Engineering Commons^™

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.

Future Growth Of Electric Power Demand In The South Atlantic Region, W. S. Chern, S. B. Caudill, B. D. Holcomb, W. W. Lin

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

A reliable forecast of electricity demand is essential for evaluating the future need for additional electricity generating capacity. Such an evaluation has important implications for public policies on the research and development of energy technologies, particularly those technologies related to electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and consumption. The purposes of this paper are to discuss a methodology used in forecasting electricity demand on a state basis and to present some preliminary demand forecasts, by sector, for the eight states in the South Atlantic region. Although the models presented here were developed for this region, we are currently developing similar models for …

Local Data And The Role Of Price In Energy Conservation, John J. Snyder

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

A preliminary report is presented on an econometric demand study of residential electricity in Colorado municipalities. The data base consists of fifteen years of annual data for each of 33 communities. This permits electricity price data to be taken directly from residential rate-schedules.

Developing An Experimental Oil Shale Mine, Stephen Utter

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

As part of their Energy Research and Development Program, the Bureau of Mines is developing an experimental oil shale mine facility in the central Piceance Creek Basin of northwestern Colorado.

This paper describes the results of their exploration program and hydrological investigation, the preliminary mine layout, and plans for the large-diameter bored shaft.

In Situ Leaching Of Uranium, Nicholas H. Tibbs

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

In situ leaching is a relatively new production method for uranium with several advantages. It will contribute an increasing portion of uranium supply as production turns to deposits inaccessible to conventional mining methods.

The Lag Effects Of Ownprice And Income On The Demand For Gasoline, Albert L. Danielsen, R. Carter Hill

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

There have been a number of studies attempting to determine income and price elasticities of demand for petroleum products. These studies vary greatly in terms of model specification and in the type of data used. The immediate purpose of this paper is to formally investigate the time distribution of the income and price variables on the demand for gasoline in the United States during the time period 1949-1973. Gasoline was selected because it is the principal refined petroleum product and is important in its own right. However, the more fundamental purpose is to contribute to the methodological literature and to …

A Functional Form Analysis Of The Demand For Refined Petroleum Products, Albert L. Danielsen, Mangi L. Agarwal

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

This study uses the functional form technique of Box and Cox to explore the demand for gasoline, distillate fuel oil, and residual fuel oil.

Nrc And The States -- Partnership In Regulation, Richard T. Kennedy

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

No abstract provided.

The Conservation Of Space And Energy Through Use Of The Subsurface By Planned Excavation And Conversion Of Mined Areas, Truman Stauffer Sr.

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

The use of subsurface space and especially the conversion of mined space into continuous tenure and occupance by uses secondary to the mining venture effects a direct conservation of energy in utilizing the natural rock matrix temperatures and an indirect conservation of energy in making dual use of a land resource. These savings are furthered when planning occurs at the time of the rock removal so as to leave the mined space easily adaptible to functional and continuous use as warehouses; offices, and factories.

A recent survey shows the continued expansion of underground development in the Kansas City area. This …

Information Externalities And The Structure Of The Petroleum Exploration Industry, Alan D. Rockwood

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

This paper analyzes the structure and performance of the U. S. petroleum exploration industry. Particular attention is focused upon potential economies of scale and spillover benefits in the production of information. Data on market shares, production inputs, and ownership of unproven oil prospects are considered in this study. The effects of institutional arrangements, such as joint ventures, are evaluated in light of the information externalities and policy actions directed toward them.

National Energy Outlook, Implications Domestic Resource Utilization And Capital Requirements, Wilbur M. Jenny

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

Capital requirements of the energy industries are drawn from: National Energy Outlook, 1976, by the Federal Energy Administration. A number of factors were considered in selecting assumptions relating to energy supply/demand; and particularly, energy prices.

A Re-Examination Of The Energy-Gnp Hypothesis, Alexander B. Holmes

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

This paper re-examines the hypothesis that there is a constant relationship between U.S. energy consumption and gross national product (GNP). If this ratio is constant then providing incentives for energy conservation may be an unacceptable policy since economic activity in some sectors of the economy may be adversely affected. Further, if the energy-GNP ratio has begun to rise over time, as some researchers have suggested, then expectations of the future demand for various energy resources must be revised accordingly. Berndt and Wood (1974) have shown that the energy-GNP ratio is consistent with standard economic theory only under highly restrictive conditions, …

Post World War Ii Crude Oil Prices: Collusive Or Competitive Pricing, Kern O. Kymn, Walter P. Page

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

The study presents a crude oil market model explaining the trend in crude oil prices, 1945-1976. The competitiveness of the market is assessed in terms of this model.

Energy Independence, Arthur T. Andersen

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

Nearly two years have passed since President Nixon first proposed that the U.S. become energy independent. -- This to be accomplished by the end of the 1970's. The proposal set in motion vast governmental efforts. As we all know, the "blueprint" for Project Independence was soon forthcoming. In this "blueprint" the proposed prospective date for attaining independence was moved forward to the mid-1980's. This perhaps was a subtle indication of the difficulty of moving toward energy independence however one might wish to define this concept.

Economic Consequences Of The Energy Policy And Conservation Act, A. Bradley Askin, Richard L. Farman

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

The Energy Policy and Conservation Act was signed into law during December 1976 after a year of debate between the Ford Administration and Congress over energy policy. The Act established a compromise 40 month phased decontrol program for domestic crude oil prices. This paper employs macroeconometric simulation techniques to assess the impacts that the decontrol pricing policy will have on energy sector demand and supply conditions and on the general economy through 1978.

Snupps Spare Parts Philosophy, Mel Sanazaro

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

SNUPPS, Standardized Nuclear Unit Power Plant offers an opportunity for development of a unique spare part philosophy.

Special Uses Of Silicone Elastomers In Nuclear Power Plant Systems, D. A. Sierawski

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

The utility of silicone elastomers as construction materials in nuclear power plants is discussed. Particular emphasis is placed on two products developed recently by Dow Corning; DOW CORNING® 3-6548 Silicone RTV Foam for fire resistant penetration sealing and DOW CORNING® Q3-6527 Silicone Dielectric Gel for neutron shielding. Both of these products are used at present in nuclear power plants and their use is growing.

Mhd Generators For Baseload Power Stations, L. E. Ring, G. W. Garrison

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

The expected continued requirement for power from coal-fired baseload plants indicates a need for an efficient, relatively pollution-free system capable of operating on high-sulfur coals. Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) power generation offers the possibility of meeting these requirements with cycle efficiencies above 50 percent. This paper outlines the basic arguments for the conmercial application of coal-fired MHD baseload plants and describes the MHD High Performance Demonstration Experiment to be conducted at the Arnold Engineering Development Center (AEDC) by ARO, Inc., contract operator for AEDC.

Superconducting Energy Storage Development For Electric Utility Systems, T. D. Turner, H. J. Boenig, W. V. Hassenzahl

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

High load factors are desirabe goals for all electric utilities to reduce the total power generation cost. Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage (SMES) technology has progressed to where it shows promise as an alternate energy storage method to pumped hydrostorage to improve electric utility load factors. Experiments at the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory indicate that a SMES system responds quickly (i.e. in milliseconds) to power system demand and has a high energy storage efficiency. The next generation superconductors suitable for larger SMES units are discussed, component and system test results are presented and some energy storage experiments of a 100-kJ coil …

John Doe's Wallet And Jane Doe's Purse Look At Hometown Recycling And Energy Conservation, Charles P. Tryon, Sharon S. Tryon

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

A national shift from the use of virgin raw materials to greater use of recycled raw materials could significantly reduce our nation's energy needs. Local governments are slowly but increasingly establishing solid waste recycling programs, but they are commonly operated as "add ons" to the existing solid waste disposal system rather than being an integral part of it. The result is both energy and monetary waste, and the taxpayers have to pick up the bill. A case study from Rolla, Missouri, quantifies the energy conservation and monetary costs and benefits of a coordinated solid waste disposal-recycling system.

The Role Of The Crbrp In Meeting The Nation's Energy Requirements, Donald R. Riley

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

For over two decades the United States has been conducting research and development on the breeder reactor concept - - - an advanced reactor that breeds or produces more nuclear fuel than it consumes. The Clinch River Breeder Reactor Plant (CRBRP) is the nation's first large scale breeder designed to demonstrate the feasibility of producing electricity for commercial consumption. This paper reports on the current status of the CRBRP and its important role in meeting the nation's energy requirements.

The Loss-Of-Fluid Test (Loft) Facility, G. D. Mcpherson

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

LOFT is a well instrumented scaled model of a commercial pressurized water reactor. It is designed to study the behavior of engineered safety systems such as emergency core cooling systems during reactor accident conditions. This paper describes LOFT, the current nonnuclear experiment series and the forthcaning nuclear experiments. Significant nonnuclear experimental results are reported.