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Automotive

Infrared radiation (IR), or infrared light is a type of radiant energy invisible to the human eye. Within the electromagnetic spectrum, infrared waves occur at wavelengths just below that of red visible light, hence the name infrared. The light, though invisible, can be detected as heat and this lends to hundreds of uses in as many fields. IR is what changes channels from the remote, and detects heat sources recorded with night vision cameras and goggles. It is also used in surveillance operations, missile guidance systems, behavioural research of nocturnal animals, meteorology and climate studies, and more.

If your oil warning light comes up in the dash, you know you're in trouble. This means that there's low oil pressure, or simply not enough oil. The risks if you keep on driving are that all those spinning metal parts will soon heat up, and the resulting friction of the missing layer of oil that keeps them apart, will eventually seize the engine. This is catastrophic engine failure, and you'll have to shell out thousands for a replacement engine (and other damaged parts) or get rid of the car.

Utes and 4WDs are the vehicles most buyers go for, new or used. The option of an additional axle and more traction opens up possibilities you won't find anywhere else. These cars are primed for exploring the Aussie vastness, no matter which direction you point your vehicle. And they'll get you there, no questions asked. A few additions help along the way. Additional lights are a must on any car, and on vehicles spending most of their time on poorly lit country roads, the pitch darkness of the bush, or the uncertainties of new worksites, they're a game-changer.

Only two car manufacturers have boxer engines and permanent 4WD - Porsche and Subaru. And only Subaru has these as standard across all models. The combination oozes ample amounts of grip on all surfaces and lowers the centre of gravity of the vehicle, so stability in cornering is exemplary, setting the benchmark for both performance-oriented vehicles and those venturing off-road. Subaru goes one step further by bolting on a turbocharger in the WRX, WRX Sti and beefed up variants of its Forester SUV. This is tech derived directly from World Rally Championships, where the company had continual success in the 1990s.

Utes and large SUVs still make up the majority of new car sales in Australia, and that trend is here to stay. Buyers need space, versatility, and the ability to come back from the bush in one piece. Here no other cars come close. What is lacking is a bit outright speed. Diesels feature in almost all the top sellers.

You know you’re in trouble when the battery light comes up in the dash. It’s a sure sign that the battery’s completely drained and, in such cases, you can’t get the engine going. Batteries die out for different reasons. In cars that are parked or garaged for longer periods, the battery drains slowly until completely flat. Also, if you’re often doing shorter trips, there isn’t enough power regenerated back into the battery, and you’re shortening its lifespan.  

The Ford Ranger topped the sales charts for November 2021, making it not only the best-selling ute of the year, but also the best-selling vehicle overall. More Rangers ended up in the garages of customers than any other vehicle. This is owed to the place Ford has managed to retain after local production completely ceased just a few years back.

Of the various welding types, TIG welding has proven to be particularly widespread in getting the best possible welds in a range of metals. Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) or more commonly referred to as Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding involves using a tungsten electrode to produce an electric arc to heat the workpiece and fusing the metals in a smooth weld. An inert gas, typically argon or helium, protects the welded surface from contamination. A filler may be used in the whole process, but is not necessary. The use of external filler rods as opposed to the continuous wire electrodes in MIG welding can take some time in getting used to, but offer a high level of control which only increases by being able to control the amperage from the welding machine. The result is a unique look to the weld. Being able to weld different types of metals is only one of the advantages of TIG welding.

Motorcycles are incredibly thrilling and exciting to use. They’ve steadily remained popular over the last century, and it’s so easy to see why. However, one thing really needs to be said, which is that motorcycles can be kind of difficult to steer and handle sometimes. Far from impossible, of course, but every motorcycle rider should look for ways to improve the riding experience. There are quite a few things you should look into improving on any motorcycle, such as improving its exhaust system, but improving your overall riding experience should be the priority.

There’s a clear rift in the world of motorcycles, splitting riders between the two types of engines most of them ride (apart from electric ones). You have the air-cooled purists, riding your typical Harley cruiser, and the liquid-cooled gang that worship high redlines and straight-line...