her. Her eyes were swimming with unshed tears. An aggressive sniffle made her nose scrunch before it relaxed.

“You’re all I ever wanted, Y/n, and I will take care of you for as long as I want to. You can’t make that decision for me. Why do you think that you’re the only person in this relationship that wants to take care of their partner?” She raised an eyebrow and frowned. “I want to reciprocate. I want reciprocity in this relationship. I don’t want you giving me 100% of you all the time because you don’t have that to give everyday. That’s okay. Some days it’s 50/50. Some days it’s 70/30. Some days it’s 0/100 and we’ll take it all a day at a time. Baby, do what you can, and I’ll do the same. We’ll help each other, but I don’t want this. Don’t push me away. Don’t alienate me.”

You looked at her, your face crumbling as you leaned into her touch. You just wanted Wanda to be happy. She stood up and came to your side before wrapping her arms around you and hugging you close. She pressed multiple kisses onto your forehead despite your current physical state.

“I love you,” she whispered to you. “I love you so much. You’re going to be okay. I just want you to talk to me, моя любовь.”

You leaned into her and nodded again. Venom may have turned your mind and body into a battlefield, but you learned your greatest lesson from the ordeal. You needed to let Wanda in. You needed to talk about your feelings. She wanted to know when you were struggling. She didn’t want you to just grin and bear it. It was what landed you here in the first place. Wanda was your partner. She didn’t ask you for the world on a silver platter. All she ever wanted was you. She wanted to be there for you, and you had to let her. If you wanted to heal, you had to let Wanda help you.

Part 17

[leaf-sheep]

As much as I appreciate the wonderful people who make sci fi and fantasy sex toys, tongue and tentacle themed dildos always just feel like they're going up against impossible expectations.

Like, the whole appeal of tentacles and tongues (for me, at least) is the prehensile aspect. Something that can not only push its way inside you, but that can then twist around to rub against all the right spots or even grab hold from inside so you can't pull them out...

ANyways. Um. Yeah so like I've seen a lot of dildos that follow this theme that still have amazing detail and do look like fun shapes, but I could never bring myself to get one because it'll never be what I want. I have seen some that are like SUPER long and flexible and those I could maybe be interested in? Those seem like they might have a little more versatility, but still not the full articulation of my dreams.

Although on that note, I do recall videos of some pretty interesting segmented snake-like robots...

Ok derailing this post as I'm writing it to talk about the potential for cutting-edge robotics in sex toys to bring all our dreams of tentacle monsters to life. Horny amateur opinions on robotics below the cut.

So we have these things, which have been around for a while (this image is from this 2013 article). Basically a series of solid links with little motors inside to let them twist into different shapes. I think if you fitted something like this with a silicone sleeve you could probably have something pretty good? The one in the picture looks pretty clunky but I'm sure you could design something with shorter links. Even with the sleeve though, it would still have that really solid core and probably not very pliable. Might be good for some things though, and probably the best for us robophiliacs.

Then we have designs like this. Its an inflatable tube where as air is pumped in, the plastic tube extends from the middle and extends forward. Kind of like those slippery plastic toys filled with goo from the aquarium that seem like they would make good sex toys but really don't? I think this one also works pretty straightforwardly for our purposes. You'd want a decently sturdy material for the balloon part (maybe even make it textured), and you'd want it to be lubricated before extending. That would probably mean extending it, lubricating it, then retracting it so that when it extends again its already good to go. I'm not an expert on how these things are usually controlled but the common use cases seem to be things like going into rubble or pipes, so it should be fairly well suited to extending into an orifice. Unfortunately as far as I can tell they don't have a lot of articulation once they are extended, though they can extend into different curved shapes, so it'd be more about getting filled.

And lastly (at least for this post) we have soft robots. I think the Spiderverse version of Doc Ock's arms took visual inspiration from these. These are usually a soft, rubbery, stretchy material, but they can be articulated in different ways. Some of them use tendon-like sections that compress or pull, others fill with air or water, but ultimately these are functionally the closest to muscles we have in robotics atm (at least to my knowledge). They're also... kind of enticing as they are already. They're naturally soft, and they have a very lifelike motion that I think is really appealing. You could definitely get some fun squirming motions with these.

The next problem would be making them smart, i.e. able to react properly to your movements and to be able to find the right areas automatically. As far as I know, these soft robots are mostly long extensions that are controlled from the base. That's just fine, but there isn't much feedback to the controller about what the bot is interacting with. Ideally, my robot tentacle monster lover shouldn't have to ask me if it's in yet. For the ones that work on water or air pressure you might be able to do something by reading the pressure changes from different sections to let it feel its way around a little bit? But that would still be pretty imprecise and clumsy. I'm not sure what the current state of the field is like right now for small pressure sensors, but that would probably be the best. Alternatively, maybe something like an ultrasound? You'd probably want some little pellets of hard material embedded in the bot tentacle to help it stand out. Don't they have new ones that can provide a proper 3D reading of babies and stuff?

Hmm actually that does sound hot. The machine spreads a cool gel on your belly and presses a sensor to your skin, so it can watch its arms slither inside you, stretching your belly forward almost as if there really was something alive inside... then once it's situated, it starts moving to slide the arms over all the most sensitive places...

Unfortunately I think it might be a little late to switch tracks to an engineering career so I can mad science my way into getting tentaclefucked by a robot and become a slave to my own creation. A tragedy.

[weirdstrangeandawful]

TW: needles, medical

Needle whump tips from someone who has experienced all these flavours.

Intramuscular injections: These are the most common vaccine injections. They hurt a little going into the muscle but it's not super painful, especially when done fast. Sometimes it can be a little sore when the actual liquid goes into the tissue.

Subcutaneous injections: This is into the fat underneath the skin. A lot of medications are given this way. When done steadily, in the right spot, and with a small enough needle, these don't hurt.

Intravenous injection: These are into a vein. They can be finicky because veins are parallel to the skin surface and you have to go in at a really shallow angle and make sure not to go all the way through the vein. These can hurt a little more than the others but when done with proper technique, they're still not bad compared to most injuries.

Intravenous cannulation: This is very similar to an intravenous injection but there is a thin, flexible plastic tube (cannula) on the needle. You can barely see the tube and you can't feel it as it goes in because it's completely flush against the metal of the needle. Once the cannula is in, the needle is removed completely, leaving just the plastic in the vein. If they did this in your elbow (where they usually do for short term IV access), you can bend it fine with only mild pressure or maybe some discomfort where the plastic pushes against the skin. If they do it properly and secure it in place, you won't even feel it after a couple hours.

Other tips:

It's important to realised that a lot of the pain we think of from vaccines is not actually the needle or the trauma from the needle. The majority of the pain comes from the reaction (essentially a mild, local allergic reaction to the vaccine contents)

Gauge matters. The higher the number, the smaller the needle. The smaller the needle, the less it hurts but the slower the injection. I use 27g needles for my medication injections and they barely hurt if I have a steady hand. When a 30g was used for my blood sugar, it just itched a little bit whilst the needle pricked. When I get blood drawn, they use a 22g or 20g needle because I have good veins. And that hurts a little more.

Any needle will become very dull after the first use. Sharp needles with proper technique barely hurt but dull needles basically tear your flesh and can hurt quite a bit.

[p1nkcanoe]

thinking about Phantom being curious and horny and getting his cock stuck while using a vacuum cleaner to get himself off 💀

( i like the way you think, anon. 1.1k words that probably shouldn't exist )

Phantom is smarter than this. He really is. He should know by now not to test the limits and possibilities of objects, specifically machinery, and should know that when something’s entire job is to suck, that it will indeed, suck. 

He’d borrowed the vacuum from the supply closet to clean the cobwebs from the high corners of his bedroom–a simple machine with a large central canister for the dust and mess, and a long flexible hose affixed with a plastic tube to do one job: remove the eyesores from the rafters so Aether would finally get off his ass about it. It turns out that a task so tedious can be made interesting if you turn it into a bit of an experiment. A game, if you will. It takes approximately two minutes after turning the machine on for the curiosity to set in. Phantom begins by holding the end of the hose further and further away from the cobwebs, testing how far away he can keep it for it to still suck them away from the walls and wooden supports, then he moves on to waving it wildly from side to side, seeing how quick he can clear an entire section with a wave of his long arms. Turns out, it’s pretty quick. And finally, when he tries to stick the hose to the ceiling, he wonders exactly how strong those suctions really are. 

He attaches the end of the hose to his palm first, jolting in surprise when his skin gets sucked up tight to the end of it and makes a loud, high pitched hissing noise at the lack of circulation. He pulls his hand away, listening to how the sound frequencies change and how the machine still tries to suck his palm back up. He lets it. It makes the noise again, a dull hwumph, and he chuckles, pulling it off and letting it reattach again a few more times just to hear it. The remaining webs quickly become an afterthought. 

But eventually his palm gets boring, so he tucks the hissing hose under his arm and reaches down to lift his shirt, tucking the bottom hem under his chin and exposing the soft skin of his tummy. The first contact of the hose against his tummy is much different. His skin is more plush, protected by a thin layer of fat, and the tube attaches itself more firmly, sucks more of him up. When he pulls it’s harder to remove and it leaves behind a pretty pink circle in its place. He lets it suck different areas of his torso, testing different areas where his body is harder, others where it’s soft, and he can’t help but giggle when it thubthubthub’s over his bellybutton in an imperfect seal and tickles his hair. He even lets it engulf his nipple. The instant hypersensitivity and consequential gasp were enough to have him jerking it away rather quickly. Yeah… too much. Noted. But who knew a vacuum could be so fun? 

The ghoul looks down at it, right down into its opening, and gets a stupid idea in that brain of his. One quick glance past the side of the hose reveals his half chub tenting the front of his basketball shorts. 

He looks back at the hose, back at the tube connected to its end, over at the door which is very much unlocked for anyone to walk into as they please, and shimmies the elastic waistband of his shorts down just enough to pull out his shaft. 

The hose hisses in his hand, sucks air. 

Curiosity gets the best of him. 

He inches it closer to the head of his dick, which is rapidly filling out with intrigue, and hums, pleased, when it lures him and sucks freezing cold air around his hot skin. He nods, shrugs–this could work–and brings it that last centimeter closer, letting the end of the tube encase his head and suck him in. The strangled noise he makes is almost louder than the machine and he slaps a hand over his mouth. His eyes flick towards the door. 

He doesn’t fill the entire opening. Cold air sucks down around his skin but the suction is nice. Not too hard, but also definitely there. He thinks he likes it. It’s nothing like getting a blowjob, not even close, it’s something entirely different and the odd combination of cool air, rapidly changing pressure around his shaft, and vibrations from the machine’s fans and motors make him tingle in all the best ways. Maybe a vibrator, he thinks. An odd, hard, plastic fleshlight that really isn’t that satisfying in all honesty, but he keeps his dick in it nonetheless, choosing instead to jerk the head of the hose over his shaft in shallow, quick moments that make him suck his bottom lip between his fangs and groan. 

The machine tries desperately to suck him up. It’s so loud, so obvious that something is blocking its tube, but Phantom is beginning to enjoy it in that odd, twisted way too much to stop. Plus, there’s something erotic about getting your dick sucked by a vacuum… Or… maybe not?

He lets go of the tube and lets the machine suck him all the way down to the hilt and nearly caves in on himself when his tip vibrates violently against the rubbery plastic sides. His belly tightens immediately. Suddenly the need to cum is overbearing. Against his best judgment he leans over and flicks the switch on the machine, sending it whirring and hissing into max suction. It screams around his skin, milks every drop of pre from his body and sends it somewhere wholly out of mind. He fails to notice the suction pulling his balls from his shorts and it’s the last little bit of skin the machine needs to complete the perfect seal. 

The ghoul chokes. He feels the air sucked from his lungs as his soul gets sucked from his dick, and in a matter of excruciating seconds he cums violently and hard into the tube. His mess gets sucked away into the canister. 

Overstimulation sets in quickly and the machine doesn’t let up in the slightest. Even when he’s panicking–whining and pulling desperately at the vacuum head–it won’t come off, stuck in a tight and unrelenting seal around his shaft and against his sack. Scrambling hands can’t find the on/off switch fast enough.  “Hey, Ant, are you done with the vacuum yet or–” Phantom whips around towards where his bedroom door swings open on its hinges, shock and mortification slapped over both his own and Cirrus’ horrified face. “–oh my god??”

[osakanone]

have you any thoughts on soft body robots

Awesome username and yes absoloutely.

They break down into two major types:

Hollow, and membrane which form a kind of spectrum.

From hollow-types we begin with cloth-likes. This is your BMW Ginas, and your space-frames and monocoques (I love that word, it feels so good in the mouth to say).

Maestro, please:

Absurdly light, lithe, software defined, able to change shape in wild ways like some absurdist high fashion statement of skin and effect. Delicate like a bird. An olympic athlete without a wasted ounce of fat. A coathanger robot. Spartan. A puppet of cloth, metal and intention, like a scarecrow or a kite.

It would be brutal were it not potentially so fragile, for the impact forces are imparted entirely into the body's frame beneath which must deform to endure any crash or crumble the world speaks to those shapes. It is the butterfly, and the humming-bird of this branch of engineering. If you need a lifting body and you can some how distribute the fluttering forces across the surface with shape memory alloy stiffness in the cloth you have a self-definable prehensile wing. You have created the answer to almost every aerodynamic concern imaginable, forever.

And so, we go even further beyond in this metaphor.

We go to the true thoughts of softness now.

We find the ounce of fat we did not before. We find the blubber. The charm. The plush padding of privilage of our touch, of function and personality. The trembling doughy forms of gellatine flooding, filling those synthetic cloth or plastic or flexible metallic hulls.

The functional practicality here is simply beyond measure, and likely won't be understood in our lifetimes while we chase hardened hulls. Soft robots are dreamily suited to working with humans for we ourselves are largely soft robots of protein self-assembly systems, clumsily physics-enfolding some interpretation of our genetics through the pachinko machine of probability, space and time.

Looking upon the true soft robotics, we see thusly, a spectrum: gas and baloon like and perhaps even buoyant to float like a fairy -- to sloshing fluid to dense sticky gellatine, we find all the places of impact we need.

Bulbous, enduring, reflective of forces. A thing able to deal with the world and simply bounce, care free. Perhaps to tear, and spill, but always to knit and in bleeding become so much more than a body.

The factors of the structure deforming in ways no exoskeletal form is able to do so give dexterity simply unimaginable.

If the filling itself is prehensile perhaps like some bizzare synthetic echo of forms like those seen in molluscs, we run into a machine which isn't using tiny magnetic tubes to turn but an enormous mass which is structural and acting as a container perhaps for fuels in micro-pockets to prevent unwanted combustions or the spread of flames.

That is to say, the blubber energy dense like our own, powerful, like the non-beach-muscle bodies of non-magazines who achieve real work like mothers, brothers and beer-bellies and forms of joy of all in between.

This form is is fire-proof. It is shock resistant to a level no fragile ceramic metallic machine can really imagine.

And it is still lighter, than that metallic machine which by comparison now, is crystal, practically glass by comparison.

What else would you like to know?

I'm good for another round if you are.

[wedesignyouny]

The Environmental Benefits of US-Made Plastic Extrusions

Introduction

In recent years, environmental sustainability has become a central focus across industries, prompting a critical examination of manufacturing processes and materials. Plastic extrusion, a widely used manufacturing method, has drawn attention for its environmental impact. However, by shifting focus to US-made plastic extrusions, a narrative of environmental stewardship emerges. 

This guide delves into the environmental benefits of US-made plastic extrusions, highlighting how local production not only reduces carbon footprints but also fosters sustainable practices. From minimizing transportation emissions to adhering to stringent environmental regulations, US-based manufacturers are increasingly recognized for their commitment to eco-conscious production. As we navigate the complexities of sustainability in manufacturing, understanding the environmental advantages of US-made plastic extrusions illuminates pathways toward a greener and more sustainable future.

The Environmental Benefits of Plastic Extrusions

Plastic extrusions, a widely utilized manufacturing process, offer a range of environmental benefits that contribute to sustainable practices across industries. By understanding and highlighting these advantages, we can better appreciate the role of plastic extrusions in environmental stewardship.

Material Efficiency

Plastic extrusion processes are highly efficient in terms of material usage. This means that minimal raw material is wasted during production, reducing overall resource consumption and minimizing environmental impact.

Recyclability

Many plastic materials used in extrusion processes are recyclable. This means that end-of-life products can be recycled and repurposed, reducing the demand for virgin materials and diverting waste from landfills.

Energy Efficiency

Compared to other manufacturing processes, plastic extrusion is relatively energy-efficient. Modern extrusion equipment is designed to optimize energy usage, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and overall energy consumption.

Product Versatility

Plastic extrusions can be used to manufacture a wide range of products, from packaging materials to construction components. This versatility allows for the creation of lightweight, durable products that can replace heavier materials, leading to energy savings during transportation and reduced environmental impact.

Durability and Longevity

Products made through plastic extrusion are often durable and long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent replacements. This extends the lifespan of products and minimizes the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and disposal.

Reduced Carbon Footprint

By utilizing local manufacturing facilities for plastic extrusions, companies can minimize transportation-related emissions associated with shipping materials and products over long distances. This localized production approach further reduces the carbon footprint of extruded plastic products.

Regulatory Compliance

Many countries have stringent environmental regulations in place to govern plastic manufacturing processes. By adhering to these regulations, manufacturers ensure that their operations meet high environmental standards, leading to reduced pollution and environmental impact.

Overall, the environmental benefits of plastic extrusions underscore their importance in promoting sustainability across various industries. By embracing efficient production methods, prioritizing recyclability, and minimizing environmental impact, plastic extrusion manufacturers play a crucial role in advancing environmentally responsible practices.

The Environmental Benefits of US-Made Plastic Extrusions

Plastic extrusion, a versatile manufacturing process, offers several environmental advantages when produced in the United States. From reducing carbon emissions to promoting sustainable practices, US-made plastic extrusions contribute positively to environmental stewardship. Here’s a detailed exploration of these benefits:

Reduced Carbon Footprint

Producing plastic extrusions locally in the US significantly reduces transportation-related emissions. By minimizing the distance materials travel from production facilities to end-users, the carbon footprint associated with shipping is reduced. This localized approach helps mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and promotes environmental sustainability.

Stringent Environmental Regulations

The United States imposes strict environmental regulations on manufacturing processes, including plastic extrusion. Compliance with these regulations ensures that US-based extrusion facilities adhere to high environmental standards, minimizing pollution and environmental impact. From waste management protocols to air and water quality regulations, these stringent measures help protect ecosystems and safeguard public health.

Energy Efficiency

US-based plastic extrusion facilities often employ advanced technologies and equipment designed for energy efficiency. Modern extrusion machinery is optimized to minimize energy consumption while maintaining high production output. This focus on energy efficiency reduces the environmental footprint of plastic extrusion processes, conserving resources and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Material Recycling and Waste Reduction

Many US-based plastic extrusion manufacturers prioritize material recycling and waste reduction initiatives. By implementing closed-loop recycling systems and utilizing recycled materials in production, these facilities minimize waste generation and promote circular economy principles. Recycling plastic materials reduces the demand for virgin resources, conserves energy, and mitigates environmental pollution associated with landfill disposal.

Product Durability and Longevity

Plastic extrusions produced in the US are known for their durability and longevity. High-quality materials and precision manufacturing techniques result in robust extruded products that withstand harsh environmental conditions and extended use. The longevity of these products reduces the frequency of replacements, minimizing resource consumption and waste generation over time.

Innovation in Sustainable Materials

US-based plastic extrusion manufacturers are at the forefront of innovation in sustainable materials. Research and development efforts focus on creating eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics, such as biodegradable polymers and renewable resource-based materials. These sustainable materials offer comparable performance characteristics to conventional plastics while reducing environmental impact and dependence on fossil fuels.

Local Economic Benefits

Supporting US-made plastic extrusions not only yields environmental benefits but also fosters economic growth at the local level. By investing in domestic manufacturing, businesses contribute to job creation, community development, and economic resilience. This localized production approach enhances supply chain resilience and reduces dependency on overseas manufacturing, further enhancing environmental sustainability by minimizing global transportation emissions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, US-made plastic extrusions offer significant environmental benefits, ranging from reduced carbon emissions and energy efficiency to material recycling and innovation in sustainable materials. By prioritizing local production, adhering to stringent environmental regulations, and promoting sustainable practices, US-based extrusion facilities play a vital role in advancing environmental stewardship and fostering a more sustainable future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Are US-made plastic extrusions environmentally friendly?

Yes, US-made plastic extrusions often adhere to stringent environmental regulations, prioritize energy efficiency, and promote material recycling and waste reduction initiatives, making them environmentally friendly options.

How do US-based plastic extrusion facilities reduce their carbon footprint?

US-based facilities reduce their carbon footprint by minimizing transportation-related emissions through localized production, employing energy-efficient manufacturing processes, and prioritizing sustainable materials and practices.

Are US-made plastic extrusions made from recycled materials?

Many US-based plastic extrusion manufacturers prioritize material recycling and utilize recycled materials in production, contributing to waste reduction and resource conservation efforts.

What are the benefits of using US-made plastic extrusions for sustainability?

Benefits include reduced transportation emissions, compliance with strict environmental regulations, promotion of energy efficiency, support for local economies, and innovation in sustainable materials.

How do US-based plastic extrusion facilities contribute to circular economy principles?

US-based facilities contribute to circular economy principles by implementing closed-loop recycling systems, minimizing waste generation, utilizing recycled materials, and promoting product durability and longevity, thus reducing reliance on virgin resources and mitigating environmental impact.

[icu-fetish]

Petra on ventilator

Petra woke up and realized that she was in the hospital. Fear arose in her heart, because she could not move due to paralysis. Her lungs could no longer cope on their own, so doctors immediately connected her to a ventilator.

She could feel a long, flexible breathing tube being inserted all the way to her lungs. A nurse carefully placed a clear plastic breathing tube holder over her face. Additionally, four sensors were neatly attached to Petra's forehead to accurately monitor her vitals.

Petra can only observe what is happening around her, which causes her incredible fear. She is completely dependent on the medical devices to which she is connected, because without them her life could end at any moment.

Thus, Petra found herself in a state where she was deprived of the ability to move, speak or breathe on her own, and what was worse, she could not understand the reason for this. When her sister came to her, who, as it turned out, had no intention of helping, Petra realized that it was the sister who injected her with the paralyzing agent.

Despite her condition, Petra felt a slight return of mobility, but the nurse quickly administered a new dose of medication. As a result, Petra lost the ability to react and fell asleep.

Faced with an unexpected betrayal by the person closest to her, Petra experienced acute shock and despair. In her immobile state, when her life was supported only by an artificial respiration apparatus, Petra's possibilities for any actions were extremely limited.

She could only hope for help from outsiders and try to convey messages without words, for example by blinking her eyes. However, because other medical personnel did not pay attention to her signals, Petra's chances of survival seemed extremely small.

The paralyzed woman has been motionless in a hospital bed for a long time, able only to observe and listen to the continuous hum of medical devices. The fear of the noise of the ventilator filled her, but she was aware that it was this ventilator that was keeping her alive.

The sister took Petra to her home, where she will continue to be paralyzed and on a ventilator.

Sooner or later, Petra will have to undergo a tracheostomy so that she can be permanently connected to a ventilator. Perhaps Petra will find a way to communicate with others and reveal the truth about her sister's betrayal...

[chromaticramblings]

book review - ecotopia by ernest callenbach

Ecotopia, written by ernest callenbach in the 1970s, describes a world in which the land regions previously known as northern california, washington, and oregon secede from the rest of the united states and create their own nation, the nation of Ecotopia. the principles of sustainability and circular economy are central to this new nation.

here are my thoughts on some things covered in the book, i hope that this reaches someone else who's read it and we can share thoughts!

(this will include spoilers. however, the nature of the book is not a narrative, and is rather a presentation of ideas. therefore reading this post will not ruin the book for you if you choose to read it)

one of the greatest thought experiments Ecotopia undertakes is that of ideal urban planning. in that respect, the book is pretty cool! they hypothetical nation of Ecotopia describes San Francisco as a central city hub, from which spokes of public transport emerge and run to smaller city towns. these towns take the place of suburbs, which were razed during the country’s Independence / reconstruction era. (wooooo!!) public transport abounds and runs at a high speed of 30 mph, which is all you really need since the urban centers are so densely built and multi use. Between city towns are managed forests (actual forests! not monocultures) as well as natural land which has been allowed to restore itself.

people live in flexible communes that typically work together to produce something, whether that be a farming commune, fishing commune, artist communes, or business / science communes that invent things. everyone has a universal base income that is just minimal enough to reasonably get by, allowing people to pursue art or a risky startup without fear of dying. which i think is really cool! necessity breeds innovation yes but you need security too. work culture in Ecotopia is also vastly different, as the boundary between work and leisure and personal time is eroded, which may seem like a bad thing but the consequence of the UBI system means that most Ecotopians actually Like their work and choose to do it of their own free will. crazy huh.

houses are typically made of wood, which to me raised a suspicion flag, cause this is the Bay Area we’re talking about, which is Humid as Shit, and the Ecotopians have phased out paint due to it containing heavy metals. which good for them i guess but those houses are gonna rot lmfao. i took the liberty of imagining they are proofed with sealant made from the biodegradable, non petroleum based plastic the Ecotopians had developed and manufactured. while wood is the building material of choice, houses are also built from large tubes of insulated bioplastic, which are joined at the whim of the family or commune creating the house. (there are no architects, everyone builds their own houses themselves to suit their needs.) these houses are cheap and accessible, and zoning laws seem to be nonexistent, making homelessness a nonissue.

in terms of materials, everything in Ecotopia is renewable and has a full zero waste lifecycle. wood is the material of choice. the only metal Ecotopians use comes from scavenged cars and machinery of the pre seccession era. Ecotopians still manufacture plastic, but most kinds of it are fully biodegradable in a few days. when a lasting material is needed, a different type of plastic is used; this kind will not degrade until it is in full contact with soil. given how important disposable plastic is for applications such as research, i'm glad this was considered and accounted for in this book instead of throwing it off as a "we don't need plastic anymore kumbaya" kinda vibe.

culture wise, there is a lack of emotional restraint which the book’s narrator, a visitor from NYC, frequently comments on. hugs and physical affection between all relationships and genders are normalized. there also seems to be an insistence on small talk as a way to humanize those working “lesser skilled” jobs. honestly i found this a bit annoying, as i don’t think small talk is necessarily indicative of human connection, and that a truly emotionally attuned people would be okay with giving space when necessary. but i thought it was nice to acknowledge that all people are people, even while working “subservient” jobs.

ok so those were the things i liked.

criticism #1.

WILLIAM WESTON STOP BEING A FUCKING MISOGYNIST CHALLENGE

alternatively:

ERNEST CALLENBACH WRITE ONE (1) WOMAN WHO ISN’T A SEX OBJECT CHALLENGE

NO, THE WOMAN WHO YOU DESCRIBED AS UNATTRACTIVE WHO ALSO HAPPENS TO BE IN A POSITION OF POWER DOES NOT COUNT

god jesus christ

over the course of his adventures, journalist William Weston encounters many fellows (men) and new friends whom he talks around the fire with (men). he also encounters Marissa, a beautiful wild woman, exotic and mysterious who runs through the forest, cares deeply for trees, stares into his soul with her plain face and round dark eyes, and has sex with him twenty four hours three hundred sixty five days a year.

he also encounters Linda, an attractively sarcastic yet caring nurse, who nurses his injuries, jacks him off, and consumes him with thoughts of when he “will be healed enough to fuck her properly”. (direct quote)

in addition to the misogyny, there appears to be a fair amount of gender essentialism in Ecotopian society, something I found disappointing. Ecotopian clothes are sharply gendered. (from my understanding of Ecotopian values, i’d expect everyone to be wearing skirts due to the ease of manufacture and resulting ease of movement.) women are described to have an “air of fertility” (yes, actually). the governing party is made up of women, due to womens’ “natural competency regarding cooperation and diplomacy rather than competition”. the only sport in the country, the ritual war games, is barred to women. (it’s actually remarked later in the book that in Ecotopian psychology offices, it is often women who come in with issues of untamed aggression, and attributes it to their exclusion from the games. i wonder what a solution could be 🤔) thankfully work is not gendered, but it appears the social spheres of men and women rarely intersect, as Weston socializes and discusses ideas with a fair amount of men, and no women. perhaps for the better, as he’d be too distracted trying to fuck them to have a discussion of any substance.

queer pairings are also mentioned offhand, but they serve the purpose of emphasizing the Ecotopian's open attitudes towards sex and intimacy. queerness is treated as a sexual quirk rather than as an orientation.

in addition to the disappointing sexism / heterosexism, there's a good amount of racism. different races live segregated. although this is a conscious choice by the inhabitants, it still strikes as somewhat odd that there wouldn't be a way for humans to maintain their culture while living in an integrated society. many of the barriers to race equality in our current system are abolished in Ecotopia; the cheapness of the bioplastic houses makes it accessible for anyone to own a house anywhere, and the ease with which people can start their own enterprises reduces employment barriers significantly. therefore i'd expect integration between races to be a significant achievement of the Ecotopians. the writing itself is also racist. callenbach makes distinctions while describing the cultures of the nonwhite populations that make it clear that white is the default of Ecotopia, and all other cultures are side notes. also, callenbach makes no mention of an Ecotopian prison system (an aspect of society that no doubt merits analysis) until he mentions the Black community. sir what is up with that 🤨

there's also a lot to be said of callenbach's treatment of Indigenous ideas. the Ecotopians take a lot of inspiration from classic Indigenous principles, such as living in balance with the earth's natural resources and respecting nonhuman life, and Indigenous clothing styles. however, this feels rather appropriative rather than appreciative, and there are no actual Indigenous characters in the book. i would expect that such an empathetic society which takes direct principles from Indigenous culture would appreciate and honor the Indigenous people within that society rather than just shamelessly taking their culture, especially given the context that Ecotopians are ex citizens of the united states, the country which caused the Indigenous communities in that area so much harm.

overall, i think this book's strengths lie in its rethinking of what society could be like without work as its central focus. i love the UBI system, the reduced work week, and the attitude of work as something to enjoy rather than something to get over with. i also love that the nation's economic fall wasn't skipped over. i think its important to realize that many policies which would improve human health and quality of life would also lower our GDP, and that maybe that's perfectly fine. maybe human lives matter more than how rich a nation is. despite all these strengths, however, the sexism and racism cannot be overlooked; they made me almost put the book down several times. this book is clearly a product of its time, written by a white man. in keeping with good critical thinking practices, its important to recognize what ideas are good to keep and what needs to be thrown out.

tldr: great ideas about an alternative structure for society, unfortunately sexist and racist as well. 6/10

[luthiest]

Could you please recommend knitting tools/supplies and other things for first time/beginner knitters? I’ve seen how expensive some things are and it’s a little overwhelming. Thank you❣️

hi!! yeah knitting is not exactly a cheap hobby… there’s definitely a point where being able to make and mend things rather than paying top dollar for quality assurance and design can be more cost effective, but that point is pretty far down the line.

as far as tutorials go, there are a ton of good youtube channels out there, but NimbleNeedles and SoWolly are two of my favorites. nimbleneedles is one i like for technique explanations and tips because the colors are very crisp and the explanations are trimmed and easy to understand. sowolly, i like for exploring new stitch patterns and textures, which are a pretty low stakes brain/technique exercise that you can do with any kind of yarn and needles.

for tools, there are a couple things you will be needing for just about every project: needles, a darning needle, stitch markers, and a small crochet hook/stitch fixer. (technically, everything but the needles are optional, but these tools all save you a ton of time and effort as you go on) most of these things can just be found at a local craft store for pretty cheap, but for stitch markers, id recommend getting a bunch of these bulb pins ! they serve just about every purpose imaginable.

needles:

these are categorized by shape, material, and size. the basic shapes are circular, straight, and double pointed (you’ll see these called “dpn’s”). when shopping for needles, be aware that they are labeled generally with the diameter of the needle either in mm or a US#, and the length of the needle or cord in cm/in. you will need the diameter to match the recommended needle size on the yarn u have! (usually found somewhere on the label where it has the gauge. example: 10cm x 10xm = 20sts x 23 rows)

circular: connected by a flexible cord, best for knitting in the round (aka knitting in a continuous circle to make a tube) but can also be used for knitting flat.

straight: straight with a bulb at one end, are used to knit flat pieces.

double pointed: straight with points at either end, can be used to knit flat, but are best for knitting in the round, particularly when the size of the tube is variable, like in hats or socks.

for a beginner, the most cost effective needles will depend on the projects you’re undertaking. if you plan on getting your feet under you with just flat knitting for the time being, a pair of bamboo straight needles will serve you well! in my case, the majority of the projects i did starting out were in the round, so i actually began with a set of circular needles. i found this blog post that has a great overview of needle types and price options for increasing experience levels!

when knitting in the round, you’ll find that the majority of your expenses going into projects will be rebuying needles of the same size but different lengths and cord lengths. if you plan on making lots of projects with circular needles, i would recommend buying only 1 pair of needles in the appropriate size with a long cord, (more than 24 inches) perfecting first the traveling loop technique, then magic loop. these 2 techniques will save u a lot of money on downsizing circular cord lengths. (arguably the same can be done by using dpn’s, but i personally think these techniques minimize the risk of mistakes early on)

so however you decide to start out, flat or circular, i think looking for bamboo needles will be the most cost effective and beginner friendly material, since they have more friction than plastic or metal needles, and stitches will not slip off as easily. also, if they are too pointy or not pointy enough, you can always modify the tips easily with sand paper.

your other main expense will be YARN. and boy is it expensive. you’re going to have to experiment with a lot of fibers to see what you actually like knitting with, but this post from nimbleneedles is a fantastic place to start. his breakdowns of fibers and gauge are great, and i totally agree about wool being the most agreeable and versatile fiber to start out on! i would avoid cotton and synthetic fibers while you’re still learning.

i hope this has been helpful!!! i’m no expert by any means, but i definitely made a lot of ill-advised purchases early on lolol. please let me know if you want a second opinion on a purchase, have any burning questions about a pattern abbreviation, or if you’re struggling with something and want to know if there are other ways to do it—odds are, there are. (this last point is specifically about norwegian purling. iykyk, it blew my mind last month)

edit: link to the instagram of the 2nd hand fiber arts shop !! @swansonsfabrics

[stumblngrumbl]

this car (2009 mazda 3s) has had a very noisy fan for quite some time

we were quoted almost $1000 to fix the hvac blower in it, very expensive because the way™ to get to the blower requires removing the seats and then the entire dash (it's actually possible to replace the fan in situ if you're small, very flexible and don't mind working upside down but it's a serious pain in the ass for people our size!)

a couple years ago i ran across a web forum post where someone was able to clean out the fan from the engine side

for whatever reason i procrastinated it forever but finally yesterday i dove in and did it (directions on the forum post were probably 85% accurate but i think they were for a different generation of the car)

first part: fan sounds before; second part: pull fuzz out with a hook; third part: fan sounds after (the flutter you hear is wind on the microphone - the fan is as quiet as new) [watermark on the video is because i'm cheap and had three separate videos to put together since tumblr doesn't let you upload more than one video]

the fuzz came from under the engine cover; it was insulation and had been shredded by rodents; they must've taken it near that fan area but i didn't find any poops in the fan so my guess is that they made a nest in the trough nearby and it was sucked in to the fan. i was expecting to have to vacuum the fan chamber out, thinking it would be full of acorn shreds but instead the fuzz came out in three hook grabs.

i did cut one of the ribs of the grate covering the chamber so that i had better access; i had anticipated needing to remove the entire thing to be able to get a tube in there for vacuuming but as i said that was not necessary. to reduce future repetition i put some "hardware cloth" over it all:

this is a form of fencing useful for rabbits or chickens; the mesh is 1/4" (~6.5mm) and rodents can't get through it and they're unlikely to gnaw it either. some people make "gopher cages" to plant trees in because gophers come from the side underground and won't go through it there either... imo inadvisable because roots end up bound up inside the cage long before the stuff rusts out

tools were used:

a small flat blade screwdriver

a basic wrench

long hook made out of some 12ga fence wire with a hook bent into the end; a metal coat hanger would work great for this

a "puller" that's used to get the windshield wiper off of its bolt (after you pull the nut off)

the puller is a really useful tool and for $25 for three sizes and the ability to pull things off without destroying them it's a fantastic buy:

basically the puller is a fairly generic tool used to pull things off of a rod that they're probably stuck on, just like this windshield wiper arm is stuck on to the stud; the nut just capped the stud and kept the arm from eventually falling off (no danger of that today!)

you get the hooks under the thing, and then using a wrench you turn the screw and it pulls for you very slowly. in this case, it took half of a turn and i heard a "tink" and the arm came unstuck

you can buy these cheap at most auto parts shops or places like harbor freight / canadian tire. HF sells a set of 3-4 sizes of these; i think this is the only one i have and i think it came from amz

i worked super slowly to try to avoid breaking any plastics (the car is 15ish years old) and it took me 30 minutes to get the

[girls-and-honey]

I'm not sure if these are specifically american things but here we go

[moramaqueda]

MINIMAL ACTIONS: FRAMING THE BODY (RENDER)

List of Possible Materials:

1. Rope

2. Cable

3. Velcro

4. Metal Ring Clasps

5. Shirts

6. Cushion

7. Led Lights

8. Sand

9. Paint

10. Spray Paint

10. Adjustable Buckle

11. Cap

12. Tube Bands

13. Wire

14. Bubble Wrap

15. Curtain Shower

16. Fish Net

17. Pipes

18. Flexible Copper Tubing

19. Omni flex Rope

20. Chains

21. Fur

22. Plastic Bags

23. Towel

24. Wheels

25. Leather

26. Adhesive Tape

27. Dip Net

28. Climbing Rope

29. Overall Straps

30. Packing Peanuts