Assessing the Technical Problems of Brick Production

A guide for brick makers and field workers to help identify technical problems.

How to Measure the Energy Used to Fire Clay Bricks

What defines an energy-efficient brick-firing technology and how does it compare to other technologies?

How to Make Carpentry Tools

Aaron Moore, Musaemura Sithole

Squares, gauges, clamps and planes are among the tools whose construction is described in detail in this book, along with useful guidance on the maintenance and repair of woodworking tools. These low-cost tools are suitable for use in large training institutions or small workshops and are designed t...

Metal Casting

Steve Hurst

An introduction to small-scale non-ferrous casting. Includes step-by-step instructions on how to make equipment using local materials; and provides information on moulding techniques, pattern making, core making, the use of wax and metal preparation.

A Small Lime Kiln for Batch and Continuous Firing

In 1996 Practical Action commissioned Paragon Ceramics to build an experimental lime kiln at Dedza in Malawi in partnership with local lime burners.

Micro-Concrete Roofing Tile Production

Small-scale concrete roofing tiles are an affordable alternative to traditional roofing materials and galvanized iron sheeting.

The Survival of the Fitter

John Powell

This book traces the development of Ghana's informal engineering sector through stories of the progress of the actual people involved. The first generation of grassroots engineers are wayside vehicle mechanics, or 'fitters', engaged in repairing machinery. The author argues that the evolution of a f...

Appropriate Paper-based Technology (APT)

Bevill Packer

Appropriate Paper-based Technology (APT) is a comprehensive survey of the technologies for making a wide range of products from chess-men to armchairs, from trays to solar cookers, using paper. It is a revised and updated edition of the Manual of APT published by IRED, Harare, 1989 and 1991. The rev...

Hot-dip Galvanizing

M. Hornsby

The demand for more durable fasteners to extend the life of equipment such as fishing vessels makes this illustrated introduction to hot-dip galvanizing an invaluable addition to the bookshelves of works managers, engineers, government officials and field project officers. Hot-dip galvanizing is...

Bamboo Preservation

This brief looks at some of the options that can be used in bamboo preservation.