Engineering Commons^™

Minimizing Transportation Cost With Computerized Routing, James K. Byers, Kaye Grau

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

A computer model has been developed to assist in the routing of transportation vehicles. The model is being used to design some of the bus routes for schools and delivery routes for companies. The results of two applications are presented.

An Analysis Of Optimum Loading Conditions For P-N Junction Solar Cells, R. C. Durbin, J. A. Counsil

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

An analysis of the voltage-current characteristics of a p-n junction solar cell yields an expression for the load resistance at which maximum power transfer occurs. Variations in the parameters which affect the maximum power transfer point are discussed. A means of matching the load to the internal solar cell resistance is explained. Application of the matching system to Electrolysis Cells is discussed.

Rail Transportation Systems That Help Us Meet Our Energy Requirements, Alvin J. Hurt Jr.

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

In direct relation with Economics of Energy, Energy and Power Systems, and Energy Management is transportation of potential energy. Within the scope of the United States energy movement, the railroads play and will continue to play a vital role, since coal is our major energy source for the present as well as for the future.

The only way these huge amounts of coal can be moved over our railroad network is through the establishment of a "System's Approach to transportation and handling of bulk material.

This paper will discuss these existing systems as well as expected improvements.

Application Of Special Fluidized Bed Techniques To Coal Gasification, Gary Kent Patterson

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

The properties of fluidized beds can be drastically altered by the insertion of various types of internal structures. These include screens of all types and orientations, baffles both horizontal and vertical, and heat transfer surfaces. Experimental studies of certain of these internals have been carried out at UMR with the aim of improving the quality of the fluid bed. By improved quality is usually meant smoother, better controlled fluidization, minimized slugging, improved gas-solid contacting, increased or smoothed heat or electrical conduction, and control of the solids movement pattern.

What has been learned at UMR, particularly with difficult to fluidize materials, …

Computer Aided Design Of A Continuous Duty Energy System, Andrew H. P. Swift Jr.

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

In many areas of the United States, the average monthly solar and wind energy density profiles complement each other, which suggests utilization of a power system that employs both solar and wind energy. This paper addresses the problem of identifying these areas from weather data, developing a computer-aided method for the design of such combined solar and wind systems, and examines the economics of combined systems as compared to solar or wind only systems.

The Tradeoffs Between Energy Conversion Stages, Environmental Effects, And Technical Efficiency, Angelos Pagoulatos

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

From analyzing the physical constraints in managing exhaustible and nonrenewable energy resources it follows that decisions concerning how far to convert a given energy resource should be made within an economic framework. The tradeoffs between conversion stages, environmental effects, technical efficiency and uses satisfied by energy resources are then determined. In light of the direct and opportunity costs stemming from increased conversion stages, the intertemporal allocative decisions for exhaustible and nonrenewable energy resources are derived.

Coal Chemistry: Aspects Of Analysis, Structure, Reactions, Conversion, And Byproducts, Stanley E. Manahan

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

An understanding of the chemistry of coal is essential for the most efficient and environmentally acceptable utilization of this important energy resource.. This is particularly true where coal conversion processes are involved. Far from being a simple carbonaceous rock, coal is a complex and variable chemical system. This paper outlines the basic principles of coal chemistry which can be helpful to geologists, engineers, chemists, and others involved with the utilization of coal.

The Demand And Supply Of World Petroleum And Its Consequences For Agricultural Economic Development, Amalia Vellianitis-Fidas

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

The concerns related to the increase cost of petroleum in 1974 and 1975 centered around the enormous transfer of funds needed to pay for petroleum imports by most countries. Although this transfer is successfully taking place in the developed countries, it is taking place with serious long run external financial consequences for the less developed countries. In addition, these countries' continued agricultural development will probably depend on finding new paths to agricultural efficiency that are not as dependent on high-priced fuels.

Remote Sensing As A Tool In Assessing The Impact Of Topographical Alterations On The Microclimate, R. A. Sutherland, J. F. Bartholic

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

Results and analyses of remotely sensed data taken from a NASA aircraft are reported. The study uses continuous data taken in the 8-14ym region of the infrared spectrum which is directly related to surface temperature. The analysis is concentrated on the micrometeorological effects of lakes and hills during near freezing conditions. The impetus for the study is an economic one since proper selection of a site for certain freeze susceptible crops, such as citrus, can result in huge savings of energy and resources.

The Status Of And Need For New Coal Gasification Technology, Jimmie R. Bowden

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

Movement toward a domestic coal-based energy policy has been barely perceptible since the Arab oil embargo of 1973-4. Rapidly declining supplies of natural gas for small businesses and residential uses can be supplemented by coal gasification or replacement of gas by coal as a power generating fuel. At this time it probably is the better choice to use coal to generate power instead of gas. Second generation coal gasification processes under development with ERDA financial help will not change this balance in the next 10 years if at all.

Technoeconomic Aspects Of Photovoltaic Electric Power Systems (Peps), Jerry O. Bradley, Dennis R. Costello

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

The economic feasibility of central photovoltaic power plants is investigated from the perspective of an electric power utility company. The maximum acceptable price of the system is established, as a function of conventional fuel costs. Factors which would enhance the economic attractiveness of the system are analyzed. These include: increases in conventional fuel costs, decreases in photovoltaic system costs and subsidies to attract utility companies

Energy Crisis And Food Crisis: The Role Of U.S. Agriculture, Dan Dvoskin, Earl O. Heady

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

An interregional linear programming model of U.S. agricultural production is used to analyze the economic ramifications of high energy prices and high agricultural exports by 1985. The study explains some of the changes that can be expected to take place if energy prices were to reach a level twice as high as 1974 energy prices. It also examines the response of agriculture to increased agricultural exports and the role of agriculture in the U.S. foreign trade.

Manpower Programs For Engineers And Technologists In Future Energy Systems, Burns E. Hegler

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

Technically competent personnel are required for the success of future energy programs. To determine this country's educational ability to provide such personnel, a study has been made of the present status and future plans for their education and training. The plans of energy-related governmental, educational, and other organizations have been reviewed, and the uncertainty of objectives, alternative goals, and problems of implementation have been considered. Although the results point to some problem areas, they indicate that the country's educational institutions can provide the manpower for future energy systems once the goals are established. Some conclusions and general recommendations are proposed.

Training Programs For Energy Management In Developing Countries, J. Byron Nelson, Burns E. Hegler, J. Derald Morgan

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

This paper discusses some of the general inter-related energy, management, and economic problems in developing countries as well as a common project methodology that can be used to formulate and implement development strategies according to the needs of any particular country. Because the development of human resources, especially managerial skills, is critically needed, the characteristics of managers in developing countries, the problems they face, and their training needs are discussed. Finally an example of a specific training program is outlined.

Human Resources In Electrical Energy Conservation, Tom Day

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

With America's increasing inability to produce, secure and conserve its own energy resources, many social and technical changes will have to take place in order to shift the tide of events from an increasing dependence upon foreign imports of energy stocks. The first change which must take place is within us: To be aware of the need and impetus to conserve energy of all forms so that we may buy time in which to properly assess where we are going, how we are going to achieve energy independence and once we get there, how it will be managed. Electrical energy …

The Energy Dilemma Of Puerto Rico, Juan A. Bonnet Jr., Fernando L. Perez

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

The energy problems of the island of Puerto Rico are discussed in this paper. The conflict between the need to increase the industrial activity and the need to reduce the almost complete dependency on imported fuel oil is analyzed. Conservation measures and activities to promote the development of our alternate energy sources are discussed. The case of PuertoJlico presents what can happen to a country that depends almost exclusively in foreign oil for its energy production.

Energy Status In Puerto Rico: An Assessment Of The Petroleum Situation, Juan J. Rigau

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

This paper covers selected aspects of the energy status in Puerto Rico, with particular consideration to the relation between energy and economic development. A historical perspective of the development of the petroleum-petrochemical sector is given with consideration to policy aspects and current efforts to reinstate past comparative advantages with the Gulf Coast.

On The Need For A National Energy Policy, Robert A. Weatherup, Roy G. Weatherup

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

This article is primarily about the energy shortage and possible ways of dealing with it. The article started out to be a technical article for a scientific or engineering journal. However, as time went along and as the article developed, it became obvious that there is a need for a broad, accurate, "big picture" discussion of our energy problem in a form which includes legal and political considerations.

Forecasting As An Aid To Establishing A National Energy Policy, Yildirim Omurtag, Thomas J. Murray

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

This paper points out the importance of obtaining accurate estimates of short and long range energy needs for effective planning. Among the forecasting methods discussed are time series analysis, causal methods, and qualitative methods. Each method is further classified according to its forms and analyzed with respect to its applicability to energy related quantities. Included among the qualitative approaches is the Delphi method which is proposed for energy forecasting to aid in formulating a dynamic national energy policy. After a brief illustration of the essential features of the Delphi process, its possible use in formulating a national energy policy is …

When Being Morally Responsible Isn't Simple, Richard H. Bube

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

Human nature craves simple solutions for complex problans. The energy problan - like many other ethical problems - does not yield to simple solutions.

Household Recycling -- A Potential Community Service Opportunity For Concerned Engineers, James P. Bosscher

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

Initially, the multiple societal and environmental dividends of and imperatives for source-separation, household recycling for a concerned community are delineated and evaluated.

Next, three proven models for the establishment of a separation- based community recycling enterprise are described and contrasted. They are (a) The all-volunteer effort,(b)the non-profit corporation, and(c)the municipal operation.

Finally, a series of low-cost, "battle-tested" recycling devices constructed from "junk" and "off-the-shelf" components to aid in the implementation of a community presented and plans provided.

Innovative Wind Turbines, Richard E. Walters, Jerome B. Fanucci, John L. Loth, William Squire, Paul G. Migliore, Reazul Huq

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

This research is concerned with the initial investigation of two innovative concepts in wind energy conversion turbines. The first concept is a vortex concentrator, a device which creates a strong vortex in the ambient wind. The energy per unit area in the vortex region is much higher than for the undisturbed wind, allowing the energy to be more efficiently converted to more useful forms. The second concept is a vertical axis wind turbine which uses straight blades composed of airfoil shapes having high efficiency. This would be attained by using circulation controlled (c.c.) airfoils for the blades; these airfoils contain …

Solar Energy For Drying Shelled Corn And Hay, Mylo A. Hellickson, William H. Peterson, David P. Yexley

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

Investigations of selected types of low-cost, low-temperature rise solar collectors for drying shelled corn and chopped hay were performed in 1974 and 1975. The results indicate that bare plate, solar collectors can be an economically feasible means of providing supplemental heat for agricultural drying operations in South Dakota.

Application Of Solar Energy Collectors To Grain Drying, Gene C. Shove

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

Flat plate solar energy collectors utilizing air as the energy transfer medium can be constructed on the side walls of grain drying bins or incorporated into the walls and roofs of farm buildings adjacent to grain drying bins. Farm buildings provide large flat areas capable of capturing considerable solar energy with relatively simple collectors. Experimental solar grain drying installations now in use are providing design, construction, and operational information.

"Home Winterization For Poor Elderly" -- A Model Of Value Clarification In The Energy Crisis, Clayton L. Smith

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

The main intention of this paper will be to demonstrate a practical and proven model for helping those who suffer because of the energy crisis now. It will illustrate with the aid of audio—visuals what is being done for the poor elderly in this area to help them practice energy conservation. Last year, for example, nearly three hundred U.M.R. students directed by a V.I.S.T.A. worker (Volunteers in Service To America) winterized nearly fifty homes. Engineering students were able to demonstrate their skills and at the same experience an intergenerational ministry.

The poor elderly are those persons in our society today …

Current High-Level Waste Solidification Technology, W. F. Bonner, W. A. Ross

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

Technology has been developed in the U.S. and abroad for solidification of high-level waste from nuclear power production. Several processes have been demonstrated with actual radioactive waste and are now being prepared for use in the commercial nuclear industry. Conversion of the waste to a glass form is favored because of its high degree of nondispersibility and safety.

Utilization Of Fission Products In Thermal Systems, Harold D. Hollis, Gary S. Stewart

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

The Army is investigating the use of solidified fission product wastes as a heat source for thermal utility systems on military installations. A boiler system has been conceptually designed, thermal and radiological requirements are still being investigated. The application of nuclear waste as a heat source affects the entire scope of nuclear waste management offering both benefits and problems which must be examined thoroughly before final conclusions can be drawn.

De Facto Limits To Growth: Federal Environmental Policy And Domestic Energy Development In The United States, Richard H. K. Vietor

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

This paper argues that public environmental policy, since 1969, has imposed de facto limits on the growth of America's economy. A plethora of regulations, in response to widespread public resistance to industrial growth, has already circumscribed energy developments to the point of inertia. These national policies reflect changed public values, the implications of which should be acknowledged and evaluated by corporate and governmental energy planners and by the energy consumer as well.

Nuclear Safeguards, Jay O. Hunze

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

Nuclear safeguards Is an Important Issue which bears on the potential usage of nuclear energy as a viable electric power source and an understanding of the Issues and problems Is necessary to resolve this Issue. ERDA has a comprehensive and coordinated program directed toward providing the necessary base, both informational and hardware related, to resolve these issues.

The National Waste Terminal Storage Program, C. D. Zerby

UMR-MEC Conference on Energy / UMR-DNR Conference on Energy

The National Waste Terminal Storage (NWTS) program has been established to provide facilities (federal repositories) in various deep geologic formations at multiple locations in the USA which will safely dispose of the commercial radioactive waste that must be delivered to a federal repository for terminal storage. This paper presents an overview of the NWTS program and describes the stepwise approach that is being taken in meeting the objective of the program.