What type of bearings are used in electric motors?

There are different type of bearings can used for electrical motor.such as ball bearings , sliding bearings and oil-bearing bearings;

Miniature or small motors generally use oil-bearing with few accessories and no maintenance, which is beneficial to simplifying the structure.

MKL BEARINGS can produce different type of miniature bearings for motor ;such as the S625RS bearings we are produced now , the bearings can work with high speed and low noise, and can pass with long time salt spray; for more information just feel free to contact with us at seven@mklbearing.com ,we can provide free sample for test before order .


 Electric Motor Ball Bearings
S625RS Bearings

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A Complete Guide to Roof and Gutter Heating Cable Installation Essential for Preventing Ice Dams

I. Overview of Heating Cable Ice Dam Prevention Systems

Roof and gutter heating cable systems are an effective solution for preventing ice dams in winter. They convert electrical energy into heat, melting ice and snow and protecting roofs from damage.

 

II. System Components

Heating Cable: Central Heating Element

Temperature Control System: Automatic Temperature Control

Mounting Accessories: Mounting Clamps, End Caps, etc.

Electrical Junction Box: Electrical Accessory

 

III. Pre-Installation Preparation

3.1 Roof Assessment

Check the roof slope, material, and structure

Identify frost-prone areas (eaves, gutters, drainpipes, etc.)

Measure the required coverage length

 

3.2 Material Calculation

Calculate the required cable length based on the roof area

Consider power requirements (typically 8 to 12 watts/ft)

 

3.3 Tool Preparation

Cable Cutter

Voltage Tester

Retention Clamps and Specialized Tools

Safety Equipment (Safety Harness, Non-Slip Shoes, etc.)

 

IV. Installation Steps

4.1 Roof Installation

Cable Preparation: Coil the cable along the eaves, covering frost-prone areas. Cable Securing: Use dedicated clips, spaced approximately 30 to 45 cm apart.

Power Connection: Ensure the power supply is properly connected to the temperature control system.

 

4.2 Gutter Installation

Gutter Cleaning: Ensure the gutter is free of debris.

Cable Routing: Route the cable in a straight or circular pattern along the bottom of the gutter.

Drain Extension: The cable must be extended to the ground or drain outlet.

 

4.3 Electrical Connection

Thermostat Installation: Select a suitable location.

Electrical Connection: Have a professional electrician perform this procedure.

System Testing: Confirm that all components are functioning properly.

 

V. System Maintenance

Seasonal Inspection: Inspect the system annually before winter.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Remove debris from the gutters.

Functional Testing: Ensure that the temperature control system accurately responds to temperature changes.

 

VI. Safety Instructions: Always disconnect the power supply during installation.

Use non-slip safety equipment.

Avoid excessive bending or damaging the cables.

The system must be installed and maintained by professionals.

 

VII. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much will heating cables increase my electricity bill?

A: Depending on usage and location, the average monthly cost in winter ranges from $20 to $100. Smart thermostats can significantly reduce energy consumption.

 

Q: What is the lifespan of the system?

A: A high-quality heating cable system can last over 20 years, while the thermostat may need to be replaced every 10 years.

 

Q: Can I install it myself?

A: While some work can be done yourself, hiring a professional is recommended for electrical connections and high-risk roofing work.

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Detailed steps for laying floor heating cables Avoid common mistakes

The core of any underfloor heating system is the installation of the heating cable. Proper installation ensures effective heating, safety, and a long service life. Below are detailed installation instructions and tips to avoid common problems.

 

1. Preparation

Check the blueprint

Calculate the cable length and spacing based on the room's area and heat load (typically 10-20 cm apart, with no overlapping).

Check the thermostat location, power cable routing, and power rating.

⚠️ Troubleshooting: Insufficient or excessively long cables can lead to localized overheating or uneven heating.

Material Inspection

Cable: Check the integrity and resistance of the insulation according to the manufacturer's specifications (using a multi-meter).

Supporting Materials: Insulation board (at least 2 cm thick), reflective film, wire mesh, staples, thermostat, etc.

⚠️ Troubleshooting: Poor-quality insulation board can easily leak heat downwards, increasing energy consumption.

 

2. Floor Preparation

Leveling the Base Layer

Remove debris and sharp objects from the floor and level it with cement mortar (flatness of 3 mm or less per 2 m).

⚠️ Mistake to Avoid: An uneven floor surface may damage the cable insulation.

Laying the Insulation

Lay extruded polystyrene (XPS) or EPS insulation and seal the seams with aluminum foil tape.

In humid areas (such as the first floor), lay a moisture-proof sheet.

 

3. Cable Laying Procedure

Securing the Reflective Film and Wire Mesh

Lay the reflective film (aluminum foil side up) on top of the insulation, overlapping it by 5 cm. Lay a wire mesh (optional, to strengthen the adhesion to the concrete).

Cable Laying Method

Snake Laying: Suitable for most rooms. Maintain even spacing (use a spacing ruler).

Spiral Laying: Suitable for circular or curved areas. Avoid bends less than five times the cable diameter.

⚠️ Mistakes to avoid: Spacing cables too close together can lead to overheating, while spacing them too far can lead to uneven heating.

Secure the Cable

Secure cables using plastic clips or cable ties to prevent metal staples from damaging the insulation.

Loosen the cable at the bend to avoid excessive tension.

Avoid sensitive areas.

Keep at least 10 cm away from walls and away from furniture fixtures and floor-standing cabinets.

Keep at least 5 cm away from water pipes and electrical wiring.

 

4. Electrical Connections and Testing

Install the thermostat and connect the wiring.

The height of the thermostat's recessed box should be 1.2–1.5 m. Connect the cold wire (power cord) and hot wire (cable) and protect them with PVC tubing.

⚠️ Avoid mistakes: Reversing the hot and cold wires can cause system failure.

Resistance and Insulation Test

Test the insulation resistance using an insulation resistance tester (1 MΩ or higher). The resistance measured with the multi-meter should be within 10% of the nominal value.

 

5. Building the Fill Layer

Pour the concrete/mortar.

Thickness: 3-5 cm (pebbled concrete is ideal). Do not step on the cable while pouring.

Allow the cable to dry naturally (curing period: 21 days or more). Avoid opening windows for ventilation, as this can cause rapid drying and cracking.

Secondary Test

Retest the resistance and insulation properties after the fill layer has completely dried.

 

6. Common Errors and Solutions

Problem Cause Solution

Partial heat loss Uneven cable spacing or broken cables Plan the route before installation and perform a test after installation.

Thermostat failure. Power mismatch. Select a thermostat based on the cable's wattage.

Floor cracks. The infill layer is too thin or not sufficiently cured. Ensure it is at least 3 cm thick and properly cured.

Excessive energy consumption. The insulation layer is missing or the reflective film is damaged. Check the integrity of the insulation layer.

 

7. Precautions

Cutting or extending the cable is strictly prohibited. The cable must be fully installed.

Do not apply electricity to the cable during installation to prevent overheating or damage.

After installation is complete, keep the installation drawings for future maintenance.

Standardized installation and rigorous testing significantly reduce the risk of subsequent failures. If you do not have professional experience, we recommend consulting a certified underfloor heating installation team.

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Why CRGO Core Is Used In Transformers?

CRGO (Cold Rolled Grain Oriented, cold-rolled grain-oriented silicon steel) cores have become the core material in transformer manufacturing due to their unique material properties and electromagnetic performance. The following are the main reasons for their wide adoption:

1.Low iron losses

• Energy efficiency improvement: CRGO steel, through the addition of silicon (3% to 4%) and the cold rolling process, forms a directional grain structure that significantly reduces hysteresis loss and eddy current loss. This leads to a reduction of about 30% to 50% in no-load losses of transformers, and over long-term operation, it can greatly save energy costs.

• High resistivity: The silicon element increases the resistivity of the steel, inhibits the generation of eddy currents, and further reduces the proportion of energy converted into heat.

2.High Magnetic Permeability

• Efficient magnetic flux conduction:

The directional alignment of grains along the rolling direction creates a highly oriented structure, allowing magnetic flux to conduct efficiently along a low-resistance path. This reduces the magnetizing current requirement and improves the energy efficiency ratio of transformers.

• High saturation magnetic flux density:

High-silicon CRGO grades (e.g., high permeability grades) can carry higher magnetic flux in smaller volumes, enabling compact transformer designs while maintaining performance. This is critical for modern power systems requiring space-efficient solutions without compromising capacity.

3.Reduced Magnetostriction

• Noise and vibration reduction:

The optimized silicon content and grain structure in CRGO steel suppress the magnetostriction effect (material deformation caused by magnetic field variations). This significantly reduces operational noise and mechanical vibrations, making it ideally suited for noise-sensitive environments such as residential areas, hospitals, or data centers.

• Material stability:

Lower magnetostriction also minimizes long-term structural stress on the core, enhancing the transformer's durability and reliability under cyclic loading conditions.

4.High Stacking Factor

• Enhanced material efficiency:

The smooth surface and uniform thickness of CRGO steel sheets enable stacking factors exceeding 95% during core assembly. This minimizes air gaps, optimizes the magnetic circuit structure, and reduces material waste.

• Mechanical precision:

High dimensional consistency in CRGO laminations ensures stable core geometry, improving manufacturing repeatability and operational performance in high-power transformers.

5.Process Compatibility

• Laminated structure compatibility:

CRGO steel is used in thin sheet form, with interlayer insulation coatings (e.g., oxide layers or organic coatings) to isolate laminations. This blocks eddy current paths and further suppresses energy losses while maintaining magnetic efficiency.

• Mechanical stability:

The material exhibits high mechanical elasticity and fatigue resistance, ensuring the core maintains dimensional stability under prolonged electromagnetic stress. This property extends transformer service life and reduces maintenance requirements, even under cyclic operational loads.

 

Disadvantages and Trade-offs:

Although CRGO steel has ~20%–30% higher costs and greater weight compared to conventional silicon steel, its unmatched advantages in energy efficiency, longevity, and reliability make it indispensable in power transformer applications. It is particularly critical for:

 

• High-voltage transformers (>11 kV):

Enables efficient energy transmission with minimal losses over extended power grids.

• Energy-efficient distribution transformers:

Complies with global energy-saving regulations by reducing lifecycle operational costs through lower core losses.

• Precision-demanding systems:

Provides stable performance in noise-sensitive or reliability-critical environments, such as data centers, renewable energy infrastructure (solar/wind converters), and medical imaging equipment.

Summary:

CRGO cores achieve minimized magnetic losses and maximized magnetic efficiency through the synergistic effects of its oriented grain structure and silicon alloying design. This technology not only aligns with global energy efficiency standards, but also serves as a foundational material for advancing smart grid architectures and enabling the decarbo nization of power systems.

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How Heat Affects Grinding Tool Performance

Heat is an inevitable result of the grinding process. When abrasive tools come into contact with surfaces like concrete, terrazzo, or stone, the friction generated can cause temperatures to rise significantly. While some heat is normal, excessive heat can harm both the grinding tool and the material being worked on, decreasing efficiency and causing premature wear.


One major effect of heat on grinding tools is the softening of the bond that holds the abrasive segments together. In metal bond tooling, high temperatures can cause the bond to release diamonds too quickly, reducing the tool’s lifespan. resin pads for concrete polishing are particularly sensitive to heat; excessive heat can melt or smear the resin, leading to glazing and diminished polishing performance.


Heat can also damage the surface finish. Grinding at elevated temperatures may cause the material to burn or discolor, which is especially problematic in decorative concrete or terrazzo applications where appearance is important. Overheating can also cause microcracks in brittle materials, which might not be immediately visible but can lead to long-term structural problems.


diamond tools for concrete grinding


To maintain tool performance, proper cooling and pressure control are crucial. Wet grinding is a common method to dissipate heat and prolong tool life. In dry grinding, using high-quality, heat-resistant NewGrind diamond grinding tooling along with vacuum systems to remove dust and heat can help prevent damage.


Operators should monitor machine speed and pressure settings carefully. Applying too much pressure or running the machine too fast increases friction and heat buildup. Regular inspection of both the tool and the work surface can help detect early signs of heat-related damage.


By understanding how heat affects grinding tools, contractors can make better decisions on the job. Effectively managing heat leads to improved finishes, longer tool life, and greater productivity, while avoiding the hidden costs associated with overheating.

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What is a transformer core?

The transformer core is the core component of a power transformer. As the carrier of the magnetic circuit for electromagnetic induction, it directly affects the efficiency, volume and operational stability of the transformer. ​

In terms of materials, modern transformer cores are mostly made by laminating silicon steel sheets (with a silicon content of approximately 3% to 5%). The addition of silicon can significantly increase the resistivity of iron and reduce eddy current losses - this is the useless power consumption caused by electromagnetic induction of current in the iron core. Silicon steel sheets are usually rolled into thin sheets of 0.3mm or 0.23mm. After being coated with an insulating layer on the surface, they are stacked layer by layer to further reduce the influence of eddy currents.

Its structure is divided into two types: core-type and shell-type. In the core-type, the windings of the core wrap around the core column and are mostly used in power transformers. Shell-type cores are wound around and are commonly found in small transformers. The geometric design of the core needs to be precisely calculated to ensure the unobstructed magnetic circuit and avoid magnetic saturation at the same time. ​

Efficient core design is the key to energy conservation in transformers. Nowadays, the application of new materials such as ultrafine crystalline alloys is driving cores towards lower losses and higher magnetic permeability, providing core support for the construction of green power grids.

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What is the core of a transformer made of?

The transformer core (also known as the magnetic core) is the central magnetic circuit component of a transformer. Its material selection directly affects the transformer's efficiency, losses, and applicable scenarios. Based on operating frequency, power requirements, and cost factors, core materials can be categorized into the following types:

 

1. Traditional Silicon Steel Sheets (Fe-Si Alloy):​​

Composition:

Cold-rolled steel sheets with silicon content ranging from 0.8% to 4.8% , typically with a thickness of  0.35mm or thinner​.

Characteristics:

High saturation magnetic induction (Bs≈1.6–1.7T), suitable for high-power scenarios at power frequencies (50/60 Hz).

Laminated stacking: Insulating coatings are applied between layers to reduce eddy current losses. However, losses increase significantly at high frequencies​.

Applications:

Primarily used in power transformers and motor cores for low-frequency, high-power electrical equipment.

 

2. Ferrite Core​

Composition:

Manganese-zinc (MnZn) or nickel-zinc (NiZn) ferrite, classified as sintered magnetic metal oxides.

Characteristics:

High resistivity: Significantly reduces eddy current losses at high frequencies, suitable for a ​frequency range of 1 kHz——1 MHz​ .

Low saturation flux density (Bs ≈<0.5T), weak DC bias capability, and prone to magnetic saturation.

Applications:

Widely used in electronic devices such as switch-mode power supplies (SMPS)​, ​high-frequency transformers, and inductors.

 

3. Metal Magnetic Powder Cores

Types:

Iron powder cores

Iron-silicon-aluminum powder cores (FeSiAl)

High-flux powder cores (HighFlux)

Molybdenum permalloy powder cores (MPP) .

Characteristics:

Strong anti-saturation capability: Reduces eddy currents through insulation-coated dispersed magnetic particles, making it suitable for DC superposition scenarios .

Medium permeability (μe≈10—125) with a frequency range of 10 kHz - 100 kHz​ .

Applications:

Widely used in medium-to-high-frequency power devices such as:

​PFC inductors (Power Factor Correction)

​Filter inductors.

 

4. Novel Alloy Materials​

Amorphous Alloys​

Composition:

Iron-based (e.g., Fe₈₀B₁₀Si₁₀) or cobalt-based amorphous ribbons, characterized by disordered atomic arrangement​ .

​Advantages:

​Ultra-low core losses (only 1/5 of silicon steel), enabling significant energy savings .

Limitation:

Significant magnetostriction (resulting in higher operating noise) .

​Applications:

Energy-efficient distribution transformers.

 

Nanocrystalline Alloys​

​Structure:

​Nano-scale crystalline grains (<50 nm) embedded in an amorphous matrix .

​Advantages:

​High permeability & low losses (superior to ferrites at 50 kHz) .

​Strong harmonic resistance and excellent thermal stability (operating range: -40–120°C) .

​Applications:

​High-frequency transformers and PV inverters​ .

​EV electric drive systems (e.g., integrated OBC/DC-DC modules)

 

Key Factors in Material Selection​

​Operating Frequency​

​Low Frequency (≤1 kHz) :

​Silicon Steel or Amorphous Alloys (e.g., Fe₈₀B₁₀Si₁₀).

High Frequency (>10 kHz) :

​Ferrite Cores (MnZn/NiZn) or Nanocrystalline Alloys.

 

Loss Requirements​

​Lowest Core Loss:

​Amorphous/Nanocrystalline Alloys.

High-Frequency Loss Optimization:

​Ferrites.

 

Cost and Process

​Cost-Effectiveness & Maturity:

Silicon Steel.

High Initial Cost with Long-Term ROI:

​Amorphous/Nanocrystalline Alloys.​

 

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Detailed explanation of the power and temperature range of heating cables Safe use guidelines

1. Heating Cable Power Range

Heating cable power is typically expressed in watts per meter (W/m). Common specifications are as follows:

Low-power cable: 10-20 W/m

Applications: Pipe insulation, soil frost protection (e.g., eaves snow melting), and low-temperature supplemental floor heating.

Features: Gentle heating, suitable for long-term continuous operation.

 

Medium-power cable: 20-30 W/m

Applications: Residential floor heating and bathroom heating.

Features: Balances energy consumption and heating efficiency; requires a thermostat.

 

High-power cable: 30-50 W/m

Applications: Industrial environments (e.g., factories and warehouses), rapid snow melting (driveways and ramps).

Features: Rapid heating; requires strict cable spacing to avoid overheating.

 

Power selection recommendations:

Calculate based on the application scenario and heat losses (e.g., room insulation and ambient temperature).

Residential applications typically consume between 15 and 25 W/m, while industrial applications may require higher power.

 

2. Temperature Range

Surface Operating Temperature:

Ordinary PVC-insulated cable: Maximum operating temperature approximately 65°C (higher temperatures may cause degradation).

High-temperature-resistant silicone/Teflon cable: Maximum operating temperature 150 to 200°C (industrial use).

Self-regulating temperature cable: Automatically adjusts temperature, typically maintaining a temperature between 40 and 85°C (thus eliminating the risk of overheating).

 

Ambient Operating Temperature:

Low-temperature type: -40 to 50°C (suitable for outdoor frost protection).

Standard type: -20 to 60°C (commonly used for indoor floor heating).

 

3. Safety Instructions

Installation Precautions:

Spacing: Cable spacing ≥ 5 cm (greater spacing for high-power cables) to avoid localized overheating.

Insulation Test: Before installation, use a megohmmeter to test the insulation resistance (≥ 1 megohm).

Avoid crossing: Cables must not overlap or bend, as this can cause heat buildup.

 

Temperature Control System Key Points:

Use a thermostat or smart thermostat and ensure the set temperature does not exceed the upper limit of the cable (for example, for floor heating, an ambient temperature of 28°C or less is recommended).

While self-regulating temperature cables are self-regulating, installing a thermostat is recommended to improve energy efficiency.

 

Environmental Restrictions:

Waterproof cable (IP67 or higher) must be used in humid areas (bathrooms, outdoors).

If buried or laid in concrete, ensure the cable sheath is corrosion-resistant and pressure-resistant.

 

Regular Maintenance:

Inspect the cable for damage and seals annually before use.

Unusual power consumption (such as a sudden increase in electricity bills) may indicate a cable failure.

 

Prohibited Actions:

Cutting constant current cables (disrupting resistance balance); self-regulating temperature cables can be cut if necessary.

Covering with carpet or furniture will hinder heat dissipation.

 

4. FAQs

Q: Will the heating cable leak electricity?

A: Certified products have reliable insulation, but damaged or poor-quality cables may leak electricity. A grounding system and a residual current device (RCD) are required.

 

Q: What should I do if the cables are heated unevenly?

A: Check the cable spacing, voltage stability, and correct thermostat sensor placement.

 

Q: Can I use this under parquet flooring?

A: Yes, but the surface temperature must be ≤ 27°C and the recommended power is ≤ 18W/m² to prevent the wood from drying out and cracking.

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Dealing with Dust Tools and Regulations in Surface Preparation

An essential component of surface preparation and floor restoration is dust management. If not controlled appropriately, fine dust particles produced by using a metal bond trapezoid grinding tool or by concrete PCD grinding tooling operations can be extremely dangerous to one's health and safety, regardless of whether one is operating in a home, business, or industrial setting. For contractors and site managers, breathing in airborne dust, particularly silica dust, can result in long-term lung problems and legal liabilities.


To effectively manage dust, it's essential to use the right tools. Modern surface preparation equipment often includes built-in dust collection systems or attachments for industrial vacuum systems. These tools help capture particles directly at the source, reducing their release into the environment. Wet grinding with HTC diamond grinding heads is another effective method, where water is used to suppress dust during the process.




Government requirements must be followed without exception. Permissible exposure limits for airborne pollutants on construction sites have been set by organizations like OSHA. Contractors should use authorized equipment, give workers personal protective equipment, and train employees on safe procedures as part of a dust management plan in order to achieve these regulations.


Effective dust management not only satisfies legal requirements but also enhances on-site cleanliness and visibility, enabling more accurate work and cutting down on cleanup time. In later phases of floor restoration, clean surroundings can help coatings and adhesives adhere more effectively.

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What Size Flapper for Toilet?

 

What Is a Toilet Flapper?

 

A toilet flapper is the flexible rubber valve that sits on top of the flush valve opening in your toilet tank. It’s connected to the flush handle or button by a chain. When you flush, the flapper lifts, allowing water to rush from the tank into the bowl. After the flush, it drops back into place to seal the valve and let the tank refill.

 

If the flapper doesn’t seal tightly — which is a common issue referred to as a toilet flapper valve not sealing — water will continue to leak into the bowl, wasting water and increasing your utility bill.

 

Why Flapper Size Matters

 

Getting the correct size flapper is more important than most people realize. An oversized flapper may not sit flush with the flush valve opening, causing it to leak. On the other hand, a flapper that’s too small might not cover the valve entirely, or may shift out of place. Either case leads to a poor seal and can cause problems like inconsistent flushing or continuous running water.

 

In short, the wrong size flapper can lead to:

 

  • Weak or partial flushes

 

  • Higher water bills

 

  • A constantly refilling tank

 

  • Toilet flapper valve not sealing

 

Common Toilet Flapper Sizes

 

There are three main categories when it comes to flapper sizes:

 

1. 2-Inch Toilet Flapper

 

This is the most common size used in standard toilets, especially older or traditional models. If you're unsure, there's a good chance your toilet uses a 2-inch flapper.

 

2. 3-Inch Toilet Flapper

 

Larger flush valves (often found in newer high-efficiency toilets) use 3-inch flappers. These allow for a more powerful flush using less water, which makes them popular in brands like Kohler and TOTO.

 

3. Specialty or Custom Flappers

 

Some toilets use uniquely shaped or branded flush valve systems that require a specific flapper size or structure — such as flappers with wings, floats, or hard plastic designs.

 

How to Tell What Size Flapper You Need

 

There are several ways to determine the right flapper size for your toilet:

 

Method 1: Measure the Flush Valve Opening

 

Use a ruler or caliper to measure the inside diameter of the flush valve seat:

 

  • Around 2 inches (50mm) → You need a 2-inch flapper

 

  • Around 3 inches (76mm) → You need a 3-inch flapper

 

 

Method 2: Check the Manufacturer’s Label or Manual

 

Look inside the toilet tank lid or on the brand’s website. Most manufacturers will list the flush valve size, especially if it’s a selling point like “3-inch flush valve for better performance.”

 

Method 3: Visual Comparison

 

If you don’t have tools handy, use this general guide:

 

  • If the flush valve opening looks about the size of a golf ball, it’s likely a 2-inch flush valve

 

  • If it’s closer to the size of a tennis ball, it’s likely a 3-inch flush valve
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