bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Design of Tunnel Lighting Intelligent Control System
Authors: Zhang Qian , Dong Li Li , Xu Wen Hai , Qin Li
Published: March 2015

It is serious that the electric energy waste exists in highway tunnel operation. Operators and institutes of scientific research pay more and more attention that how to reduce the energy consumption of lighting system of highway tunnels, improve the effect of tunnel lighting and ensure traffic safety. In order to solve the problem of the current tunnel lighting system with high energy consumption, a tunnel lighting intelligent control system based on environmental information perception and vehicle behavior information perception is proposed in this paper for ChiBai tunnel project. In this system, the existence of the vehicle or not is the basis of lighting state switching, environmental information and vehicle behavior information are the basis for calculation of the lighting brightness, pavement illuminance is real-time monitored by the monitoring cameras, closed-loop feedback control of the lighting brightness is achieved through real-time monitoring of pavement illuminance and PID algorithm. The intelligent control system is composed of five parts, in this paper, there are detailed introductions about the function of various parts of the system, including hardware structure, connecting method and the system of dimming control strategy, software functions and the equipment layout position.
Flexural Strengthening of Structural Timber in the 21st Century: A State of the Art Review
Authors: Sheikh Shujaatullah , Ahmad Yusof
Published: March 2015

The use of structural timber has never caught on in Malaysia despite the fact that the country is a major exporter of many commercially important hardwoods such as dark red meranti, kapur and keruing, among others. Chief concern among structural designers is the fact that due to its brittle tensile behaviour, timber tends to fail abruptly under the application of flexural loads. The presence of localized defects such as knots also tend to aggravate the problem as these localities are obviously not only weaker compared with the overall strength of the timber member considered, but also tend to be stress concentration regions. For engineered wood products (EWPs) such as glued laminated timber, the introduction of finger joints further compounds the predicament of the structural engineer as these joints are now crack initiation locations because these joints tend to open up when experiencing tensile forces due to flexural loads. However, it is possible to address these concerns by carrying out flexural strengthening of timber members using materials as varied as steel, fibre reinforced polymers (FRPs), biological fibres, and perhaps timber itself, albeit of a higher strength. This paper seeks to review the current strategies undertaken by international researchers to fortify and bolster the flexural strength of timber in order to make it an attractive construction material to architects, engineers and builders alike.
Correlation of Stiffness and Natural Frequency of Precast Frame System
Authors: Javanmardi Ahad , Abadi Rouzbeh , Marsono Abdul Kadir , Md Tap Masine , Ibrahim Zulkepli , Ahmad Azhar
Published: March 2015

The main objective of this study was to obtain the correlation between the severity of damage to the stiffness of the frame in the format of its intrinsic dynamic properties, the natural frequency of the structural system at damaged and undamaged state. In this research, a laboratory test was performed on the precast post-tension frame of a similar dimension and strength specification to Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR) school buildings. The modal frame is a reduced in scale of 1 to 5 and subjected to cyclic lateral loadings and monitored its frequency through vibration test. The vibration test was performed at each end of the cycle of a lateral pushover test. The vibration data was recorded by accelerometers due to external forced vibration to assess its natural frequency, mode shapes and damping values of the system. This research found that there is a physical tangible relationship between natural frequency changes and stiffness in the frame. The results showed that as the severity of damage increases, the natural frequency of the frame decreases significantly, indicating that softening of the system that lead to a favorable ductility for earthquakes.
The Impact of Metakaolin on Early Days Strength of Nanotechnology Modified Sandwich ECC
Authors: Alonge Olayiwola Richard , Ramli Mahyuddin
Published: March 2015

Metakaolin is a produce from Kaolinite. Meanwhile, Kaolinite is a natural clay mineral that consists of so many mineral materials, metakaolin inclusive, that can be used in many areas of life and hence sustainable in contents if process adequately. The issue of global warming coupled with a general belief of greenhouse gas emission through the production and usage of cement, a main building and infrastructures construction materials, necessitate for the substitution of cement in building materials most especially concrete. This study focused on the effect of metakaolin on the early day's strength of sandwich engineered cementitious concrete modified with nanosilica particles. The nanosilica in this mix served two purposes, one as a cementitious substitute and secondly as to increase the silica content of the normal sand used. The fresh and engineering properties of samples with 12% weight replacement of ordinary Portland cement with metakaolin was also evaluated. The surface area of metakaolin used in this experiment was 25.4m2/g. The result shows that the sandwich ECC samples modified with nanosilica produced higher strength compared with the base standard M45 ECC.
Investigation the Behavior of a Four-Storey Steel Frame Using Viscous Damper
Authors: Gordan Meisam , Haddadiasl Ahmad , Marsono Abdul Kadir , Md Tap Masine
Published: March 2015

Vibration is a serious concern for tall structures during a natural disaster such as earthquake, wind storms, sea waves and hurricanes. The risk of occurrence of structural damage can be decreased by using a controlled vibration system to increase the damping characteristics of a structure. Damping is defined as the ability of the structure to dissipate a portion of the energy released during a dynamic loading event. The aims of this study are (1) to investigate a 4-storey 2D steel frame retrofit with viscous damper to reduce its vibration and (2) to demonstrate the performance of such a damper when fitted to a structure by analysis and tests the model. Therefore, a series of shaking table tests of the 4-storey 2D steel frame with and without viscous damper (VD) was carried out to evaluate the performance of the structure. The results of the experimental tests illustrate that viscous dampers decrease the structural responses of slender frame without changing their behavior on the shaking table. In other words, the displacement of the structure is reduced, however, there is no any transition of flexible to stiff structure related to its dynamic responses.
Density Currents Dynamics over Rough Beds
Authors: Nasrollahpour Reza , Jamal Mohamad Hidayat , Ghomesi Mehdi , Ismail Zulhilmi , Roushenas Peiman
Published: March 2015

Density currents are flows driven by density differences caused by suspended fine solid material, dissolved contents, temperature gradient or a combination of them. Reservoir sedimentation is often related to sediment transport by density currents. This sedimentation can block bottom outlets, reduce the capacity of reservoir and harms the dam power plants. The head is the leading edge of density currents. In this paper, the influences of artificially roughened beds on dynamics of the frontal region of density currents are investigated experimentally. Three rough beds using conic roughness elements and a smooth bed were tested. The observed trend is that as the surface roughness increases the head concentration and velocity decreases.
Copper (II) Removal by Using Manganese Ferrite in PVA-Alginate Beads
Authors: Wong Ee Ting , Teh Pei Cheng , Chan Kian Hwa , Idris Ani
Published: March 2015

The magnetic nanoparticles of manganese-doped magnetite (Mn-Fe2O4) were synthesized by the simple co-precipitation method. The stable Mn2+ and Fe3+ salts in the ratio of 1:2 in aqueous solution, were added into the sodium hydroxide solution to form the Mn-Fe2O4 precipitate at temperature of 95°C. The synthesized nanoparticles were then characterized by Fourier Transform-Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD). It was then entrapped in the PVA-alginate matrix to form the nanophotoadsorbent in beads form. The synthesized nanoparticles embedded bead was characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The effects of various parameters, such as contact time, pH, nanoparticles dosage were investigated. The control study was also performed to reveal the performance of photo-adsorbent towards the Cu (II) removal under the light and dark conditions. It was found that the removal efficiency of the Cu (II) achieved 97.07% (1.46ppm) which complied to the WHO drinking water standard of less than 1.5ppm after 180 min treatment.
Grafting Efficiency of Lignin-Grafted-Polyacrylic Acid
Authors: Azhar Nur Amalina , Soloi Sabrina , Majid Rohah A. , Jamaluddin Jamarosliza
Published: March 2015

Agriculture biomasses have been successfully converted into value-added products such as biocomposite plastics, furniture, papers and textiles. However, only the cellulose parts of these lignocellulosic materials are being used while other components such as lignin and wax are discarded. For a tropical country like Malaysia, banana stem is one of the sources of biomasses. Like other biomasses-based products, only cellulose part of banana stem is used while the lignin portion is discarded due to overly hydrophilic character. This water-loving property of lignin can be manipulated into specific application such as water absorbent for waste treatment. This research is aimed to synthesis water absorbent-based lignin from banana stem. The lignin had been extracted from banana stem using Kraft process prior to grafted with acrylic acid monomer (AA) in order to increase its water absorbency. The reaction was carried out via free radical polymerization in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as initiator and ammonium iron (II) sulfate hexahydrate as catalyst. The reaction temperature was set at 60°C. Grafting efficiency of polyacrylic acid (PAA) onto lignin backbone was determined by varying the amounts of AA monomer, lignin and initiator. The highest grafting percentage was acquired at 60% with the amount of 6ml acrylic acid, 2ml initiator and 0.2g lignin respectively.
Production of Biogas from Anaerobic Co-Digestion of Oil Palm Mesocarp Fibre and Cattle Manure: In Batch
Authors: Mohd Sabri Ain Zubaidah , Samsudin Hazwani , Yaacob Syahrul Syazwan , Muhammad Yuzir Muhamad Ali
Published: March 2015

There is a rising demand for energy crops and animal manures in biogas production.This research focused at anaerobic co-digestion of oil palm mesocarp fibre (OPMF) and cattle manure (CM) for biogas production.OPMF is considered as lignocellulosic biomass and acting as the main substrate of the digestion.CM contains high nutrient which could lead to higher biogas production.A batch scale experiment was carried out in mesophilic condition at 37°C.Main parameters involved are pH, soluble chemical oxygen demand (COD) and volume biogas production.The obtained pH values of the samples are between 6.5 and 7.5.This anaerobic co-digestion gave 76% of COD removal on day 30.The observed volume of biogas that produced was between 90 to 130mL.The system was run for two different hydraulic retention time (HRT).The HRTs are 15 and 30 days.Co-digestion of two different organic matters gave good biogas production in comparison to normal single digestion.
Modelling Stormwater Quality of an Arid Urban Catchment
Authors: Hussein A.O. , Shahid Shamsuddin , Basim K.N. , Chelliapan Shreeshivadasan
Published: March 2015

Understanding quality of stormwater is important for effective urban rainwater treatment planning and management. In this study, the quality of stormwater runoff from an arid urban residential catchment located in the Karbala city of Iraq, draining through stormwater sewers was investigated. The Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) was used to estimate the concentrations of pollutants in stormwater and wastewater in the sewer networks. The results showed that the concentrations of the Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5) and Total Suspended Solids (TSS) increased significantly after rain in the study area. The increase of TSS was very high compared to the BOD5. It is expected that the long-term simulations of stormwater pollution loading will help to compare the benefits of different scenarios of the sewage treatment plan for the reduction of the pollution in the storm discharge area.
Variability of Aggregate Consumption at Different TODs in Energy Consumption Data
Authors: Ling Amy Poh Ai , Mozgunov Evgeny , Woo Tan Chin
Published: March 2015

A variability of energy consumption is the total variance divided by total mean consumption. Real data shows convergence of aggregated variability with the number of customers. We investigate the mathematical reasons of this phenomenon, as well as the subtleties of convergence rate. We show that the results for convergence on real data are consistent with the prediction of a simple sum of random correlated variables.
Energy Management Strategies at Emergency Department Block C Hospital Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
Authors: Lazim Jamaizonkefli , Sarip Shamsul , Rahman A.R.A. , Hassan M.Z. , Aziz S.A.
Published: March 2015

Energy is an important element in human daily life. In Malaysia, about 80% of electrical energy produced from burning fuels that will cause of carbon dioxide emission to atmosphere. The effect could be reduced with less energy consumption. This project focuses on energy management strategies for energy saving that can be done on the HVAC system, air-cond, lighting and office equipment in Emergency Department, Block C Hospital Sungai Buloh. The annual profit, total cost and payment period for each research method are also studied. To implement for all major system must be link to chapter by Buiding Automation System. Major studies for this topic is to implement energy saving, calculate energy comsumption, power, area specific room, return of investment, analysis for daily cost for used, total for kWh for monthly usage.
Pressure Dependence of Ozone Absorption Cross Section
Authors: Marcus Tay Ching En , David Michael , Yaacob Maslina , Salim Mohd Rashidi , Hussin Nabihah , Ibrahim Mohd Haniff , Ngajikin Nor Hafizah , Azmi Asrul Izam , Idrus Sevia Mahdaliza , Buntat Zolkafle
Published: March 2015

Accurate value of absorption cross section is required for correct measurement of ozone concentration. Measurement of ozone has been done at different altitude and pressure. However, previous work has failed to establish significant relation between pressure and ozone absorption cross section. Therefore, this work aims to establish relation between pressure and maximum ozone absorption cross section via spectralcalc.com gas cell simulator. Simulation results show maximum absorption cross section 1.148×10-21 m2 molecule-1 and maximum absorption wavelength 255.442 nm are independent of pressure changes from 0.1 atm to 3.0 atm. Thus, measurement of ozone concentration at maximum absorption wavelength is strongly recommended due to negligible pressure dependence.
Analysis of Wideband Antenna Performance over Dual Band Artificial Magnetic Conductor (AMC) Ground Plane
Authors: Dewan Raimi , Rahim M.K.A. , Hamid Mohamad Rijal , Yusoff M.F.M.
Published: March 2015

A Coplanar Waveguide (CPW) wideband antenna operates from 2.69 GH to 6.27 GHz which act as reference antenna (RA) has been designed. A Dual Band AMC (DBAMC) unit cells have been proposed to operate at 2.45 GHz and 5.8 GHz. AMC is a metamaterial which mimics the behavior of zero reflection phase of Perfect Magnetic Conductor (PMC) at resonance frequency which not naturally existed in nature. Subsequently the antenna is incorporated with AMC unit cell, herein referred as Antenna with Dual Band AMC (ADBAMC). The DBAMC succesfully excites additional resonance at 2.45 GHz outside the initial operating range of standalone CPW wideband antenna. Incorporation of DBAMC to antenna achieves back lobe suppression at 2.45 GHz and 5.8 GHz. The overall average gain of AMC incorporated antenna is improved from 2.69 to 6.29 GHz as opposed to the standalone reference CPW wideband antenna. Study of surface current is also presented and discussed.
Evaluation of the Equivalent Lumped Element Parameters of Modified Microstrip Ring Resonator
Authors: Then Yi Lung , You Kok Yeow , Dimon Mohamad Ngasri , Lai Wei Ying
Published: March 2015

Microstrip ring resonator (MRR) sensor was modeled by simple equivalent lumped element circuits in free space based on simulation data obtained from Microwave Office (AWR) simulator and comparison was made with the measurements using the E5071C Network Analyzer. The calculated reflection coefficient, |G| and complex input impedance Zin using lumped element model were compared with the measurements results. Both results showed well agreement with a little discrepancy, basically due to imperfect soldering. The MRR was designed to have operating frequencies between 0.5 GHz and 4.5 GHz. The maximum surrounding of magnetic field, Hϕ is within 15 A/m in free space.
Position Control of a 2D Nonlinear Gantry Crane System Using Model Predictive Controller
Authors: Dankadai Najib K. , Mohd Faudzi Ahmad Athif , Bature Amir , Babani Suleiman , Faruk Muhammad I.
Published: March 2015

This paper presents the application of model predictive controller for controlling a nonlinear 2D gantry crane system with a DC motor as an actuator. The gantry crane system (GCS) dynamics is derived using Lagrange equation method. A model predictive controller is designed based on the linearised GCS and prediction cost function to ensure accurate positioning and oscillation reduction. Simulation via MATLAB and Simulink was performed to investigate the performance of the model predictive controller on the GCS. The controller test was done under several elements altering the behaviour of the system. The closed loop system was analysed considering different cable length, payload mass and trolley position. It was found that the closed loop control meets the main goal of this work, trolley positioning as fast as possible with minimum payload swinging all within a robust input voltage.
Position Control of Hydraulic Actuators Using Fuzzy Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)
Authors: Lai Wei Ying , Onn Nurfarahin , Tang Collin Howe Hing , Hussein Mohamed
Published: March 2015

Hydraulic actuators are widely employed for industrial automation for its high power over weight ratio, functionality in tough operating conditions and low cost. However, the dynamics of hydraulic systems are non-linear and the system subjected to non-smooth and discontinuous non-linearities due to directional change of valve opening, friction, valve overlap and changes of hydraulic pressure acted on valve spool. Taking into account the effect of nonlinear parameter variations such as bulk modulus, compressibility of oil or viscosity of oil, fuzzy logic approach is chosen. Fuzzy control can adapt the inconstant working condition and non-linear system alongside of its robustness. For PWM controlled hydraulic component such as solenoid valve, effective approximation of the flow properties in a solenoid valve is essential. In this paper, the effect of fuzzy logic approach incorporated on pulse width modulation (PWM) controlled hydraulic system is to be investigated and experimentally verified.
Analysis on the Band Plans for IMT Systems in 698-960MHz
Authors: Fakrullah Ahmad Nasruddin Atiqullah , Abd Rahman Tharek , Dolah Rozzeta , Haron Umi Sabriah
Published: March 2015

Spectrum band from 698-960 MHz has been identified for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) by International Telecommunication Union (ITU). This paper provides the analysis of potential scenarios on the band plans for mobile broadband using IMT systems in the 698-960 MHz band based on the published recommendations from ITU and from 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) in order to provide reference to national administrations in performing its spectrum management role. This study focuses from the perspective of maximizing spectrum utilization of this scarce national resource with consideration of the co-existence requirements, current usages and potential interference between different frequency arrangements.
Validation of CFD Modeling and Simulation of a Simplified Automotive Model
Authors: Mansor S. , Nik Mohd N.A.R. , Chung C.W.
Published: March 2015

In the early design phase of automotive sector, the flow field around the vehicle is important in decision making on design changes. It would consume a lot of money and time for multiple prototypes development if adopt traditional testing method which is wind tunnel test. Thus, numerical method such as Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation plays an important role here. It is very often simulation results been compared with wind tunnel data. However, with various mesh types, meshing methodology, discretization methods and different solver control options in CFD simulation, users may feel low confidence level with the generated simulation results. Thus, a robust modeling and simulation guideline which would help in accurate prediction should be developed due to the industry’s demand for accuracy when comparing CFD to wind tunnel results within short turnaround time. In this paper, a CFD modeling and simulation study was conducted on a simplified automotive model to validate with wind tunnel test results. The wind tunnel environment was reproduced in the simulation setup to include same boundary conditions. Meshing guidelines, turbulence model comparisons and also the best practice for solver setup with respect to accuracy will be presented. Overall, CFD modeling and simulation methods applied in this paper are able to validate the results from experiment accurately within small yaw ranges.
A Systematic Review of Enterprise Architecture Assessment Models
Authors: Bakar Nur Azaliah A. , Harihodin Selamat , Kama Nazri
Published: March 2015

This article provides a systematic review of Enterprise Architecture (EA) assessment model. The review main goal is to identify the existing EA assessment models and to categorise the models according to EA phases as well as to analyse the models limitation. The review result shows that there are 16 EA assessment models proposed across both industry and academic areas that fit in three EA phases mentioned.
Lean Production Weaknesses in Manufacturing Industry: A Review
Authors: Kumar Nithia , Noordin Mohd Yusof , Saman Muhamad Zameri Mat
Published: March 2015

This is a review paper written to discuss the lean manufacturing and the lean weaknesses in manufacturing industry. Lean production or also known as lean manufacturing has been widely practiced as a production improvement tool in manufacturing sectors. Lean manufacturing originated from Japanese automotive manufacturing sectors for about five decades. Over the decades, lean production system have evolved from shop floor improvement tool to a philosophy. The problem statement in this research was to review the weaknesses of lean production system. The purpose of this review paper is to discuss the weaknesses of the lean production system and overview the available methods to address the weaknesses. Limitation and scope of this paper were within manufacturing industry and period of literature reviews. The methodology applied was review literature from the lean manufacturing related journals dated from year 2000 to 2014. Then by consolidating the lean production weaknesses data in to categories of people, material, equipment, know-how, business and planning or scheduling. The authors discussed to elaborate further on the lean weaknesses and methods of addressing it. Therefore, understanding the weaknesses will allow the academic and industry to co-create new solution methods for an effective lean production system. In conclusion, the authors view the weaknesses as an opportunity to integrate with other theories such as agile manufacturing, sustainable development, human factor, safety management and cleaner production in the future.
TRIZ Business Improvement and Innovation Framework for Malaysian Small and Medium Enterprise
Authors: Zulhasni Abdul Rahim , Nooh Abu Bakar , Sarimah Misman , Yeoh T.S.
Published: March 2015

MPC and MyTRIZ have focused on the initiative to expose the Malaysia TRIZ Practitioners with the latest TRIZ development to acquire a wider perspective of TRIZ practices around the world, encourage Malaysia TRIZ Community to share ideas and collaborate with TRIZ experts from other countries, and apply the knowledge acquired to develop various new products, processes, services or systems for international and local customers. Hence, in order to ignite the effort, a framework was developed to mobilize the initiative of adopting TRIZ for the Malaysian industries, focusing primarily on Small Medium Enterprise (SME). This research explored the framework to expand the knowledge of TRIZ for the targeted industries. Most of the inputs were extracted from the experienced academicians and industrial experts who have used TRIZ as part of their core subject. The proposed framework is expected to meet the needs of business owners, which focuses on the outcome of any improvement or innovation initiative. The proposed outcome-based improvement framework is intended to suit the Malaysian environment and be able to perform effectively in terms of increasing innovation in the industries.
Synthesis and Characterization of Low-Cost Porous Carbon from Palm Oil Shell via K2CO3 Chemical Activation Process
Authors: Nasri Noor Shawal , Basri Hatijah , Garba Abdurrahman , Hamza Usman Dadum , Mohammed Jibril , Murtala Ahmed M.
Published: March 2015

The abundant fraction of agricultural waste materials in the environment that poses disposal challenge could be converted into useful value added products such as activated carbon. Palm oil shell based carbon was prepared by two step process using K2CO3 as the chemical activant. The Langmuir surface area, BET surface area and pore volume were 817 m2/g, 707m2/g and 0.31cm3/g. From the FTIR analysis, carbonyls, alkenes and hydroxyls were identified. The SEM image shows gradual formation of pores due to elimination of volatiles and contaminants. Carbonization at 800°C for 2 hours and activation at same temperature for 1h has the highest yield of 23.27%. The proximate and ultimate analysis shows high percentage of carbon and low percentage of ash which is an indication of a good material for production of porous carbon. The activated carbon produced showed basic properties suitable for removal of organic contaminants in aqueous solutions. However, the aim of this study is to produce a green and porous carbon with controlled pores and surface properties for organic contaminants removal from water and wastewater.
Tensile Properties and Morphology of Polylactic Acid (PLA)/Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
Authors: Siti Najihah Abdul Manan , Mohamad Zurina
Published: March 2015

In this study, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) was blended with Polylactic acid (PLA) in order to enhance the mechanical properties of PLA. PLA/EVA blend was melt blended in a twin screw extruder and compression molding with various EVA content (0-20% by weight) and the tensile and morphological properties were examined. The morphological behaviours play an important role in influencing the tensile properties of PLA. The smaller discrete EVA particle in PLA matrix had increased the properties of PLA compared with the one with elongated morphology.
Tensile Properties and Morphology of Polyamide 6 (PA6)/Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)/Sepiolite Nanocomposite
Authors: Fauzi N.M. , Mohamad Zurina
Published: March 2015

This study was conducted in order to develop the new polymer nanocomposites. In this case, sepiolite was incorporated into Polyamide 6 (PA6) / Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) blend. The main aim of this research is to examine the effect of sepiolite concentration on the properties of PA6/EVA/sepiolite nanocomposite. The variations of sepiolite (2 – 10 phr) were added into PA6/EVA blend at the ratio of 80/20 wt%. The nanocomposites were prepared using twin screw extruder and injection moulding. Mechanical properties of PA6/EVA/sepiolite nanocomposite were analyzed by tensile testing and it was revealed that there is no change in stiffness and decrease in strength with more sepiolite content. Meanwhile, the morphology of materials was characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The morphology revealed that, the dispersion of sepiolite nanofiller seems to be good and the EVA domain size and distribution was effected by sepiolite content.
Effect of Compatibilizer Content on the Mechanical and Morphological Properties of PET/PP (70/30) Blends
Authors: Inuwa Ibrahim Mohammed , Hassan Azman , Samsudin Sani Amril
Published: March 2015

This work investigates the effect of compatibilizer concentration on the mechanical properties of compatibilized polyethylene terephthalate (PET) /polypropylene (PP) blends. A blend containing 70 % (wt) PET, 30 % (wt) PP and 5 - 15 phr compatibilizers were compounded using counter rotating twin screw extruder and fabricated into standard test samples using injection molding. The compatibilizer used is styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene grafted maleic anhydride triblock copolymer (SEBS-g-MAH). Morphological studies show that the particle size of the dispersed PP phase is dependent on the compatibilizer content up to 10 phr. Impact strength and elongation at break showed maximum values with the addition of 10 phr SEBS-g-MAH and a corresponding decrease in flexural and young’s moduli; and strengths.. Overall the mechanical properties of PET/PP blends depend on the control of the morphology of the blend and can be achieved by effective compatibilization using 10 phr SEBS-g-MAH.
Major Hazards of Process Equipment Failures in the Chemical Process Industry
Authors: Hussin N.E. , Johari Anwar , Kidam Kamarizan , Hashim Haslenda
Published: March 2015

Process equipment failures play significant roles in most accidents that occur and recur in the chemical process industry resulting in fire, explosion, and toxic release. In this study, 50 equipment-related accident investigation reports were used to analyze type and severity of incidents. The comprehensive accident report data were retrieved from U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) and U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) accident databases with a mean year of 2005. Among the identified process equipment failures were piping systems (32%), storage tanks (20%), process vessels (16%), separation equipment (10%), reactors (8%), heat transfer equipment (8%), and others (6%). The analysis shows that 32% of the cases led to fire and explosion, followed by toxic release (26%), and explosion (22%) incidents. A total of 126 fatalities, 590 injuries, 260 exposures, four shelter-in-place, and 13 evacuations were reported. In most accident cases, fire, explosion, and/or toxic release incidents occur simultaneously. The synergy between major hazards results in catastrophic accidents with severe consequences in numbers of fatalities, injuries, exposures, shelter-in-place, and evacuations. To minimize the losses, plant and equipment should be designed and prepared for the worst-case scenario, not just adapting to any ‘applicable’ standards or guidance.
Sustainable Manufacturing in Injection Molding: Development of Energy Map
Authors: Rajemi Mohamad Farizal , Hassan Maizal Mohd
Published: March 2015

Plastic injection molding machine consume high electricity during manufacturing process which can increase carbon emissions indirectly. The research aim is to generate an energy map for plastic injection molding machine. It involved several experimental investigations by having to record the electrical energy consumption of the machine. The results were than analyzed to develop an energy map for plastic injection molding operation. The results revealed effect of different parameter setting towards electrical energy consumption in injection molding. From this energy map, it can be used by the manufacturer in order to determine the optimized setting parameter in injection molding. This in turn will help to reduce the electrical energy in injection molding process. The reduction of electrical energy will not only reduce the manufacturing cost, but it also can help to reduce the carbon emission emitted during the generation of electrical energy at the power plant. Eventually this research will support sustainable manufacturing processes especially in injection molding industries.
Safety and Health in Refurbishment Works Including Partial Demolition
Authors: Rakhshanifar Mansooreh , Hosseini M. , Abdullah Arham
Published: March 2015

In the context of refurbishment projects, providing a safety and health checklist could assist in reducing noncompliance with health and safety regulations and would lead to improvement in communication between different participants in refurbishment projects. The practical checklist for refurbishment project is developed by revising current demolition checklist since there is no specific checklist applicable for refurbishment work at the moment. To achieve this target, demolition techniques, methods and accident reports on the refurbishment project is critically reviewed and investigated. A semi-structured interview based on reviewed literature and existing demolition checklist is organized which addresses a panel of Malaysian refurbishment experts and workers. The final results are provided by analyzing the response of interviewees in listing the common hazards occurring in the site and their recommendations regarding to appropriate precautions to prevent accidents in work site. Finally, refurbishment checklist is developed based on different categories of work phase, activities, precautionary actions and recommendations in which contents directly extracted from data collection and literature review.
Innovative Tool Concepts and Experimental Trials of a Flash Reduced Forging of Crankshafts
Authors: Langner Jan , Stonis Malte , Behrens B.A.
Published: March 2015

In times of increasing international business competition forging companies try to increase their competitiveness by optimization of different factors such as efficient use of resources in the forging process, optimization of processes or managing costs. In common forging processes for geometrically complicated parts such as crankshafts, an excess on material (flash) is technically needed to produce a good part, which results often in a material utilization between 60 % and 80 %. But the material costs in forging represent up to 50 % of the total production costs. By decreasing the flash ratio, the material usage and production costs in forging operations can be reduced significantly, helping to increase the competitiveness of companies. Innovative approaches are required, to achieve a significant reduction of the amount of flash in the forging of complicated parts like crankshafts. For a crankshaft, the development of a new forging sequence was necessary, to achieve the reduction of flash. This development was performed for an industrial two-cylinder crankshaft, based on finite element analysis (FEA) simulations. The new forging sequence consists of three flashless preforming operations, an induction reheating followed by a multidirectional forging and the final forging. By use of this forging sequence the flash ratio was reduced from about 54 % to less than 10 %. The whole forging sequence was set up in an industrial environment and the feasibility of this process chain was proven. Due to the huge reduction of the flash ratio, material as well as energy can be saved from now on, thus increasing the competitiveness of the company.
Implementation of Collision Avoidance Using Modification of the Expanded Guide Circle for Tele-Operated Robots
Authors: Park Seung Hwan , Kim Gon Woo
Published: March 2015

Even for a tele-operated robot system, collision avoidance should be performed with some level of autonomy because of the mistake of tele-operators. In this paper, we suggest a simple but efficient method of collision avoidance. This suggestion complements the Expanded Guide Circle algorithm and can be used to give correct moving commands to a robot. Also we implement this method in a complex environment and show the usefulness of our algorithm.
The Effects of SnO2 Doping on the Electrical Properties of ZnO Varistors
Authors: Fan Ji Wei , Zhao Hui Jun , Zhang Xiao Li , Li Zhen
Published: March 2015

The SnO2doping can increase the nonlinear coefficients of ZnO varistors, the highest α value is achieved at the 0.75 wt% doping level samples sintered at 1150oC. The improved I-V nonlinearity may be attributed to the donor behavior of Sn4+ions. The SnO2doping can enhance the ZnO grain growth that lower the breakdown field of doped samples.
Formability Analysis of Steel Sheet by Use of Numerical Simulation
Authors: Majerníková Janka , Spišák Emil , Slota Ján
Published: March 2015

The article deals with analysis of thin steel sheets formability. The aim is to verify possibilities of formability of metal sheet with thickness 0.85 mm according to material properties reached from experimental tests by numerical simulation. Simulation has been realized on two models with analysis of resulting data. Reached values can be used during simulation of real forming process.
Analysis of Corn Straw Pyrolysis Bio-Oil Composition
Authors: Wei Huan Huan , Liu Yun Long , Chen Dong Yu
Published: March 2015

The fast pyrolysis of corn straw in the fluidized bed reactor to produce bio-oil, the preliminary qualitative research on the composition of the bio-oil was analyzed by GC-MS to provide the basis for their purification, refining and long-term stability studies. The result shows that: the bio-oil producted by corn straw pyrolysis contains 66 components, mainly containing phenol, furan, acetic acid, propanoic acid, ethanone, vanillin, aldehyde, bio-oil water content is 33% and pH is 3.1, which has a great significance to improve the quality of bio-oil.
Construction Energy Conservation Domain Carbon Transaction Mechanism Economic Efficiency Research
Authors: Han Xing , Lv Gui Lin , Yan Ya Xi
Published: March 2015

Paper first analyzes the present state of development of building energy conservation field, the cost-benefit analysis of profit and loss balance analysis, based on the results of the analysis to study the each link of cost and benefit factors, establish the corresponding mathematical model, finally comprehensive analysis model results, to find a cost effective quantitative analysis method, whether for policymakers with building energy efficiency and carbon trading bring certain reference and basis.
Influence of Solar Panels in Distributed Photovoltaic Power Generating System above Farm Land on Field and Crops
Authors: Ge Zhi Wu , Xiao Ri Xin , Wang Rui Ping
Published: March 2015

In order to break through the bottleneck of solar photovoltaic power generation, and off-season vegetables problems in Hainan island, we arrange photovoltaic panels above farm land to generate electricity. By novel and ingenious arrangement on panels, we can make farmland temperature distribution more uniform, decrease temperature differences between shading and lighting area significantly, also reduce wind resistance significantly. The influence of solar panel shading on Chinese cabbage was detected by photosynthetic measurement instrument LI-6400. The system was suitable for general farmers to implement in hot climate areas. By using this system, famers can produce cops and electricity at the same time, sell extra electricity, and get double income.
Evaluation of Restoration Sequence of DG in Black-Start
Authors: Huang Xiao Yun , Peng Fei Jin , Huang Hong Yuan , Xie Zhi Wen
Published: March 2015

With the rapid expansion of the grid, how to solve the security and stability of power system has become a hot problem. As a power system after a serious accident the necessary security measures, black-start programs are expected to play an extremely important role in reducing the loss of equipment and user outage and decreasing the outage time. The present paper proposes a series of advantages about distributed generator (DG) and raises evaluation indexes of DG in black-start. The fuzzy hierarchical model is built based on the general steps of fuzzy decision theory. According to the concept of triangular fuzzy number, considering the indexes of which the weight value is judged by means of trapezoidal fuzzy number complementary judgment matrix. Finally, by actually case anglicizing, the paper demonstrates the scientific nature, effective and easy to operate of the method. And a new decision-making method for the optimal DG start-up sequences based on fuzzy AHP is proposed.
The Analysis on the Effect of Speed Regulating System on Low Frequency Oscillation
Authors: Deng Tong Tian , Wang Jia Sheng , Li Xiao Jun , Wang Xi Tian , Liu Jin Fu , Ma Xin Tong , Dai Yue Song , Guo Yu Feng
Published: March 2015

With the strengthening of interconnected power grid connection, interval oscillation mode damping continue to improve, interval power oscillation accidents still occur, however, the negative damping mechanism of the classic cannot be satisfactorily explain these phenomena, this paper provides the researches forced oscillation mechanism of the low frequency oscillation, the speed control system is likely to form the forced oscillation source, speed regulation system and low frequency oscillation formed an adverse coupling effect. In this paper, based on the mechanism of their method, speed control system are analyzed, the effect of various parameters on the low frequency oscillation in order to avoid speed regulation system to participate in the low frequency oscillation provides technical support.
DC MOA Application and Test Technical Analysis
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Guo Lei , Yang Wei , Wang Guang Zhou
Published: March 2015

To achieve further optimization of resource utilization, HVDC power transmission project in the proportion of the state grid is growing and the range of applications are more widely. Due to the high cost of converter stations, properly design of DC MOA for DC system insulation coordination and reducing the cost are crucial. Through research and analysis of large amounts of data, applications and test technologies of DC MOA is in-depth expounded, It’s further deepened the staff’s understanding of the DC MOA, there are also some guidance and references to the repair and maintenance of DC MOA.
Influences of Environmental Factors on the Maximum Power Point of Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Qiu Xing Xing , He Yi Gang
Published: March 2015

Based on mathematical models and output characteristics of photovoltaic cells, the simulation model for engineering application is established. By the model, the output characteristics of photovoltaic cells with different environmental factors can be analyzed. In MATLAB/SIMULINK environment, the model of the PV maximum power point tracking control is constructed. The simulation results demonstrate that PV can run at the maximum power point with the change of environment factors.
Investigation of Cable Partial Discharge Characteristics Based on Weibull Distribution
Authors: He Sheng Hong , Zhan Qing Hua , Zhang Yi Ming , Li Yan Ran , Wei Chong , Chen Xiao Xin
Published: March 2015

In order to study the application of Weibull distribution in cable partial discharge pattern recognition. We apply a 10kV 30m XLPE cable for this study. Then design four kinds of typical artificial defect model and analyze each of defect model’s discharge pulse signals. Finally, estimate the Weibull distribution of signals by use of the maximum likelihood method. The results show that Weibull probability distribution is similar to partial discharge amplitude distribution, the shape parameter β can be used to identify different types of discharge.
Study of Nanjing Demand Side Management Based on Cost-Benefit Analysis - Take Green Lighting as an Example
Authors: Liu Qiu Hua , Xu Kun , Wang Hao Min
Published: March 2015

Electric power supply is one of the most important aspects of China’s national energy development strategy (NEDS). As major economic unit as well as major energy consumer, Jiangsu province is facing serious energy supply challenges. Under such circumstances, positive actions are taken by local government in respond to NEDS which put energy saving in the first place, and demand side management (DSM) is implemented. DSM is an important measure which can release rush hour electric supply pressure, enhance energy efficiency, optimize electric power utilization, and it is beneficial for sustainable development. This paper is based on the analysis of the current DSM situation of Nanjing, and green lighting is taken as an example. An empirical analysis is given to cost-effectiveness of the implementation of green lighting. Finally, the conclusion that the cost-effectiveness of the implementation of green lighting is economically viable to power supply companies, electric customers and the whole society is drawn.
A Combined Model Based on Cuckoo Search Algorithm for Electrical Load Forecasting
Authors: Chang En Hua , Zhu Guan Nan , Chen Jiong Wei
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Electricity power forecasting has been always playing a vital role in power system management and planning. Inaccurate prediction may lead to wastes of scarce energy resource, electricity shortages and even grid collapses. On the other hand, forecasting electricity power has proven to be a challenging task due to various unstable factors. Meanwhile, accurate power load forecasting can provide reliable guidance for power grid operation and power construction planning, which is also important for the sustainable development of electric power industry. Although over a thousand scientific papers address the topic of load forecasting every year, only a few are dedicated to finding a general model for load forecasting that improves the performance in different cases. This paper proposes a combined forecasting model for electrical power prediction, and the particle swarm optimization is employed to optimize the weight coefficients in the combined forecasting model. The proposed combined model has been compared with the individual models and its results are promising.
Large-Scale Automatic New Energy Resources System Controlling Temperature and Pressure
Authors: Zhang Xiu Xia , Li Wei , Du Guan Nan , Wei Shu Yi , Fan Rong
Published: March 2015

At present, the efficiency of livestock manure and crop residues is low in our country compared with international level. A massive array of automatic methane pond system is presented with controlled temperature and pressure. A single chip Micyoco( SCM) is the control unit. The motor is connected to the SCM; the transmission mechanism connected with the motor, the transmission chain is surrounded by a ring-shaped motor drive; loading of raw materials like iron grid mesh cage, rotates with the transmission chain.
Effect of Salinity on the Growth of Clam
Authors: Cao Dong Mei , Zhang Yi , Zhang Yu Shan , Gao Chun Juan
Published: March 2015

The brine discharge from the seawater desalination plant will affect the receiving water to some extent in physics, chemistry, biology, and so on, especially harmful to the benthos and marine lives in the adjacent water area. In this paper, the experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different salinities on the growth, survival rates in clam from low-salinity under controllable conditions in laboratory. The results show that individuals grew best at salinity 30 to 35. When the salinity exceeded 40, the survival rate and ILS50 of the individuals decreased significantly. Therefore, it is necessary to develop effective means of reducing the negative influence of brine discharged on the marine environment.