An adjustable propeller for outboard motors is currently being launched. The propeller's special design with revolving blades enables boat owners to set the propeller's pitch and adjust performance themselves. This enables the boat to operate at an optimum level when carrying both light and heavy loads.

When excessive amounts of liquid carbon dioxide (CO2) vaporize while being pumped, the results can include reduced process efficiency and increased scrap product. U. S. company Haskel International has addressed this problem with the industry's first pumps specially designed to maintain liquefied CO2 temperatures below the flash point.

Packaging manufacturers are in a key position between packaging board producers and end users when it comes to the introduction of new packaging solutions. End user demands have increased, particularly with respect to barrier properties. Packages are also required to be recyclable and easily disposable - a goal that cannot be achieved with conventional aluminium laminated liquid packaging. Italpak, which produces packaging for companies in the food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, has switched to using the European and USA patented Ensobarr barrier coating, which replaces aluminium laminating in packaging boards.

A simplified payment system for laundry rooms and laundrettes is being launched by Electrolux-Wascator. Using the new SingleSystem, the handling of money disappears and is replaced by a personal payment card. By reducing theft and vandalism and simplifying administration, many landlords and property owners can make large cost savings.

Snickers is introducing a series of all-weather garments under the name Allweather, starting with trousers that protect against rain and that are also functional. "These are much more than ordinary rain clothes", says Per-Henrik Magnusson, Product Development Manager at the company. "Allweather clothes can be used at any time, but with the advantage of always giving protection if it should start to rain or become windy.

Optima Batteries has decided to enter the battery charger market. It has launched the first in a series of products with three other chargers to follow by the middle of 1999.

A new type of castor, specifically designed for trolleys used in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, institutional kitchens, department stores and similar premises, has been developed by the Finnish castor manufacturer Manner Ltd. The castor is characterised by silent running, low rolling friction and modern design. The so-called Tango castor is manufactured predominantly of plastic materials which provide good corrosion resistance and durability. The design facilitates easy cleaning.

A composite grommet edging material that can reduce installation cost and provide added protection against cable damage will be introduced in Europe at the Paris Air Show. Spring-Fast edging, from U. S. company Device Technologies, Inc., stays in place without adhesive.

Changes to the US National Electrical Code came into effect on January 1 this year. Manual controllers from the Finnish electrical component supplier, Ensto Oy, fulfill the latest criteria of new code.