Journal of Advanced Research in Fluid Mechanics and Thermal Sciences

An Experimental Investigation of the Effect of Phase Change Material and External Reflectors on the Performance of a Single Slope Still

Omar Abd Ul-Qader Mohammed — 2024-11-20

Solar stills are widely recognized as a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for transforming brackish water into potable water. Although solar energy shows promise, it has yet to be widely adopted due to its lower productivity. This paper presents an experimental investigation to enhance the performance of a single slope solar still using phase change material (PCM) and external reflectors. Many outdoor experiments have been conducted for three cases including: solar still without PCM, Solar still with PCM, and solar still with PCM with external reflectors. Also, the effect of water depth inside the still is examined. The performance of the four cases is evaluated and compared under the meteorological conditions of Baghdad City, Iraq. The results showed that using the PCM improved the Accumulated yield of the conventional solar still by 23% and 14 % for water depths of 2 cm and 3 cm, respectively. Also, the results revealed that using the external reflectors improves the Accumulated yield by 15% for the still with PCM, respectively.

Effect of Change in Sulfuric Acid Concentrations and Different Temperatures on Corrosion of Heat-Treated Moderate Carbon Steel

Mohammad Takey Elias Kassim — 2024-11-20

This study looked at the effects of successive heat treatments (first quenching, first tempering, second quenching, and second tempering) on the corrosion rate of moderate carbon steel in a methodical manner. Using distilled water, the specimens were cooled at 10 ^oC following the initial quenching and at different temperatures (0, 10, 20, 30 ^oC) following the second quenching. Based on the results of repeated heat treatment experiments and corrosion rate experiments in these models, the moderate carbon specimens that underwent the heat treatments have a high corrosion resistance compared to the original models (prior to the application of the heat treatments). At different temperatures (298, 303, and 313 K) and concentrations (0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 N–H₂SO₄), in an acidic moderate. The study also showed that corrosion resistance decreases with concentration and with increasing corrosion-moderate temperature in heat-treated models. Another finding is that the models with the best corrosion resistance were those that underwent a second quench and cooling process. Another finding shows that the models with the highest corrosion resistance were those that experienced a second quench and were cooled in water at zero oxygen content.

Biodiesel Production from Waste Cooking Oil: A Review of Prospects and Challenges

Muhammad Idris — 2024-11-20

The consumption of fossil fuels is increasing as people become more reliant on them. It is consequently vital to discover more environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative energy sources. Because of its considerable potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and its renewable nature, biodiesel derived from WCO has gained attention as a feasible alternative. Enhancing product quality and guaranteeing consistent economic growth are substantial challenges. This investigation aims to assess the feasibility of utilizing WCO as a renewable resource to produce biodiesel. In particular, the investigation investigates the feasibility of obtaining cost-effective and high-quality biodiesel results. To optimize outcomes, this investigation implements a transesterification approach that employs calcium oxide catalysts. Biodiesel's economic value and environmental benefits are assessed through the Life Cycle Cost Assessment (LCCA) assessment method. WCO biodiesel exhibits a high conversion rate and favorable physicochemical properties, as indicated by the results. Therefore, WCO biodiesel can meet the worldwide demand for fuel. The results show that WCO biodiesel has favorable physicochemical properties and a high conversion rate. As a result, WCO biodiesel can meet global fuel demand. It has the potential to generate many benefits for the environment, but there are problems with the collection and processing of WCO. However, WCO collection and processing issues still exist. Biodiesel derived from WCO reduces harmful pollutants, improves public health and air purity, according to engine performance tests.

Investigating Thermal Performance of Substrate Board through Forced Convection and Machine Learning

Amol Dhumal — 2024-11-20

In this study, the thermal performance of substrate board exposed to forced convection with different heat source configurations was investigated. Seven asymmetric integrated circuit chips (heat sources) positioned at various points on the substrate board were cooled through steady-state experiments using laminar forced convection heat transfer mode. The objective was to determine the optimal layout of the seven integrated circuit chips on the board for lowering the maximum temperature. The optimal configuration was determined experimentally and was further validated by employing a machine-learning optimization strategy. Various correlations have been proposed to investigate the effect of the substrate board arrangement on the integrated circuit (IC) Chip temperature and heat transfer coefficient. These findings imply that the size and configuration of the substrate board, input heat flux, and placement of the IC chips have a significant impact on their temperature. Because the heat is discretely placed in this scenario, the temperature of the integrated circuit (IC) chips is the lowest for higher values of the non-dimensional parameter λ. This aids in efficiently reducing the temperature of chips through cooling. Another important factor in the cooling of IC chips is air velocity. The maximum temperature reduction is 14.02% at an air velocity of 3.5 m/s.

Prediction of Lateral Loads of a Propeller in Oblique Flow by CFD Method

Tran The Nam — 2024-11-20

Significant lateral loads on the propeller can be produced under oblique flow conditions, which is critical to the integrity and safety of a ship's stern tube bearing. This paper investigates the effect of oblique flow on lateral loads of a propeller in open water condition based on CFD method. Firstly, the paper provides the theoretical basis for appear the lateral loads of a propeller when working in oblique flow. Then, PPTC propeller was employed as case study. The open water condition is simulated for different inclining angle range of 0 to 12⁰. The numerical obtained results indicated that, the lateral loads increase with the oblique flow increasing, and the hydrodynamic forces acted on each propeller blades will be changed over time depending on the relative position of propeller blade as well as the attack angle to the propeller blade. Finally, the paper provides details of flow characteristics around the propeller at different oblique flow angles to explain the change in lateral loads of a propeller when changing the inclining angle.

The Comparative Study on the Influence of Inorganic Soil Amendment on the Growth and Leaching Analysis of the Brassica Family

Norsuhailizah Sazali — 2024-11-20

Research on the positive effects of inorganic soil amendments in the agricultural sector has been steadily increasing to demonstrate their impact on plant development and the reduction of leaching. In this study, kaolin, metakaolin, zeolite, and perlite, which operate as inorganic soil amendments, were mixed with soil to determine their effectiveness in promoting Brassica growth and reducing the leaching of nitrite and nitrate. Seven alternative treatments; control standard (SS), control low (SL), 3g kaolin (3gK), 3g metakaolin (3gM), 3g zeolite (3gz), 5g of zeolite (5gZ), and 5g of perlite (5gP), were chosen to assess their effectiveness in the growth and reducing leaching in Brassica family (mustard green and kale). All the experiments were conducted in a greenhouse. According to the statistical analysis one-way ANOVA by comparing the mean, zeolite amended soil showed a higher significance difference in mustard green and kale growth analysis at harvest 1 and harvest 2 compared to other treatments. Kaolin, metakaolin, and perlite also showed slightly greater significance differences in mustard green and kale growth compared to the standard and low NPK treatments. In the leaching investigation, kaolin, metakaolin, zeolite, and perlite exhibited the lowest concentration of nitrate and nitrate compared to both standard NPK and low NPK. As demonstrated by the findings, inorganic soil amendments show the potential to improve the growth of mustard green and kale which also reduces the concentration of nitrate and nitrite, especially when using zeolite.

Enhancing Convective Heat Transfer in Circular Microchannels through Response Surface Methodology of Orifice Geometry: A Computational Fluid Dynamics Approach

Dimas Agung Putra Harsono — 2024-11-20

This research investigates the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation to model circular microchannel pipes with orifices as a passive heat transfer enhancer. Different parameters, including microchannel geometry, Reynolds number, and heat flux, are employed in this research. The analysis results indicate that factors such as the distance between the inlet and orifice, and Reynolds number significantly influence the system performance, particularly in terms of pressure drop and Nusselt number. The addition of an orifice to a microchannel also affects the efficiency of heat transfer and the pressure drop. The results were further analysed using the Response Surface Methodology, which revealed that a microchannel with a Reynolds number of 90 and a distance between the inlet and orifice of 2.83238 mm provides an optimum solution. In conclusion, optimising these parameters can lead to more efficient and optimal designs for microfluidic applications.

Effects of Dufour and Heat Generation on MHD Casson Fluid Flows Past an Inclined Oscillating Plate with Chemical Reactions and Thermal Radiation in a Rotating Porous Medium

Chinnasamy Manigandan — 2024-11-20

An analytical interpretation of unsteady-free convective hydromagnetic boundary layers is given in this work. It illustrates the impacts of Dufour radiation of heat, along with chemical reactions on a Casson fluid flowing by an inclined oscillating plate, a uniform magnetic field, and a rotating porous medium. The governing equations that had been solved by utilising the Laplace transform approach and the outcomes are shown. The numerical values of Casson fluid temperature, concentration, and velocity at the plate are visually represented for a range of relevant parameter values. The non-Newtonian fluid, which moves at a faster speed than the Newtonian fluid, has a Casson fluid parameter, which is examined and explained in this study. Moreover, the temperature trend increases with the Dufour number (Df), heat generation parameter (Q), and the reverse trend for thermal radiation parameter (R), Pradtl number (Pr), Schmidt number (Sc), as well as chemical reaction parameter (K). The concentration falls as the chemical reaction parameter (K) and Schmidt number (Sc) rise. We looked at the sped-up flow after the investigation to get measurable data, making sure to take into account things like Cason fluid parameter, Dofour number, and accumulation. Grashof values also findings speed decreases with increased radiation, chemical reaction, and Schmidth parameter levels. Our significant contribution to this research is an in-depth study of rotation with an inclined oscillating plate, which investigates the relationships between rotational forces, oscillation frequency, plate inclination, magnetic fields, and non-Newtonian features of Casson fluids. This work increases our understanding of how these parameters influence fluid behaviour, heat transfer, and mass transfer by offering a complete analytical framework that can be applied to a wide range of practical problems in fluids.In this research, my main contribution is rotation with an inclined oscillating plate.

Implementation of Interleaved Converter for Fast Charging Stations

Arigela Satya Veerendra — 2024-11-20

The major goals of this effort are to create an electric vehicle charging station microgrid that combines the utility grid, a solar PV plant, and a bioenergy system as its primary energy sources. Here, the solar system is designed for 15kW, and the energy system is designed for 5kW. To improve the efficiency and maximize the performance of the distributed energy system, a DC-DC converter-based perturb and observe MPPT technique is implemented. The proposed arrangement makes it possible to build a microgrid that is effective, affordable, and distinctively local. The utilization range of electric vehicles is increasing rapidly and still in some areas it is limited due to more charging times. This can be improved by providing fast charging conditions that enable charging a vehicle in less time. To maintain these fast-charging conditions, an efficient, compact-sized DC-DC converter with high power output is required. This paper introduces an interleaved DC-DC power converter to meet the above requirements. The proposed interleaved multi-phase converter, which is part of fast charging stations, can charge the electric vehicle in less than 3 hours. To achieve high power density, ripple reduction on the output current and to improve the efficiency of the converter a space vector modulation technique is applied. The operation of an interleaved converter is analysed theoretically. Simulation analysis of the proposed interleaved power converter shows the good behaviour of the converter and charging conditions of various electric vehicle systems.

Assessment of Climate Change Impact in Tropical Buildings: Sensitivity Analysis of Light Shelf and Building Design Parameters for Daylighting and Thermal Balance

Nur Nasuha Abd Salam — 2024-11-20

Climate change may lead to more intense sunlight in tropical regions, potentially increasing the daylight available for buildings. While this can enhance natural lighting inside buildings, it may also exacerbate issues such as glare and overheating if not properly managed through shading devices and glazing treatments. Nevertheless, common strategies to mitigate heat gain and glare such as shades and blinds often obstruct natural light, necessitating increased reliance on artificial lighting. The conflicting interplay between daylighting and thermal performance can undermine building performance if not carefully considered. Existing research on the influence of key design parameters in tropical climates tends to focus predominantly on heat gain mitigation, neglecting other aspects. This study addresses these gaps by examining the holistic daylighting and thermal energy performance of buildings to develop optimised façade and resilient designs against climate change. The investigation encompasses an analysis of 11 design parameters of light shelves and building characteristics that are critical during the initial design stage. Global sensitivity analysis (GSA) is employed to identify the most influential design parameters affecting useful daylight illuminance, uniformity ratio, cooling energy, and solar gain energy. A case study involving double-story terrace houses in Malaysia is employed, with analyses conducted for the present and future climates of three Malaysian cities (Kuala Lumpur, Bayan Lepas, and Kota Bahru). The findings reveal that, across all three cities, glazing transmittance is the most influential parameter for daylighting performance, while room depth assumes primary significance for thermal performance. Although the relative ranking of parameters remains consistent between present and future climates, their magnitudes differ. In summary, this paper gives designers insights into the critical design parameters essential for achieving a balanced and resilient daylight-thermal design in tropical climates at the initial stages of the design process.

Assessment of Ventilation Performance and Thermal Comfort in Semi-open Spaces of Naturally Ventilated Traditional Dwellings in Tai Lake Area, China

Chengcheng Zhao — 2024-11-20

Semi-open space is a special architectural space form between indoor and outdoor, which has the functions of transition, climate regulation and energy saving. Effective use of semi-open space is an important ecological strategy in adapting to the climatic conditions of traditional dwellings in Tai Lake region of China. However, it has been shown that the hot and humid summers in the area caused discomfort for a large number of urban dwellers. Therefore, in this research, field measurements based on four environmental parameters (Ta, Tr, Va and RH) were conducted from 27 June 2023 to 7 July 2023 in three multi-courtyard traditional dwellings in the Tai Lake area to evaluate the ventilation performance and thermal comfort of the interior and semi-open spaces of the dwellings. The aim was to assess the role of semi-open space types and structures in the climate regulation of architectural spaces and their potential application in the design of modern dwellings to reduce summer discomfort. Semi-open spaces are effective in promoting natural ventilation to cool the building. This cooling effect is not due to the semi-open spaces themselves having lower temperatures. The indoor thermal environment was influenced by the outdoor climate and had a lagging effect. In addition, the ventilation performance of the semi-open space inside alley was the best, followed by the patio closest to the door.

Effect of Triple Glass Layers on the Thermal Performance of Windows

You Chen — 2024-11-20

This study introduces the application of software simulations to evaluate the performance of triple-pane glass windows to meet the requirements for energy-efficient thermal insulation. Using Therm 7.8.55 and Window 7.8.55 software, structural and physical heat transfer models for various single-frame plastic windows were developed. Numerical simulation methods were employed to calculate and analyse the impact of the number of glass layers on the windows' thermal performance, including the heat transfer coefficient and solar heat gain coefficient, to elucidate the energy-saving mechanisms. These simulations examined the physical properties of single-frame triple-glazed plastic windows, such as wind pressure resistance, airtightness, watertightness, and potential condensation on the inner surface. The results indicate that, under identical conditions, the heat transfer coefficient of single-frame triple-glazed plastic windows is reduced by 7.08%, and the solar heat gain coefficient is decreased by 4.18% compared to single-frame double-glazed plastic windows. Additionally, these windows' physical and economic performance meets the necessary standards. Furthermore, incorporating new materials such as Low-E glass can further enhance the thermal performance of the windows, significantly contributing to the reduction of overall building energy consumption.

Phase Change Material for Improving Building Thermal Comfort in Kurdistan

Mohammed Syamand Nasih Al-Dalal — 2024-11-20

The Kurdistan region of Iraq suffers from relatively high summer temperature which leads to overheating in office buildings where there is little to no air-conditioning installed. In summer, the temperature rises to around 45-53 °C which can be unbearable to building occupants. The high temperature can affect occupant thermal comfort and causes health issues. Phase chance materials (PCM) are considered as a useful passive cooling method that absorbs excessive heat when the room is relatively hot and releases the stored heat when the room temperature becomes less hot. This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of using PCM to reduce the overheating of offices in Kurdistan region and to analyze potential factors that will affect the building temperature. The factors include environment-related (location of the building, climate change) and construction related (location of the PCM, insulation, heavyweight/lightweight construction). The potential outcome of this research may provide useful guidance about using PCM in office buildings in Kurdistan region for architects and engineers to decide when and where to use PCM. The building simulation is performed using DesignBuilder software where different types of PCM are investigated. Results from the building simulation show that PCM can reduce cooling energy consumption by about 1% as compared to when no PCM is used.

Effect of Heat Treatment on Mechanical Characteristics and Microstructure of Aluminium Alloy AA6061

Yeow Khai Bin — 2024-11-20

Aluminium alloy 6061 (AA6061) is widely used across various industries. It has untapped potential in diverse sectors due to its exceptional strength, lightweight characteristics and corrosion resistance. It finds value in aerospace, automotive, marine, sports gear, architecture, renewable energy, electronics, healthcare devices, packaging and defence. This study investigates the impact of heat treatment on AA6061 on its microstructural and mechanical properties (tensile strength and microhardness). The main goals of this study involve assessing the mechanical properties of AA6061 after subjecting it to solution heat treatment at various temperatures and time intervals. Furthermore, the study aims to understand the relationship between microstructural alterations and mechanical properties in AA6061 following heat treatment. A combination of tensile tests, hardness tests, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to examine the material's microstructure. The findings reveal that the sample subjected to the heat treatment of 450°C for 60 minutes exhibited the highest tensile strength, boasting an impressive 130.9 MPa, coupled with a remarkable hardness of 19.8 HRB. Conversely, the sample treated at 550°C for 60 minutes displayed the most significant elongation percentage, reaching a remarkable 46%. These results can be explained by analysing the microstructure. Finer grain boundaries led to increased tensile strength and hardness, while a larger dendritic microstructure was linked with lower tensile strength and hardness. Remarkably, the second one led to higher elongation percentages. Therefore, precise control of the heating temperature and duration is crucial to enhance the performance of aluminium alloy, AA6061. With continuous research, alloy improvement and creative design, AA6061 have the potential to enhance performance and efficiency in these areas, driving technological advancements and better products.

Investigation of the Effectiveness of Small Scale Solar Updraft Tower using Solar Simulator

Mohd Noor Asril Saadun — 2024-11-20

Unique solar thermal system comprises a solar updraft tower (SUT) power plant. Numerous outdoor experiments are conducted, but they have a number of drawbacks, including the necessity for a lengthy setup period, a substantial financial investment, the possibility that the results may be affected by the weather, and the inability to manipulate the ambient factors. In this study, a laboratory-scale prototype with a square collector measuring roughly 2.27 m² and a chimney height of 1.5 m was built. This research focuses on finding many essential parameters for a solar updraft tower system by giving a time-dependent real-time sensor readout. With the help of the internet of things (IoT), measuring and monitoring applications underwent pilot testing. The results indicate that as solar energy increases, the collector and chimney temperature and updraft velocity will also increase. Experiments conducted aided in the comprehension of the thermodynamic properties of the solar chimney power plant, serving as the foundation for the construction of a large-scale solar chimney power plant.

Optimization of Solar Power Plant with Variation of Solar Reflector Angles and Use of Passive Cooling Integrated Internet of Things

Abdullah Abdullah — 2024-11-21

With the growing global demand for energy, exploring alternative energy sources, particularly solar energy, in equatorial regions where abundant sunlight is essential. Solar panels, which convert sunlight into electricity, must be optimally positioned to capture the maximum amount of sunlight and operate within an ideal temperature range for efficiency. However, two key challenges must be addressed: ensuring solar panels are consistently aligned with the sun and managing heat buildup, which can reduce performance. This study proposes a specialized optimization system to enhance solar panel efficiency by addressing these issues. The system adjusts the angle of solar reflectors to maximize sunlight exposure. It incorporates passive cooling mechanisms, such as heatsinks and cooling blocks, which are attached to the back of the panels to regulate temperature. Real-time monitoring using Internet of Things (IoT) technology tracks critical parameters, including solar reflector angles, panel and ambient temperatures, light intensity, weather conditions and electrical output. A comparative analysis between standard solar panels and those equipped with this optimization system demonstrates that the latter significantly outperforms conventional setups. The system ensures maximum sunlight absorption, maintains optimal operating temperatures and boosts overall energy production. These findings underscore the potential of the proposed system to improve the reliability and efficiency of solar energy generation in equatorial regions, contributing to more sustainable energy solutions in high-sunlight environments.