bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Thermal Modeling of a Multi-Cavity Array Receiver Performance for Concentrating Solar Power Generation
Authors: Fleming Austin , Ma Zhiwen , Wendelin Tim , Ban Heng , Folsom Charlie 
Published: October 2015

Concentrating solar power (CSP) plants can provide dispatchable power with the thermal energy storage (TES) capability for greater renewable-energy grid penetration. To increase the market competitiveness, CSP technology needs to increase the solar-to-electric efficiency and reduce costs in the areas of solar collection from the heliostat field to the receiver, energy conversion systems, and TES. The current state-of-the-art molten-salt systems have limitations regarding both the potential for cost reduction and improvements in performance. Even with significant improvements in operating performance, these systems face major challenges to satisfy the performance targets, which include high-temperature stability (>650°C), low freezing point (<0°C), and material compatibility with high-temperature metals (>650°C) at a reduced cost. The fluidized-bed CSP (FB-CSP) plant being developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has the potential to overcome the above issues with substantially lower cost. The particle receiver is a critical component to enable the FB-CSP system.
This paper introduces the development of an innovative receiver design using the blackbody design mechanism by collecting solar heat with absorber tubes that transfer the radiant heat to flowing particles. The particle and receiver materials can withstand temperatures of >1000°C because the receiver can use low-cost materials, such as ceramics and stainless steel, and the solid particles can be any low-cost, stable materials such as sand or ash for particle containment and TES. The heated particles can be stored in containers for TES or supply heat for power generation. This study investigated the performance of convection, reflection, and infrared (IR) re-radiation losses on the absorber solar receiving side. We developed a flux model to predict the reflection losses from the absorber tubes based on the NREL SolTrace program, and conducted thermal modeling by using the Fluent Software. This paper presents the thermal modeling and results on the receiver performance. The receiver configuration may have broad applications for different heattransfer fluids (HTFs), including gas, liquid, or the solid particle-based system in our receiver development.
Electricity Generation From Large Marine Vessel Engine Jacket Water Heat
Authors: Yuksek Errol L. , Mirmobin Parsa 
Published: October 2015

As world trade grows, fuel prices increase, and International Maritime Organization (IMO) emissions requirements tighten, there is more demand for the marine industry to employ innovative means of reducing the fuel consumption and emissions of shipping vessels.
The main engines of large shipping vessels produce a large quantity of low temperature heat, but this valuable heat energy is transferred to cooling systems and rejected to the oceans as waste. At the same time, the electrical needs of shipping vessels are sustained by burning diesel fuel to run generators.
Calnetix Technologies, in partnership with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, has developed the Hydrocurrent™ 125EJW Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC), a modularized system capable of absorbing the waste heat of main engine jacket water and converting it into grid-quality electric power. By combining this renewable source with the existing non-renewable source (engine gensets) a unique renewable-non-renewable hybrid power system is realized with minimal changes to overall ship power train. This novel hybrid system can be applied to all new and existing ships and allow for further integration into ship systems with available waste heat.
Shipping vessels such as tankers, bulk carriers, and container vessels are typically equipped with a category 3 marine diesel engine for main propulsion. A 30 MW engine, a most common engine size, utilizes 200–300 m3/hr of jacket water regulated to a heated temperature of 80–95 C. When integrated into the jacket water and sea water loops, the ORC can produce up to 125 kW of gross grid-quality electric power. This adds an immense benefit to the ship. To produce the same amount of power, a diesel generator consumes as much as 250 metric tons of diesel fuel per year, generates emissions, and requires significant maintenance.
Calnetix Technologies has leveraged its core technologies to develop the ORC into a reliable, high efficiency, compact and modular design. The turbo-generator or Integrated Power Module (IPM) is a hermetically sealed, high speed radial turbine coupled to a permanent magnet generator supported by magnetic bearings. Power from the IPM is converted by a high efficiency power converter supplying the ship with reliable power. The integrated design of the ORC along with the sophistication of its controls systems ensures essential ship functions are undisturbed under all conditions. The ORC is designed to comply with Nippon Kaiji Kyokai and Lloyd’s Register marine regulations and sea trials are anticipated to take place in 2015.
Deployment of Fuel Cell Electric Buses in Transit Agencies: Hydrogen Fueling Infrastructure Scenarios
Authors: Castillo Analy , Samuelsen Scott , Shaffer Brendan 
Published: October 2015

For transit agencies looking to implement Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV), Fuel Cell Electric Buses (FCEBs) represent an opportunity because of the similar range and refueling times compared to conventional buses, but with improved fuel economy. To assure an environmentally sensitive hydrogen infrastructure that can respond to the wide range of needs and limitations of transit agencies, a systematic evaluation of options is essential. This paper illustrates the systematic evaluation of different hydrogen infrastructure scenarios for a transit agency. The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) in California was selected for the study.
Three different hydrogen infrastructure configurations are evaluated and compared to the existing paradigm of compressed natural gas buses and diesel buses. One additional scenario is analyzed in order to compare feasibility and environmental benefits of FCEBs with Plug-in Electric Buses. Each scenario represents (1) a specific mix and percentage of contribution from the various hydrogen generation technologies (e.g., on-site electrolysis, central SMR, and on-site SMR), (2) defined paths to obtain the corresponding feedstock for each generation process (e.g., biogas, natural gas, renewable energies), (3) detailed hydrogen distribution system (e.g., mix of gaseous/liquid truck delivery), and (4) the spatial allocation of the generation location and fueling locations (e.g., on-site / off-site refueling station) while also accounting for constraints specific to the OCTA bases.
This systematic evaluation provides Well-to-Wheel (WTW) impacts of energy and water consumption, greenhouse gases and criteria pollutant emissions of the processes and infrastructure required to deploy FCEBs and Plug-in Electric Buses at OCTA. In addition, this evaluation includes a detailed analysis of the space requirements and operations modifications that may be necessary, but yet feasible, for the placement of such infrastructure.
An Evaluation of Containment Materials for High Temperature Metal Thermal Storage
Authors: Curran David , Miller Fletcher , Carrington Russell , Hunt Arlon 
Published: October 2015

Concentrated solar power (CSP) must decrease its levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) below the DOE SunShot program targets of 6 ¢/kWhe and improve its reliability to enable widespread adoption. Two features of CSP that will decrease LCOE and improve reliability are higher operating temperatures for the power cycle and thermal energy storage (TES). Thermaphase Energy and San Diego State University are developing the Liquid Metal Thermal Energy Storage System (LiMTESS), an innovative TES system based on phase change in Al-Si and Mg-Si alloys that stores thermal energy produced by gas-cooled solar receivers at temperatures above 800 C. Proper containment for Al-Si and Mg-Si alloys is critical for LiMTESS commercialization. Any containment vessel must be simultaneously compatible with the molten alloys and high-temperature oxidizing gases (e.g., air), facilitate heat transfer between the alloys and high-temperature oxidizing gases, and accommodate internal stresses associated with TES operation.
A ceramic-metallic composite material (TCON) and select ceramics such as siliconized silicon carbide (SiSiC) and alumina initially showed promise in meeting these requirements. A series of thermal cycling tests were performed to check the integrity of the containment vessels. TCON produced macroscopic nodules during the thermal cycling that eliminated it from further consideration. On the other hand, SiSiC performed well when exposed to high-temperature, AlSi36, MgSi56, and air. To further evaluate SiSiC as a containment material, the research team conducted multiple thermal cycles with variable temperature profiles, duration of test, and gas environments. Before and after each thermal cycle, the team conducted a mass analysis and performed SEM and EDS analysis on prepared, treated samples. The results confirm SiSiC is a good candidate for a containment vessel.
At this point the research team is evaluating Morcoset, a silicon carbide-based mortar, for creating an air-tight seal for SiSiC. The research team assessed the quality of the seal by using the mortar to seal MgSi56 and conducted thermal cycling tests to compare the mass loss of the system due to Mg vapor escaping the system to that of a controlled system with no alloys sealed. Results confirmed that Mg vapor did not exit the system. There is still more work to do, but preliminary results indicate the Morcoset + SiSiC system is a good containment system for AlSi36/MgSi56. In this paper the results of the long-duration thermal cycling tests as well as electron micrographs of the containment seals and phase change materials are presented.
Cost Analysis of Different Operation Strategies for Falling Particle Receivers
Authors: Gobereit Birgit , Amsbeck Lars , Buck Reiner , Singer Csaba 
Published: October 2015

The potential for highly efficient and cost competitive solar energy collection at high temperatures drives the actual research and development activities for particle tower systems. One promising concept for particle receivers is the falling particle receiver. This paper is related to a particle receiver, in which falling ceramic particles form a particle curtain, which absorbs the concentrated solar radiation. Complex operation strategies will result in higher receiver costs, for both investment and operation. The objective of this paper is to assess the influence of the simultaneous variation of receiver costs and efficiency characteristics on levelized cost of heat (LCOH) and on levelized cost of electricity (LCOE).
Applying cost assumptions for the particle receiver and the particle transport system, the LCOE are estimated and compared for each considered concept. The power level of the compared concepts is 125 MWel output at design point. The sensitivity of the results on the specific cost assumptions is analyzed. No detailed evaluation is done for the thermal storage, but comparable storage utilization and costs are assumed for all cases.
Dynamic Simulation of Performance and Cost of Hybrid PV-CSP-LPG Generator Micro Grids With Applications to Remote Communities in Developing Countries
Authors: Orosz Matthew S. , Mueller Amy V. 
Published: October 2015

Energy infrastructure in rural areas of developing countries is currently deployed on an ad-hoc basis via grid extension, public and private sector solar home system (SHS) service using photovoltaic (PV) panels, and community distributed generation systems, also called mini or micro grids. Universal access to energy is increasingly pursued as a policy objective via e.g. the U.N. Millennium Develop Goals (MDG), Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All), and U.S. Power Africa initiatives. Rational allocation of energy infrastructure for 1.6b people currently lacking access requires a screening process to determine the economic break-even distance and consumer connection density favoring topologically diverse energy technology approaches. Previous efforts have developed approaches to determine grid-connection break-even distances, but work on micro-grid and SHS break-even distance and density is limited.
The present work develops an open access modeling platform with the ability to simulate various configurations of PV, Concentrating Solar Power (CSP), and fueled generator backup systems with exhaust waste heat recovery. Battery and thermal storage options are examined, and typical meteorological year (TMY) data is combined with probabilistic and empirical load curve data to represent the appropriate physical dynamics. Power flow control strategy and infrastructure is optimized for a minimum tariff (USD/kWh) for cost recovery. Cost functions derived from manufacturers’ data enable performance and economic assessment for a case study micro grid in Lesotho.
High-Temperature Heat Transport and Storage Using LBE Alloy for Concentrated Solar Power System
Authors: Kim Jin-Soo , Dawson Adrian , Wilson Robert , Venkatesan Kishore , Stein Wesley 
Published: October 2015

Liquid metals have received growing attention as a potential replacement for more conventional heat transfer fluids in concentrated solar power (CSP) systems. Owing to liquid metals high thermal conductivity, an increase in solar receiver efficiency as well as higher serviceable temperatures could enable more advanced power cycles to be integrated to the CSP system. Recently, CSIRO carried out research on a solar air turbine system which includes a demonstration of a high-temperature pressurized air receiver combined with high-temperature thermal storage. Since the operation temperature of a solar air turbine system is much higher than that of conventional CSP systems, Lead-Bismuth Eutectic (LBE) alloy was chosen for its favorable high temperature heat transport properties and relative ease of storage. The heat test apparatus consisted of a LBE-air heat exchanger, storage tanks with internal heating elements and a pumping system developed by CSIRO. During the test, approximately 1,000 kg of LBE was successfully pumped while capturing and storing approximately 35MJ of solar energy. The test successfully transferred heat from the solar air receiver to the LBE, with the temperature of stored LBE reaching over 770 °C.
This paper will present the concept of the test system, design of its components, procedures and results of the test, and also lessons learnt.
Amino-Functionalized Silica Materials for Carbon Dioxide Capture
Authors: Abbo Hanna , Piet Marvin , Titinchi Salam , Schwieger Wilhelm , Bolland Olav 
Published: October 2015

Amine-functionalized mesoporous silica has attracted much attention as a promising chemical sorbent for capturing carbon dioxide. It has the combination of several features viz., high adsorption capacity, high selectivity toward CO2, fast kinetics, mild conditions for desorption and should be stable under operating conditions.
In this study, a chemical grafting route has been developed to synthesize mesoporous adsorbents with amines functionalization for CO2 capture. The initial silylation step was achieved by grafting of different silane linkers (3-aminopropyl)-trimethoxysilane (APS) and 3-chloropropyl)-trimethoxysilane (CPS) via direct condensation and hydrolysis reaction. After silylation the CPS-supports was reacted with tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (TREN) to introduce the amine group to increase the adsorptive capabilities for these sorbents. The synthesized sorbents were characterized by N2 adsorption/desorption, XRD, FTIR and HR-SEM. The adsorption capacities of the modified solid sorbents show a significant enhancement in their adsorption capacity by 3–4 times higher than that of the parent materials which indicate the affirmative impact of amines for CO2 adsorption after grafting.
Sustainable Techniques for Public School in Florida: Application of the Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS)
Authors: Abdulraheem Sahar , Nawari Nawari O. 
Published: October 2015

Floods are among the most common natural hazards in Florida. They are threatening the safety and economic welfare of Floridians. Every year Florida spends millions of dollar to mitigate direct flood damages. Amongst the effective solutions to these flood damages is the control of urban drainage in school buildings and nearby grounds to conserve and preserve natural resources and to promote sustainable thinking.
This paper discusses how public schools in Florida can benefit from sustainable techniques by applying the sustainable urban drainage system (SUDS) to school designs. The article also illustrates how Florida can use school sites as double functions to provide an active educational environment and to manage storm water runoff at the same time. Construction costs estimation for sustainable techniques is calculated based on data available for the year 2011 and compared with the conventional construction methods for schools.
The result indicates a high initial cost that can easily be offset by considering the cost of conventional drainage structure, conserved storm water, flooding impact, storm water sewage disposal, and other measures.
Technical/Technological Advances for Optimizing Heat Rate
Authors: Raj Komandur Sunder 
Published: October 2015

Heat rate in a power plant cycle is a calculated value expressed as the ratio of the amount of heat supplied to the cycle divided by the amount of power that is generated. It is directly affected by the heat source and associated auxiliaries, the prime mover, the regenerative feedwater heating cycle and, the heat sink.
Heat rate computations also suffer from imprecision/time lags associated with fuel flow measurements, difficulties/uncertainties in determination of the actual amount of heat supplied to the power plant cycle and, measurement of the power that is generated. Consequently, many power plant owners and operators have reservations as to the intrinsic value of heat rate as a performance metric, since detailed analysis and evaluation of the underlying causes and issues are essential to account for deviations from predicted or expected values.
Several innovations and advances have paved the way for real-time monitoring, trending, analyzing, evaluating, diagnosing and optimizing power generating asset performance. Using a coal-fired unit as a representative case study, this paper provides an overview of how technical/technological advances in optimizing power generating asset performance facilitate concomitant optimization of heat rate.
The Impact of Qualified Bolting Specialists on the Safe, Reliable Assembly and Operation of Bolted Flanged Connections
Authors: Waterland A. Fitzgerald (Jerry) , Lay David , Dodge Michael 
Published: October 2015

Why do we certify welders but require no evidence of training or competence from those performing the critical bolted flanged joint assembly of pressure vessels and piping throughout the same industries? To remedy this situation ASME has recently released the first comprehensive standard in ASME PCC-1-2013 Appendix A that establishes uniform criteria, not just for the quality of the bolted joints but for the workers who assemble them. To support this critical training and qualification standard, ASME Training & Development has created a unique blended learning program for pipe fitters and mechanics to become Qualified Bolting Specialists (QBS), per the requirements outlined in PCC-1-2013 Appendix A.
The purpose of this technical presentation is to explain the opportunities presented by this new standard and how industry can benefit from a better-trained work force in this critical area of bolted joint assembly. The authors have been integrally involved in the development of both the PCC-1 guideline document, and the ASME qualification program, and can authoritatively answer industry’s questions.
Auto-Mapping of Tactical Grid Topology Through the Use of a Power Beacon
Authors: Miller Michael A. , Gibbons Greg , Curtiss Peter S. 
Published: October 2015

The world of intelligent microgrids and smart grids is rapidly evolving, with new technologies frequently emerging. Integrating “smart” controls into tactical or mobile grids is critical for remote locations that may not have access to utility power. This paper describes research on a process by which a power network topology can be automatically mapped, allowing the control system to identify which equipment is powered by a specific generator. Called the power beacon, this technology is designed to be used in cases where electric subgrids can be joined or split to accommodate power sharing for tactical or emergency power grids.
The power beacon operates by issuing a brief current that can be measured at the generation source. Each load in the power grid is retrofitted with the simple and inexpensive circuitry to create this signal. If the grid configuration changes, an iterative process is used so that the location of each load with respect to its power source can be automatically and rapidly determined.
Research and development of the power beacon evaluated various methods for generating the current pulses. Initial testing of the concept included shaping of the pulse to reduce noise, as well as testing open and closed loop pulse generation with and without feedback. The development also addressed pulse frequency to help mitigate the negative effect the load inductance will have on power beacon operations.
The design process and results from initial testing acted as a proof of concept. Based on the initial results of system testing, modifications were made to handle electrical “noise” coming from the sample power distribution system. The new design integrated a digital filter for noise rejection and increased the current pulse amplitude. These adjustments were tested and indicated significant improvement. The updated power beacon has been installed in a demonstration power distribution system to continue evaluation of viability.