Transient Start-up Research Articles

Start-Up and Steady-State Regimes Automatic Separation in Induction Motors by Means of Short-Time Statistics

Induction motors are widely used machines in a variety of applications as primary components for generating rotary motion. This is mainly due to their high efficiency, robustness, and ease of control. Despite their high robustness, these machines can experience failures throughout their lifespan due to various mechanical, electrical, and environmental factors. To prevent irreversible failures and all the implications and costs associated with breakdowns, various methodologies have been developed over the years. Many of these methodologies have focused on analyzing various physical quantities, either during start-up transients or during steady-state operations. This involves the use of specific techniques depending on the focus of the methodology (start-up transients or steady-state) to obtain optimal results. In this regard, it is of great importance to develop methods capable of separating and detecting the start-up transient of the motor from the steady state. This will enable the development of automatic diagnostic methodologies focused on the specific operating state of the motor. This paper proposes a methodology for the automatic detection of start-up transients in induction motors by using magnetic stray flux signals and processing by means of statistical indicators in time-sliding windows, the calculation of variances with a proposed method, and obtaining optimal values for the design parameters by using a Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The results obtained demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method for the start-up and steady-state regimes automatic separation, which is validated on a 0.746 kW induction motor supplied by a variable frequency drive (VFD).

Unsteadiness in vacuum ejector and their sources

This study investigates unsteadiness in the secondary chambers of a vacuum ejector during its transient startup phase. Experiments reveal unsteadiness at various frequencies across different nozzle pressure ratios. These frequencies are categorized as symmetric (in-phase) or asymmetric (counter-phase) through cross-spectral phase analysis. Dynamic mode decomposition, using time-resolved schlieren images, elucidates the corresponding flow structures and acoustic fields. The mode shapes display alternating density gradients along both the longitudinal and lateral axes, which explain the oscillatory behavior of the jet. These oscillations arise from instabilities in the jet's shear layer and acoustic disturbances due to the jet being confined within a duct. Using empirical relations, spectrogram analysis, time-resolved schlieren imaging, and classical wave theory, the sources of unsteadiness in the secondary chamber are identified as jet screech, its harmonics, and modes due to duct acoustics (symmetric and asymmetric). Additionally, the screech feedback loop in the vacuum ejector is found to be distinct from that in open jets, and the effect of screech on duct-mode acoustics is also observed.

Carbon-Monoxide Laser Absorption Spectroscopy Measurements over Ablating Graphite in a Shock Tunnel

Measurements of carbon monoxide (CO) during air–carbon ablation of graphite are performed in the Sandia Hypersonic Shock Tunnel. Resistive heating is used to bring graphite samples to wall temperatures (Tw=1250–1630 K) as measured by an imaging pyrometer. The heated models are subjected to a flow condition of H0=10.6 MJ/kg, Tr(∞)=630 K, P∞=300 Pa, and u∞=4240 m/s. Tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy measures CO temperature and concentration within the boundary layer at 50 kHz. Ablation product concentrations from experiments are presented as a function of time, including the transient startup of the tunnel. The measured CO concentration increases by approximately a factor of 2 as surface temperatures increase from 1250 to 1630 K. Finally, the CO concentration is observed to be lower than that predicted by several air–carbon ablation models, with the best agreement occurring at the higher surface temperature.

Rheo-optics of giant micelles: SALS patterns of cetyltrimethylammonium tosylate solutions in presence of sodium bromide

In this work, we present a systematic study based on Small-Angle Light Scattering (SALS) patterns of the simple shear flow response of semi-diluted solutions of cetyltrimethylammonium tosylate (CTAT; 5.5 wt.% - 0.12 M) in the presence of sodium bromide (NaBr) at different [NaBr]={0,0.12,0.19,0.25,0.3} M concentrations. We evidence a relationship between rheological and light scattering data that reveals a transition into a fast-breaking regime in the dynamics of wormlike micelles formed by the CTAT/NaBr system (Macías et al., 2011; Fierro et al., 2021). This transition into a micellar fast-breaking regime with salt addition ([NaBr]≥0) appears marked by the following features: (i) a decrease in the relaxation time of the material λ0, accompanied by (ii) a decrease of the viscosity level at low shear rates η0 (Macías et al., 2011; Fierro et al., 2021; Schubert et al., 2003; Alkschbirs et al., 2015; Bandyopadhyay et al., 2003). With these, (iii) the formation of butterfly-like patterns is recorded originating from concentration fluctuations, evolution that is accompanied by: (iv) shear banding in the form of non-monotonic flow curves and (v) slow oscillatory transient responses in start-up flow tests captured theoretically with the Bautista–Manero–Puig (BMP) model. In addition, the Cox–Merz rule is fulfilled at molar salt-to-surfactant ratios of R≥1.5. This results in shorter structure-recovery time-scales than the characteristic-time of the flow (Macías et al., 2011; Fierro et al., 2021; Manero et al., 2002). In the case of the elastic modulus G0, the variation was small, which suggests a transition from an entangled to a multiconnected network, as suggested by Kadoma & van Egmond (1997), Kadoma et al. (1997) and Fierro et al. (2021). From a theoretical perspective, we provide predictions for the shear–stress and the first normal-stress growth coefficients in transient start-up simple shear flow using the BMP model. Here, banding R=1.5 solutions display overshot responses at relatively high shear rates (γ̇=10−30s−1), in-line with experimental findings on the start-up flow of wormlike micellar solutions (Soltero et al., 1999; Lerouge et al., 2004; Hu & Lips 2005; Pipe et al., 2010; Mohammadigoushki et al., 2019). Our results are consistent with those reported in other investigations (Macías et al., 2011; Fierro et al., 2021; Schubert et al., 2003; Alkschbirs et al., 2015; Bandyopadhyay et al., 2003; Kadoma et al., 1997; Soltero et al., 1999; Lerouge et al., 2004; Hu & Lips 2005; López-Barrón et al., 2014) and reveal the influence of the Br−-ion used on the mechanical and optical response of the CTAT-NaBr system.

Influence of mass conservation cavitation boundary on transient performance of water-lubricated bearings

Given the current research gap regarding cavitation phenomena and startup conditions in water-lubricated bearings (WLBs), this study offers an innovative approach by integrating the mass conservation boundary condition proposed by Jakobsson, Floberg, and Olsson (known as the JFO boundary condition) with a transient mixed lubrication model of WLBs. It also considers the impact of elastic deformation and surface roughness peaks, thus establishing a transient startup model of WLBs that incorporates the cavitation effect. Furthermore, the dynamic behaviors of this boundary condition are contrasted with the commonly used Reynolds boundary condition during the startup process of the bearings, as well as under eccentric and step load impacts. The findings demonstrate that the JFO boundary condition, accounting for cavitation effects, significantly influences the transient performance of WLBs. The presence of a cavitation region diminishes the damping of the bearing system following step load impacts, leading to increased overshoot and adjustment time while weakening the system's self-adjusting ability against step loads. This study offers valuable insights for theoretical analysis of ship propulsion systems operating under complex conditions.

Parametric Sensitivity Analysis of Stability Margins of Holos-Quad Microreactor

An analysis of the stability margins of the innovative Holos-Quad microreactor design is presented. This high-temeprature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) system is designed to operate fully autonomously with passive safety mechanisms. Therefore, the inherent stability of the reactor is of great importance. Using a point-reactor model, which couples point kinetics to thermal-hydraulic heat balance equations and includes reactivity feedback effects of the fuel and moderator temperatures, the closed-loop transfer function of the reactor is derived. Applying the approach of linear systems and control theory, both the gain and phase margins of the Holos-Quad design are obtained. The analysis demonstrates that the design is stable, with an infinite gain margin and a finite phase margin. A parametric uncertainty quantification study is also performed using a total Monte Carlo approach. The stability of the reactor for different power levels, such as during reactor startup or load-following transients, is also explored. Finally, two sensitivity analysis methods are applied, namely, multiple regression (deriving standardized regression coefficients) and variance-based sensitivity analysis (known as the Sobol method), to study the contribution of each of the parameters to the stability margins’ uncertainty. This analysis improves our understanding of the role of each of the parameters in the stability of the reactor.

CFD investigation on start-up transient of HPR1000 secondary side passive residual heat removal heat exchanger

In advanced pressurized water reactor HPR1000, the secondary side passive residual heat removal heat exchanger (SPRS HX) is a crucial component. It removes the decay heat using boiling and convection heat transfer in the event of accidents. The robust functioning of the SPRS HX significantly influences overall reactor safety. To investigate the thermal hydraulic attributes of SPRS HX, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is used in this study. The tube region is simulated using the porous media method (PMM). To model the two-phase flow in the tank, the drift flux model (DFM) is employed. The assessment of heat transfer rate from the primary to the secondary sides is conducted by empirical correlations. The governing equations are addressed through the utilization of FLUENT. Specifically, the momentum and energy equations are augmented with additional source terms that account for flow resistance and heat transfer in the tube region. These modifications are enacted through User Defined Functions (UDF). Three-dimensional profiles of the void fraction, fluid temperature and velocity are acquired, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of the heat transfer attributes of tube region.

Buildup of different emission regimes in a nonlinear polarization rotation modelocked all-fiber laser

We investigated experimentally and theoretically the buildup of light pulses in an erbium-doped sub-MHz all-fiber laser modelocked by nonlinear polarization rotation. We were able to study the buildup of two different emission regimes: standard solitons and noise-like pulses. In each case, we were able to determine the round-trips required to achieve a stable emission state. Temporal traces and optical spectra of single pulses were measured along the start-up transient of the laser. The experimental results were also confirmed by numerical simulations. Under the specific conditions of this laser, the soliton regime takes about 400 round-trips to reach single-pulse emission. In the noise-like pulse regime, it takes only 20 round-trips for the characteristics of noise-like pulses to show up; although a more steady-state emission is reached also at about 400 round-trips.

Investigation on the flow and induced-noise mechanism during the transient start-up process of a mixed-flow pump

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the noise-inducing characteristics during the start-up process of a mixed-flow pump and the impact of different start-up schemes on pump noise.Design/methodology/approachThis study conducted numerical simulations on the mixed-flow pump under different start-up schemes and investigated the flow characteristics and noise distribution under these schemes.FindingsThe results reveal that the dipole noise is mainly caused by pressure fluctuations, while the quadrupole noise is mainly generated by the generation, development and breakdown of vortices. Additionally, the noise evolution characteristics during the start-up process of the mixed-flow pump can be divided into the initial stage, stable growth stage, impulse stage and stable operation stage.Originality/valueThe findings of this study can provide a theoretical basis for the selection of start-up schemes for mixed-flow pumps, reducing flow noise and improving the operational stability of mixed-flow pumps.

System code validation in periodic two-phase flow from low-pressure oscillations

Low-pressure two-phase flow instabilities can potentially challenge start-up transients of water-cooled nuclear reactors. Predicting oscillations caused by flow instability is therefore paramount to reactor safety. While many thermal hydraulics system codes are developed as general-purpose tools, their performance is not guaranteed outside their optimized application ranges. The current study therefore performs validations of two thermal hydraulics system analysis codes, the Adaptive SYStem Thermal-hydraulics Version 3 (ASYST VER3) and Reactor Excursion and Leak Analysis Program MOD3.3 (RELAP5/MOD3.3), in reproducing oscillatory two-phase flow induced by low-pressure flashing instability. Benchmark conditions are selected from a novel dataset resolving void fraction with radial resolution and quantifying periodic behavior with ensemble averaging. Focusing on the prediction of transient two-phase phenomena rather than the determination of stability, validations are conducted by simulating a single channel under prescribed periodic boundary conditions. ASYST exhibits a systematic underprediction of void fraction in an adiabatic chimney downstream of a heated section. The prominent causal discrepancy is identified as a lost travelling void wave due to overpredicted condensation. RELAP5 noticeably overpredicts subcooled boiling and underpredicts flashing, which is consistent with existing validations against steady-state separate-effect tests under low pressure. This degraded code performance also suggests that in low-pressure transients prone to flashing instability, the confidence in RELAP5 derived from existing validations against integral-effect tests shall be carefully limited to validated capabilities in integral systems. In general, the current study fills the previous gap of knowledge about the performance of ASYST and RELAP5 in predicting detailed transient two-phase phenomena in low-pressure flashing-induced oscillations. The identified code defects reveal future directions for code improvements eventually towards reliable application of ASYST and RELAP5 under low pressure beyond their original calibration.

Switched max-plus linear-dual inequalities: cycle time analysis and applications

AbstractP-time event graphs are discrete event systems suitable for modeling processes in which tasks must be executed in predefined time windows. Their dynamics can be represented by max-plus linear-dual inequalities (LDIs), i.e., systems of linear dynamical inequalities in the primal and dual operations of the max-plus algebra. We define a new class of models called switched LDIs (SLDIs), which allow to switch between different modes of operation, each corresponding to a set of LDIs, according to a sequence of modes called schedule. In this paper, we focus on the analysis of SLDIs when the considered schedule is fixed and either periodic or intermittently periodic. We show that SLDIs can model a wide range of applications including single-robot multi-product processing networks, in which every product has different processing requirements and corresponds to a specific mode of operation. Based on the analysis of SLDIs, we propose algorithms to compute: i. minimum and maximum cycle times for these processes, improving the time complexity of other existing approaches; ii. a complete trajectory of the robot including start-up and shut-down transients.

Research on a soft-start method for LCC-LCC compensated bidirectional wireless power transfer system

The increased popularity of electric vehicles and the pursuit of user convenience makes bidirectional wireless power transfer (BWPT) an attractive technology for charging batteries. To improve the transmission efficiency of BWPT and limit the external radiated magnetic field, it is necessary to ensure the zero-voltage switching (ZVS) operation of the converter on the transmitter-side and limit the transient start-up current of the inverter when the system is working. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a soft-start modulation strategy based on an H-bridge inverter on the transmitter-side. First, the circular characteristics of dual LCC compensation topology are analysed based on an equivalent circuit. Secondly, according to the characteristics of the input impedance angle and current of the transmitter-side, a soft-start control method combining frequency and phase shift control is proposed. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed soft-start modulation strategy is verified on a prototype.

PARAMETRIC OPTIMIZATION OF FREQUENCY-CONTROLLED START-UP OF DYNAMIC SYSTEM "TROLLEY-LOAD" OF TOWER CRANE TROLLEY MOVEMENT MECHANISM

In the scientific article, a scientific and applied problem is solved, which allows to minimize the dynamic and energy parameters of the frequency-controlled drive of the dynamic "cart-load" system of the tower crane flight change mechanism during the transient start-up mode. To solve this problem, the existing mathematical model of the change in the departure of the load was used, which was supplemented by a mathematical model of the motion of an asynchronous electric drive in time. The parameters for setting the frequency-controlled drive are used: the duration of the increase in the frequency of the supply voltage, the initial supply voltage of the electric motor and the type of characteristic of the increase, up to the nominal value, of the frequency of the supply voltage. The maximum values of the torque in the elastic coupling, the effort in the traction rope and the power in the electric drive were used as optimization criteria. Using the modified RING-ROT-PSO optimization method, the rational values of the given parameters and the type of characteristic are established, in which the minimization of the studied criteria is observed. A comparative analysis of discrepancies when varying different types of characteristics was performed, which proved the adequacy of the performed parametric optimization. Parametric optimization of the frequency-controlled electric drive was carried out, which made it possible to minimize the amount of undesirable dynamic (torque in the elastic coupling and force in the traction rope of the truck drive) and energy (power in the drive) characteristics of the dynamic "cart-load" system of the mechanism for changing the departure of the tower crane. A modified method of swarm particles (RING-ROT-PSO) was used for optimization. It was established that the minimum values of dynamic criteria when using optimal characteristics (linear and 2S-shaped) in the range of 6.9...27.9% are smaller than when using non-optimal (U-shaped and S-shaped) characteristics. The minimum value of the energy criterion when using a U-shaped characteristic is 30.4% less than when using an S-shaped characteristic. Therefore, in order to minimize the amount of unwanted dynamic indicators during the frequency-controlled start of the dynamic system "cart-load" of the departure change mechanism, it is desirable to use linear and 2S-like characteristics, and to minimize the amount of unwanted energy indicator, U-shaped. At the same time, it is also necessary to rationally set parameters t1 and U0.

Analysis of Internal Flow Characteristics of the Bearingless Direct-Drive Centrifugal Pump System during Transient Start-Up

Traditional shaft-sealed centrifugal pumps exhibit problems, such as liquid leakage and reduced efficiency, due to mechanical seal failures. To address the issue, the bearingless direct-drive centrifugal pump system (BDDCPS) has been designed with bearingless motor technology. This may cause a new issue of rotor eccentricity displacement, which can lead to a reduction in pump performance. Compared to a stable state, the changes in characteristics, such as flow rate, head, and pressure, during the transient start-up process are more severe, increasing the likelihood of system failure and requiring greater attention. In order to ensure safety and reliable operation during the transient start-up process, this paper investigates the working principle of the BDDCPS and analyzes transient start-up characteristics with three different start-up methods. The external characteristics, pressure field distribution, velocity field distribution, and hydraulic losses analysis of the pump are determined for comparative analysis. Finally, it is found that the linear acceleration start-up method is the most suitable and efficient for the BDDCPS.

Data-Driven-Based Vector Space Decomposition Modeling of Multiphase Induction Machines

For contemporary variable-speed electric drives, the accuracy of the machine's mathematical model is critical for optimal control performance. Basically, phase variables of multiphase machines are preferably decomposed into multiple orthogonal subspaces based on vector space decomposition (VSD). In the available literature, identifying the correlation between states governed by the dynamic equations and the parameter estimate of different subspaces of multiphase IM remains scarce, especially under unbalanced conditions, where the effect of secondary subspaces sounds influential. Most available literature has relied on simple RL circuit representation to model these secondary subspaces. To this end, this paper presents an effective data-driven-based space harmonic model for n-phase IMs using sparsity-promoting techniques and machine learning with nonlinear dynamical systems to discover the IM governing equations. Moreover, the proposed approach is computationally efficient, and it precisely identifies both the electrical and mechanical dynamics of all subspaces of an IM using a single transient startup run. Additionally, the derived model can be reformulated into the standard canonical form of the induction machine model to easily extract the parameters of all subspaces based on online measurements. Eventually, the proposed modeling approach is experimentally validated using a 1.5 Hp asymmetrical six-phase induction machine.

Analysis of coupled two-phase natural circulation loops by developing HEM and DFM based numerical models

The coupled two-phase natural circulation loop based passive systems find numerous applications, particularly in nuclear reactors where safety is paramount. However, the loops coupling, system conditions (specific to the reactor type), and inherent coupled loops feedback make their dynamics more complex. Hence, the models used should be capable of predicting such intricate coupled dynamics for precise forecasting of passive systems performance. With this objective, the present analyses deliberate the transients of such coupled two-phase loops linked to coupling configurations and operating conditions. Generalized two-phase models based on Homogeneous Equilibrium (HEM) and Drift Flux (DFM) with flashing, wall and fluid conduction, water-steam property formulation, etc., are developed and employed. Validation studies substantiate the prediction capability of these models for various cooler-heater orientations. Subsequently, predicted the start-up transients of vertically and horizontally coupled two-phase loops. The analyses revealed that coupling configurations, heater-cooler orientations and system conditions significantly influence the coupled loops. Further, the influences of various geometrical and operating parameters on the dynamics of coupled loops are investigated. It elucidated the differences in the parameter's effect on single-phase and two-phase coupled loops. The study also identified the vital parameters strongly influencing the coupled loops based on sensitivity analysis. The models and findings will be applied to evaluate the performance of coupled loop-based passive safety systems in nuclear reactors.

Numerical simulation on startup performance of thrust bearing under different acceleration scenarios

PurposeThis paper aims to study the startup performance of thrust bearing. The effects of acceleration scenarios, roughness, the area ratio of texture and texture depth on the transient startup performance of the thrust bearing were analyzed.Design/methodology/approachThe lubrication model is solved by the Reynolds equation with the mass-conservation boundary condition. The Greenwood and Tripp contact model is used to predict asperity contact load. The finite volume method is used to discretize the governing equations.FindingsBy studying the bearing performance with different acceleration functions, it was found that the higher the acceleration at the beginning of the startup, the faster the thrust bearing operates under the hydrodynamic lubrication regime in the start stage. It appears that the friction and contact time of asperity increase with the increasing roughness. The optimal area ratio of texture is within 30%–50%. The depth of texture ranging from 1 to 2 is the best.Originality/valueThis paper proposes a transient mixed lubrication analysis model of the thrust bearing. This model can be used to analyze the variations of tribological performance and lubrication regime of the thrust bearing under different acceleration scenarios.Peer reviewThe peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-09-2022-0268/

Experimental validation of model predictive control for solid oxide fuel cells

This paper presents implementation of a model predictive controller (MPC) for an experimental solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) system. The MPC controller is based on a gain-scheduled predictor with block-oriented structure that can capture important non-linear effects while still keeping the computational complexity low enough to meet real time control requirements. Experimental results show the MPC is able to regulate the SOFC cathode outlet temperature in the face of startup transients and input perturbations.

Effect of Co-existing gases on hydrogen permeation through a Pd82–Ag18/α-Al2O3 membrane during transient start-up

The work aimed to study the influence of co-existing gaseous mixture (H2–N2–CO–CO2) on hydrogen permeation through the counter-current flow of a Pd82–Ag18/α-Al2O3 membrane during transient start-up at 350 °C and atmospheric pressure. The membrane was operated for an 8-h. Its performance was measured in terms of hydrogen flux and recovery. The results were mapped on Sieverts-Fick's line and showed a slight membrane deactivation because of the presence of N2 and CO2 in the feed gas. The membrane deactivation became more profound when CO was a constituent. The effect of the co-existing gases on the hydrogen flux, in increasing order, was CO > CO2>N2. The co-existing gases, if present as a significant fraction, induces dilution, concentration polarization, and inhibition over the membrane surface, decreases the membrane performance in term of hydrogen recovery, time lag during transient start-up, and deactivation. It is recommended that the start-up might be run using equimolar H2–N2 mixture.

Experimental study on transient heat transfer performance of high temperature heat pipe under temperature feedback heating mode for micro nuclear reactor applications

The use of heat pipe-cooled micro nuclear-powered reactors (HPNRs) is crucial for shaping a low-carbon energy structure in the future. However, there is still a lack of experimental investigations on the transient heat transfer performance of high-temperature heat pipes (HTHPs) under the application of HPNRs. To address this issue, a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test platform has been developed to dynamically adjust the heating power of the heat pipe in real-time considering the temperature feedback (TF) effect. A horizontal test rig composed of a hex block, a sodium heat pipe, and six electric heaters has been built in the laboratory, and its thermal effectiveness has been evaluated at 60%. Subsequently, a transient HIL test under the TF heating mode has been conducted. The results show that the frozen start-up of the HTHP can be divided into five stages based on the power exponential growth rate and the state of the sodium vapor. During the transient start-up process, the worst axial heat transfer of the HP occurs when the front of the continuum vapor arrives at the adiabatic section, where the maximum thermal resistance is 500 K/W. Heat pipes with a high filling ratio can avoid integral overheating of the evaporator when occurring viscosity limit at the start-up period. Different time scales of neutron growth and thermal inertia cause alternating oscillation of power and temperature. This work provides valuable insights into the transient heat transfer behavior of the HTHP under the running process of the HPNR system.