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Monday, April 23, 2012
Monday, February 8, 2010
Electrical Protections
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The following tutorials provide a brief overview of some of the key technical issues associated with power transformers. Whilst they are offered in good faith as introductory information, users should be aware that they are neither comprehensive nor complete. We hope you find them useful.
Index
T7 to be added
T8 to be added
Differential Protection
Differential protection is a unit scheme that compares the current on the primary side of a transformer with that on the secondary side. Where a difference exists (other than that due to the voltage ratio) it is assumed that the transformer has developed a fault and the plant is automatically disconnected by tripping the relevant circuit breakers. The principle of operation is made possible by virtue of the fact that large transformers are very efficient and hence under normal operation power-in equals power-out. Differential protection detects faults on all of the plant and equipment within the protected zone, including inter-turn short circuits.
Principle of Operation
The operating principle employed by transformer differential protection is the Merz-Price circulating current system as shown below. Under normal conditions I1and I2 are equal and opposite such that the resultant current through the relay is zero. An internal fault produces an unbalance or 'spill' current that is detected by the relay, leading to operation.
The operating principle employed by transformer differential protection is the Merz-Price circulating current system as shown below. Under normal conditions I1and I2 are equal and opposite such that the resultant current through the relay is zero. An internal fault produces an unbalance or 'spill' current that is detected by the relay, leading to operation.
Design Objectives
An ideal scheme is required to be:
An ideal scheme is required to be:
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Extremely stable under through fault conditions
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Very fast to operate for an internal fault
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Design Considerations
A number of factors have to be taken into account in designing a scheme to meet these objectives. These include:
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The matching of CT ratios
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Current imbalance produced by tap changing
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Dealing with zero sequence currents
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Phase shift through the transformer
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Magnetising inrush current
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Each of these is considered further below.
The Matching of CT Ratios
The CTs used for the Protection Scheme will normally be selected from a range of current transformers with standard ratios such as 1600/1, 1000/5, 200/1 etc. This could mean that the currents fed into the relay from the two sides of the power transformer may not balance perfectly. Any imbalance must be compensated for and methods used include the application of biased relays (see below) and/or the use of the interposing CTs (see below).
Current Imbalance Produced by Tap Changing
A transformer equipped with an on-load tap changer (OLTC) will by definition experience a change in voltage ratio as it moves over its tapping range. This in turn changes the ratio of primary to secondary current and produces out-of-balance (or spill) current in the relay. As the transformer taps further from the balance position, so the magnitude of the spill current increases. To make the situation worse, as the load on the transformer increases the magnitude of the spill current increases yet again. And finally through faults could produce spill currents that exceed the setting of the relay. However, none of these conditions is 'in zone' and therefore the protection must remain stable ie. it must not operate. Biased relays provide the solution (see below).
Dealing with Zero Sequence Currents
Earth faults down stream of the transformer may give rise to zero sequence current, depending upon winding connections and earthing arrangements. Since zero sequence current does not pass through a transformer, it will be seen on one side only producing spill current and possible relay operation for an out-of-zone fault. To prevent such occurrence, zero sequence current must be eliminated from the differential scheme. This is achieved by using delta connections on the secondary side of any CTs that are associated with main transformer windings connected in star.
Where CT secondaries are connected in star on one side of a transformer and delta on the other, allowance must be made for the fact that the secondary currents outside the delta will only be 1/√3 of the star equivalent.
Phase Shift Through the Transformer
Having eliminated the problem of zero sequence currents (see above) through faults will still produce positive and negative sequence currents that will be seen by the protection CTs. These currents may experience a phase shift as they pass through the transformer depending upon the transformer vector group. CT secondary connections must compensate to avoid imbalance and a possible mal-operation.
Magnetising Inrush Current
When a transformer is first energised, magnetising inrush has the effect of producing a high magnitude current for a short period of time. This will be seen by the supply side CTs only and could be interpreted as an internal fault. Precautions must therefore be taken to prevent a protection operation. Solutions include building a time delay feature into the relay and the use of harmonic restraint driven, typically, by the high level of second harmonic associated with inrush current.
Other Issues
Biased Relays
The use of a bias feature within a differential relay permits low settings and fast operating times even when a transformer is fitted with an on-load tapchanger (see above). The effect of the bias is to progressively increase the amount of spill current required for operation as the magnitude of through current increases. Biased relays are given a specific characteristic by the manufacturer.
Interposing CTs
The main function of an interposing CT is to balance the currents supplied to the relay where there would otherwise be an imbalance due to the ratios of the main CTs. Interposing CTs are equipped with a wide range of taps that can be selected by the user to achieve the balance required.
As the name suggests, an interposing CT is installed between the secondary winding of the main CT and the relay. They can be used on the primary side or secondary side of the power transformer being protected, or both. Interposing CTs also provide a convenient method of establishing a delta connection for the elimination of zero sequence currents where this is necessary.
Modern Relays
It should be noted that some of the newer digital relays eliminate the need for interposing CTs by enabling essentials such as phase shift, CT ratios and zero sequence current elimination to be programed directly into the relay.
Buchholz Relays
A Buchholz relay is a gas and oil operated device installed in the pipework between the top of the transformer main tank and the conservator. A second relay is sometimes used for the tapchanger selector chamber. The function of the relay is to detect an abnormal condition within the tank and send an alarm or trip signal. Under normal conditions the relay is completely full of oil. Operation occurs when floats are displaced by an accumulation of gas, or a flap is moved by a surge of oil. Almost all large oil-filled transformers are equipped with a Buchholz relay, first developed by Max Buchholz in 1921.
General Arrangement
Front View
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Rear View (Cover Removed)
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A - Gas Collection Chamber
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B - Upper Float
C - Lower Float D - Oil Surge Detector |
Conditions DetectedA Buchholz relay will detect:
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Gas produced within the transformer
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An oil surge from the tank to the conservator
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A complete loss of oil from the conservator (very low oil level)
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Fault conditions within a transformer produce gases such as carbon monoxide, hydrogen and a range of hydrocarbons (Tutorial T3). A small fault produces a small volume of gas that is deliberately trapped in the gas collection chamber (A) built into the relay. Typically, as the oil is displaced a float (B) falls and a switch operates - normally to send an alarm. A large fault produces a large volume of gas which drives a surge of oil towards the conservator. This surge moves a flap (D) in the relay to operate a switch and send a trip signal. A severe reduction in the oil level will also result in a float falling. Where two floats are available these are normally arranged in two stages, alarm (B) followed by trip (C).
Gas and Oil FlowsBuchholz relays are equipped with a number of gas and oil inputs and outputs, including test and sampling facilities Gas sampling - a graduated sight glass provides an indication of the volume of gas that has accumulated, typically 100-400cm3. After an alarm or trip signal has been received this must be collected and analysed before the transformer is returned to service. Gas collection can be done at the relay, or at ground level if suitable arrangements exist. Clearly the latter is a safer and more convenient option.
Functional Tests - a test petcock enables dry air to be admitted into the relay to check correct operation. A trickle of air is equivalent to a gradual accumulation of gas. A blast simulates an oil surge. These tests are sometimes referred to as 'blowing the Buchholz'. On completion it is important that the relay is bled to remove the air that has been introduced.
Draining - a valve in the bottom of the relay enables an oil sample to be taken or the relay to be drained. As with gas sampling, this facility can be brought down to ground level for enhanced operator safety and convenience.
AccessoriesA range of accessories and services are available to assist with the safe and correct operation of Buchholz relays including:
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Ground level oil and gas sampling kits
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Gas sampling devices - automatic
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Gas sampling devices - manual
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On-site gas testers - simple air/fault gas analysis
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On-site gas testers - complex fault gas composition
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Relay test kits
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Recalibration
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For further information visit our Catalogue of products and services or contact us
End
Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA)
DGA is one of the most valuable diagnostic tools available. It is a procedure used to assess the condition of an oil-filled transformer from an analysis of the gases dissolved in the cooling/insulating medium. It is a well established technique that is cost effective, providing essential information from a relatively simple, non-destructive test based upon oil sampling. Whilst the analysis is normally done in a laboratory, on-line devices are also available. The results reveal much about the health of the plant including its present condition, any changes that are taking place, the degradation effects of overload, ageing, the inception of minor faults and the most likely cause of major failures.
Oil sampling from transformers is equivalent to blood sampling from humans.
It should be noted that a severe fault may also produce free gases that collect in the Buchholz relay. This closely associated topic is dealt with in Tutorial T5
Taking an Oil Sample
It is important that oil samples are taken carefully to avoid contamination or the loss of gas. Techniques vary from the use of syringes to kits made up from bungs, tubes and sealed bottles. Opening a drain valve, filling a bucket and pouring the contents into a jar will not produce meaningful results.
In the Laboratory
In the laboratory the mixture of gases must be extracted from the oil, for example by the application of a vacuum. The mixture is then passed through a chromatograph where the individual components are separated, identified and quantified. The results are normally presented in tabular form with each gas listed together with the quantity found in parts per million (ppm) by volume.
Interpreting the Results
Interpreting the results is a specialist science. With knowledge and experience the results of a DGA test can be used to produce a detailed and accurate profile of an individual item of plant. This is made possible by the fact that different conditions within a transformer give rise to different quantities and types of gas. For example, acetylene is only produced by arcing.
The Gases Measured
The main gases that are measured and their sources are as follows:
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| Hydrogen |
H2
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Methane
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CH4
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Ethane
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C2H6
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Ethylene
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C2H4
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Acetylene
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C2H2
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From the paper
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Carbon Dioxide
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CO2
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Carbon Monoxide
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CO
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The Application of DGA
DGA can be used in a variety of ways such as:
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On-line sampling for continuous monitoring - see Catalogue
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One-off sampling with the results checked against statistical norms
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Periodic sampling of a single item to establish trends
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Selective sampling of large numbers with statistical predictions for the remainder
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Mass sampling on a routine basis to collect detailed historical data
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Fault analysis after a Buchholz alarm or trip
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Responding to Abnormal ResultsAbnormal results are likely to require follow-up action in the form of more frequent sampling and closer monitoring. Internal conditions that produce gases include over-heating, partial discharges and arcing. Where discharges or arcing are taking place techniques that enable insulation defects to be located with accuracy have reached an advanced stage of development - see Catalogue (Field Services)
Other Information Available from Oil Sampling
This tutorial deals briefly with the subject of DGA. However, transformer oil contains a great deal more information than is available from an understanding of the gases dissolved in it. Other parameters that need to be taken into account include moisture content, acidity, dielectric strength, the presence of furans etc. These are all important but outside the scope of this tutorial
End
The Threat from Oxygen
OverviewThe following notes are based upon a seminar presented by Lars Arvidsson1 in the UK during March 2002 on the subject of Transformer Life Extension. They are written from the perspective of an asset manager and focus on the adverse effects of oxygen on the life of a transformer. It is Lars' view that oxygen has a far more detrimental effect on life expectancy than any other operational parameter.
It is important to be aware that these notes deal only with the effects of oxygen. Other important factors that affect the life of a transformer (such as temperature and moisture) will be added later as separate topics in this series.
OxidationThe laws of chemistry state that oxygen has a strong affinity for electrons. An atom that has lost electrons to oxygen is said to be oxidised. In a transformer, oil and paper both degrade as a result of oxidation.
Oxidation of OilTransformer oil is produced to various specifications such as the paraffinic, naphthenic and ester types. Some oils possess a degree of natural protection against oxidation and are used without the addition of anti-oxidants. These are referred to as uninhibited oils. The more highly refined oils do not generally possess this natural protection and require anti-oxidants to be added. These are known as inhibited oils.
Ageing and oxidation are synonymous. The ageing of oil begins slowly as the anti-oxidants that are present work to neutralise the harmful peroxides and radicals as they are formed. However, with time the anti-oxidants decrease in quantity and the ageing process increases exponentially.
Ageing leads to the formation of acids, aldehydes, ketones, esters and eventually sludge (a mixture of long insoluble hydrocarbon molecules and particles). The process occurs in the presence of peroxides (unstable oxygen compounds) and free radicals and is accelerated by catalysts such as water and copper.
Oxidised oil presents a maintenance requirement that demands action. Left unattended, oxidised oil continues to deteriorate and transports contamination to the cellulose insulation within the transformer. Here the effects are much more serious. Whilst oil can be changed, cellulose cannot. If the oil is not maintained, sooner or later the condition of the cellulose will deteriorate to the point where it has to be accepted that the transformer has reached the end of its working life.
Oxidation of Cellulose (Paper)Cellulose degrades (oxidises) much faster than oil because it contains oxygen within its molecular structure. The degradation process generates water, carbon dioxide and furfurals, and is accelerated by external sources of oxygen, high temperature and high levels of oil acidity. The water that is generated combines with moisture drawn in from the atmosphere to further accelerate the degradation process and set up a vicious cycle. The end result is broken molecular chains, a lower degree of polymerisation (DP) and loss of mechanical strength. In the absence of oxygen, decomposition occurs more slowly through the process of pyrolysis.
Action to Minimise OxidationSet out below are practical steps that can be taken to reduce the harmful effects of oxygen and extend the life of a transformer:
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Be aware that less oxygen means more life
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Use sealed systems where practicable
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Consider measures to prevent the ingress of oxygen (eg a bag or membrane in the conservator)
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Eliminate the frequent cycling of forced cooling systems to avoid pumping in large quantities of air
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Consider de-gassing treatments for the oil - either as a continuous process or as a maintenance exercise
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Measure anti-oxidant concentrations in oil and add new inhibitor to old oil where appropriate
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Measure the copper content in the oil (to reduce the catalytic acceleration of oxidation)
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Test oil for sulphur (sulphur behaves in a similar way to oxygen)
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Measure the peroxide number (PXN) of the oil
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Conclusions and ObservationsOxygen has a seriously detrimental effect upon the life of a transformer. Oxidised oil can be maintained but once the effects have extended to the cellulose, the life of a transformer is at risk. Fortunately preventive measures are available that are cost effective and suitable for all asset management programmes.
1 Lars Arvidsson MSc. Chemistry, is chief executive of Vasteras PetroleumKemi AB, an independent chemical analysis and consultancy company based in Sweden. His many published papers include Microbiological Activity within Hydrocarbon Bulks and his pioneering work in the transformer field includes the development of unique methods for assessing the condition of transformers. Email: lars.arvidsson@petroleumkemi.se
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Monday, January 25, 2010
World's largest diamond found
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On 25 January, 1905, at the Premier Mine in Pretoria, South Africa, a 3,106 Carat Diamond is discovered during a routine inspection by the mine's superintendent. Weighing 1.33 pounds, and christened the "Cullinan," it was the largest diamond ever found.
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On 25 January, 1905, at the Premier Mine in Pretoria, South Africa, a 3,106 Carat Diamond is discovered during a routine inspection by the mine's superintendent. Weighing 1.33 pounds, and christened the "Cullinan," it was the largest diamond ever found.
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ATM Transaction Not Free for Banks
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ATM transactions may have become free for customers, but banks now have to pay Re 1 for every ATM transaction that is routed through the National Financial Switch — the backbone of ATM networks in the country. The charge has been introduced after RBI transferred ownership of NFS from its technology arm IDRBT to the newly-formed National Payments Corporation.
National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI), which recently took over ATM-switching service from the Institute of Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT), has re-imposed on member banks a switching fee of Re 1 on every ATM transaction routed through the NFS. Incidentally, the switching charge, which was Rs 2 per transaction until 2007, was completely waived in December 2007 to bring down ATM interchange charges.
Speaking at a seminar organised by Banknet, NPCI CEO AP Hota said NPCI has began charging banks Re 1 from January 1. “However, we are looking at lowering the cost below Re 1. Secondly, we are looking at adding more members from 37 to 78 banks.” The 37 members have 49,467 ATMs and the daily average volume is around 1.6 million with a peak volume of 2.6 million so far. IDRBT is a subsidiary of RBI, while NPCI is owned by six commercial banks, including State Bank of India. A senior banker said banks have urged NPCI to reduce the fee levied on ATM transaction.”
Speaking at the seminar, Mr Hota said NPCI’s objective is to shift all retail payment services through NPCL. As of now, 70% of the payments are paper based (cheques payment), while only 30% of the payment is done through the electronic mode. The idea is to switch this ratio to 30% as paper based and 70% through electronic mode in three years’ time. He also pointed out that due to the high usage of paper-based transaction, the payment system is the cost centre of banks unlike in many developed countries, where the payment system is the revenue centre.
For this, banks will have to market and educate customers to use the electronic payment mode, which will help them bring down the cost. Further, Mr Hota said: “As the impact of RTGS is visible on trade and commerce, there is a need to develop a similar service for retail sector as well.”
At the same seminar, RBI general manager R Sivaraman said the central bank’s cheque truncation has been successfully implemented in Delhi, and RBI has decided to replicate this exercise in Chennai also. “We have totally discontinued MICR from Delhi and we are hopeful that by December 2010, we will discontinue MICR from Chennai as well. However, we have not decided any timeline for other cities.”
It may be recalled that the Board for Regulation and Supervision of Payment and Settlement systems (BPSS), a body of RBI, at its meeting held on September 24, 2009, has approved in principle to issue authorisation to NPCI for operating various retail payment systems in the country. Subsequently, on October 15, 2009, RBI granted green signal to NPCI to take over the operations of National Financial Switch (NFS) from IDRBT on an ‘as is where is basis’.
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ATM transactions may have become free for customers, but banks now have to pay Re 1 for every ATM transaction that is routed through the National Financial Switch — the backbone of ATM networks in the country. The charge has been introduced after RBI transferred ownership of NFS from its technology arm IDRBT to the newly-formed National Payments Corporation.
National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI), which recently took over ATM-switching service from the Institute of Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT), has re-imposed on member banks a switching fee of Re 1 on every ATM transaction routed through the NFS. Incidentally, the switching charge, which was Rs 2 per transaction until 2007, was completely waived in December 2007 to bring down ATM interchange charges.
Speaking at a seminar organised by Banknet, NPCI CEO AP Hota said NPCI has began charging banks Re 1 from January 1. “However, we are looking at lowering the cost below Re 1. Secondly, we are looking at adding more members from 37 to 78 banks.” The 37 members have 49,467 ATMs and the daily average volume is around 1.6 million with a peak volume of 2.6 million so far. IDRBT is a subsidiary of RBI, while NPCI is owned by six commercial banks, including State Bank of India. A senior banker said banks have urged NPCI to reduce the fee levied on ATM transaction.”
Speaking at the seminar, Mr Hota said NPCI’s objective is to shift all retail payment services through NPCL. As of now, 70% of the payments are paper based (cheques payment), while only 30% of the payment is done through the electronic mode. The idea is to switch this ratio to 30% as paper based and 70% through electronic mode in three years’ time. He also pointed out that due to the high usage of paper-based transaction, the payment system is the cost centre of banks unlike in many developed countries, where the payment system is the revenue centre.
For this, banks will have to market and educate customers to use the electronic payment mode, which will help them bring down the cost. Further, Mr Hota said: “As the impact of RTGS is visible on trade and commerce, there is a need to develop a similar service for retail sector as well.”
At the same seminar, RBI general manager R Sivaraman said the central bank’s cheque truncation has been successfully implemented in Delhi, and RBI has decided to replicate this exercise in Chennai also. “We have totally discontinued MICR from Delhi and we are hopeful that by December 2010, we will discontinue MICR from Chennai as well. However, we have not decided any timeline for other cities.”
It may be recalled that the Board for Regulation and Supervision of Payment and Settlement systems (BPSS), a body of RBI, at its meeting held on September 24, 2009, has approved in principle to issue authorisation to NPCI for operating various retail payment systems in the country. Subsequently, on October 15, 2009, RBI granted green signal to NPCI to take over the operations of National Financial Switch (NFS) from IDRBT on an ‘as is where is basis’.
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Sunday, December 27, 2009
IMEI number Verification
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IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number which do not have for Chinese handsets will stop working from 1st December 2009 because all mobile operators across India are asked The Department of Telecommunication to stop services to such handsets. To check your IMEI Number or IMEI Number Check or IMEI Check from datebase or IMEI number verification or IMEI number Tracking can be made by following steps given below.
What is an IMEI number?
•IMEI is unique 15 digit identification number of the Mobile Handset. It's like Registration No.
•One can confirm his handset's IMEI No. by inputting / dialing *#06# on Handset.
•IMEI numbers are being allotted by five bodies authorized by GSMA.
•From IMEI number one can identify the make and model of the handset.
•To verify send a message “IMEI XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX to 53232 or to 57886.
Message displayed for correct IMEI – Success!!
Message displayed for incorrect IMEI – Alert!!! Invalid IMEI
•No two mobile handsets in the world should have the same IMEI number.
•IMEI number is an important tool for the handset tracking.
The Structure of an IMEI Number :
IMEI numbers either come in a 17 digit or 15 digit sequences of numbers. The IMEI format currently utilized is AA-BBBBBB-CCCCCC-D:
* AA: These two digits are for the Reporting Body Identifier, indicating the GSMA approved group that allocated the TAC (Type Allocation Code).
* BBBBBB: The remainder of the TAC
* CCCCCC: Serial sequence of the Model
* D: Luhn check digit of the entire model or 0 (This is an algorithm that validates the ID number)
IMEI Number Verification :
Moreover, even if your Chinese handset is showing an unique IMEI number, it is important to validate that it is an unique IMEI number and not a cloned or duplicate IMEI number because recently many local Chinese firms sent millions of cheap mobiles in India with duplicate or cloned IMEI number which are also equally invalid as per international and Indian laws.
People can validate IMEI numbers of their handsets by sending their IMEI numbers of two numbers 57886 and 53232.
First Type IMEI (in Capital) space IMEI number and then send it to either 57886 or 53232. Within few minutes, people will receive a message about validity of IMEI number.
e.g. IMEI 352536650070854
In both cases of no IMEI number or duplicate IMEI number, people can use a service started by Mobile Standards Alliance of India (Govt. Approved) to provide valid and unique IMEI to all such handsets by paying just Rs 199. After getting new IMEI number, any person can use such handsets for as long as he wants.
People can get the list of all available authorized service centers in their area by visiting this link http://www.msai.in/listofcentre.php. It is important to get new IMEI number from only authorized shops approved by Mobile Standards Alliance of India.
IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number which do not have for Chinese handsets will stop working from 1st December 2009 because all mobile operators across India are asked The Department of Telecommunication to stop services to such handsets. To check your IMEI Number or IMEI Number Check or IMEI Check from datebase or IMEI number verification or IMEI number Tracking can be made by following steps given below.
What is an IMEI number?
•IMEI is unique 15 digit identification number of the Mobile Handset. It's like Registration No.
•One can confirm his handset's IMEI No. by inputting / dialing *#06# on Handset.
•IMEI numbers are being allotted by five bodies authorized by GSMA.
•From IMEI number one can identify the make and model of the handset.
•To verify send a message “IMEI XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX to 53232 or to 57886.
Message displayed for correct IMEI – Success!!
Message displayed for incorrect IMEI – Alert!!! Invalid IMEI
•No two mobile handsets in the world should have the same IMEI number.
•IMEI number is an important tool for the handset tracking.
The Structure of an IMEI Number :
IMEI numbers either come in a 17 digit or 15 digit sequences of numbers. The IMEI format currently utilized is AA-BBBBBB-CCCCCC-D:
* AA: These two digits are for the Reporting Body Identifier, indicating the GSMA approved group that allocated the TAC (Type Allocation Code).
* BBBBBB: The remainder of the TAC
* CCCCCC: Serial sequence of the Model
* D: Luhn check digit of the entire model or 0 (This is an algorithm that validates the ID number)
IMEI Number Verification :
Moreover, even if your Chinese handset is showing an unique IMEI number, it is important to validate that it is an unique IMEI number and not a cloned or duplicate IMEI number because recently many local Chinese firms sent millions of cheap mobiles in India with duplicate or cloned IMEI number which are also equally invalid as per international and Indian laws.
People can validate IMEI numbers of their handsets by sending their IMEI numbers of two numbers 57886 and 53232.
First Type IMEI (in Capital) space IMEI number and then send it to either 57886 or 53232. Within few minutes, people will receive a message about validity of IMEI number.
e.g. IMEI 352536650070854
In both cases of no IMEI number or duplicate IMEI number, people can use a service started by Mobile Standards Alliance of India (Govt. Approved) to provide valid and unique IMEI to all such handsets by paying just Rs 199. After getting new IMEI number, any person can use such handsets for as long as he wants.
People can get the list of all available authorized service centers in their area by visiting this link http://www.msai.in/listofcentre.php. It is important to get new IMEI number from only authorized shops approved by Mobile Standards Alliance of India.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Home Remedies
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10 Simple and Natural Home Remedies for Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a common illness that refers to an infection of the lungs. It occurs in all age groups, and is a leading cause of death among children and elderly people in chronic conditions. The major symptoms of pneumonia are productive cough resulting in mucus, chest pains, fever, chills and breathing shortness.
Here, in this article you will find home remedies for pneumonia. These home remedies are simple, easy to prepare and easy to follow. You will get benefited from these home remedies if followed as instructed below. These remedies can be taken along with your medication to improve your health and give relief from pneumonia symptoms.
1. Turmeric has several medicinal properties and is widely used in treating a number of ailments. It also helps in treating pneumonia. Other herbs such as black pepper, fenugreek and ginger are also beneficial for your lungs. You can take these herbs in raw or cooked form.
2. Sesame seeds are also helpful in treating pneumonia. Add 15 grams of sesame seeds in 250 ml water. Add a pinch of common salt, a teaspoon of linseed, and a tablespoon of honey in this mixture. Consume daily to expel phlegm from the bronchial tubes.
3. Ginger is a popular home remedy for treating most of the respiratory disorders. Take 10 ml juice of the fresh ginger, or one or two grams dried ginger powder along with honey two times daily.
4. Add a teaspoon of honey to a glass of lukewarm water. Drink it two or three times a day. This drink has very soothing effect and relieves symptoms.
5. Mix some camphor with warm turpentine oil and apply it on the chest. Gently massage to get relief from pneumonia.
6. The patient should be kept in a clean, hot and healthy room. Make sure that sunshine enters in the patient room.
7. Try to keep the chest and the feet of the patient warmer than the other parts of the body.
8. Do not take foods that may lead to constipation. It may aggravate the condition.
9. To get relief from chest pain and discomfort, take a teaspoonful of garlic juice.
10. Holy basil is also very useful in pneumonia. Take the juice of few fresh leaves of holy basil. Add a pinch of ground black pepper to this juice and consume at six hourly intervals.
Copyright © Ryan Mutt, All Rights Reserved. If you want to use this article on your website or in your ezine, make all the urls (links) active.
Read Home Remedies for Cough and how to make homemade cough syrup naturally. Also know Home Remedies for Common Cold.
= = = = =
10 Simple and Natural Home Remedies for Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a common illness that refers to an infection of the lungs. It occurs in all age groups, and is a leading cause of death among children and elderly people in chronic conditions. The major symptoms of pneumonia are productive cough resulting in mucus, chest pains, fever, chills and breathing shortness.
Here, in this article you will find home remedies for pneumonia. These home remedies are simple, easy to prepare and easy to follow. You will get benefited from these home remedies if followed as instructed below. These remedies can be taken along with your medication to improve your health and give relief from pneumonia symptoms.
1. Turmeric has several medicinal properties and is widely used in treating a number of ailments. It also helps in treating pneumonia. Other herbs such as black pepper, fenugreek and ginger are also beneficial for your lungs. You can take these herbs in raw or cooked form.
2. Sesame seeds are also helpful in treating pneumonia. Add 15 grams of sesame seeds in 250 ml water. Add a pinch of common salt, a teaspoon of linseed, and a tablespoon of honey in this mixture. Consume daily to expel phlegm from the bronchial tubes.
3. Ginger is a popular home remedy for treating most of the respiratory disorders. Take 10 ml juice of the fresh ginger, or one or two grams dried ginger powder along with honey two times daily.
4. Add a teaspoon of honey to a glass of lukewarm water. Drink it two or three times a day. This drink has very soothing effect and relieves symptoms.
5. Mix some camphor with warm turpentine oil and apply it on the chest. Gently massage to get relief from pneumonia.
6. The patient should be kept in a clean, hot and healthy room. Make sure that sunshine enters in the patient room.
7. Try to keep the chest and the feet of the patient warmer than the other parts of the body.
8. Do not take foods that may lead to constipation. It may aggravate the condition.
9. To get relief from chest pain and discomfort, take a teaspoonful of garlic juice.
10. Holy basil is also very useful in pneumonia. Take the juice of few fresh leaves of holy basil. Add a pinch of ground black pepper to this juice and consume at six hourly intervals.
Copyright © Ryan Mutt, All Rights Reserved. If you want to use this article on your website or in your ezine, make all the urls (links) active.
Read Home Remedies for Cough and how to make homemade cough syrup naturally. Also know Home Remedies for Common Cold.
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Sunday, September 27, 2009
What life has taught - Read NO MATTER if u r OLD or YOUNG
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you always but the friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind & soothes the soul
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative - dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come.
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Listen, yield and share hugs and knowledge with abandon
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."
--
AK Srivastava
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Mutual Fund : Monthly Income Plans?
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Should you invest in Monthly Income Plans?
It's common for diversified equity funds to emerge as a top-of-the-mind investment when stock markets are booming. In such a scenario, hybrid funds like Balanced Funds and Monthly Income Plans (MIPs) are relegated to the sidelines. Investors can miss out on a very critical component in their portfolio by shutting out hybrid funds completely. Hybrid funds (powered by their flexibility to invest across asset classes) can add immense value to the investor's portfolio (especially during the down turn). While the role of balanced funds in the investor's portfolio has been well-documented, it is time for investors to sit up and recognise the value MIPs can add to their portfolio.
MIPs invest predominantly in debt instruments with a small portion of assets allocated to equities. The equity component provides MIPs with just the edge it needs to outperform conventional debt funds. The equity component usually varies between 5%-30% of assets. So under what circumstances would MIPs add value to an investor's portfolio? The graph below answers this question.
Should you invest in Monthly Income Plans?
It's common for diversified equity funds to emerge as a top-of-the-mind investment when stock markets are booming. In such a scenario, hybrid funds like Balanced Funds and Monthly Income Plans (MIPs) are relegated to the sidelines. Investors can miss out on a very critical component in their portfolio by shutting out hybrid funds completely. Hybrid funds (powered by their flexibility to invest across asset classes) can add immense value to the investor's portfolio (especially during the down turn). While the role of balanced funds in the investor's portfolio has been well-documented, it is time for investors to sit up and recognise the value MIPs can add to their portfolio.
MIPs invest predominantly in debt instruments with a small portion of assets allocated to equities. The equity component provides MIPs with just the edge it needs to outperform conventional debt funds. The equity component usually varies between 5%-30% of assets. So under what circumstances would MIPs add value to an investor's portfolio? The graph below answers this question.
MIPs vs. Sensex
As is evident from the graph, during the crash in the stock markets last year, MIPs have fallen less as compared to the BSE Sensex indices. And this is where it adds value to an investor's portfolio. When the stock markets rally, they will lag conventional equity funds, but when the markets move down, they will limit the fall in an investor's portfolio.
Hence MIPs become important from an asset allocation perspective. Although, you can reach the desired asset allocation by allocating the assets in equity and debt; MIPs offer a convenient way of achieving the same.
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Time to cash out?
Though the stock markets continue to be volatile, they have recovered from the lows touched in March this year. The markets have posted a growth of around 93% (as on August 26, 2009) since March 8, 2009. Expectedly, many investors who have lost a huge chunk of their invested corpus in the stock market crash last year are now eager to recover whatever they can. Now the question is - is it the right time for you to cash out? While you would promptly say YES, at Personal FN we have a contrarian view on this.
Broadly, there could be two reasons for making investments. First, and the most ideal reason, is to invest for the purpose of meeting one or more of your future goals/objectives. Second, and unfortunately the most commonly practiced, is to make "quick bucks" by participating in market movements. The latter option amounts to timing the markets, something that many investors try to do, but rarely succeed.
In our view, redeeming investments should not be a function of market movements, but rather a result of the following:
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As is evident from the graph, during the crash in the stock markets last year, MIPs have fallen less as compared to the BSE Sensex indices. And this is where it adds value to an investor's portfolio. When the stock markets rally, they will lag conventional equity funds, but when the markets move down, they will limit the fall in an investor's portfolio.
Hence MIPs become important from an asset allocation perspective. Although, you can reach the desired asset allocation by allocating the assets in equity and debt; MIPs offer a convenient way of achieving the same.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Time to cash out?
Though the stock markets continue to be volatile, they have recovered from the lows touched in March this year. The markets have posted a growth of around 93% (as on August 26, 2009) since March 8, 2009. Expectedly, many investors who have lost a huge chunk of their invested corpus in the stock market crash last year are now eager to recover whatever they can. Now the question is - is it the right time for you to cash out? While you would promptly say YES, at Personal FN we have a contrarian view on this.
Broadly, there could be two reasons for making investments. First, and the most ideal reason, is to invest for the purpose of meeting one or more of your future goals/objectives. Second, and unfortunately the most commonly practiced, is to make "quick bucks" by participating in market movements. The latter option amounts to timing the markets, something that many investors try to do, but rarely succeed.
In our view, redeeming investments should not be a function of market movements, but rather a result of the following:
- Redeem if you are sure that the fund in question has failed to meet its purpose in your financial plan. The reasons behind this could include poor performance or change in investment mandate of the fund, which makes it a misfit in your portfolio.
- Redeem if you have to rebalance your asset allocation. Also,before you cash out, make sure that you have decided where to reinvest the redemtpion proceeds.
- Redeem when you have achieved your investment objective.
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Friday, August 28, 2009
Charles and Diana Divorce
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28 August 1996
After four years of separation, Charles, Prince of Wales and heir to the British throne, and his wife, Princess Diana, formally divorce.
On July 29, 1981, nearly one billion television viewers in 74 countries tuned in to witness the marriage of Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, to Lady Diana Spencer, a young English schoolteacher. Married in a grand ceremony at St. Paul's Cathedral in the presence of 2,650 guests, the couple's romance was, for the moment, the envy of the world. Their first child, Prince William, was born in 1982, and their second, Prince Harry, in 1984.
Before long, however, the fairy tale couple grew apart, an experience that was particularly painful under the ubiquitous eyes of the world's tabloid media. Diana and Charles announced a separation in 1992, though they continued to carry out their royal duties. In August 1996, two months after Queen Elizabeth II urged the couple to divorce, the prince and princess reached a final agreement. In exchange for a generous settlement, and the right to retain her apartments at Kensington Palace and her title of "Princess of Wales," Diana agreed to relinquish the title of "Her Royal Highness" and any future claims to the British throne.
In the year following the divorce, the popular princess seemed well on her way to achieving her dream of becoming "a queen in people's hearts," but on August 31, 1997, she was killed with her companion Dodi Fayed in a car accident in Paris. An investigation conducted by the French police concluded that the driver, who also died in the crash, was heavily intoxicated and caused the accident while trying to escape the paparazzi photographers who consistently tailed Diana during any public outing.
Prince Charles married his longtime mistress, Camilla Parker Bowles, on April 9, 2005.
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28 August 1996
After four years of separation, Charles, Prince of Wales and heir to the British throne, and his wife, Princess Diana, formally divorce.
On July 29, 1981, nearly one billion television viewers in 74 countries tuned in to witness the marriage of Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, to Lady Diana Spencer, a young English schoolteacher. Married in a grand ceremony at St. Paul's Cathedral in the presence of 2,650 guests, the couple's romance was, for the moment, the envy of the world. Their first child, Prince William, was born in 1982, and their second, Prince Harry, in 1984.
Before long, however, the fairy tale couple grew apart, an experience that was particularly painful under the ubiquitous eyes of the world's tabloid media. Diana and Charles announced a separation in 1992, though they continued to carry out their royal duties. In August 1996, two months after Queen Elizabeth II urged the couple to divorce, the prince and princess reached a final agreement. In exchange for a generous settlement, and the right to retain her apartments at Kensington Palace and her title of "Princess of Wales," Diana agreed to relinquish the title of "Her Royal Highness" and any future claims to the British throne.
In the year following the divorce, the popular princess seemed well on her way to achieving her dream of becoming "a queen in people's hearts," but on August 31, 1997, she was killed with her companion Dodi Fayed in a car accident in Paris. An investigation conducted by the French police concluded that the driver, who also died in the crash, was heavily intoxicated and caused the accident while trying to escape the paparazzi photographers who consistently tailed Diana during any public outing.
Prince Charles married his longtime mistress, Camilla Parker Bowles, on April 9, 2005.
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Chances of Death ?
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Now, a website to rank your chances of death
Want to know the chances of your death in the near future along with its cause? Well, then log on to DEATH RISK RANKING . Website that can rank people's chances of death (Getty Images)
The new website, developed by researchers and students at
The Web site not only gives the risk of dying within the next year, but it also ranks the probable causes and allows for quick side-by-side comparison between groups.
For example, if a person wanted to know who is more likely to die next year from breast cancer-a 54-year-old
"This is the only place to look. It turns out that the British woman has a 33 percent higher risk of breast cancer death. But for lung/throat cancer, the results are almost reversed, and the Pennsylvania woman has a 29 percent higher risk," said Paul Fischbeck, site developer and professor of social and decision sciences and engineering and public policy (EPP) at Carnegie Mellon.
"Most Americans don''t have a particularly good understanding of their own mortality risks, let alone ranking of their relevant risks," said David Gerard, a former EPP professor at Carnegie Mellon.
They found that beyond infancy, the risk of dying increases annually at an exponential rate. A 20-year-old
"The risks are higher, but still not that bad. At 80, the average
The researchers are hoping that the new Web site will help bring focus to some of the discussion now raging over health care policy in the
"It''s much easier to make a persuasive argument when you have the facts to back it up, and this site provides all sides with the facts. We believe that this tool, which allows anyone to assess their own risk of dying and to compare their risks with counterparts in the United States and Europe, could help inform the public and constructively engage them in the debate," said Fischbeck.
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Missing for 18 Years
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Kidnapped US Girl Resurfaces After 18 Years As Sex Slave
SAN FRANCISCO: A woman who was snatched as an 11-year-old from a bus stop was reunited on Thursday with her family after spending 18 years as the captive of a convicted rapist who fathered her two children, police said.
Throughout her capture, Jaycee Dugard, was held in a shed and other outbuildings hidden on the property of Phillip Garrido, 58, in a rural area of Antioch, California, some 80 km northeast of San Francisco.
Garrido and his wife Nancy, 54, were each being held on $1-million bail on a number of charges including kidnapping, rape and conspiracy.
"None of the children have ever been to school. They've never been to a doctor," a police representative told a press conference. "They were kept in complete isolation in this compound, if you will."
Police discovered Dugard Wednesday when they questioned Garrido after reported suspicious activity involving him and two children at the University of California, Berkeley.
Dugard was reunited with her family Thursday. Her stepfather, Carl Probyn, who was with her when she was abducted in June 1991, told the San Francisco Chronicle that the family was overjoyed at her appearance.
"She sounds normal. She told my wife she remembers everything," Probyn said.
"I gave up hope for 18 years, just went into recovery mode," he said. "I thought it would be nice just to recover her and capture the people and find out why they did this. Now, I just won the lotto. It's just unbelievable. This is going to be a great day today."
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Kidnapped US Girl Resurfaces After 18 Years As Sex Slave
SAN FRANCISCO: A woman who was snatched as an 11-year-old from a bus stop was reunited on Thursday with her family after spending 18 years as the captive of a convicted rapist who fathered her two children, police said.
Throughout her capture, Jaycee Dugard, was held in a shed and other outbuildings hidden on the property of Phillip Garrido, 58, in a rural area of Antioch, California, some 80 km northeast of San Francisco.
Garrido and his wife Nancy, 54, were each being held on $1-million bail on a number of charges including kidnapping, rape and conspiracy.
"None of the children have ever been to school. They've never been to a doctor," a police representative told a press conference. "They were kept in complete isolation in this compound, if you will."
Police discovered Dugard Wednesday when they questioned Garrido after reported suspicious activity involving him and two children at the University of California, Berkeley.
Dugard was reunited with her family Thursday. Her stepfather, Carl Probyn, who was with her when she was abducted in June 1991, told the San Francisco Chronicle that the family was overjoyed at her appearance.
"She sounds normal. She told my wife she remembers everything," Probyn said.
"I gave up hope for 18 years, just went into recovery mode," he said. "I thought it would be nice just to recover her and capture the people and find out why they did this. Now, I just won the lotto. It's just unbelievable. This is going to be a great day today."
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Thursday, August 27, 2009
Nokia's Laptop
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Nokia Booklet 3G Mini Laptop Unveiled
GLOBAL – Nokia has just whipped the dust sheet off the Nokia Booklet 3G. A brand new breed of portable device for Nokia, this mini laptop PC sees the company step foot on freshly cut turf, and we’re a little dumb-struck with excitement at the prospect of the experience that this bite-size Booklet promises to deliver when it arrives. Not to mention what it means bigger picture, and how this product could affect the entire mobile landscape for the better (we’ll save that for another story), but let’s not get ahead of ourselves just yet.
First, let’s get down off our tip-toes, take a deep breath, and soak up all the initial details on what the upcoming Nokia Booklet 3G mini laptop is set to deliver when it lands on laps. Read on for every shred of info currently available on this landmark new product, and get the first close-up look at the Nokia Booklet 3G mini laptop in our photo gallery.
The new Nokia Booklet 3G will be a Windows-based machine, supported by an efficient Intel Atom processor that promises the performance of a full-function PC. It’s efficiency credentials are boldly punctuated with battery life that stretches up to 12 hours (with normal daily use, of course – don’t expect a 12-hour Quake-fest off a single hit of juice).
Turning our attention to mini matters of a tape-measure nature, the Nokia Booklet 3G comes toting a glass 10.1-inch HD display (it has an HDMI port for HD video out). This lives within its smart aluminium shell which measures in at just 2cm thin and tips the scales at around a kilogram to ensure it’s extremely portable.
Connecting at speed is crucial with a product of this nature, so the Booklet 3G has been designed with fast downloading and uploading front of mind – it’s 3G/HSPA ready for rapid mobile broadband anywhere-access on the move. Wi-Fi has also been wedged into it’s slim body. Plus, it supports hot-swappable SIM card functionality.
It’s talents don’t end there, with Nokia’s mini laptop PC also featuring onboard assisted-GPS with Ovi Maps neatly sat in the passenger seat. There’s a single front-facing camera nestled above the 10.1-inch HD screen for video chat, with Bluetooth and a built-in SD card reader also making appearances.
You may be wondering why Nokia is adding to its range of products with an ultra portable laptop PC? Well, Nokia’s Executive Vice President for Devices, Kai Oistamo, summed it up simply as follows:
“A growing number of people want the computing power of a PC with the full benefits of mobility. We are in the business of connecting people and the Nokia Booklet 3G is a natural evolution for us. Nokia has a long and rich heritage in mobility and with the outstanding battery life, premium design and all day, always on connectivity, we will create something quite compelling. In doing so we will make the personal computer more social, more helpful and more personal.”
There’s already a lot of info to digest here, but there are still more details to come at Nokia World 09 on 2 September – expect official word on where the Nokia Booklet 3G will be available, news on how much it’ll cost, along with a detailed list of specs for the number-hungry among us.
In the meantime, share your opinions on the new Nokia Booklet 3G in the comments section below, and be sure to follow all our coverage of Nokia World 09 right here on Conversations.
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