Operating Conditions Research Articles

The transient thermomechanical behavior of solid oxide fuel cell during the operation condition variations

Solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is a promising energy conversion technology with high efficiency, low emission and fuel flexibility. In practical and dynamic operation, the thermal stress at the interface of different layers can cause cracks or even thermal mechanical failure. This study investigates the transient thermomechanical behavior of SOFC under changing operating conditions. A three-dimensional dynamical model is developed by considering the electrochemical reaction, electron and ion transport, gas diffusion, heat and momentum transfer, and thermal-mechanical interaction. When the operating conditions vary, the time it takes for the thermal stress to reach a steady state is consistent with the time required for heat transfer to stabilize. The electrolyte layer is subjected to the maximum gradient of thermal stress change after the voltage is switched. With an increase in the inlet gas temperature, the change in the cell temperature can be divided into two stages: a rapid rise and a slow rise. Appropriate prolongation of the temperature rise time is beneficial to the thermal stability of SOFC. The increase in inlet gas temperature changes the distribution trend of cell temperature and thermal stress, while the 50 % reduction in cathode and anode inlet velocity changes its magnitude.

Internal clock errors in synchrophasor ambient data: Effects, detection, and a posteriori estimation-based correction

Synchrophasor data from real world power systems are exposed to numerous adverse cyber-and-physical operating conditions that can negatively impact their fitness for use in PMU applications. Although the most significant impairments such as GPS loss, instrument transformer failure, data drop-off, etc., have been studied in the literature, there exist other more complex nuisances that impact PMU data quality. This is the case of differences in how clock synchronization, time disciplining, and phasor estimation is performed by different PMU vendors, which have important implications on the PMUs’ data fitness for use in PMU applications. In particular, ambient data applications, which have increasingly become a focus for tracking grid performance indicators, are extremely sensitive to periodic clock errors. Using synchrophasor and waveform data from Dominion Energy’s power system, this article provides an in-depth analysis of the effect of seemingly minor device clock errors on the measurement signals’ content. Finally, a method to distinguish clock errors from normal system dynamics and to correct them is proposed.

A novel static mixer for blending hydrogen into natural gas pipelines

A novel static mixer is designed specifically to blend hydrogen into natural gas pipelines, and its effectiveness is validated by numerical simulation method. Firstly, the structural model of the proposed static mixer model for hydrogen-methane blending is introduced, and the evaluation indicators are defined. Secondly, the computational fluid dynamic model for the mixing process is established based on the Large Eddy Simulation(LES) method, and the accuracy of the numerical results is validated against the experimental data of a benchmark gas mixing model. Subsequently, using LES, effects structural parameters (angle and height of trapezoidal baffle, number of mixing elements, and spacing and installation distance of mixing elements) and flow parameters (main flow velocity and hydrogen blending ratio) on the mixing homogeneity and pressure drop of the static mixer are investigated systematically to explore the optimal design and operational conditions. The numerical results showed that the static mixer can significantly improve the mixing efficiency of hydrogen and natural gas with acceptable pressure loss. In the range of flow conditions concerned, a best performance of mixing could be obtained by installing the mixer at a distance of 3D (D is the diameter of the natural gas pipeline) downstream the blending point, setting the spacing between mixing elements as 1D and employing four mixing elements. Finally, the underlying physics of mass transportation are analyzed based on the vortex structures generated by the mixer.

Influence of compression effect on the MEA structure and performance based on M−N–C electrocatalysts for PEMFC

The single-atom dispersed active sites and the thicker catalytic layer of metal-nitrogen-carbon (M-N-C) electrocatalysts based membrane electrode assembly (MEA) exhibit notable distinctions from Pt-based MEA, necessitating targeted optimization. This study systematically investigates the influence of compression on both structure and performance of the M-N-C electrocatalysts based MEA. Four compression ratios, ranging from 11.5% to 39.3%, were examined across diverse operational conditions. The variations in impedance across different electrochemical regions are observed, resulting from the superposition of distinct impedance components. It is found that the insufficient compression leads to higher porosity and the formation of cracks between catalytic layer and membrane, adversely impacting internal resistance and proton transport. Increasing compression first acts the catalytic layer, and then gradually acts on the interface, membrane and gas diffusion layer, thereby reducing internal resistance, charge transfer resistances, albeit at the expense of heightened mass transfer resistance. Among these factors, the influence of internal resistance affects significance to total performance. Furthermore, compression influenced mass transfer differently in various layers. For the catalyst layer, the effect was uniform and sustained, while for the gas diffusion layer, it initially remained constant and then experienced a sudden deterioration over a certain extent. Optimal MEA performance is achieved when the compression ratio attains 40 %, which 2.1 times higher than the low compression MEA. This finding emphasizes the necessity for higher compression on M-N-C electrocatalysts based MEA compared to Pt-based MEA.

PTFE as a Multifunctional Binder for High-Current-Density Oxygen Evolution.

Binder plays a crucial role in constructing high-performance electrodes for water electrolysis. While most research has been focused on advancing electrocatalysts, the application of binders in electrode design has yet to be fully explored. Herein, the in situ incorporation of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) as a multifunctional binder, which increases electrochemical active sites, enhances mass transfer, and strengthens the mechanical and chemical robustness of oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrodes, is reported. The NiFe-LDH@PTFE/NF electrode prepared by co-deposition of PTFE with NiFe-layered double hydroxide onto nickel foam demonstrates exceptional long-term stability with a minimal potential decay rate of 0.034mV h-1 at 500mA cm-2 for 1000 h. The alkaline water electrolyzer utilizing NiFe-LDH@PTFE/NF requires only 1.584V at 500mA cm-2 and sustains high energy efficiency over 1000 h under industrial operating conditions. This work opens a new path for stabilizing active sites to obtain durable electrodes for OER as well as other electrocatalytic systems.

Multi objective optimization using artificial neural network to maximize the power output of PEMFCs

ABSTRACT Designing a PEM fuel cell model is exceedingly challenging because of its multivariate in nature. Optimization is required to achieve highest operating condition. Neural Network Model is one of the possible methods to solve complex problems. The polarisation curve of a PEMFC (Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell) is investigated in this paper in relation to the effects of seven parameters, including temperature, relative humidity in the cathode, relative humidity in the anode, anode stoichiometry, cathode stoichiometry, partial pressure of H2, and partial pressure of O2, using an ANN (artificial neural network) model. Where model geometric parameters i.e. Channel width, Channel depth, Channel length, Rib width, Cell width, GDL thickness, CL thickness, Membrane thickness of PEMFC was constant. Initially single Objective Function (Output Power) is predicted. The research presented here makes predictions about a PEMFC stack's electrical performance under multiple operating conditions. Mathematical model was further verified using laboratory data. Co-efficient of Determination (R2), Mean Square Error (MSE), and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) was determined using the fuel cell stack voltage model and stack power model. The model results show the possibility of using ANN in the implementation of such models to predict the PEMFC system's steady-state behaviour.

Forecasting gasification sustainability through enhanced K-nearest neighbour models for hydrogen and nitrogen amount

Abstract This study pioneers a method for forecasting hydrogen and nitrogen quantities in gasification processes, which is crucial for transforming carbon-based materials into valuable gases with minimal environmental impact. It addresses the pressing need for precise and economical solutions in gasification by streamlining estimation procedures across various operational conditions. Anchored in historical data, the K-nearest neighbour’s (KNN) model forms the core of this method, adeptly capturing intricate relationships between input variables and gas production results. What sets this research apart is the integration of advanced optimization techniques, Beluga whale optimization (BWO), and Northern Goshawk Optimization (NGO), further refining the accuracy of the KNN model’s predictions. This work signifies a substantial stride in optimizing gasification processes, offering a pathway towards more efficient and sustainable conversion of carbon-based materials, showcasing the potential of data-driven sustainability in this domain, and ultimately diminishing the environmental impact of these operations. Results highlight the outstanding predictive performance of the KNNG model, achieving an impressive R 2 value of 0.995 and 0.994 during training. Notably, both the KNNG and KNBW models outperformed the basic KNN model in forecasting gasification outputs, underscoring the reliability and effectiveness of these optimized models in predicting these processes.

Resolvent Analysis for Subsonic Compressor With Impedance Boundary Condition Casing Treatment

Abstract A resolvent analysis framework for the axial compressor is established, and the impedance optimization is achieved based on the resolvent analysis framework for the impedance boundary condition casing treatment. This framework is derived by treating the nonlinearity in the perturbation equations as an unknown forcing, the linear relationship between wall impedance and energy gains is obtained. The validity of this framework is confirmed through experiments on rotating inlet distortion, which captures the most susceptible frequency for the stall points of the compressor. The resolvent analysis framework further confirms that the first-order circumferential mode exhibits the highest energy in the given cases. Subsequently, the proposed impedance optimization method is tested under throttling operating conditions, especially focusing on the first-order circumferential mode. The introduction of a favorable impedance boundary condition notably reduces energy gain within the low-order circumferential mode and in the range of the rotor rotating frequency, particularly in near-stall operating conditions. The energy suppression mechanism of the impedance boundary condition casing treatment is investigated, demonstrating that the impedance boundary condition, with an optimal impedance value, significantly suppresses perturbations compared to the case with the solid wall boundary condition. Lastly, a design method for the impedance boundary condition casing treatment is discussed, offering a reliable theoretical design tool for enhancing the stall margin of axial compressors.

Accurate modeling and safety evaluation of dented pipeline with internal pressure based on reverse modeling technique

ABSTRACT As a common form for pipeline geometric defects, dents can induce the local stress concentration of the pipeline, which would result in the debilitation of the bearing capacity and bring huge safety hazards. In this paper, the accurate surface profiles of dented pipeline are acquired based on the 3D scanning technology and deformation detection technology, respectively. Then, the dented pipeline models are constructed by the reverse modeling technique, and the stress distribution characteristics of the dented pipeline in the operation condition are simulated using ABAQUS. The maximum von Mises stresses of a dented pipeline obtained from two proposed modeling techniques are basically consistent. However, the deformation detection technology can effectively avoid the excavation work for buried pipelines. Therefore, the reverse modeling technique based on the deformation detection technology has strong feasibility in practical projects and significant application value in the safety assessment of submarine pipelines, where excavation work is impractical.

Locus Of Control and Job Satisfaction: A Comparative Study Between Male and Female Employees in It Sector Bangalore

The level of job satisfaction is one of the key pushing factors for improving employee productivity and efficiency in every organization. On the other hand job stress is pulling factor of job satisfaction, productivity and efficiency in the long run. Therefore, two are two extreme variables result into two opposite outcomes However, levels of job stress and job satisfaction varies as per the personalities of employees such as internal and external personalities and gender wise. The present study emphasized on the understanding the relationship between job stress, job satisfaction and work locus of control and variation between genders and type of locus of control among the 150 selected IT professionals in Bangalore. The outcome of the study evidence that, internal locus of control leads to higher job satisfaction of the employees in IT sector irrespective of gender variation and external locus of control causes lower job satisfaction. There is existence of negative correlation between job stress and external locus of control on job satisfaction. Besides, the study found insignificant variation in workplace stress, job satisfaction, and work locus of control. The study also observed high job satisfaction of the employees in IT sector with regarding to promotion, supervision, nature of work and support from colleagues and dissatisfaction regarding remuneration and operating conditions.

THIOL‐ENE COUPLING REACTION FOR FUNCTIONALIZATION OF NON‐ACTIVATED ALKENES: AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON THE CHEMISTRY OF THE METHYL OLEATE AMINATION

This work investigates the functionalization of molecules with non‐activated internal double bonds via thiol‐ene coupling (TEC) reaction. A comprehensive study of the reaction between cysteamine hydrochloride (CAHC) and methyl oleate (MO) was carried out. A series of reactions were conducted under different operating conditions in order to assess their effect on conversion and selectivity. Different conditions were considered like the type of atmospheres and solvents, a portionwise addition of CAHC, reagents concentrations, and excess of CAHC. Maximum conversion and selectivity were reached under inert atmosphere, diluted conditions, ethanol as solvent, and the addition of CAHC at the beginning of the reaction with a molar ratio of CAHC/MO of 3/1. This provides an approach for analyzing more complex reaction systems..

Assessing the Features of PV System’s Data and the Soiling Effects on PV System’s Performance Based on the Field Data

This paper assesses the features/characteristics of a photovoltaic system’s data, investigates the relationship between the soiling and solar panel performance, and leverages real-world data obtained from a solar site in Shams Solar Facility located at the German University of Technology in Oman. Through an experimental approach, different parameters were scrutinized to unravel the dynamics at play. Due to the lack of studies on how to assess the features of a PV System’s data, and in order to model the PV System’s data, extensive analyses were conducted based on a big dataset containing 36,851 observations of each parameter (environmental factors) of the study. In addition, diverse environmental factors, operational conditions, and the collected data were analyzed by various mathematical/statistical measures, and inferential statistical measures were applied to obtain accurate and significant results that explain the level of each parameter (environmental factors), and are developed to examine the features/characteristics and performance of PV Systems and reveal the influence of soiling accumulation on the energy output. The research findings do not only deepen the understanding of the features of PV Systems data and the impact of soiling on solar panels, but also underscore the significance of considering geographical and climatic variations. This research contributes significantly to advancing knowledge within the realm of solar energy systems and provides actionable insights for optimizing the performance and reliability of PV installations in real-world settings. The discussion, conclusions, limitations, and future directions have been discussed.

SEARCH FOR METHODS TO INCREASE THE SEDIMENTATION RATE OF THE UPPER FLOATING LAYER OF OIL SLUDGE PITS

Traditionally, oil sludge with a liquid-viscous consistency is separated into petroleum product, water and solid mechanical impurities. A large number of technological devices, including separators, centrifuges, hydrocyclones of various designs, have been developed to carry out the operation of interfacial separation of liquid-viscous oil sludge.On the territory of every oil refinery that has been in operation for decades, there are oil sludge ponds — natural settling ponds in which large quantities of oil waste accumulate.The problem of processing barn oil sludge in the oil production and refining industry has not yet been completely solved. This is due to the high stability of barn emulsions, the peculiarities of their composition and properties, which are constantly changing under the influence of temperature and various processes occurring in them.The article presents the results of research aimed at identifying the possibility of destruction of a persistent oil-water emulsion taken from the upper floating layer of an oil sludge pit and its preparation without changing the technological scheme and technological parameters.The results of laboratory studies on the destruction of oily liquid during static sedimentation are considered. Simulation of the oily liquid preparation process was carried out in compliance with the temperature and time conditions of operation, with the use of demulsifiers, by analogy with the process of oily liquid preparation, as at the unit. The results of the simulation showed that at the dosage of the demulsifiers used at the unit, even with an increase in the dosage and an increase in the settling time to 5 days, the oil-water emulsion did not collapse at 60 0C. Further studies were carried out by testing eight brands of demulsifiers at different dosages and elevated temperatures. Based on the results of the research and the conclusions made, a scheme for the preparation of oil-containing liquid at static sludge with the existing set of equipment at the unit is proposed.Further studies were carried out to increase the depth and sedimentation rate of the persistent oil-water emulsion.

Bridge damage location and quantification under the moving vehicle loads based on deep learning multi-objective regression

The extraction of damage-sensitive features based on deep learning for the vibration response caused by vehicle-bridge interaction (VBI) has become a mainstream method in damage identification. However, most studies remain at the stage of qualitative damage assessment, not achieving precise numerical quantification of damage. They also typically involve multiple frequent runs using only a single dedicated vehicle. In this study, utilizing a deep neural network designed for multi-objective regression tasks, a novel method for bridge damage localization and quantification is presented with a multi-objective regressor designed to create a direct mapping between the curve of bridge deflection in time domain and the damage information matrix. The final quantitative damage values are obtained through statistical analysis. The method is evaluated on a simulated data set generated from VBI simulation using various 3D heavy vehicle models. The results demonstrate that this method can accurately locate and quantify damage even with unseen vehicle load conditions, damage scenarios, and measurement noise. The structure and depth affect the effectiveness of extracting damage-sensitive features from time-domain deflection during training. The study shows potential for real-time damage identification under normal operating conditions of real bridges in the rapid development of intelligent transportation systems.

Efficient allocation of energy storage and renewable energy system for performance and reliability improvement of distribution system

This paper aims to investigate the impact of optimal planning of renewable energy systems and independent battery energy storage systems (BESS) on the performance and reliability of distribution systems (DS). A unique energy management scheme (EMS) controls the charging and discharging schedules of the BESS. The transit search optimization (TSO) algorithm determines the optimal allocation of wind turbine (WT) and solar photovoltaic (SPV) generator units, along with BESS units. The optimization focuses on improving the DS reliability in terms of energy supply, increasing the feeder security margin, and reducing apparent power loss. Multiple case studies are designed to study the efficacy of the problem outcomes and are validated using Bus 4 of the Roy Bollington Test System (RBTS). To obtain results that are close to actual operating conditions, the modelling process takes into account the time-varying load profile and the dynamic power outputs from the SPV and WT units. The findings show that the suggested method works well by enhancing the feeder security margin by a maximum of 11.25%, reducing expected energy not supplied (EENS) by 4.3%, and improving the power loss profile by 11.5%. In addition, the feeder upgrade deferral (FUD) years also show a maximum improvement of 20.8%.

Testing Algorithms for Controlling the Distributed Power Supply System of a Railway Signal Box

Trends in the use of renewable energy sources to power buildings do not bypass objects for which maintaining a power supply is critical. This also applies to railway signal boxes. The aim of the research work was to test the multisource power supply system for a railway signal box with power electronic converter systems and a DC bus, built as part of the research project. The assumption for powering the railway signal box building was to use renewable sources, energy storage devices, and a 3 kV DC traction network as the second required power supply grid. Both power grids were connected by power electronic converters, and the power values of the converters were set based on the calculated power balance values using the values measured at the system nodes and the set constraints. The tests primarily tested the response of the power supply system to changes in load power and power generated by the photovoltaic source, as well as the charge level of the energy storage devices. The correctness of the control algorithm’s operation was assessed based on the recorded power values in the power supply system nodes. The tests were carried out for 60 scenarios that covered all normal and emergency operating conditions. During the tests, delays in response to changes in the power supplied to the converters and the values of circular power flow between the power grid connections were recorded. The recorded delays ranged from 2 to about 50 s and the circular power flows did not exceed 1500 W. Based on the results of the tests, it was found necessary to improve the power measurement system in the power supply system nodes and to improve the quality of communication and the transmission time of measurement data transmission time.

DEVELOPMENT OF LEAK DETECTION METHODS FOR USE IN FIELD PIPELINE TRANSPORT

Today, most existing leak detection methods are effective only for stationary operating conditions of pipelines. During transient (dynamic) pumping modes, a significant decrease in the sensitivity of the methods occurs, or inoperability of leak detection systems (LDS) based on them is observed.Accordingly, for the operation of the LDS in the presence of transient processes in pipelines, it is necessary to use special approaches that take into account the features and interrelation of the monitored indicators of the dynamically changing pumping regime with each other. One solution to this problem is the use of a dynamic thermal-hydraulic model of the pipeline, which makes it possible to calculate pumping indicators at intermediate and boundary points of the pipeline at each moment in time.The article presents the developed digital model of a pipeline transporting single-phase flows, as a system of equations obtained from the laws of conservation of mass, momentum and energy. The model describes all significant processes and effects during the movement of the pumped flow through a pipeline and allows you to calculate the main characteristics of the flow, including finding the pressure and temperature distributions along the pipeline route.The method for detecting leaks from field pipelines operating under transient (dynamic) conditions is to compare the actual measured flow rate at the end point of the pipeline with the flow rate calculated using a dynamic model of this pipeline, into which the measured pumping indicators at the inlet of a real object are previously transferred. If there are significant deviations between the calculated pumping flow rate at the outlet of the pipeline in the model and the flow rate measured at the pipeline, a leak is concluded.In order to check the performance of the proposed solutions, modeling of leaking pipelines was carried out in specialized software at various flow rates, media viscosities and leak volumes. Based on the data obtained, a conclusion was made about the efficiency of the developed method.Thus, thanks to the proposed approach, it will be possible to promptly detect and eliminate leaks and withdrawals through unauthorized taps on field pipelines operating in unsteady mode, which in turn will significantly reduce operating costs associated with eliminating the consequences of failures.

INDUSTRIAL DESIGN OF HAZARDOUS PRODUCTION FACILITIES

The risk-oriented approach to industrial safety allows for the operation of hazardous production facilities in the cracks presence. There is a problem of assessing the critical size of cracks by non-destructive methods, which are currently not widely tested and standardized. Changing operating conditions and damage accumulation can transfer cracks into the category of developing cracks, and this can lead to catastrophic consequences. From this point of view, close proximity of objects containing explosive substances, as it is the case at processing plants, pumping stations, production platforms, poses a danger. Visualization of hazardous objects and their location areas warns the personnel about the need to comply with increased safety measures. This is aimed at using industrial design, which defines the principles of warning of hazardous objects by using color signs. A common trend in the coating usage is their multifunctionality. In this regard, the present research attempts to combine color warning signs with the possibility of their usage in composite coatings designed for corrosion protection, as well as showing the changes in temperature conditions of processes.

Unveiling the Interplay Between Silicon and Graphite in Composite Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries.

Si provides an effective approach to achieving high-energy batteries owing to its high energy density and abundance. However, the poor stability of Si requires buffering with graphite particles when used as anodes. Currently, commercial lithium-ion batteries with Si/graphite composite anodes can provide a high energy density and are expected to replace traditional graphite-based batteries. The different lithium storage properties of Si and graphite lead to different degrees of lithiation and chemical environments for this composite anode, which significantly affects the performance of batteries. Herein, the interplay between Si and graphite in mechanically mixed Si/graphite composite anodes is emphasized, which alters the lithiation sequence of the active materials and thus the cycling performance of the battery. Furthermore, performance optimization can be achieved by changing the intrinsic properties of the active materials and external operating conditions, which are summarized and explained in detail. The investigation of the interplay based on Si/graphite composite anodes lays the foundation for developing long-life and high-energy batteries. The abovementioned experimental methods provide logical guidance for future research on composite electrodes with multiple active materials.

Mechanical properties study of fiberglass reinforced flexible pipeline in marine applications

ABSTRACT A mechanical properties study of fibereglass reinforced flexible pipe (FGRFP) in marine applications is proposed based on the reinforced layer interface structure design, the anisotropic layer section mechanical performance test, and the structural strength analysis under the laying operation condition. Based on laboratory tests and referencing ASTM and DNV regulations, the technical design indexes of flexible marine pipe that meet strength requirements have been provided. Through tests, the maximum yield tension of FGRFP is 89.8kN, the ultimate curvature is 3.3 rad/m, the bending moment is 2312.2Nm, the torsion angle is 0.32 rad, and the torque is 2610.4Nm. Based on numerical simulation, static analysis can identify weak points in flexible pipelines. Especially, the feasibility of FGRFP structural section design was verified through dynamic analysis under the combined action of waves and currents. Finally, parameter sensitivity studies were conducted, including the effects of wave/flow direction, wave height, and period.