AndreaBozzo/ceres-open-data-index huggingface dataset:
Granular-Bed-Filter Development Program, Phase II. Analytical model for the performance of a moving granular-bed filter

A computer model has been developed which predicts the performance of an axisymmetric moving granular-bed filter (GBF). The flow of gas through the filter is modeled with the Ergun Equation describing gas flow through porous media. Particle capture is divided into portions which differentiate between deposition on the surface of the granular material and deposition on back into the gas stream is also included as a significant phenomenon influencing the performance of the granular-bed filter. Experimental data in support of the model include the determination of single-granule particle-collection efficiencies, measurements of granular flow velocities and actual performance of an experimental unit at both high and low temperatures. The high-and low-temperature, filtration performance was obtained at atmospheric pressure on a unit filtering titanium dioxide dust at low temperatures and actual fly ash emitted from a fluid-bed combustor at high temperatures. Results of the model show the distribution of gas flow, pressure, and particle concentration as a function of position in the filter as well as the measures of gross performance, penetration, and pressure drop. High-pressure predictions of GBF performance show that the device will filter at least as well as the low-pressure experimental unit (collection efficiencies > 98%) at rather modest pressure drops (..delta..P approx. 0.15 atm).

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A study of alkali partitioning in a bench-scale, pressurized combustor fired with a coal-water mixture: Technical note

Two natural gas-fired and six coal-water mixture- (CWM) fired experiments were conducted with the bench-scale pressurized combustor (BSPC) at the Morgantown Energy Technology Center (METC). Two CWMs were prepared by AMAX from a Kentucky Hazard bituminous coal. One fuel was prepared from a physically cleaned coal and contained 2.4 percent ash on an as-fired basis. The second CWM was prepared from a coal that underwent both physical and chemical cleaning which reduced the ash content to 0.4 percent. The tests were designed to examine the partitioning of sodium and potassium between vapor and non-vapor products of combustion in the exhaust stream, and the distribution of total alkali between bottom ash and uncharacterized residual matter (including slag). Two on-line alkali monitors developed at METC were used to measure both the gaseous alkali and total alkali concentrations in the exhaust from the combustor. We found the proportion of alkali exiting the combustor in the vapor phase was small. Less than 1 percent of sodium and less than 5 percent of potassium that entered as part of the fuel left the combustor as a vapor. Most of the alkali leaving the combustor was associated with particle matter. On a per pound basis, burning the highly cleaned, low-ash CWM produced more alkali in the exhaust stream than burning the less processed, high-ash CWM. The additional cost of preparing the highly cleaned fuel yielded no benefit in terms of alkali reduction in the exhaust. The researchers recommend that investigations in the area of alkali reduction be directed toward removing the particles with which the majority of the alkali in the exhaust is associated. 15 refs., 8 figs., 13 tabs.

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Weeks Island gravity stable CO2 pilot: Final report

The Weeks Island ''S''sand Reservoir B (''S''RB) gravity-stable CO2 field test was completed during February 1988. Injection started in October 1978 and production began in January 1981 in this high-permeability, steeply-dipping sandstone reservoir. About 264,000 barrels of oil or 65 percent of the starting volume has been recovered. A 24-percent pore-volume slug of CO2 mixed with about six mole percent of natural gas (mostly methane) was injected at the start of the pilot. Since 1983, produced CO2 plus hydrocarbon gases have been recycled. CO2 usage statistics are 9.34 MCF/BO with recycle and 3.24 MCF/BO based on purchased CO2. Previous annual reports document the pilot design, implementation, and early results for the 1977 to June 1981 time period. This report is a review of early pilot history and a more detailed account of the post June 1981 results and overall interpretation. A reservoir-simulation history match of pilot performance plus core and log data from a 1983 swept-zone evaluation well are described in this report. A brief description of the production facility and an account of the corrosion control program are also included. 11 refs., 34 figs.

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The use of entrainers for improving gas mobility control and displacement efficiency

The use of entrainers to improve CO2 mobility control for enhanced oil recovery was investigated. Entrainers serve as miscible additives that modify the phase behavior of supercritical solvents and enhance the solubility of crude oil components in the CO2-rich phase. The presence of entrainers increases the viscosities and densities of gas phases. The improvement in supercritical extraction power and the enhancement of bulk fluid properties result in improved mobility ratios. Solution viscosities, densities, and solubilities of entrainers in gaseous carbon dioxide at 104/degree/ and 122/degree/F (40/degree/ and 50/degree/C) and pressures from 800 to 3200 psia (55.16 to 220.63 bars) were determined. Viscosity and density data were determined with a high-pressure capillary viscometer and a Mettler-Paar density meter. Results indicate that CO2-rich phase viscosities and densities are increased when entrainers are solubilized into the gas phase. The effects of selected entrainers on the preferential solubilization of high-molecular-weight hydrocarbons into the gas phase were also determined. The addition of entrainers causes a preferential extraction of the heavier components of synthetic oils, in comparison with extraction by use of pure supercritical CO2. Coreflooding and slim tube displacement experiments were performed to determine the effects of the presence of selected entrainers on oil displacement efficiency. Results indicate a delay in gas breakthrough and an increased oil recovery at breakthrough. 23 refs., 16 figs., 4 tabs.

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Empirical systems model of the Westinghouse fluidized-bed PDU coal gasifier. Task report No. 1

A systems-level model of the Westinghouse PDU coal gasifier has been constructed based entirely on the data gathered during testing of this gasifier. It represents a purely empirical attempt to correlate the published data by means of multiple linear regression analysis, leading to prediction equations for output variables as linear combinations of a number of input variables. The prediction equations so derived do not have any physical laws incorporated into them explicitly. They rely entirely on measurements of the physical processes going on in the gasifier-cyclone combination. However, the choice of relevant input variables was made with the help of some intuition about the variables which affect these physical processes, based on work performed at PSI to model coal gasifiers. It should also be noted that the data comes from engineering tests which were not necessarily designed to produce systematic variation of all variables, so the data may contain some biases about which variables are varied. The computer implementation of the model is very fast and simple. For each output variable a set of 11 coefficients are prescribed. To obtain a predicted value of that output variable, for a specified set of values of the 10 input variables, a linear combination (dot product) of the 10 input variables is formed, using the 11 coefficients. The use of this empirical model is restricted to predictions for the Westinghouse PDU coal gasifier (and associated cyclone) within the range of operating variables represented in the data base. In particular, all the data involve operation on Pittsburgh Seam Coal. However, there is a range of coal feed rates, and both air-blown and oxygen-blown runs were included.

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Study of deposition control using transpiration. Technical progress report, August 1984

The purpose of this project is to determine the conditions under which transpiration may be actually used to avoid the deposition of small particles. The application of this work is the control of the deposition of small particles over a surface kept at a temperature below the melting point of compounds likely to exist in the combustion products. A combined experimental and theoretical research program will be carried out to evaluate the concept of transpiration as a deposition control strategy. A first order theory will be refined by introducing an appropriate turbulence model. The experimental program is designed to evaluate and refine the theoretical model under conditions which provide the correct Reynolds and Stokes numbers. The experimental set up consists of a wind tunnel with a test section containing a flat porous transpired section. The measurements will determine the distribution of velocity and of particles concentration in the boundary layer. The experiments will be conducted for different particles sizes under conditions simulating gas turbine conditions.

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Physical models of hydrofracturing across material interfaces

We have performed a series of laboratory tests to study the propagation of a hydrofracture into and through an interface between two rock-like materials. The aim of this research is to provide improved diagnostics for stimulating lenticular gas sand reservoirs by interpreting features of the injection pressure-time record caused by interaction of a hydrofracture with a geologic discontinuity. Results will also be used to validate conceptual models of hydrofracture behavior in discontinuous media, such as are embodied in the LLNL FEFFLAP code, a two-dimensional fracture propagation computer program. We prepared test specimens by embedding sandstone tablets (lenses) in blocks of gypsum cement. These blocks were hydrofractured under true triaxial loading conditions, at a constant injection rate. The injection path was designed so that we obtained a single-wing fracture, propagating in a plane perpendicular to the interface. The vertical extent of the fractures was controlled by means of wire mesh screen embedded in the blocks, perpendicular to the injection tube. Growth of the fractures was tracked via extension failure of fine tungsten wires embedded in the gypsum. After testing, we dissected the blocks and recorded the extent of fracturing and fluid penetration. Cross-sections of the fractures indicate that they were of constant height and propagated through the sandstone tablet. All the fractures showed step-crack behavior upon entering or exiting the sandstone tablet. Pressure-time and fracture tracking data were consistent for all tests. Distinct step increases on the pressure- time record were also noted in all tests, and are related to the interaction of the hydrofracture with the sandstone lens. 16 refs., 19 figs., 4 tabs.

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High-pressure coal fuel processor development

Caterpillar shares DOE/METC interest in demonstrating the technology required to displace petroleum-based engine fuels with various forms of low cost coal. Current DOE/METC programs on mild gasification and coal-water-slurries are addressing two approaches to this end. Engine and fuel processor system concept studies by Caterpillar have identified a third, potentially promising, option. This option includes high-pressure fuel processing of run-of-the-mine coal and direct injection of the resulting low-Btu gas stream into an ignition assisted, high compression ratio diesel engine. The compactness and predicted efficiency of the system make it suitable for application to line-haul railroad locomotives. Two overall conclusions resulted from Task 1. First direct injected, ignition assisted Diesel cycle engine combustion systems can be suitably modified to efficiently utilize low-Btu gas fuels. Second, high pressure gasification of selected run-of-the-mine coals in batch-loaded fuel processors is feasible. These two findings, taken together, significantly reduce the perceived technical risk associated with the further development of the proposed coal gas fueled Diesel cycle power plant concept. The significant conclusions from Task 2 were: An engine concept, derived from a Caterpillar 3600 series engine, and a fuel processor concept, based on scaling up a removable-canister configuration from the test rig, appear feasible; and although the results of this concept study are encouraging, further, full-scale component research and development are required before attempting a full-scale integrated system demonstration effort.

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High-pressure coal fuel processor development

The objective of Subtask 1.1 Engine Feasibility was to conduct research needed to establish the technical feasibility of ignition and stable combustion of directly injected, 3,000 psi, low-Btu gas with glow plug ignition assist at diesel engine compression ratios. This objective was accomplished by designing, fabricating, testing and analyzing the combustion performance of synthesized low-Btu coal gas in a single-cylinder test engine combustion rig located at the Caterpillar Technical Center engine lab in Mossville, Illinois. The objective of Subtask 1.2 Fuel Processor Feasibility was to conduct research needed to establish the technical feasibility of air-blown, fixed-bed, high-pressure coal fuel processing at up to 3,000 psi operating pressure, incorporating in-bed sulfur and particulate capture. This objective was accomplished by designing, fabricating, testing and analyzing the performance of bench-scale processors located at Coal Technology Corporation (subcontractor) facilities in Bristol, Virginia. These two subtasks were carried out at widely separated locations and will be discussed in separate sections of this report. They were, however, independent in that the composition of the synthetic coal gas used to fuel the combustion rig was adjusted to reflect the range of exit gas compositions being produced on the fuel processor rig. Two major conclusions resulted from this task. First, direct injected, ignition assisted Diesel cycle engine combustion systems can be suitably modified to efficiently utilize these low-Btu gas fuels. Second, high pressure gasification of selected run-of-the-mine coals in batch-loaded fuel processors is feasible. These two findings, taken together, significantly reduce the perceived technical risks associated with the further development of the proposed coal gas fueled Diesel cycle power plant concept.

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Multiwell Experiment (MWX) Stimulation Data Review, In Situ Stress Analysis

The MWX experiments conducted in the Mesaverde Group in Colorado have created a comprehensive data base of fracturing tests and measured hydraulic fracturing behavior. Since in situ stresses are the primary control mechanism over fracture geometry, a significant portion of the pre-frac ''fracture''testing was concerned with stress tests. As the first step in evaluating the final utility of the stress testing program in terms of: (1) testing theories of fracture geometry in a field scale environment, and (2) examining the usefulness of pre-frac testing for improving the predictability of well stimulations; much of the in situ stress test data collected in the MWX wells was reviewed, and, in some instances, re-analyzed. The immediate goals of this review, as reported on here, were to: confirm the stress results showing that significant stress differences can exist in lenticular formations, to evaluate the micro-frac stress testing procedure utilized for the MWX wells, and to examine correlations between measured stresses and other formation properties. Either the actual stress test data, or a formation property correlation, would then be used to generate a stress profile for each stimulated zone (e.g., Paludal, Coastal, and Fluvial) in the Mesaverde Group. These stress profiles will form the basis for subsequent fracturing analysis to compare predicted versus actual fracture behavior, and thus test fracturing theories and evaluate the utility of pre-frac testing. 15 refs., 37 figs., 4 tabs.

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Design, construction, operation and evaluation of a Prototype Culm Combustion Boiler/Heater Unit. Quarterly technical progress report, July 1-September 30, 1980

This report provides a summary of the work performed on the Prototype Culm Combustion Boiler/Heater Unit, Phase I - Engineering Design and Analysis and Phase II - Prototype Plant Construction during the period July 1, 1980, through September 30, 1980. The objectives of the program as well as the technical progress and problem areas encountered are presented. The final detail design effort was completed. Progress on procurement activity authorized by full Phase II release on March 20, 1980, is discussed. The construction bid package was completed, approved by DOE and issued for quotation. Construction quotations were received and bids tabulated resulting in the selection and recommendation to DOE of a construction contractor. F.W. George, subcontractor to E. Keeler Co. for boiler erection, has begun erection of the boiler supporting structure.

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Final report of special geological, geochemical, and petrological studies of the Devonian shales in the Appalachian Basin

The purpose of this study was to describe the geology, petrology, lithology, sedimentology, and stratigraphy of the Devonian Shales in the Appalachian Basin in order to determine the potential for gas recovery. Specific study areas include  Pine Mountain Overthrust, Brallier Formation, and Ohio Shale along Lake Erie. discussion is presented under the main headings: Chemical Characterization; Composition, Fabric, Texture, Bedding, and paleontology; and Basin Analysis. Paleocurrent studies indicate that the depositional strike of the basin in  upper Devonian time was north-south with but little variation and that sediment was uniformly derived from the east. The total volume of shale sequence in the Pine Mountain Overthrust is 254 cubic miles. The blowout zone of Young (1957) was identified stratigraphically. The siltstones of the Brallier Formation are of rather low primary reservoir quality. Similar tight siltstones in the Benson Field of West Virginia show moderate gas production. Mudrock in Brallier outcrops do not show promise as source rock. Stratigraphic units along Lake Erir, which contain abundant mudshales, siltshales, and siltstones, make the best gas reservoirs. All of these shale types contain quartz laminae and/or quartzase siltstone and siltshale beds which act as permeable reservoirs and conduits for gas even though some are cemented by carbonate. (DMC)

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Prediction of in-situ stresses from directional properties of rock cores for field development of Devonian shales. Final report

The directional properties of Devonian Shale were determined through five physical property measurements: ultrasonic velocity measurement, point load test, Brazilian test, measurement of directional elastic constants and elastic property variation in the horizontal plane. The core, with a total length of 1300 feet (Depth 2720 to 4026 feet) was taken from Well number 20403 in Lincoln County, WV. The results show that: bedding planes are quite distinct, and the most preferred direction of fractures in the bedding plane is N60/sup 0/E.

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The development of the KENTORT II process for Eastern US oil shale: Technical report for the period, January 1, 1988--March 31, 1988

This report summarizes the progress made on the development of the KENTORT II process during the period of January 1, 1988 through March 31, 1988. The purpose of this program is to develop on a small scale a process to improve efficiency, process economics, and resolve environmental problems involved in the utilization of eastern US oil shale as an energy source and chemical feedstock. The process includes fluidized bed sections of pyrolysis, gasification, and combustion with combined solid/gas heat transfer among the stages. A 1.5-inch diameter bench-scale fluidized bed reactor was used to investigate the combustion behavior of raw, pyrolyzed, and pyrolyzed/gasified Eastern oil shale materials. Agglomeration of raw and pyrolyzed shales caused blockage of the product withdrawal lines and prevented extended operation of the reactor. Analysis of the agglomerates and resolution of this difficulty is pending. It was discovered, however, that the pyrolyzed/gasified shale char did not form agglomerates allowing smooth operation of the reactor. Consequently, a test matrix involving pyrolyzed/gasified shale char was initiated. Runs investigating carbon combustion at 700, 800, and 900/degree/C and 30 minutes mean solid residence time (MSRT) were completed, and under all conditions over 90% of the carbon was removed from the feedstock.

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Geologic and Engineering Analyses and Evaluation of Factors Affecting Widespread Development of Devonian Shale Oil Reservoirs

The objective of this study was an oil resource evaluation of Devonian Shale underlying a seven county area in Ohio and West Virginia near the Ohio River and the Burning Springs Anticline. This area contains about 200 square miles in which operators have drilled through or completed 2000 wells in the Devonian Shale. In spite of the high density of wells, only about four percent of the completed wells produced an excess of the 20,000 barrels needed to break even. The median production was 800 barrels and the mean was 4600 barrels. As a part of the reservoir study, data were collected from various sources, and a computer data management system was used to aid in the analysis. Engineering techniques, including material balance, a transient method for analysis of production data, and numerical simulation were employed, together with statistical methods, to complete the evaluation. These methods are believed to be applicable to other fractured tight matrix environments. Other findings of the study showed that the coexistence of natural fractures and matrix permeability and porosity are requisites for oil production from shale. These conditions are unique particularly to the lower Huron member of the Devonian Ohio Shale in and near this seven county area, but are by no means consistent over the area as evidenced by the few commercially successful wells. Matrix permeability and porosity are necessary for oil accumulation and production, because the permeability is extremely low, fractures are necessary to transmit oil from the matrix to the wellbore. 56 figs., 16 tabs.

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Thermal decomposition of asphalt ridge tar sand: Topical report

Asphalt Ridge tar sand had been examined using thermal analysis techniques. These techniques include isothermal pretreating followed by thermogravimetric analysis, isothermal testing with detailed product analyses, nonisothermal testing with evolved gas analysis, and nonisothermal combustion analysis of residual carbon formed during pyrolysis. Isothermal experiments have been performed at 350/degree/, 375/degree/, and 400/degree/C (662/degree/, 707/degree/, and 752/degree/F) using a rapid heating and cooling system. Condensible products have had an average molecular weight of 276 and have shown an increased H/C ratio at higher pyrolysis temperatures. Noncondensable products have been predominantly carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and methane. The amount of heptane-soluble material has decreased with increasing conversion while the amount of pyridine-soluble material has increased. Nonisothermal experiments have indicated thermal decomposition through two major pathways. The low-temperature pathway has an activation energy below 10 kcal/mole, indicating that devolatilization might be the rate-controlling step. The high-temperature evolution pathway has a predicted activation energy of 34 kcal/mole when analyzed with a single activation energy model. Analyses of residual carbon combustion data have shown an activation energy in the range of 26--32 kcal/mole. The reaction appears to be first order in oxygen partial pressure. 12 refs., 20 figs., 10 tabs.

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