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.

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...

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...

Bamboo Preservation

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

Making Wheels

Ron Dennis

A low-cost technology which will enable workshops to set up their own facilities and manufacture a range of wheels from standard steel sections. For those familiar with metalworking techniques. Presented with technical drawings and sketches.

Clay Testing

Anura Gaspe, Peter Messer, Pete Young

Aimed at those working on stove projects or manufacture of ceramic stoves, this books offers clear explanations of some of the causes of the problems encountered while the stove is in use and gives straightforward methods of avoiding them. The findings of a clay-testing programme carried out with a...

The Technological Transformation of Rural India

A. Reddy, A S Bhalla

Using case studies from India this book presents a conceptual model of commercialization of rural technologies in developing countries. It concludes that India has not placed enough emphasis on ensuring the efficiency of small-scale production units.