Engineering Commons^™

Agricultural Crop Drying And Space Heating Using A Solar Energy Intensifier, M. A. Hellickson, W. H. Peterson, S. E. Saienga, J. L. Julson

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

A solar energy-intensifier-thermal energy storage system was developed and tested under actual climatic conditions in South Dakota. Performance characteristics of the system are presented for its use in drying shelled corn and for agricultural space heating. Comparisons between solar and conventional drying between solar supplemented and conventional heating are reported.

Laser Doppler Velocimetry Studies Of Early Turbulence, J. L. Zakin, C. C. Ni, R. J. Hansen, M. M. Reischman

Chemical and Biochemical Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Laser Doppler anemometry is employed to measure the mean velocity and turbulence intensity in the early turbulence regime of the flow of a dilute polymer solution through a small-diameter tube. (This regime is initiated at an onset Reynolds number in the subcritical range, above which the polymer additive increases drag, and continues through the transitional Reynolds number range, where a continuous transition to turbulent flow with reduced drag is observed.) When the onset flow rate for early turbulence is exceeded, the mean velocity profile becomes progressively flatter with increasing flow rate. That is, a gradual transition from a laminar profile …

Turbulence Structure In Drag Reducing Polymer Solutions, Gary Kent Patterson, Jack Chosnek, J. L. Zakin

Chemical and Biochemical Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Longitudinal turbulence intensifies measured by split-film anemometry in degraded polymer solutions in pipe flow peaked much farther from the wall than longitudinal turbulence intensities in a Newtonian oil at the same Reynolds numbers. The peak values were at about the same level for the degraded solutions as for the oil but were higher and nearer the wall for fresh polymer solutions. Radial turbulence intensities were lower for the polymer solutions at all locations under all conditions. Drag reduction for the polymer solutions ranged from 1 to 21% based on Newtonian fluid of equal viscosity. For the fresh solutions the Reynolds …

Synthesis Of Heat Exchange Networks By Mixed Integer Optimization, R. C. Kelahan, J. L. Gaddy

Chemical and Biochemical Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Process synthesis involves manipulation of the process arrangement, while studying the variables of each arrangement, to arrive at the optimal process. If each process arrangement is treated as a discrete variable, process synthesis becomes a mixed integer optimization problem. This paper examines the synthesis of heat exchanger networks using the adaptive random search procedure, which can be used to search continuous and discrete independent variables simultaneously. The means of handling the heat exchanger arrangement as a discrete variable is discussed, and the incorporation of various synthesis heuristics is presented. The results of synthesis of 2 x 2, 2 x 3, …

Optimization Of Methanol Process By Flowsheet Simulation, S. H. Ballman, J. L. Gaddy

Chemical and Biochemical Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Optimization of large complex chemical processes is a necessary step in economic design of these systems. Flowsheet simulation models afford an ideal mechanism for detailed optimization of these processes. The methanol process offers several interesting optimization variables (reformer temperature, pressure, and steam and carbon dioxide to hydrocarbon ratios; synthesis loop pressure, temperature, purge rate, and conversion) which require detailed models of the reaction kinetics. This paper presents the results of optimization of the intermediate pressure process using the PROPS model and the adaptive random search routine. The costs associated with performing such a detailed process optimization study are easily justified …

Direct Solution Of The Isothermal Gibbs‐Duhem Equation By An Iterative Method For Binary Systems, J. A. Martinez‐Ortiz, David B. Manley

Chemical and Biochemical Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

No abstract provided.

Potential-Selective Deposition Of Copper From Chloride Solutions Containing Iron, Ralph E. White, James A. Trainham, John Newman, Thomas W. Chapman

Faculty Publications

The hydrometallurgy of copper may involve leaching of the metal from its ore with an aqueous solution containing cupric and ferric chloride. The subsequent deposition of copper from such a process stream is modeled here in an idealized electrochemical cell with a rotating-disk electrode. The potential distribution and concentration profiles within the diffusion layer are predicted for given potential differences between the electrode and the solution. The cuprous ion, which is formed by the reduction of the complexed cupric ion at the electrode, is stabilized in the chloride solution and can react either at the electrode or with ferric species …

Theoretical And Experimental Investigation Of Oil Recovery By The Electrothermic Technique, Samy Abdel-Hakeem El-Feky

Doctoral Dissertations

"This work investigates the feasibility of increasing oil recovery from petroleum reservoirs by the electrothermic technique. A mathematical model was developed for the prediction of reservoir response to heating by alternating electric current flow through the oil-bearing formations. The mathematical model was programmed in FORTRAN for solution on the IBM 370/168. The model used the finite difference technique to represent the differential equations that describe the system, and the sets of difference equations were solved by the Strongly Implicit Procedure (SIP) and Successive Overrelaxation (SOR).

In order to verify the mathematical model, a set of experiments was conducted to determine …

Modeling Of A Fossil-Fired Power Plant For Real-Time Simulation, Robert Douglas Busch

Chemical and Biological Engineering ETDs

Computer simulation of complex physical systems can be a useful technique in analyzing the multitude of interactions occurring in such systems. Real-time modeling of power plants is particularly useful in operator training and engineering research programs. Towards this end, a small-scale simulator has been developed using a dedicated minicomputer. Major components of a drum-type fossil-fired power plant were modeled using first principle, physical equations, and then the component modules were interconnected to form the simulation package. Support routines were written to provide real-time operation, periodic data storage, continuous data display, interrupt capabilities, and manipulation of control variables. The package presently …

An Experimental Study Of Semi-Continuous Ph-Parametric Pumping With A Center Feed, John S. Dell'osso

Theses

Parametric pumping represents a new development in separation science. It has attracted considerable attention both because of its novelty and because it permits continuous operation in small equipment with very high separation factors. The basic principle of parametric pumping is to utilize the coupling of periodic changes in equilibrium conditions caused by periodic changes in some intensive variables (temperature, pH, electric field, etc.), and periodic changes in flow direction to separate the components of fluid which flows past a solid adsorbent. Applications of parametric pumping involving the separation of valuable materials such as proteins would be very attractive and profitable …

Water And Energy, Frank Ellis

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

Energy self-sufficiency or independence from foreign oil imports depends critically on the yet undeveloped domestic fossil fuel resources, particularly for the production of heat, which can be utilized in the conventional and technically feasible thermal energy cycles of steam-electric generators and prime movers, which can easily be replicated. An integral facet of the complex domestic energy development undertaking is the availability of water that may be required to convert the vast domestic coal and oil shale resources into usable energy forms. An orderly utilization of water resources must receive attention if sufficient development of fossil- fuel conversion energy systems is …

Over One Billion Tons Of Coal In 1985: Can The Railroad Industry Handle It?, Larry C. Peppers

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

Any evaluation of our country's resource potential must carefully consider the transport network and the constraints which it places upon future energy development and growth. The federal government has a vague goal of energy independence (or, at least, less energy dependence), but it has not developed a coherent energy plan—a critical element of which is energy transport. The paper analyzes the uncertain coal outlook facing the rail industry, translates these coal scenarios into alternative financial projections for the rail sector, and clarifies the most urgent federal decisions needed in the energy-transport policy matrix. The rail industry is being asked to …

A Total Present Worth Economic Comparison Of Coal And Nuclear Fuel Energy Alternatives, Dennis M. Tulenko, Phillip F. Ostwald, Klaus D. Timmerhaus

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

This paper utilizes the total present worth concept to make an economic comparison for a 500 MWe electrical power generating station operated either with Eastern U.S. coal, Western U.S. coal or nuclear fuel. Arguments are presented to support the use of this concept for comparing the economic desirability of various energy alternatives used for generating electrical power.

The Impact Of Solar Central Electric Technology On The Regulated Utility, Donald A. Murry

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

The generation of electricity by solar energy in the U.S. is moving from the design stage to the pilot plant stage. Some persons have argued that at least some of the base line technologies are competitors now or are approaching parity with other energy sources, at least when the social costs and benefits are considered. This paper evaluates briefly the institutional framework of the regulated electric utility, the proforma impact of a solar electric plant upon an operational utility. We conclude that under the present regulatory/institutional framework, the solar electric technology will be developed at a date that is slower …

Optimal Fuel Supply Control For Electrical Energy Systems -- A Real Time Computer Technique, J. Derald Morgan, Richard Thomas Smith

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

The techniques of linear-integer programming are applied to the problem of supplying coal to power plants. A heuristic technique for optimizing the supply of coal to power companies is created. The optimization minimizes the purchase, transportation, and demurrage costs of coal subject to power system operations, power plant demands, coal purchase supply, power plant coal handling operations, and transport options. A procedure for calculation and analysis of cost sensitivity of optimal solutions to input data perturbations is presented which utilizes the optimizing technique.

The nature of the constraint set developed allows for the inclusion of loading and unloading operations in …

A Method For Ascertaining The Effects Of The "Significant Deterioration Of Air Quality" Regulations On Energy Industries, James A. Crenshaw, Allan G. Pulsipher, Robert C. Shock

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

EPA has issued regulations to "prevent the significant deterioration" of air quality. Problems that states may encounter in implementing these regulations are described and an approach that states and utility systems can use to implement the prevention of significant deterioration regulations efficiently is given. The planning method can also be used to ascertain the economic effects of these regulations upon the energy industries in the state in question.

Household Demand Responsiveness To Peak Use Pricing: Implications Drawn From Experimental Studies Of Consumer Demand Behavior Of Both Humans And Animals, Raymond C. Battalio, John H. Kagel

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

The authors approach the problem of demand responsiveness to peak use pricing from the perspective of experimental economists working in the area of consumer demand behavior. Results from experiments involving both human and laboratory animal consumers are presented suggesting that wide classes of house-_ hold economic activities will be quite responsive to changes in peak use pricing but that the demand for space heating and cooling will be highly inelastic without major changes in capital stocks. The reasons for these differences are discussed along with suggestions of low cost technologies for achieving greater price responsiveness in space heating and cooling …

Economic Implications Of Alternative Property Rights Systems For Geothermal Resources, Thomas D. Crocker

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

A system of property claims in geothermal steam reservoirs is outlined that could cause the economically heat energy of the reservoir to be allocated among claimants and over time in a more efficient fashion. At most, the proposed scheme is second-best. It is nevertheless realistic.

On-Site Generation Of Electricity -- An Idea Whose Time Has Come, Thomas R. Casten

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

Generation of electricity, on-site, with recapture of waste heat can save many area concerns up to 50% on their total energy costs today and save up to 60% of the total fossil fuel presently used. The very favorable economics result from increased utility costs -- a phenomenon of the past three years. The efficient use of fossil fuel is a feature of on-site power generation. This article traces the history of "total energy" and describes how and where on-site generation of electricity makes sense.

Regional Impacts Of The Energy Crisis On Agricultural Production, 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 regional economic consequences of higher energy prices and a severe energy shortage in 1985.

The Realization Of An Educational Program For Improving Energy Efficiency In The Furniture Industry, Herbert M. Eckerlin, Albert S. Boyers

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

A new educational program in energy conservation has been developed by North Carolina State University for the furniture industry. This paper describes the development, implementation, and content of the program and presents some typical workshop problems applied to the furniture industry. Some measures of the effectiveness of this program are discussed and some important elements contributing to the success of the program are identified.

Net Energy Analysis Theoretical And Methodological Considerations, David A. Huetter

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

This paper takes a critical look at net energy analysis beginning with a summary of its major assumptions and objectives and an examination of the important theoretical and methodological difficulties encountered in this new discipline. An economic, rationale is developed for placing a positive value- on environmental services provided man by nature even when the supply of these services exceeds demand. The author concludes that the value weights developed by net energy analysis contain little information of use to decision makers and that the vitally needed insights of environmentalists, ecologists, energy analysts, and others can and should be integrated into …

Energy Conservation In Aeronautical Ground Testing, R. W. Hensel

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

Large aeronautical ground test facilities, particularly continuous flow wind tunnels and engine altitude test cells, are large users of electricity. Because of the correspondingly high absolute cost of energy, these facilities generally maintain continual programs to minimize both energy and power levels consistent with achievement of testing objectives. The recent sharp increases in kilowatt-hour costs (overall rates doubled within two years at the U. S. Air Force's Arnold Engineering Development Center, for example) have resulted in a proportional rise in efforts to effect further economies. The various methods available to reduce electricity costs fall in three categories: (1) methods related …

Design Of A Large Solar Heating System For A Campus Complex Of Buildings, John R. Schneider, Sherril F. Glover

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

The design program is presented describing the world's largest central solar heating system developed for the Saudi Arabian Government. Domestic hot water and building space heating is provided for a campus complex of fourteen buildings. Feasibility studies through the final design are discussed.

Prospecting And Developing Coal Reserves In The Western Interior Coal Region, Charles E. Robertson

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

Increased coal production in the Western Interior Coal Region is anticipated. Development of coal resources in the region is, however, beset by some serious problems including thin seams, high sulfur content and dissection by pre-glacial and contemporaneous stream channels. Problems frequently encountered in prospecting and developing coal resources in the region are discussed.

Solar Energy Utilization And Resource Recovery Application In Space Heating, Panos Kokoropoulos, Raghupathy Bollini

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

This paper describes a hybrid system consisting of solar flat plate collectors and resource recovery system which is being proposed for space heating of a moderate sized building. The procedure for calculating the size of the solar system is outlined. Methane produced from the university's wastewater treatment plant is used for supplementary heat for space heating and for waste reduction. The use of such a hybrid system results in the conservation of significant amounts of fossil fuels. Economics of the proposed system are also outlined.

A Solar Energy System For Domestic Hot Water, Thomas J. Mcnamara

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

To help reduce natural gas consumption and operating costs a domestic hot water heating solar energy system is to be retrofitted and integrated into the existing conventional mechanical systems. This installation would not only provide substantial fuel cost savings to the Museum, but it would also provide a means of showing and explaining the operation of an actual working solar energy system to the large number of daily visitors to the Museum. This report explains the design, operation and performance of that solar energy system.

Energy Conversion Efficiency Versus Energy Utilization Effectiveness, Yildirim Omurtag, Donald A. Cline

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

This paper provides a brief outline of thermodynamics of energy conversion and efficiency concepts to establish a basis for the following argument that energy conversion is essentially a technical problem to be solved within the constraints of available technological know-how, whereas energy use effectiveness is largely a management problem which requires a somewhat different approach. An attempt is made to show that significant economic contributions can be made by improved management of energy use within the existing technological boundaries.

Energy Use And Technological Progress, C. E. Moody Jr.

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

In conclusion, the evidence seems to be consistent with the hypotheses that energy is not an omitted variable in the value added production function, that energy use is associated with but not a prerequisite for productivity growth, that technological progress can be energy saving as well as energy using, and that increasing output measured as real GNP can be achieved with a less than proportionate increase in energy use.

Coal-Oil Slurries As A Device To Conserve Fuel Oil In Existing Industrial Furnaces, Lee Carter

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

Coal-oil slurries constitute a device for extending the supply of heavy fuel oil by admixing up to 40$ of ground coal. The resultant slurry can be pumped and burned in standard heavy fuel oil equipment. This paper deals with history, technology and the ERDA program for exploiting the coal-oil slurry idea. It offers a prognosis for program execution and final outcome.