Archived News for Engineering Professionals - April, 2018
Rio buying robo-drills
Rio Tinto is buying more robo-drills to “create a safer working environment and boost productivity”.
CEFC funds high-tech meters
The CEFC has given $5 million in support for a company that makes energy-saving thermostats.
Experts want different waste focus
An expansion of waste-to-energy projects is on the way, but experts say we cannot burn out problems away.
Floating nuclear giant sets sail
Russia has sent its controversial floating nuclear power plant out to sea.
NBN makes uni links
NBN Co has announced major collaborations with the University of Melbourne (UoM) and the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).
New funds for local supercomputer
The Federal Government has put up $70 million for a “next generation” supercomputer.
Brain probe seeks cytokines
Australian researchers have developed a state-of-the-art sensor that can detect signalling molecules in the living brain.
Plans to deal with China ban
Local government lobbies say China’s ban on imports of recyclable waste should be used as an opportunity for change.
'Smart wheel' idea gets rolling
A tech competition has led to the development of ‘smart steering wheels’ that can sense the early stages of driver fatigue.
ARC centre for high-tech med
A new centre dedicated to advanced medical 3D-printing has been launched this week.
Frack ban lifted in NT
The NT Government has announced it will lift its moratorium on fracking, triggering almost immediate protests.
NEG chats to continue
State and territory energy ministers have agreed to continue discussions on the National Energy Guarantee (NEG).
State opens infrastructure poll
The Victorian Government has opened its infrastructure plans up to a public vote.
Tassie getting solar boost
One large solar farm has been approved and another proposed for Tasmania’s north coast.
Waste repurposed for spill sponge
Engineers have made a new oil spill sponge out of common waste products.
Change to make NAIF more available
The Federal Government is loosening the requirements for NAIF funding.
Feds mulling credit plan
The Federal Government is considering allowing energy companies to buy offsets to comply with the 26 per cent emissions reduction target under the NEG.
NASA launches new planet-spotter
NASA is launching a new planet-hunting probe on the back of a SpaceX rocket this week.
NBN issues soar
An official report reveals complaints about the NBN soared more than 200 per cent over the last six months of last year.
Basslink cable staying down
The Basslink power cable between Tasmania and Victoria will be out of action until the end of May.