Showing papers in "FME Transactions in 2016"
TL;DR: In this paper, glass fiber-reinforced polyester composite (GFRPs) scraps from manufacturing of polyester laminates were pyrolyzed at 500, 550 and 600°C in an 70 Kg innovative batch pilot plant that processes whole parts.
Abstract: Glass fiber-reinforced polyester composite (GFRPs) scraps from manufacturing of polyester laminates were pyrolyzed at 500, 550 and 600°C in an 70 Kg innovative batch pilot plant that processes whole parts. The presence of a hydraulic guard guarantees the safety of the process. The influence of the maximum process temperature on yields and chemical-physical properties of pyrolysis products was investigated: the oil fraction was analysed by GC-MS, Viscometer and XRF, while the gas fraction was monitored online during the entire pyrolysis process by µ-GC. Substantial fractions of methane (20.7 vol %) and hydrogen (11.5 vol %) were produced. The solid residue (glass fibers covered by a thin carbonaceous layer) underwent an oxidative process at 500 and 600°C at different residence times to provide clean glass fibers free of organic residues. The effects of both pyrolysis and oxidative step on the glass fibers, obtained in different process conditions, were evaluated by SEM and Raman spectroscopy.
50 citations
20 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the basic geometry of a storage aisle is analyzed in automated storage/retrieval unit load systems, and the problem with all methods for the description of shuttle systems is the geometry of the rack.
Abstract: Shuttle systems are used in high performance automated storage/retrieval unit load systems. Each storage level is serviced by one transfer car. There is a lift for storage and retrieval on the front side of the load system. A different number of buffer slots are located between the lifts and the respective levels. These systems are already used in various scientific papers and there is also a VDI guideline, but there is only one analytical approach of sufficient accuracy. The problem with all methods for the description of shuttle systems is the geometry of the rack. In automated storage/retrieval unit load systems, the basic geometry of a storage aisle is critical for the throughput. The present study is intended to fill this gap.
19 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a summary about the legislative and normative scenario on indoor emissions with the evidence of some data referred to parquet floorings coated with different coating materials, as well as recalling the concepts expressed above, represents a point of reference on the subject for all operators in the sector given the innovative nature and however strong impact that the VOC issue currently plays in this area.
Abstract: The health and safety of people in indoor environments are influenced not only by climate and biological agents (bacteria, virus) but also by the potential presence of air pollutants. Pollutants can come from many sources, such as cigarette smoke, fireplaces, preparation of foods, traffic, etc. Even furniture and building materials used in constructions (floorings, ceilings, walls, etc.) can emit harmful substances for the health of the occupants. Such emissions mainly derive from the coatings applied on the surfaces of the finished products and consequently a special attention shall be paid to the formulation and to the use of such products. This paper presents a summary about the legislative and normative scenario on indoor emissions with the evidence of some data referred to parquet floorings coated with different coating materials. The work, as well as recalling the concepts expressed above, represents a point of reference on the subject for all operators in the sector given the innovative nature and however strong impact that the VOC issue currently plays in this area.
19 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the influence of waterjet pressure, stepover, traverse rate and abrasive mass flow rate were studied on the output responses such as depth of cut and surface roughness (Ra).
Abstract: Abrasive Water Jet Machining (AWJM) is one of the most popular unconventional machining processes used to machine difficult-to-machine materials. Apart from regular cutting, it is also used for turning, threading, slotting, milling, etc. This paper details the experimental investigations on Abrasive Water Jet Pocket Milling (AWJPM) on Titanium (Ti6Al4V) using garnet abrasive. The influence of waterjet pressure, step-over, traverse rate and abrasive mass flow rate were studied on the output responses such as depth of cut and surface roughness (Ra). The experiments were designed using L9 Orthogonal Array and ANOVA analysis helped in determination of significant process. ANOVA analysis on depth of cut indicated that step-over and traverse rate are the most significant process parameters. However, ANOVA analysis for surface roughness (Ra) was inconclusive and the significant process parameters could not be determined.
18 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, an experimental investigation was made to understand the influence of the tool profile on the mechanical properties of the joints fabricated during friction stir welding (FSW) of AZ31B Mg alloy flat plates.
Abstract: In this experimental investigation, an attempt was made to understand the influence of the tool profile on the mechanical properties of the joints fabricated during friction stir welding (FSW) of AZ31B Mg alloy flat plates. When the specimens prepared from the successfully fabricated joints were subjected to tensile tests as per prescribed International Standards it was observed that employing a taper cylindrical pin profiled tool resulted in sound quality lap joints with improved mechanical properties. Moreover, the use of other tool profiles namely straight cylindricall&straight square could not produce defect free joints. Further, this investigation reveals us that the common FSW defects including low distortion, lack of cavity, tunnel defects etc are found to be completely eliminated while using taper cylindrical pin profiled tool.
18 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a new artificial neural network (ANN) approach has been proposed to predict the drilling-induced thrust force and torque in composite laminates, where four different drill point geometries have been used for making holes in two different types of composite laminate.
Abstract: Drilling of fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP's) is an inevitable machining operation, because it facilitates assembly of several components by means of mechanical fastening. But, drilling of FRP leads to delamination which results in reduced life and efficiency of the FRP part. The delamination that induced during drilling is directly affected by the thrust force and torque. In the present research endeavour, four different types of drill point geometries have been used for making of holes in two different types of composite laminates. The drilling of composite laminate has been conducted at three different levels of spindle speed and feed rate. A new artificial neural network (ANN) approach has been proposed to predict the drilling-induced thrust force and torque. The values of thrust force and torque predicted by the proposed ANN models are in close agreement with the experimental values.
16 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a GA-based multiobjective optimization technique is presented to search optimum weighting matrix parameters of linear quadratic regulator (LQR) and Macpherson strut suspension system is implemented for study.
Abstract: In this paper, genetic algorithm (GA) based multi-objective optimization technique is presented to search optimum weighting matrix parameters of linear quadratic regulator (LQR). Macpherson strut suspension system is implemented for study. GA is implemented to minimize vibration dose values (VDV), RMS sprung mass acceleration, sprung mass displacement and suspension working space. Constraints are put on RMS sprung mass acceleration, maximum sprung mass acceleration, tyre deflection, unsprung mass displacement and RMS control force. Passive suspension system and LQR control active suspension system are simulated in time domain. Results are compared using class E road and vehicle speed 80 kmph. For step response, GA based LQR control system is having minimum oscillations with good ride comfort. VDV is reduced by 16.54%, 40.79% and 67.34% for Case I, II and III respectively. Same trend is observed for RMS sprung mass acceleration. Pareto-front gives more flexibility to choose optimum solution as per designer's need.
15 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigated how the viscoelastic response of porcelain stoneware tiles can be modelled by commercial Finite Elements codes, defining limits and proposing solutions.
Abstract: A very prominent patented technology permits to obtain bent porcelain stoneware tiles by a proper combination of machining and secondary firing in a kiln. During this firing, the ceramic materials show a viscoelastic behaviour. The viscoelasticity permits the tiles to be bent without further interventions: just using the gravity force in a so-called pyroplastic deformation. Both the viscoelastic response in general and pyroplastic deformation in particular are complex aspects of material behaviour to be modelled with accuracy. In general, the theory of viscoelasticity can be considered extremely large and precise, but its application on real cases is extremely tricky. A time-depending problem, as viscoelasticity naturally is, has to be merged with a temperature-depending situation. It means that, even if the constitutive equations could be set as general formulation, all the fundamental parameters inside these formulas change in function of both entities. Finite Elements codes could help to pass by this impasse, permitting to discretize the variability on temperature. But several cautions have to be taken into account, especially considering that few commercial codes developed proper algorithms. This paper investigates how the viscoelastic response of ceramic materials can be modelled by commercial Finite Elements codes, defining limits and proposing solutions.
14 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the effect of preload on impact response of composite laminates is considered and three specimens were manufactured and tested under four different impact conditions: 1- a curved laminate without preload, showing a lower radius of curvature due to the preload.
Abstract: In this paper, the effect of preload on impact response of composite laminates is considered. To this aim, three specimens were manufactured and tested under 4 different impact conditions: 1- A curved laminate without preload. 2- A preloaded curved laminate, showing a lower radius of curvature due to the preload. 3- A curved laminate without preload but initial reduced curvature. The particular test conditions studied here allow estimating and discerning the effect of pre-stress and curvature on the impact response. Results show that the preload leads to an increased curvature, to which it follows that the maximum impact force and the damaged area increase significantly. The comparison of the impact response of the second and the third specimens show that, in the case of similar curvature, the preload leads to a lower damaged area. These results are particularly important for designing of curved composite components.
14 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the influence of rotation velocity, as one of the setup data, on the paste quality and the mixing index, obtained by the CFD, was presented, where the paste was prepared of soy flour and water, and described by the experimentally determined rheological characteristics.
Abstract: Nowadays, the priority of food industry processes is based on mixing of the various flavour pastes with the air. Optimal mixing process in the results means the instantaneous preparation of the homogenous and easily spreadable paste while consuming the lowest power. For achieving the brand precise and repeatable flavour, of major importance are, beside the filling parameters, the mixing setup parameters. This work presents the influence of rotation velocity, as one of the setup data, on: the paste quality and the mixing index, obtained by the CFD. The paste was prepared of soy flour and water, and described by the experimentally determined rheological characteristics. Mixing vessel, of the twin-shaft paddle type, introduced mixing by the laminar shear-thinning. This mixing process was modelled through 3D fully transient numerical simulations employing the volume of fluid (VOF) multiphase model of the Eulerian-Eulerian approach. In two cases, the influence of the angular velocity to the mixing-index value can be neglected. At the mixing area two regions were marked off. First one and dominant, was the region of active mixing preoccupied with high shear flow, described with high mixing index. Opposite, in the passive mixing region, the flow was almost rotational, represented by low mixing indexes. The rotation velocity change made the significant influence to wall shear stress levels achieving the highest values at the tips of the paddles.
TL;DR: In this paper, the experimental evaluation of the Poisson's ratio by tensile specimens, comparing this propriety in the case of SGI and composite graphite iron, is presented.
Abstract: Spheroidal Graphite cast Iron (SGI), also known as ductile iron, represents a perfect material for a very large range of modern applications. It is successfully used wherever optimal strength, stiffness and even low costs are required: high values of tensile strength and Young’s modulus are between its most appreciable propеrties. At the same time, nowadays, a different cast iron, known as Compacted Graphite Iron (CGI) or vermicular graphite iron, is taking the first steps in replacing SGI respect to some specific applications. It depends on a better castability, machinability and thermal resistance. CGI is an ideal cast iron in the case of components under simultaneous mechanical and thermal loadings, such as cylinder blocks and heads. Unfortunately, while SGI benefits of a wide scientific literature, CGI is a relatively unknown material. Moreover, dut to its particular microstructure, the production of CGI presents additional difficulties and it is not easy to obtain stable properties in the CGI alloy. This paper illustrates a way for the experimental evaluation of the Poisson’s ratio by tensile specimens, comparing this propriety in the case of SGI and CGI.
TL;DR: This paper investigates the opportunity of implementing FE simulations and rapid prototyping tecniques on titanium implant in maxillofacial surgery case based on osteotomy and performs the stress analysis of implant with different thickness configurations and 3D bending, which provides the optimized implant model with best fit dimensions.
Abstract: This paper investigates the opportunity of implementing FE simulations and rapid prototyping tecniques on titanium implant in maxillofacial surgery case based on osteotomy. Maxilla region was recorded by Cone Beam CT with high resolution and optimal radiation. Then, it followed the medical image reconstruction into 3D voxelized model. This model was converted both, to stl surface model for rapid prototyping, CAD modeling and FE mesh for simulation purposes with keeping good volume and dimensional consistency. Stl meshed surface was imported into CAD software, as initial 3d structure, which is used for parametric and customized design of implant. Since, the osteotomy is final application, it wassimulated the cutting and shifting of maxilla for proper correction by digital prototyping. Then, the fixation points for shifted maxilla were determined by surgeon to provide steady and tight joints between implanting screws and maxilla. Applied implant was given in initial standard flat configuration. Flat implant configuration was adapted by complex 3D bending in CAD software to be customized towards surface conformity of maxillofacial anatomy. By FE simulation in MSC Patran/Nastran, it was performed the stress analysis of implant with different thickness configurations and 3D bending, which provides the optimized implant model with best fit dimensions. Optimized implant model and corresponding body model were converted into physical models. RP model of maxilla was post-processed by cutting and boring to provide an adequate implant positioning according to digital prototypes. This approach facilitated the preparation of complex shaped implants in swept and lofted form, what had to be in high degree of conformity to anatomy surface. To approve a good practical opportunity, it was applied and tested in concrete surgery case of maxillofacial osteotomy.
TL;DR: In this article, a short review of optimization problems in intermodal transport using sea and land legs together regarding three mostly observed objectives (transport cost, transit time and CO2 emissions).
Abstract: Intermodal freight transportation refers to a multi-modal chain of container-transportation services which usually links the initial shipper to the final consignee of the container (door-to-door service) and takes place over long distances. Container transportation is a major component of intermodal transportation and international commerce. Container flow should be optimal to ensure proper resource utilization and profitability to players. Various multi-objective evolutionary algorithms have been developed to efficiently solve optimization problems in container flows. This paper presents a short review of optimization problems in intermodal transport using sea and land legs together regarding three mostly observed objectives (transport cost, transit time and CO2 emissions).
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present the possibility of integration of modern techniques of additive manufacturing and vacuum casting in the rapid manufacturing of complex parts, which can be used to produce high precision, accuracy and surface quality, while significantly reducing costs of development and production compared to other similar technologies.
Abstract: This paper presents the possibility of integration of modern techniques of additive manufacturing and vacuum casting in the rapid manufacturing of complex parts. The prototype of safety glasses was directly developed from a CAD model, which is used as a main model for making moulds in a vacuum casting process. The development stages, which include additive production of glasses and the process of vacuum casting with the definition of material components, preheating temperature, the forming of silicone mould, the casting process, hardening and other parameters are presented in this paper. It is proved that by using this technique it is possible to produce complex functional parts quickly, with high precision, accuracy and surface quality, while significantly reducing costs of development and production compared to other similar technologies.
TL;DR: In this article, a comparative study of gamma and neutron irradiation effects on the solar cells parameters is presented, where the effects of both types of radiation on the silicon solar cells are investigated.
Abstract: Due to its wide application areas, solar cells are exposed, in their work environment, to different types of radiation (cosmic radiation in the upper layers of the atmosphere, military and civilian nuclear facilities). Moreover, the used nuclear fuel emits y photons and neutrons at the same time, so different types of radiation damage appeared in solar cells located in the vicinity of these fuels. These damage have been caused by both gamma and neutron radiation. That's why very extensive researches have been undertaken with the aim of developing semiconductor devices whose work will be reliable in terms of increased levels of radiation. From the technological point of view, it is important to determine changes, caused by radiation, in the parameters of the silicon solar cells that affect their work. The aim of this paper is to present the comparative study of gamma and neutron irradiation effects on the solar cells parameters.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors proposed a method of using artificial neural network models for the prediction of turbine characteristics, especially in not measured operation modes, using a part of the existing set of experimental data for the Kaplan turbine energy parameters.
Abstract: The determination of the energy characteristics of a double-regulated hydro turbine is based on numerous measuring points during extensive and expensive experimental model tests in the laboratory and on site prototype tests at the hydropower plant. By the spatial interpolation of representative measured points that belong to the so-called on-cam curves for different speed factors, the hill performance diagram is obtained. The focus of the paper is the contemporary method of artificial neural network models use for the prediction of turbine characteristics, especially in not measured operation modes. A part of the existing set of experimental data for the Kaplan turbine energy parameters is used to train three developed neural network models. The reliability of applied method is considered by analysing, testing and validating the predicted turbine energy parameters in comparison with the remaining data.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors analyzed the total costs of manufacturing related to the fabrication of sample elements and tools in the wood industry field, and the optimization of the production costs of fabricated elements in case of small-scale production, and optimization of variable costs (processing and post-processing, costs of enforcement, and material costs).
Abstract: Software packages for 3D design and additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, initially known as rapid prototyping (RP) have emerged during the last years, as a cutting edge solutions for custom prototyping. These new tools and technologies lower the design costs, but also allow rapid creation of fully functional components. This paper describes the FDM and 3DP rapid prototyping technologies that were used to create elements and tools in the wood industry field. Total costs of manufacturing related to the fabrication of sample elements and tools are analysed. One of the main recognised issues of wider application of rapid prototyping technologies is their still very high costs related to all production aspects, starting with a lack of available materials, material cost, up to high cost of available commercial equipment, usually focused only on specific solutions and limited range of materials. Generally, AM costs can be divided into the group of fixed costs and variable ones. This paper deals with the optimization of the production costs of fabricated elements in case of small-scale production, and optimization of variable costs (processing and post-processing, costs of enforcement, and material costs).
TL;DR: In this article, the impact fracture toughness of zeolite reinforced high density polyethylene (HDPE) composites was investigated using essential work of fracture (EWF) concept.
Abstract: The impact fracture toughness of zeolite reinforced high density polyethylene (HDPE) composites which were prepared by an injection molding has been investigated using essential work of fracture (EWF) concept. The Charpy impact tests were carried out on single-edge-notched bending specimens under velocity of 3.4 m s-1. The results showed that the composites with 5 wt.% zeolite had the highest fracture initiation energy because of the toughening effect of zeolite addition. The composites with zeolite content more than 5 wt.% consumed less energy to initiate fracture than that of pure HDPE. However, the energy for propagated fracture decreased by the presence of zeolite and progressively decreased with increasing the zeolite content in the HDPE matrix. This was due to the addition of zeolite particles restricting shear yielding of the composite matrix resulting in lower energy absorption during short impact testing period.
Journal Article•
TL;DR: In this article, a model of two-component two-phase critical flow is presented, which is based on one-dimensional homogeneous gas-liquid twophase isentropic flow of mixture.
Abstract: A model of two-component two-phase critical flow is presented. The modelling approach is based on one-dimensional homogeneous gas-liquid two-phase isentropic flow of mixture. The homogeneous model is modified by taking into account the void fraction and two-phase mixture density dependence on velocity slip. The velocity slip is calculated using Chisholm correlation that depends on the gas phase quality and Zivi correlation for the prediction of the maximum velocity slip values. At the location of the critical flow the two-phase mixture velocity equals sonic velocity and it is calculated with the so-called ''frozen sonic velocity' model. The model is validated against data measured in air water flow at the PUMA experimental facility. Obtained results are presented together with the predictions by the well-known Fauske model. It is shown that Fauske model overpredicts measured critical mass fluxes, while the present model shows acceptable agreement with the measured data.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigate the problems involved in the design of a low profile container crane exposed both to static and dynamic wind actions, in order to establish if these loads are dangerous when compared with the load induced by standard container load and unload operations.
Abstract: The target of this numerical study is to investigate the problems involved in the design of a low profile container crane exposed both to static and dynamic wind actions, in order to establish if these loads are dangerous when compared with the load induced by standard container load and unload operations. In the first step the work was performed by means of different schematizations of the wind load action allowed by the standards; the second step regarded the application of a real trend (velocity of wind versus time) obtained experimentally on a similar crane positioned in an Italian harbor. The results obtained in terms of maximum displacement depend on the crane load conditions and on the different schematizations used for the wind action. Using a variable wind pressure, the research shows that the effects of wind loads are greatly influenced by the natural vibration frequencies of both the structure and the elements that compose the structure.
TL;DR: In this paper, experimental investigations of the contact hardening effect of thin Cu and Nb interlayers in laminated Ti/Steel composites were presented. But the authors focused on the impact of the interlayer thickness on the tensile strength of the composites.
Abstract: The study presents experimental investigations of the contact hardening effect of thin Cu and Nb interlayers in laminated Ti/Steel composites. The four layer Ti-Cu-Nb-Steel with various Nb and Cu interlayer thickness values was obtained via explosion welding and subsequently heat treated at 600°C for 1.5 hr. The evolution of the microstructure of the interfaces between bonded metals before and after heat treatment was studied during composites tensile loading. FEM simulation was carried out to determine the critical value of the relative interlayer thickness at which the composite tensile strength in transverse to the bond interface direction is higher than of Cu.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors used acoustic emissions to study the effect of electrospun nylon 6,6 Nanofibrous mat on carbon-epoxy composites during Double Cantilever beam (DCB) tests.
Abstract: Aim of the paper is to use acoustic emissions to study the effect of electrospun nylon 6,6 Nanofibrous mat on carbon-epoxy composites during Double Cantilever beam (DCB) tests. In order to recognize the effect of the nanofibres and to detect different damage mechanisms, k-means clustering of acoustic emission signals applied to rise time, count, energy, duration and amplitude of the events is used. Supervised neural network (NN) is then applied to verify clustered signals. Results showed that clustered acoustic emission signals are a reliable tool to detect different damage mechanisms; neural network showed the method has a 99% of accuracy.
TL;DR: In this article, the use of advanced thermographic techniques for the post-impact defect detection in basalt fiber reinforced composite laminates was investigated, and the defects could be identified using infrared thermography in the mid-wave infrared (MWIR) spectrum even after the treatments.
Abstract: In this work, the use of advanced thermographic techniques for the postimpact defect detection in basalt fibre reinforced composite laminates was investigated. The laminates were previously impacted at different energies, namely 7.5, 15 and 22.5 J and then subjected to accelerated environmental aging or to a coating process in order to conceal the previous damage due to low velocity impact. In both cases the defects could be identified using infrared thermography in the mid-wave infrared (MWIR) spectrum even after the treatments. In addition, short-wave infrared (SWIR) results were employed with the aim to clearly identify unsuspected resin-rich areas. Therefore, the non-thermal part of the infrared spectrum (SWIR) can be coupled with the thermal part (MWIR) providing a complete infrared vision beyond what is perceptible to the naked eye, i.e., in the visible spectrum.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors presented a technical and economic analysis of grid-connected PV/Wind energy systems located in the Republic of Serbia, using the transient simulations software TRNSYS and HOMER.
Abstract: In this paper technical and economic analysis of grid-connected PV/Wind energy systems located in the Republic of Serbia are presented. The technical and economic data, of the various grid-connected PV/Wind hybrid energy systems for three different locations: Novi Sad, Belgrade and Kopaonik, using the transient simulations software TRNSYS and HOMER were obtained. The results obtained in this paper show that locations and technical characteristics of the energy systems have an important influence on the amount of delivering electrical power to the grid. The CO2 emissions reductions, obtained on the basis of delivered electrical power to distribution networks are also analyzed. Economic analysis is carried out using Life Cycling Cost (LCC) method. The adoption and implementation of feed-in tariffs have a significant role in enhancing the implementation of technologies that use renewable energy resources.
TL;DR: In this paper, a model for forecasting and decision-making by applying logistic regression was developed to predict professional choices of graduates after finishing vocational school, which can predict the number and structure of students enrolled in higher education.
Abstract: This paper presents the development of a model for forecasting and decision-making by applying logistic regression. The prediction of professional choices for graduates has been verified on the sample of 159 graduates. Predictor variables are grouped in nine input variables and the data collected from the Unique Education Information System database. Professional choices of graduates after finishing vocational school are grouped into three output variables and the data collected in the survey. The obtained results show that the application of logistic regression can predict the number and structure of students enrolled in higher education.
TL;DR: In this article, two different methods for determination of frictionless joint reaction forces and moments are presented and discussed on the three-like rigid multibody system with an open kinematic chain structure.
Abstract: In this paper two different methods for determination of frictionless joint reaction forces and moments are presented. The considered multibody system has an open kinematic chain structure. The first method refers to the determination of resultant joint reaction forces and moments based on the Rodrigues approach suitable for computation in a symbolic form. The second method presented is the method based on the so-called vectors of the body mass moments and vector rotators coupled for a pole and oriented axes. Both approaches are presented and discussed on the three- like rigid multibody system.
TL;DR: In this article, the limitations and possibilities of use of that innovative equipment for product/process quality monitoring are investigated, as well as the sensitivity analysis of this new tool for measure, thanks to a careful modelling of its mechanism of operation, accompanied by various simulations comparing the limit cases of use.
Abstract: The capability to bend in a controlled manner Gres Porcelain stoneware tiles passing by a processes of pyroplastic deformation opens up new opportunities in utilisation of this important family of ceramics. A bent tile can be used in innovative applications, such as stairs, shelves, benches and even radiators, turning this element from a simple piece of furnishing in a modern functional component. But this change in functionality requires a new and different approach to the quality control that can no longer be limited to the validation tests as specified in the regulations used for traditional ceramics (e.g. colour, porosity, hygroscopic ...). Starting from a brief description of the first and only device devised for the verification of flexural resistance of curved tiles, this paper investigates the limitations and possibilities of use of that innovative equipment for product/process quality monitoring. Thanks to a careful modelling of its mechanism of operation, accompanied by various simulations comparing the limit cases of use, it has been possible to verify the incidence of some of the potential weaknesses of the equipment as well as to carry out a sensitivity analysis of this new tool for measure.