Monday 18 March 2013

Monaco Grand Prix - Interesting Facts


Background Information


The word “Monaco Grand Prix” is very common within the realms of Formula 1 racing. Basically, this is an annual championship race held in France at the “Circuit de Monaco”. Racers all over the world have discovered that by competing in this event, they have improved their profile ever since it was launched in 1929 where William Grover Williams won the first race. These races are usually set in the streets of Monaco.

Monaco Grand Prix


Interesting facts


This event is one of the oldest in the Formula 1 series. The other notable fact is that the Monaco Grand Prix is the only Grand Prix that does not apply the 305 kilometers minimum race distance that was set by FIA. Most racers are also amazed by the fact that they are supposed to change gears at least 54 times a lap around the circuit. This means that full throttle can only be achieved for 8 seconds.


This Grand Prix also has the shortest track of only 3.340 kilometers. However, this means that the racers are supposed to cover a whooping 78 laps. This is also the same Grand Prix that Michael Schumacher won five trophies and Alain Prost took four. Preparation for a Monaco Grand Prix normally takes six weeks while the aftermath takes three weeks to clear.


The course has many elevation changes and very tight corners. This makes it one of the trickiest courses in the Formula 1 racing. It is therefore the best proving ground for top-notch racers around the world. Most racers seeking to improve their controlling skills normally find a unique passion in this racing course. Another interesting fact to note is that it was acknowledged as the European Grand Prix twice and it was actually an invite-only event.


It is also fascinating to note that before 2004, there were no permanent garages along the pit lanes. Therefore, cars had to be pushed to make-shift garages on the paddocks, thus making it a challenge for the teams. Also, Mr. Graham Hill was branded the “King of Monaco” after winning five races with three consecutive victories from 1963 to 1965. This earned him great fame as he established himself as one of the best racers in the competition. These are some of the many fascinating facts about the Monaco Grand Prix. If you are a fan of racing cars, this type of race will be of much interest to you. All you need to do is to sit back and watch one of the best races in the history of the Grand Prix.

You can read more about the Monaco Grand Prix here:

http://goarticles.com/article/The-Amazing-Monaco-Grand-Prix/7474298/

Monday 4 March 2013

Stunning Fireplaces

It is no surprise that many people wish to have a fireplace in their home. A fireplace is a stylish addition to any room and is much more attractive and elegant than a simple radiator. They are also highly decorative and provide a focal point to the room, drawing the attention of any guests to the home.

There are still wood burning fireplaces available, though most modern fireplaces run on gas or electricity. There are two different types of wood burning fireplace: radiant and circling. Radiant fireplaces are clean faced and may be covered by a finishing material while circling fireplaces posses louvres and are more energy efficient, though they cannot be covered by finishing material.

Meanwhile, there are three different types of gas burning fireplaces: B-vent, direct vent and vent free. B-vent fireplaces possess a small upward-facing gas vent which emit through the roof. Direct vent fireplaces posses a larger vent and can be vented either upward through the roof or horizontally through a wall depending on personal preference. Vent free fireplaces, as the name suggests, have no vents, instead burning the air present in the room with any heat produced remaining in the room. The most energy efficient of the three types is the direct vent fireplace. However, this type produces a lot of heat meaning it is generally unsuitable for smaller rooms.

Electric fireplaces work entirely by electricity and do not produce an actual flame. Instead, an artificial flame is simulated using lights, giving the look of a wood or gas burning fire. This means that one can achieve the same stylish look of a fireplace without the danger of a flame. Also, electric fireplaces are more ecologically friendly.

Modern fireplaces are generally more popular than traditional log burning fires. Such modernisations include fireplace inserts which are fireproof boxes with a glass front that insert into the fireplace and minimise heat loss. These are better for the environment and are more cost effective making them a preferred choice. Also, they may run on either electricity, gas wood or coal and are very energy efficient.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7c6bjQVwN9Q


There are a number of different materials to choose from in the construction of your fireplace. For the fireplace itself, it may be constructed using masonry, being built by hand using stone or brick, or it may be manufactured in advance using sheet metal. Also, for the mantel surrounding the fireplace, the main decorative feature of the piece, there are several suitable materials which can be used to make the final product look more attractive. Marble is particularly popular but traditional carved wood and stone may also be used. It is entirely down to personal preference.

You can read another fireplace article at the link below:

http://fivethingstoknow.blogspot.com.es/2013/03/buying-fireplace.html