ARPN Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences              ISSN 1819-6608 (Online)
 

 
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ARPN Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences                       October 2016  |  Vol. 11  No. 20
   
Title: Analysis improvements of Acoustic Emission data in evaluation of concrete beam
Author (s): Shahiron Shahidan, N. Muhamad Bunnori, N. Md. Nor, M. Abd Rahim, S. R. Abdullah and S. S. Mohd. Zuki
Abstract:

Structural health monitoring (SHM) is known as an assessment on damage detection in structural engineering. Nowadays, the application of SHM has been widely used especially on the continuous real time monitoring system with minimum labor involvement. One of the most excellent tools in SHM for real time monitoring system is an Acoustic Emission (AE). AE waves are high frequency stress wave generated by rapid release of energy from localized sources within a material, such as crack initiation and growth. High sensitivity to crack growth, the ability to locate source, passive nature and the possibility to perform real time monitoring are some of the attractive features of AE technique. In spite of these advantages, challenges still exist in using AE technique for monitoring applications especially in analysing recorded AE data as large volume of data are usually generated during monitoring. In this research works, AE parameter, which are Signal Strength and Absolute Energy were selected to be used in determination of damage quantifications by means of Felicity and Calm. Laboratory experimental work was performed on a beam size 150x250x1900mm with concrete gred40. The beams were tested under cyclic loading with four points bending. In conclusion, AE data parameters analyses were prove to be reliable in determining the damage classification in concrete structure in accordance with the real observations during increased loading cycle.

   

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Title: Synthesis and characterization of polymeric microspheres by using suspension polymerization technique
Author (s): Hiung Yin Yap, Chin Fhong Soon, Nik Hisyamudin Muhd. Nor, Muhammad Sharil Saripan, Mohd. Zainizan Sahdan and Kian Sek Tee
Abstract:

Poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is commonly used to fabricate microfluidic devices, micro-lens and biosensors. The biocompatibility of PDMS allows it to be applied in biomedical field. In this paper, suspension polymerization technique was employed to fabricate microspheres of PDMS. Solution of PDMS was prepared by adding curing agent into the base elastomer. The un-cured PDMS was heated at 40 0C and stirred from 500 to 800 rpm in order to polymerize the polymer at various stirring speed in the presence of a surfactant which consists of distilled water and poly-vinyl alcohol. The result showed that the size of the PDMS microspheres was highly variable and slightly influenced by the speed of stirring. These elastomeric microspheres can be stained by dissolving red food dye in Toluene. The microspheres produced may be applicable to biosensing that do not require standardization of microsphere size.

   

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Title: The effect locus of control on driving behavior among Malaysian young drivers
Author (s): Kamarudin Ambak, Basil David Daniel Zaharah Mamat, Joewono Prasetijo and Munzilah Rohani
Abstract:

In Malaysia, road accidents are major concern that needs to be resolved by the related authorities. The human is the most significant factor in road accidents especially among young driver. This study was conducted to investigate the characteristics, effectiveness and relationship between locus of control and human factors. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to 247 young drivers in Batu Pahat, Kluang and Johor Bharu. Results show that more than 60% of the respondents ages are between 24 and 29 years old. From correlation analyses, it was found that there were moderately positive relationships between internality and dissociation while external showed moderately positive relationship between careful and distress reduction. A multiple regression analysis demonstrated that internality had a strong relationship with dissociation and anxiety. Also, the externality is statistically significant with speeding and patience. In addition, the externality and internality showed a significant relationship to driver behavior. Therefore, it can be concluded that Locus of Control is useful model for understanding the human behavior in relation to road accidents.

   

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Title: Primary response of pavement variation with construction variables
Author (s): Rosnawati Buhari, Mohamad Yusri Aman, Munzilah Md. Rohani and Saifullizam Puteh
Abstract:

Fatigue and rutting are two major modes of distress of flexible pavements that are typically characterized by the primary response of the pavement and so calculations of the pavement s structural responses should be measured carefully for more accurate predictions of pavement performance. Response to it, this task aims to predict the primary response of the forces using Influence Function and Peak Influence Function Method for several differences top layer pavement thicknesses. In this tasks, both the aforementioned critical responses were highlighted, that are horizontal tensile strain at the bottom of bound layers and the vertical compressive strain on top of the sub-grade layer, that relates to fatigue and rutting damage respectively. The vertical load applied to the surface is uniformly over a circular area, leading to an axial symmetric problem. The pavement structure was modeled as semi-infinite linear elastic system considering three layers; an asphalt surface layer, a granular base layer and semi-infinite sub-grade or soil layer. A multilayer linear elastic approach was used to calculate the response of the pavement structure under uniform contact stress. The simulation results were compared to the results from BISAR application. As a finding, the comparison between computed critical strains and output from BISAR and a good consensus was reached. The variation of radial and vertical strains at the bottom of asphaltic concrete and on top of the sub-grade layer is matched well and conforms to the capability of the program that was developed.

   

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Title: The Eulers spreadsheet calculator using Visual Basic programming for solving ordinary differential equations
Author (s): Kim Gaik Tay, Sie Long Kek, Tau Han Cheong and Rosmila Abdul-Kahar
Abstract:

Motivated by the works of a Richardson s Extrapolation spreadsheet calculator for differentiation, we have developed the Eulers spreadsheet calculator using Visual Basic (VBA) programming to solve ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Users simply need to enter the independent and dependent variables used, a starting value and ending value for the independent variable, an initial value for the dependent variable, the step size, the ODE and exact function for the ODE. Lastly click the APPLY button which is associated with the VBA programming written to solve the ODEs by the Euler s method, and finally its full solution is automatically calculated and displayed. Hopefully, this Euler s ODEs spreadsheet calculator can help educators to prepare their marking scheme easily and assist students in checking their answers.

   

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Title: Sustainable development in higher education institutions (HEIS): Towards sustainable campus operations (SCO)
Author (s): Ruzaimah Razman, Abd Halid Abdullah and Abdul Zaki Wahid
Abstract:

Sustainable development has become an important organizing principle for human life on this planet. It is related to the quality of life in a community, whether the economic, social and environmental systems that makes up the community with providing a healthy, meaningful and productive life for present and future. Thus, university is one of the mediums that can be particularly well suited for the realization of sustainable development. One of the most important themes used to promote sustainability at higher education institutions (HEIs) is through their campus infrastructure and operations. While some local HEIs perform a variety of green programs and initiatives, the actual campus sustainability practices are not much explored. Thus, this paper fills the gaps by investigating the actual areas of focus and common measures taken by some major HEIs around the world towards Sustainable Campus Operation (SCO). Hopefully, this paper will provide an aspiration to Malaysia's HEIs particularly to the management parties in making plan and framework of sustainable campus to meet the United Nation Decade of Education for Sustainable Development.

   

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Title: Fuzzy logic approach for line following robot using an array of digital sensors
Author (s): A. H. Ismail, A. M. Abdul Zaman and K. Terashima
Abstract:

When Lofti Zadeh introduced fuzzy logic in the 60s, it became phenomenon in the academic world. The fuzzy concept that uses reasoning rather than exact computation has been proven and successfully applied in many applications. Implementing fuzzy logic generally involves three basic procedures; (1) fuzzification, or fuzzy inference process that converts crisp sensors value into fuzzy world, (2) computation, where the fuzzy value being treated, and (3) defuzzification, where the fuzzy output is converted back into crisp values mainly for actuators. Fuzzification revolves within the context of converting sensor's data into fuzzy world. Using analog sensor for fuzzification has been long discussed by numerous literatures as the analog sensors has ranges. However, converting digital sensors into fuzzy world is much challenging than analog sensors due to logical digital output. In this paper, we explain our technique in fuzzification of an array of digital sensors with an application to a line following mobile robot. We also discuss the Pugh selection matrix in order to choose the most desired mobile robot design. Then, we apply fuzzy logic control system to the developed mobile robot. Our present results for the LFR motion control yield in much faster and efficient tracking comparable to PID and switching algorithm that uses the same platform.

   

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Title: A review of microstructure properties of porous concrete pavement incorporating nano silica
Author (s): Mohd. Ibrahim Mohd. Yusak, Ramadhansyah Putra Jaya, Mohd. Rosli Hainin and Mohd. Haziman Wan Ibrahim
Abstract:

Microstructure properties are one of important key for the strength of porous concrete pavement. Active pozzolanic admixtures such as nano silica become interest in modern concrete technology to obtain high performance properties. The objective of this paper is to review the microstructure properties of porous concrete pavement containing nano silica. Studies have shown that nano silica can be used as cement replacement or admixture in porous concrete mixture. Lack of study conducted for the microstructure properties of porous concrete pavement. The present study has been undertaken to review the microstructure properties of porous concrete pavement incorporating nano silica. From the literature review, it can be conclude that the existing of nano scale pozzolans such as nano silica helps to achieve more dense and better micro structural packing and more impermeable cement matrix.

   

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Title: Effect of open-graded coarse aggregate on concrete paving blocks properties for pavement
Author (s): Nur Hidayah A. H., Hasanan Md. Nor and Ramadhansyah P. J.
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The potential of using coarse aggregate for open graded in the production of concrete paving blocks (CPB) were presented in this study. Three different sizes of coarse aggregate were used through the investigation: (a) passes 8 mm retains 5 mm, (b) passes 10 mm retains 8 mm and (c) passes 10 mm retains 5 mm as control. Furthermore, a series of tests were carried out to determine the properties of the blocks, namely density, porosity, weight loss, compressive strength and skid resistance test. It was found that the size of coarse aggregate effects on many aspects, especially in the strength of the blocks. However, at the same time it also provides sufficient strength or the minimum required strength (30 MPa) for a rectangular block to be used as part of paving surface. In addition, the blocks show that it is suitable for use in vehicle area when the value of the British Pendulum Number of skid resistance test more than 45 referred to BS 6717; 2001.

   

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Title: Assessing critical function of knowledge and information literacy skills in using weblog for learning: A case study of postgraduate students
Author (s): Alias Masek and Nor Fariha Mokhdin
Abstract:

Everyone might aware of the typical function of weblogs for personal uses, but very little amongst us who are aware of weblog function as a learning medium. Literature suggests that optimal usage of weblog as learning medium has resulted students with better performance. This study was a case study conducted to investigate students' readiness on weblog usage to support course work, amongst postgraduate students in engineering education. A survey was carried out to identify knowledge (awareness), information literacy and constraints faced by postgraduate students on the uses of weblog as a learning medium. Data collection involved 171 postgraduate students from multiple engineering backgrounds, undertaking engineering education program in Faculty of Technical and Vocational Education. The finding indicated that students are knowledgeable and have high level of information literacy regarding the use of the weblog as a learning medium. Several constraints were identified, but did not hinder students to make use of weblog. The implication is that educators should diversify their teaching and learning medium and make use the latest technology at any mode and level of education. By doing so, postgraduate students will have several options to enhance their learning process, including using weblog for learning.

   

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Title: Identification of material surfaces using Grey Level Co-occurrence Matrix and Elman Neural network
Author (s): Abd Kadir Mahamad, Muhammad Affandi Bin Yusof, Sharifah Saon, Fathin Liyana Zainudin and Musli Nizam Yahya
Abstract:

Material type absorption coefficient is one of the important parameter that used for acoustic room calculation. Currently, absorption coefficient is obtained by using impedance tube or resonance tube. Both techniques need long learning good skills, high cost equipment, and time consuming to conduct. This paper proposed a system distinguished absorption coefficient thru the material surface identification from digital images. The system was built by applying Grey Level Co-occurrence Matrices (GLCM) and Elman Neural Network (ENN). Result for the best mean squared error (MSE) was 4.62e-9 for training phase and 0.5084 for testing phase. Overall, the system is able to identify the material surfaces and thus directly obtain the absorption coefficient of the material without using any physical equipment as oppose to the current techniques.

   

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Title: Development of the system to predict the absorption coefficient of the classroom acoustic using modified Zernike moments and Radial Basic Function (RBF)
Author (s): Mohamad Hafiz Abu Bakar, Fathin Liyana Zainudin, Abd Kadir Mahamad, Sharifah Saon and Musli Nizam Yahya

Abstract:

The development of a system to predict absorption coefficient using modified Zernike moments and Radial Basic Function (RBF) for classroom is a system based on the system developed using Matlab simulation. This project is designed to predict the absorption coefficient of the surface material and reverberation time in the classroom s for wall concrete, floors and ceilings. In this project, the modified Zernike moments of image processing is applied to extract image features. RBF is used to identify the absorption coefficient of the material. For the reverberation time, Sabine equation is used to calculate the reverberation time for model dimension and reverberation time of the classroom at UTHM. In addition, Matlab Graphical User Interface (GUI) was developed in order to determine the effectiveness of this system. The proposed system has been trained with 200 samples of surface materials from 10 classrooms in UTHM. The system is tested with 30 samples of surface material images, in which the surface has never been tested using the system created before. The results of predicting the absorption coefficient can predict almost 90% accurately. To sum up, the developed system can predict the absorption coefficient and the reverberation time of classroom at UTHM.

   

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Title: Rheological properties of nanoclay as new nanotechnology of apshalt concrete: A review
Author (s): Nurulain C. M., Ramadhansyah P. J. and Norhidayah A. H.
Abstract:

This paper aim to review literature of applies nanoclay to asphalt in order to improve asphalt concrete pavement. Nowadays, nanotechnology is one of a new creation that has been applied in most area. One of them is in asphalt concrete pavement where engineer and researcher use nanoclay for asphalt modification. The fundamental material characterization testing i.e. penetration, softening point and Dynamic Shear Rheometer was performed on conventional and modified asphalt. In addition, the Marshall Stability and ductility were examined. In previous study, asphalt type 60/70 PEN with the percentage of nanoclay were added were 2%, 4%, 6% and 8% by weight of asphalt. According to previous research they were proved that nanoclay as modified asphalt increase in softening point; kinematics viscosity and decrease in binder penetration. The overall performance of nanoclay as modified asphalt binder is improved in terms of rutting and fatigue cracking resistance. The best improvement in the modified asphalt binders were obtained with 6% nanoclay.

   

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Title: Treatment of biodiesel wastewater by coagulation-flocculation process using polyaluminium chloride (PAC) and polyelectrolyte anionic
Author (s): Zawawi Daud, Nazlizan Nasir, Ab. Aziz Abdul Latiff, Mohd. Baharudin Ridzuan and Halizah Awang
Abstract:

In this study, coagulation and flocculation process was used to treat a biodiesel wastewater with polyaluminium chloride as a coagulant. The improvement of the process by using anionic as coagulant aids was also investigated. Optimum condition for the coagulation/flocculation process, such as pH, coagulant dosage and polyelectrolyte dosage of the solution were investigated using a jar test experiment. The result showed that in the optimal pH is 6. The percentage removal of 97%, 95%, 75% and 97% for SS, color, COD and O&G respectively, were achieved at an optimum dosage value; 300 mg/L. While, 89.9%, 91%, 69.4, 81.5% removal of SS, color, COD, O&G respectively, were achieved with the addition 10 mg/L anionic to 150 mg/L polyaluminium chloride. It can be concluded from this study that coagulation/flocculation may be a useful as a pre- treatment process for biodiesel wastewater.

   

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Title: Capacity analysis of different geometric design of un signalized intersections based on occupation time
Author (s): Joewono Prasetijo, Ning Wu, Wan Zahidah Musa, Kamarudin Ambak, Munzilah Md. Rohani and Noorliyana Haji Omar
Abstract:

Traffic flow at low volume is mainly regulated by implementation of un signalized intersections system. The common approach called as gap-acceptance method is used to assess the performance of the intersection in most developed countries. However, among the drawbacks of the gap-acceptance method are the non-compliance to the right of way, design of intersections and the heterogeneous traffic condition as in developing countries. The conflict method is developed to overcome these shortcomings. The occupation time of vehicle is used to calculate the capacity of vehicular movements for each conflict group. The control delay and level of service of the vehicular streams are evaluated according to the procedures in HCM 2000. Result comparison is made between different designs of intersections. It can be concluded that conflict method are found to be comparable with the HCM 2000 using field data.

   

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Title: Low power folded cascode CMOS operational amplifier with common mode feedback for pipeline ADC
Author (s): Izatul Syafina Ishak, Sohiful Anuar Zainol Murad and Mohd. Fairus Ahmad
Abstract:

This work proposed a low power and high gain folded cascode CMOS operational amplifier with a common mode feedback (CMFB) for Pipeline ADC. The proposed design is implemented in 0.13-5m Silterra CMOS technology. The folded cascode topology has been used for obtaining a high gain and low power consumption. Meanwhile, the CMFB is modified circuit to be a double detection to stabilize the output of common-mode voltage. The simulation results shown that the DC gain of 64.5dB, unity gain bandwidth (UGB) of 133.1 MHz and a phase margin (PM) of 68.4: have been achieved. The power consumption of 0.3mW in 1.8V power supply with 22.6V/5s of slew rate and 72.4ns of settling time is obtained.

   

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Title: Alternative binders for flexible pavement
Author (s): Md. Maniruzzaman A. Aziz, Md. Tareq Rahman, Mohd. Rosli Hainin and Wan Azelee Wan Abu Bakar
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Bitumen (asphalt) is a petroleum based material which is used as binder in flexible pavement and bitumen has severe adverse impact on environment as well as in living being. Due to the limitation of petroleum, increased price and the impact on the environment, research is going on to find an efficient, cost effective and environment friendly alternative binder to replace the bitumen. This paper provides a review about the probable materials that can be used as an alternative binder where most of them are bio-based material and waste materials like bio-oil, plastic, polymer, waste cooking oil, waste tire rubber etc. Researchers have found some positive result with these materials. Further research is needed to make these satisfactory replacement of bitumen in industrial scale which will lead to a sustainable source of binder for flexible pavement.

   

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Title: An overview of active compliance control for a robotic hand
Author (s): Amirul Syafiq Sadun, Jamaludin Jalani and Jumadi Abdul Sukor
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It is vital to ensure that a robotic hand can successfully grasp the objects without damaging them. In order to allow a safe grasping, a technique called an active compliance control has been deployed. Active compliance control is an increasingly employed technique used in the robotic field such as service robotics, virtual reality and haptics, telemanipulation, human augmentation, and assistant. Recent research trends show that there are two main methods used in establishing active compliance control for robotic hand namely the force control and the impedance control. This paper highlights a summary of currently related works on active compliant control by using the force control and the impedance control. In addition, several control strategies of active compliance control are also discussed and highlighted for a safe grasping.

   

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Title: Spatial evaluation of speed-flow-geometry relationship on two-lane rural highways
Author (s): Muttaka Na iya Ibrahim, Othman Che Puan and Mushairry Mustaffar
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The mean travel speed of drivers on uninterrupted flow facilities such as two-lane rural highways is deemed as good performance indicator for the subject road class; as the variable relates well with user perception. However, the operating conditions on two-lane roads relating to travel speed is different from those on other types of facilities, as fast moving vehicles in either direction are usually impeded by slower moving ones in the same travel direction and also facing oncoming traffic in the opposing lane. Thus, impeded vehicles may be compelled to travel at lower speeds than desired; particularly, in the absence of sufficient sight distance and permissible gap in the opposing traffic stream, being the appropriate lane used for passing maneuvers. This implies that the operating speed on two-lane highways substantially depends on the level of traffic flow and perhaps, its composition as well as the roadway geometric features. This paper examines the effects of traffic level, composition and road geometric features on the operating speed on two-lane highways based on a spatial approach. An empirical model relating mean travel speed to traffic flow parameters and highway geometric features was derived for prediction of mean travel speed on two-lane rural highways based on easily observable variables.

   

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Title: Effects of air voids content on the performance of porous asphalt mixtures
Author (s): Norhidayah Abdul Hassan, Mohd. Zul Hanif Mahmud, Nurainaa Adi Noraziela Rahmat, Mohd. Rosli Hainin and Ramadhansyah Putra Jaya
Abstract:

This study evaluates the effects of different air voids content on the resilient modulus, abrasion loss and permeability of porous asphalt mixture. One of the main issues with porous asphalt mixture is having an adequate amount of air voids content for its performance. High air voids content will increase the infiltration rate but reduces its durability and vice versa. Gyratory compacted samples were fabricated at various air void contents i.e. 17.5%, 20% and 22.5% using aggregate gradations adopted from Australian and Singaporean specifications. The samples were tested for permeability, resilient modulus and abrasion loss. From the analysis, it was found that the increase in the voids content improves the permeability but adversely affects the resilient modulus and the mixture s performance under abrasion. The resilient modulus and abrasion loss show similar pattern at low air voids content where no significant difference between both mixture types but at high voids content, finer compositions shows to be more durable. Therefore, it can be concluded that the air voids content influences the performance of porous asphalt mixtures.

   

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Title: Mild steel sheet metal forming using ABAQUS software: Influence of draw beads in minimize spring back
Author (s): Nor Assikin Khamis, Suziyani Md. Zin and Abdul Rahim Bahari
Abstract:

Introduction of draw beads can minimize the spring back. Spring back which in the elastic recovery occurs after the sheet metal forming process will result inaccurate geometry of the deformed parts. The objectives of this project are to study the influence of various geometries of the draw bead to the spring back for the mild steel sheet metal. To achieve the objectives, the computational investigation analysis by finite element method based simulation package will be employed to analyze the best draw bead geometry to reduce spring back on mild steel. Draw bead applied to control the material flow in a stamping process and improve the product quality by controlling the draw bead restraining force. A simulation approach by using ABAQUS software used to study the influence of adding draw beads geometry, whether it helps in minimizing the spring back. There are four types of draw beads geometry involve that investigated that is: (1) without draw beads, (2) circular draw beads, (3) rectangular draw beads and (4) triangular draw beads. The result shows that the triangular draw beads reduce spring back more compared to other geometry.

   

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Title: Alkaline treatment on kenaf fiber to be incorporated in unsaturated polyester
Author (s): Arbanah Muhammad, Ahmad Ramli Rashidi, Mat Uzir Wahit, Salmi Nur Ain Sanusi and Sharifah Iziuna Sayed Jamaludin
Abstract:

The improvement of mechanical characteristics including of tensile strength, tensile modulus, flexural strength and flexural modulus of kenaf fiber incorporated in unsaturated polyester by alkaline treatment. Different concentration of 2%, 4%, 6% and 8% NaOH was used on kenaf fiber mat and the best concentration was chosen to check on the tensile tensile strength, tensile modulus, flexural strength and flexural modulus. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) image was used to observe the changes in the view of kenaf fiber. SEM image of treated and untreated kenaf showed the difference where the surface of kenaf seems to be rough. The modification of fiber by sodium hydroxide was effectively softening the fiber surface. Results show the tensile tensile strength, tensile modulus, flexural strength and flexural modulus was increasing with the increasing of NaOH concentration. Results from this study showed that the alkaline treatment has improved the mechanical characteristics of kenaf fiber incorporated in saturated polyester.

   

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Title: Effect of alcohol-gasoline blends (ETHANOL) on performance and emission of SI engine
Author (s): Asiah Ab. Rahim and Nik Rosli Abdullah
Abstract:

The concern about the environmental pollution from incomplete combustion and depletion of fossil fuel has lead the interests of scholar to study about the reformulate of alternative fuel. This paper examines the effect of the alcohol-gasoline blended on the engine emission in consideration of the engine performance. Ethanol (alcohol) that contain different amount of concentration (E5 and E15) of oxygen is used. The test was carried out using 4-cylinder and 4 stroke gasoline engine under wide open throttle and variable speed ranging from 1000 to 4000 rpm. The alcohol had been blended with the gasoline with different amount of concentration (0%-15%) per 2L volume. The result shows that an increase of alcohol content will result in decreasing of carbon monoxide (CO) emissions due to the presence of oxygen. Furthermore, the presence of oxygen in alcohol resulted in complete combustion thus increase the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2). The brake thermal efficiency increased by 0.61% and 2.96% by using E5 and E15 respectively compared with pure gasoline. Overall, E15 is proven to be the best blended compare with other blends as it is showing the most reduction in CO emission without sacrificing the engine performance.

   

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Title: Numerical study of aerodynamic drag force on student formula car
Author (s): Shukriwani Saad and Mohd. Fadzli Hamid
Abstract:

The aerodynamic design concept is a one of the forecast objective to enhance the capability towards acceleration thus restricted from undesired phenomena occurs such as wake area, turbulence flow and so forth. The virtual wind tunnel was introduced to contribute the alternative ways to accomplish the analysis. Numerous model was designed and verified via Computational Fluid Dynamics constructed by ICEM/CFD FLUENT which is a CFD solver that be employed in this study. This technique in order to reduce the drag force value meanwhile brought the student formula car has a tendency to streamline expense to reduce the resistance force by the motion of air, more excellent handling and stability performance. From the result has found that the Kolej Komuniti Bandar Darul Aman (KKBD) student formula car is situated in the range of aerodynamics value which 0.28, and adequate significance to perform in Eimarace competition. Virtual simulation study has brought a result where inspired student to increase a confident level, especially in the design concept of student formula car thus would suggest the best design in future development. From the simulation study also can observe the area which generated turbulence flow, low pressure, high pressure, coefficient of drag, the coefficient of lift, wake area, pressure distribution on the surface, trailing vortices flow, noise study, skin friction drag and pressure drag. From the simulation study has found that the separated flow occurs whenever Go-Kart moving in above 50km/h, the more blunt the vehicle will produce the higher coefficient of drag.

   

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Title: Adsorption isotherm study of adsorption methylene blue onto oil palm kernel shell activated carbon
Author (s): Marshahida Mat Yashim and Erma Liana Marjohan
Abstract:

Industrial palm kernel abundance of waste can be converted into useful activated carbon through chemical activation. This study is focusing on analyzing adsorption isotherm of methylene blue dye onto oil palm kernel shell activated carbon (OPKS-AC) and to analyze the equilibrium data using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm. OPKS was impregnated with phosphoric acid(H3PO4) at 2 impregnation ratio by weight (0.5:1 and 2.5:1) and later carbonized under high temperature (7000C) for 3 hours. Batch adsorption experiment of methylene blue solution was conducted by adding prepared activated carbon to study the adsorption behavior using adsorption isotherm analysis. Batch adsorption experiment of methylene blue onto OPKS shows more uptake of methylene blue occurred onto higher impregnation ratio of OPKS-AC. Batch adsorption data at equilibrium shows Langmuir isotherm fits the data better which indicated the adsorption occurs at monolayer of the OPKS-AC. Correlation coefficient (R2) value of adsorption isotherm was calculated to show suitable fit of the data. R2 value of Langmuir isotherm was calculated at 0.8091 and 0.996 for impregnation ratio 0.5:1 and 2.5:1 respectively. Results from this study showed that the adsorption of methylene blue onto OPKS-AC prepared at a higher impregnation ratio fit better on Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The adsorption is concluded occurs at monolayer of the activated carbon.

   

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Title: Optimization on surface roughness of boring process by varying damper position
Author (s): Wasis Nugroho, NorBahiyah Baba and Adi Saptari
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The paper discusses on investigating surface roughness in the boring (internal turning) process of a workpiece which made of medium carbon steel (AISI 1050). Four parameters were investigated that are damper position, feed rate, depth of cut and insert nose radius. One of investigation of this research is to find a position of the damper to be put in the bar to reduce the vibration during the boring process. The machining process was using Computer Numerical Control (CNC) turning machine Moriseiki NV 2500. Design of experiment (DOE) full factorial with four factors and two levels each, make the total number runs is 16 and three times replications which make the total run of 48 experiments. Random order generator also was applied to select the sequence of experiments. Results of experiment were analyzed using various types of statistical analysis among others are analysis of variance (ANOVA) in MINITAB 16. A regression model was also developed to find the relationship of roughness and parameters under study. The parameters are set that provides the optimum mean of surface roughness achieved is four combinations of damper position (1),feed rate (1), depth of cut (2) and insert radius (1). The highest mean of surface roughness achieved by combination of parameters: damper position (1), feed rate (2), depth of cut (2) and insert radius (2). This research also developed a regression model of surface roughness in boring with parameters involved, verification and validation of the model also was performed. Among the setting of parameters and level, the highest mean of roughness achieved by combination of parameters: damper position (1)* feed rate (2)* depth of cut (2)* insert radius (2). It provides the average roughness of 4.92 5m. The results of this experiment are validating the previous researcher on turning operations that parameters such as damper, feed rate, depth of cut and insert radius effect on the quality of the product which in this case the roughness. The regression model tor predicted model of the research was developed, verification and validation of the model was also being confirmed.

   

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Title: First-order interaction Multiple Regressions model on water quality index in Manjung River and its tributaries
Author (s): Aminatul Hawa Yahaya, Muhammad Aminurrasyid Sutarsono and Farish Ahmad
Abstract:

This research demonstrated the procedures in choosing the best model in forecasting the water quality index (WQI) in Manjung River and its tributaries using multiple regressions. Six independent variables which are the water quality parameters and WQI as the dependent variable were included in this data set. The Multiple Regression (MR) models were involved is the first-order interaction with 57 possible models were considered. In this research, the process of getting the best model from the total of 57 possible models had been shown. The backward elimination of variables with the highest p-value was engaged to get the selected model. The best model includes using the first order interaction with variables of (DO, COD, BOD, SS, AN and pH). The best model obtains then been verified by the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) calculation to quantify the models' relative overall fit.

   

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Title: Optimum DNR and DG sizing for power loss reduction using improved Meta-heuristic methods
Author (s): Wardiah Mohd. Dahalan, Abdul Ghafar Othman, Md. Redzuan Zoolfakar, Puteri Zarina Megat Khalid and Zairi Ismael Rizman
Abstract:

The main purpose of service restoration is to restore as many loads as possible by transferring loads in the out of service areas to other distribution feeders via changing the status of normally close and open switches which is known as Distribution Network Reconfiguration (DNR). In the event of any fault occurrence within the system, immediate restoration is indeed required in the particular area. Therefore, the distribution system must be equipped and planned in such a way that it will continuously supply the power without any interruption during the out-of-service condition. The primary idea in this work is to have the reconfiguration process embedded with Distributed Generation (DG) and being operated simultaneously to reduce power losses by using improved Meta-heuristics methods which is Evolutionary Particle Swarm Optimization (EPSO). A detail performance analysis is carried out in 33-bus systems demonstrate the effectiveness of the EPSO. The proposed method is adopted and its impacts on the network real power losses and voltage profiles are investigated as well as improving the voltage profile while fulfilling distribution constraints.

   

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Title: Discrimination of exudates and non exudates pixels in fundus images and classification of color Autocorrelogram features using Multilayer Perceptron and Support Vector Machine
Author (s): Hasliza Abu Hassan, Nooritawati Md. Tahir, Ahmad Ihsan Yassin and Azlee Zabidi
Abstract:

Fundus images provide an opportunity for early detection of diabetes. Generally, retina fundus images of diabetic patients exhibit exudates, which are lesions indicative of Diabetic Retinopathy (DR). Computational tools have the potential to assist medical practitioners in early screening of the disease. The experiment consists of two parts: 1) detection of exudates in the fundus image (using the Multilayer Perceptron (MLP1) and Support Vector Machine (SVM1)), followed by 2) removal of exudates detected in step (1), feature representation using Color Autocorrelogram (CAC) and classification using another set of classifiers (MLP2 and SVM2). Experimental results on the MESSIDOR dataset suggest that the method has the potential to be used for early indication of DR.

   

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Title: Inorganic metal as lubricant containing additives in SAE 10W-30 engine oil
Author (s): Azmi Roslan, Ahmmed S. Ibrahem and Abdul Hadi
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This paper study on suitability and effect of inorganic metal as additives in Malaysian commercial grade engine oil such as arsenic oxide, aluminum oxide, cadmium nitrate, cobalt chloride, copper, ferum (II) nitrate, nickel (II) nitrate hexahydrate and titanium (IV) oxide to engine oil heat capacity and viscosity. By appending inorganic metal in the engine oil, it will cause the improvement in its thermal properties and thus the fluctuation of the viscosity to the temperature may be altered. The validation of these improvements was assessed by measuring engine oil viscosity-temperature relationship, heat capacity, kinematic viscosity and viscosity index. Viscosity-temperature relationships were obtained using rotational viscometer. Tests were made under constant shear rate of 600 s-1 and temperature setting started from 400C to 1000C. By collecting the information of the viscosity-temperature relationships, engine oil performance measurement was taken place by measuring the area under the curve for each of samples graph. Heat capacity for each sample was determined using a bomb calorimeter in adiabatic mode of operation. Kinematic viscosities of engine oils were assessed using VH2 Viscometer Houillion at 400C and 1000C and viscosity index was calculated according to ASTM D2270 method. The results found that the dissolution of arsenic oxide, cadmium nitrate, copper and ferum (II) nitrate had the best viscosity and heat capacity improvement about 7.44% and 2.01% of reference oil (base fluid).All compounds appended in exhibiting viscosity-temperature relationships, time, kinematic viscosity, viscosity index and heat capacity enhancement compared to reference oil (MCG). MCGT2 had better performance than MCGT1, exhibiting higher area under the curve for the viscosity-temperature relationship and also higher value of heat capacity.

   

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Title: Validation by PIV of the numerical study of flow in the two-dimensional turning diffuser
Author (s): Normayati Nordin, Zainal Ambri Abdul Karim, Safiah Othman, Vijay R. Raghavan, Suzairin Md. Seri, Muhammad Farid Shaari and Sharifah Adzila
Abstract:

The primary objective of this study is to validate the numerical method applied in the analysis of two-dimensional turning diffuser performance. A sharp 90o two-dimensional turning diffuser of area ratio, AR = 2.16 operated at inflow Reynolds numbers, Rein = 5.786 x 104 - 1.775 x 105 was considered. The applicability of standard (ske), renormalization group (rngke) and realizable (rke) k-? turbulence models adopted various near wall treatments namely standard wall functions, non-equilibrium walls functions and enhanced wall treatment to simulate the actual cases was assessed. The ske adopted enhanced wall treatment of y+ ; 1.1 - 1.8 appears as the best validated model, producing minimal deviation with comparable flow structures to the experimental cases (using particle image velocimetry).

   

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Title: CFD simulation of bubbling fluidized bed: Effect of distributor plate orifice pattern configuration on hydrodynamics of gas-solid mixing
Author (s): Iman Eslami Afrooz, Chandra Mohan Sinnathambi, Saravanan Karuppanan and Dennis Ling Chuan Ching
Abstract:

The gas-solid mixing pattern in a fluidized bed is significantly affected by distributor plates. In order to study this impact, two different distributor plates orifice arrangement, namely, triangular and radial (TDP and RDP) are designed. The solid circulation patterns caused by each orifice arrangements are then predicted numerically. To this end, Eulerian-Eulerian (EE) approach through Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) is utilized. As a final point, the simulated particle volume fraction, particle velocity and bed pressure drop are compared. It was found that the distribution of solid volume fraction is more homogeneous while TDP was used. The regular pattern of radial particle velocity was also found for TDP. These indicate that particle motion mainly concentrates in the region between the core and the wall of the bed. However, chaotic solid motion at the core region was observed for RDP.

   

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Title: Low pressure injection molding of boron admixed 316L stainless steel for engineering applications
Author (s): Muhammad Aslam, Faiz Ahmad, Puteri Sri Melor Binti Megat Yusoff, Khurram Altaf, Mohd. Afian Omar and M. Rafi Raza
Abstract:

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of elemental boron on densification of 316L stainless steels. Elemental nano size boron (nB) powder of 0.5, 1 and 1.5 wt. % was blended with 316L SS to produce homogeneous feedstock for low pressure powder injection molding (LPIM) process. LPIM molded samples were sintered at 12300C using high vacuum 10-5Torr. The Results showed that addition of elemental boron has favorable effects on densification. Addition of 0.5 wt% nano size elemental boron in 316L SS has enhanced densification up to 98.5%. Defect free gears were injection molded and sintered successfully using optimal sintering cycle.

   

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Title: An experimental analysis using Taguchi method in resolving the significant factors subject to corrosion under insulation
Author (s): Nurul Rawaida Ain Burhani, Masdi Muhammad, Mokhtar Che Ismail and Masri Asmi Mahed
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Corrosion under insulation (CUI) is a gradually vital issue for piping in industries especially petrochemical and chemical plants due to its astonishing catastrophic disaster and automatic impact on the environmental problem. To ensure this CUI problem does not spark sudden surprise in plants, indeterminate factors that contribute to the deterioration of CUI should be recognized and taken care seriously. Thus, this research will unearth the most influential factors for the CUI deterioration using Taguchi method for design of the experiment. Result analyzed using a signal to noise ratio revealed that most significant factor for CUI occurrence is insulation type followed by service temperature. However, this method also exposes that interactions between factors for CUI are less significant. Meanwhile, the most influential factor for service temperature is 120oC, type of insulation are perlite and calcium silicate while cycle type is isothermal wet/dry. This will help as an acceptable guideline for inspection planning purpose and priority in the maintenance schedule.

   

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Title: Using one way Fluid Structure Interaction coupling to investigate the effect of blood flow on the bileaflet mechanical heart valve structure
Author (s): M. S. Nasif, S. K. Kadhim, H. H. Al-Kayiem and, R. Al Waked
Abstract:

A numerical simulation investigation was conducted to investigate the effect of vibration on the structure of bileaflet mechanical heart valve by using one way Fluid Structure Interaction coupling technique. The forces generated due to blood flow and heart pulsation which consequently cause vibrations is investigated numerically. In this model, the heartbeat used is 120 BPM and the bileaflet heart valve leaflet angles where varied 25o, 63o and 85o. The results of the numerical simulation revealed that the blood velocity and von-Mises stress in the connection pin and valve housing at the angle 25o increased by up to 96% and 78% respectively as compared with the blood velocity and von-Mises stresses at fully open angle 85o. The results of the numerical simulation indicated the von Mises stresses values may reach higher values than the allowable stresses of the artificial heart valve especially at the pin connect and valve housing. This may result in the artificial heart valve failure, however, it depends on the valve leaflet position.

   

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Title: An overview of experimental techniques of the investigation of water-diesel emulsion characteristics droplets micro-explosion
Author (s): Mhadi A. Ismael, Morgan R. Heikal A. Rashid A. Aziz and Cyril crua
Abstract:

Emulsified fuels considered as a promising alternative fuel that could solve and meet the increasingly stringent emission regulations for diesel engines due to their capability of reduction the harmful exhaust emission, such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). The admission of water into the diesel fuel has significant advantages. One of these advantages is the possibility of occurrence of the so-called micro-explosion phenomena. There is a number of experimental techniques and visualization systems to investigate and analyse the uses of the water-diesel (W/D) emulsion fuel, especially regarding micro-explosion phenomena. Micro-explosion is the rapid breakup of fuel droplets and hence burst into smaller droplets which enhance fuel evaporation and hence improving the air-fuel mixing process. An investigation of micro-explosion of the smaller droplets is important. This review paper discussing the advantages of using the emulsion fuel and the different experimental techniques used to detect the micro-explosion phenomena in addition to the factors affecting the onset of micro-explosion processes and proposes potential research areas for W/D emulsion fuel studies. Most of the studies in the literature agree that W/D does result in a reduction in NOx and PM exhaust gas emissions. There is, however, some inconsistencies of the experimental techniques with respect to the heating process which affects the onset and the strength of the micro-explosion process. The factors that affect the micro-explosion phenomena consist of different parameters such as the distribution of the water in the emulsion, the size of the emulsion droplet, type and percentage of the surfactant, ambient temperature and pressure.

   

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Title: The effect of repeated welding cycles on the microstructure and ferrite content of 25Cr Super Duplex Stainless Steel weld metal by automatic orbital TIG welding
Author (s): Danny Satya Mauliddin and Turnad Lenggo Ginta
Abstract:

The objective of this research is to evaluate the macrostructure, microstructure, chemical elements and ferrite content of 25Cr Super Duplex Stainless Steel (SDSS) UNS S32750 weld metal after the condition of repeated welding cycles. TIG automatic orbital is used to weld tubing test specimen size 9.53mm diameter and 2.1 mm thickness at heat input 0.248 kJ/mm, the torch is orbiting surface circumference and melting down in 2G position with shielding gas protection of 99.99% Argon in DC negative polarity, this welding process able to melt down two opposite square-end of base metal without filler metal. All test specimens are evaluated by simulating of three repeated welding cycles consist of original welding, R1, R2, and R3. The results of this research are indicating there are correlation between metallography, chemical analysis and ferrite content to the increasing number of welding cycles.

   

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Title: Ontology based decision support knowledge acquisition module
Author (s): Kafayat Oluwatoyin Shobowale, Fakhruldin Mohd. Hashim and Hilmi Hussin
Abstract:

Data integration issues have been part of the challenges faced by the oil and gas industries. This is also compounded by the fact that different kind of modeling tools has been used that are complex for decision makers thereby further making it difficult to adopt other tools. The consequence of this is sufficient previous records are not efficiently inculcated into the system for a better decision analysis during the decision making processes. Also, failures due to this insufficient analysis usually lead to huge capital costs that far surpass the equipment procurement cost. Ontology based knowledge acquisition system tool can help mitigate these issues. Expert input is used for part of data collection. Ontology knowledge model is developed which helps to build taxonomy of objects of interest in the domain to serve as a knowledge base. One of the advantage of the ontology knowledge model is its linguistic properties which is close to human semantics to help bridge the issue of technicality barrier to help decision makers understand the underlying information in the system. Web ontology language application programming interface (OWL-API) together with java codes are used to serialize between the ontology knowledge base and the graphical user interface developed in java to automatically add and update the knowledge in the database to make assessment based on the newly added data and the existing data. The tool is capable of adding new data and making appropriate inference. The tool will serve as a basis for decision makers who are usually not technical inclined to make effective decisions that will yield improved and profitable productions.

   

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Title: Compressive behavior of basalt FRP and basalt-carbon hybrid FRP laminates
Author (s): A. N. Mengal, S. Karuppanan and N. H. Farhood
Abstract:

In this study the compressive strength of new basalt FRP and basalt-carbon hybrid FRP composite laminates were investigated experimentally. The main aim of this paper is to determine the influence of fiber orientation on compressive strength and to estimate the compressive strength of basalt FRP and basalt-carbon hybrid FRP composite laminates. The test specimens with varying orientations were prepared using hand lay-up technique. Compression test was performed according to ASTM test standard D6641 procedure A (untabbed specimens). The different composite laminates included in this study were pure basalt, pure carbon and six hybrid composite laminates. From the experimental analysis the fibre orientation was found to influence the compressive strength of basalt-carbon hybrid composite laminates. All the hybrid composite laminates showed a positive hybridization effect. The basalt carbon/epoxy hybrid composite C2 with angle ply layup of [02C/+45B/0B] S was found to be the optimum lay-up with highest compressive strength among all the other laminates.

   

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Title: Design and analysis of hydraulic in a heavy commercial vehicle by recovering energy during braking
Author (s): Setyamartana Parman and Eijaz Zainuddin
Abstract:

This paper studied a hydraulic regenerative braking in heavy commercial vehicles. The study determined amount of energy that can be recovered during braking period first. The recovered energy came from kinetic energy exerted by the engine when the vehicle is slowing down. Then, the kinetic energy was partially transformed into hydraulic energy to be stored and be used for future acceleration. Only the energy efficiency of the hydraulic regenerative braking system was analysed. The main attention of the paper was focusing on the calculation of thermal energy that can be converted into hydraulic energy in order to be re-used for future acceleration.

   

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Title: The mechanism and microstructure of silicanizing process on mild steel substrate in the medium of silica sand
Author (s): Yusnenti F. M. Y. and Othman M.
Abstract:

This paper presents the work carried out to determine the morphology and mechanical properties of coating deposited layer that formed onto mild steel substrate using a new silicanizing method. The result shows that the coating silicanized layer consisting of FeSi, Fe2SiO4, FeSiO3 and SiO2 phase was successfully formed on the mild steel after subjecting to heat treatment process of 10000C for 4 hours. This layer of 5005m thickness and also established that higher temperature and elongated deposition/adhesion time resulted an increase in SiO2 concentration on the substrate (mild steel).

   

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Title: Simulation of two phase oil-gas flow in T-Junction
Author (s): Ban Sam, William Pao, Mohammad S. Nasif and Rohaizad B. M. Norpiah
Abstract:

T-junction, or commonly known as stand pipe appendage, is used by oil/gas industries to tap gas from existing production header for the purpose of downstream pipeline instrumentation. The appendage is either pre-design or retrofitted with minimum internals for maximum reliability for remote deployment. The motivation for this research originated from the lack of stand-pipe design method to correctly account for the separation of multiphase fluid at the T-junction. Consequently, sizable amount of liquid holdup occurs in the side arm, resulting in the so-called carryover issue. This situation is further aggravated by the different flow regimes in the production header which are not taken into account by the design practice. The negative consequences of this carryover on the operation of downstream unit have often led to frequent trip and maintenance issues. This paper presents the finding of the two phase oil/gas separation in T-junction using a simplified one-dimensional model. The effect of operating pressure, gas-oil ratio (GOR), oil flow rate and arm length on gas fraction in side arm is reported. The computed solutions are compared with experimental data and a good agreement is achieved. The results show that operating pressure is the most influential parameter in ensuring efficient separation.

   

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Title: Application of Taguchi's method on the purifying process of Tronoh silica sand via mechanical milling and ultrasonic bath
Author (s): Nazratulhuda Hashim, Othman Mamat, Zeeshan Baig
Abstract:

The purification of silica sand is usually conducted in order to obtain a required high silica percentage and minimal impurities. However, the impurities in the residue still become the obstruction to obtaining a high purity of silica. An experimental investigation was conducted to explore the purifying process via the ball milling technique, followed by an ultrasonic bath. In this study, the concept of Taguchi s Design of Experiments was applied in order to optimize the processing parameters used to purify Tronoh silica sand. The results reveal that the important parameters influencing the ball milling process were duration of milling, jar volume and ball per powder weight ratio (BPR). At the same time, the results also show the concentration of NaOH, soaking time and ultrasonic temperature were important factors for ultrasonic bath. Therefore, improvements in the purification of the silica sand process were proposed.

   

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Title: Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPS) exfoliation and dispersion in metal powder using different solvents
Author (s): Zeeshan Baig, Othman Mamat, Mazli Mustapha, Khurram Altaf, Raphael Joshua Mailabari
Abstract:

Graphene possesses attractive mechanical and physical properties than available nanomaterials and considered as ideal reinforcement in many metals to enhanced mechanical properties. Incorporation and uniform dispersion of graphene in metals is the ultimate challenge due to difference in surface energies of both contents. Graphene usually available as stacks of multisheets and need exfoliation to obtain single or bi layer because reported unique properties are associated with single layer graphene. In current work, colloidal processing of graphene is employed and processed with iron powder. In this contest exfoliation has been achieved by using different solvents and dispersion attained by mechanically stirred with iron powder at fixed rate. The effect of graphene exfoliation in different solvents and dispersion in iron powder is systematically investigated by FESEM, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, particle size measurement. To study dispersion effect, hardness and density measurements were conducted on vacuum sintered nanocomposite compacts.

   

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Title: The influence of plastic extrusion blow molding parameters on waste reduction
Author (s): Shahrul Kamaruddin, Noor Syuhadah Zakarria and Nik Mizamzul Mehat
Abstract:

Growing demands of plastics deriving environmental and social concern on the plastics contained in municipal waste. Comprehending to this fact, this study emphasizes on minimization of plastic wastes during extrusion blow molding process by controlling the processing parameters including parison thickness, chiller temperature, melting temperature and extruder speed. L8 Taguchi orthogonal array (OA), signal to noise (S/N) ratio and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were conducted to investigate the influence of numerous blow moulding processing parameters on the plastic wastes.

   

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Title: Modeling and simulation of photovoltaic module with enhanced perturb and observe MPPT algorithm using Matlab / Simulink
Author (s): Ali Q. Al-Shetwi and Muhamad Zahim Sujod
Abstract:

Modeling and analysis of photovoltaic (PV) system is substantial for designers of solar power plants to do a yield investigation that precisely predicts the expected output power under changing weather conditions. The model allows the prediction of PV module s behavior and characteristics based on the mathematical model equivalent circuit using Matlab/Simulink platform under different temperature and solar radiation readings. The second part of this paper proposes an enhancement to the conventional perturb and observe (P&O) maximum power point tracking (MPPT) technique in order to overcome the disadvantages of this method such as oscillation and slow tracking under sudden change of atmospheric conditions. The proposed method suggested that utilizing a variable perturbation step size depending on power changes instead of constant step size which is used in conventional P&O algorithm in order to ensure that the solar energy is captured and converted as much as possible. The simulation results are compared with that of traditional P&O to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.

   

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Title: Specific bearing strength of bolted composite joint with different glass fiber reinforcement
Author (s): A. R. Othman and Khudhayer J. Jadee
Abstract:

Bolted joints are vastly used in many applications and constitute an integral part of structural components. The reliability of the bolted joints depends mainly on the local laminate bearing strength, which is significantly influenced by various parameters. This paper presents the experimental study on the effect of different reinforcement and geometrical designs of glass reinforced composite on the bearing strength of a double-lap, single bolt joint under tensile load. Four different types of glass fiber reinforcements were prepared, consisting of chopped strand with weight of 600 g/m2, plain weave of 800 g/m2 and 290 g/m2 and 2/2 twill weave of 200 g/m2. The composite coupons were designed with a series of width to bolt diameter (W/D) and edge distance to bolt diameter (E/D) ratios, varied as 2, 3, 4 and 5 and 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively. A bearing test was conducted according to the ASTM standard D5961/D5961M-10 to determine the specific bearing strength of the laminates. It was found that the plain weave of 800 g/m2 single-bolted laminates provided highest specific bearing strength compared to other composites. The critical point of the geometric parameters by which the failure mode changes from shear-out and net-tension mode to bearing mode was also identified. The laminates with large geometric parameters failed mainly in the desired bearing failure. The analysis specifically considers the significant influence of the geometrical and material parameters on improving the structural performance of the composite bolted joints.

   

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Title: An analytical approach to investigate the effect of grooved surface on short journal bearing's performance
Author (s): S. Hamdavi, H. H. Ya, T. V. V. L. N. Rao and K. M. Faez
Abstract:

In the present study, theoretical studies and approach for finite fluid film journal bearing used. It is a must to investigate the hydrodynamic performance of this kind of bearing due to its wide demand and application into different industries. In this work, Reynolds equation for the numerical part is applied. To investigate how they affect the performance of short journal bearing, an axial groove with various depth and length are considered. The oil film pressure, load carrying capacity and attitude angle for plain and grooved short bearing are calculated, compared. The presented results illustrate that applying one groove at inlet bearing surface, declines the performance of finite fluid film journal bearings.

   

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Title: Effect of mixture ratio of cow faeces with water on biogas production
Author (s): C. Rangkuti, Salman Ahmad and Rosyida Permatasari
Abstract:

Biogas is one alternative solution to overcome the energy crisis occurred in Indonesia. The cattle populations are 13.13 million in 2013. It is very potential to use the cow faeces to produce biogas as an alternative fuel for domestic use and to run internal combustion engines to produce electricity. This work has been done on mixing ratios of the cattle faeces with water to produce optimum biogas using a single type of batch digester with a capacity of 20 liters each. The faeces were used as the form of cattle faeces mixing with water of weight ratios of 1:1; 1:1.4; 1:1.7; 1:2 and 1:2.5 (kg/kg). The gas chromatograph identifies its gas components produced by biogas and the calorimeter tests its calorific value. This study aims to determine the biogas composition which the highest methane contained therein. The results showed mixing cow faeces and water at the ratio of 1:1.7 produces biogas with the highest methane concentration of 61.78% vol and calorific value of 5498.54 kcal/m3.

   

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Title: Synergistic effects of Zinc Borate and Halloysite nanotubes (HNTS) on char morphology and gases emission of epoxy based intumescent fire retardant systems
Author (s): Qandeel Fatima Gillani, Faiz Ahmad, Muhammad Ibrahim Abdul Mutlib, Puteri Sri Melor and Adiat Arogundade
Abstract:

In this study, Zinc Borate (ZB) and Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) are simultaneously integrated in the in expandable graphite (EG) based intumescent fire retardant coatings. The synergistic effect between the ZB and HNTs on fire performance, char morphology, and thermal degradation of IFRC were investigated. The IFRC of ZB/HNTs (5.5:1.5) showed noticeable improvement in char quality. Similar ratio of incorporated additives showed significant reductions in the phenolic gasses emission of IFRC. FESEM results showed that a solid and dense char layer was formed in ZBH (5), which hindered the transfer of heat to substrate and hold combustible gases in the condensed phase reaction. It is concluded that the combination of ZB and HNTs is proved to be a supportive synergism in development of environment friendly intumescence coating systems.

   

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Title: Condensation rate effect on top of line corrosion in CO2 environment
Author (s): Syuhaidah Bt Saufi Anuar, Mokhtar Che Ismail, Pandian Bothi Raja and Noor A. In Binti A. Rahman
Abstract:

This research focuses on the effect of condensation rate on top of line corrosion (TLC) for carbon steel (X65) in CO2 environment. The experiment was conducted in a modified glass cell which simulates the TLC phenomena with tested temperature ranging from 25 0C to 55 0C and the cooling temperature was 7 0C. The corrosion rate was measured by the weight loss method and the surface morphology was examined by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX). A baseline CO2 corrosion test was also measured simultaneously. The corrosion rate recorded for TLC was in the range from 0.76 mm/year to 1.53 mm/year. Further, the results evident that increase in condensation rate, reduces the corrosion rate which relatively lower than bottom line corrosion rate. The formation of Iron carbonate (FeCO3), which acts as a protective layer is not fully formed and pitting was observed on the surface of the sample. In conclusion, the modified glass cell of TLC experiment was successfully done and it is found that corrosion rate increases with the water condensation rate.

   

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Title: Study on the effect of inserting multi-electrodes in a material exposed to electromagnetic wave
Author (s): Haitham B. Al-Wakeel and Zainal A. Abdul Karim
Abstract:

The increase in the waste accumulation requires an innovation for use a green technology to burn the waste accumulation rapidly in order to protect the environment while saving the consumption of combustion energy. Hence, this paper shows that a new clean technology can be used for the heating and burning of a material rapidly, saving the consumed electromagnetic energy by presenting a computational modelling for the effect of inserting multiple metallic electrodes on the electric field, generated heat, and temperature distribution inside a material exposed to electromagnetic wave. The modelling was implemented computationally by using the three-dimensional finite element method to simulate electric field, generated heat and temperature distribution in a dielectric material containing three metallic electrodes located in a microwave cavity having surfaces of perfect electric conductors and incident microwave port of mode TE10, supplied with 1500 W electromagnetic power and 2.45 GHz operating frequency. The methodology was based on that the electromagnetic wave creates an elevated electric field inside the material between the ends of metallic electrodes. This electric field assists in generating a thermal energy increasing the material temperature to attain the oxidation temperature rapidly. The results showed that the time required to raise the temperature of a dielectric material by 602 K is minimized locally from 12 seconds to less than 1 second due to the presence of metallic electrodes in the material that exposed to electromagnetic wave. The maximum temperature is increased by 100 K when reducing the gap length between the metallic electrodes from 0.0015 m to 0.0005 m.

   

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Title: Decomposed DICOM video into frames using MATLAB
Author (s): Syazatul Aniza Arshad, T. M. Y. S. Tuan Ya, Lila Iznita Izhar and Osama Sabir
Abstract:

Nowadays, the medical world has become more sophisticated and numerous changes have been made specially to ensure convenience and comfort of the medical field such as MRI machines, advanced angiogram and others medical equipment. The file format for this equipment is DICOM which used for handling, storing, printing, and transmitting information in medical imaging. Digital Imaging and Communication in Medicine (DICOM) is a standard for medical images and it s executed for medical equipment likes radiology, radiotherapy and cardiology. The advantage of using DICOM is it allowed connectivity of engineering information to exchange images and info within the hospital and telemedicine. In this paper, the objective is to play DICOM video which taken from X-ray Angiography (XA) using multimedia format and decomposed it into frames by using MATLAB software. The purpose is to make the physician display the video in single frame and as a result to get better view of diseases and improved the efficiency and diagnose quality better.

   

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Title: Physical, thermal, and dielectric properties enhancement in graphene/poly (Vinyl Alcohol) nanocomposite as novel multifunctional materials
Author (s): Mohd Firdaus Abdrahman, Suraya Abdul Rashid, Norizah Abdul Rahman
Abstract:

In this research, poly (vinyl alcohol)/ exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets. (PVA/xGnP) nanocomposites in the form of films were prepared by solution casting processing methods. The objective of this research was to investigate the thermal stability, physical, dynamic mechanical and dielectric properties of PVA/xGnP nanocomposites having different xGnP loading content (0.5, 1, 3, 5, 7wt %). The dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) results indicated that the glassy-state storage modulus (at 30 0C) of PVA/xGnP nanocomposites at 0.5, 1, 3wt % xGnP loading increases about 230%, 200% and 180% beyond that of pure PVA sample, respectively. Furthermore, the good interaction of the xGnP nanofillers with the host PVA significantly increases the glass transition temperature (Tg) of nanocomposite with lower filler loading (0.5-3wt %). It can be clearly observed that the trend in dynamic mechanical properties (Tg) of the PVA/xGnP nanocomposite is in excellent agreement with that in the tensile characteristic. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) demonstrated an enhancement in thermal stability of the PVA/xGnP nanocomposite containing xGnP at loading 0.5 and 1wt%. The PVA/xGnP nanocomposites show an enhancement in dielectric properties upon the addition of xGnP fillers. The dielectric permittivity (? ) of the nanocomposites having filler content less than 3wt% show behavior of weak frequency dependence. However, when the filler content was increased to a level 3wt% and above, the ? of the nanocomposites exhibits strong frequency dependence and decreased sharply between the frequencies ranges from 106 107 Hz.

   

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Title: Effect of air gap on performance enhancement of building assisted with Photo Voltaic systems
Author (s): Kashif Irshad, Khairul Habib and M. W. Kareem
Abstract:

This paper investigates performance improvement of room assisted with Photo voltaic (PV) system by varying air gap and PV glazing type. PV panel was installed on the south side of the room as Photo Voltaic Trombe wall (PV-TW) and over the roof. Performance was evaluated in term of cooling load, energy consumption and PV efficiency. Three different types of PV glazing (i.e. Single Glazing, Double glazing, double glazing filled with Argon gas) was tested by changing air gap between wall and PV panel for Malaysian climate. TRNSYS building simulation software was used in which various input parameters were inserted to obtain the results. It was found that maximum PV efficiency was achieved in the case of Double glass filled with Argon PV-TW at air gap of 0.2 m and roof pitch angle 20 degree. Ventilated PV-TW and PV panel installed over the roof also reduces cooling load of the room. Among all the three types of glazing, room assisted with Double glass filled with argon PV panel shows highest reduction in cooling load at air gap 0.2m and roof pitch angle 20 degree. Also cooling load of room reduced significantly with the increase in roof pitch angle upto certain critical angle which is different for different PV glazing.

   

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Title: Cell by cell artificial neural network model for predicting laminar, incompressible, viscous flow
Author (s): Osama Sabir and T. M. Y. S. Tuan Ya
Abstract:

In this research, a cell-by-cell artificial neural network approach is used to predict the velocity vectors of steady-state, viscous, incompressible, laminar flows in a two-dimensional computational domain. The flow behavior is characterized by the initial flow velocity, and the geometry of the wall boundaries. A feed forward neural network architecture is applied in this research. The model is trained using Levenberg-Marquardt and Bayesian regularization back propagation algorithms. The training data for the model are obtained by solving the Navier-Stokes equations for two-dimensional, steady-state, viscous, incompressible, laminar flow using commercial ANSYS Fluent software. The results show that the predicted values produced by the model is in good agreement with the simulation data. Even though the introduction of artificial neural networks at the cell level increases the complexity of the training process, this drawback is compensated by the increase in flexibility (generality) of the model. More importantly, the results show that the cell-by-cell artificial neural network approach is capable of providing an accurate prediction of the fluid velocity field for the flow investigated in this research. The outcomes designate that the new ANN approach is capable of getting an accurate velocity vector prediction as several statistical parameters confirmed. Since all the computation cost took place in the training phase, the new approach calculated the result faster than the traditional numerical methods. Such simulation provides a reliable perception about the fluid behavior with respect to momentum and equations. In addition to the preceding recorded data, the proposed method considers the geometrical boundaries profile as a major contribution for ANN training phase.

   

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Title: Inhibition effect of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) surfactant on carbon steel corrosion
Author (s): W. Zakaria W. N. L., Che Ismail M. and Abd Karim M. F.
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Injection of surfactants during oilfield production is one of many selections of EOR methods. Besides its main role, the utilization of this chemical enhanced oil recovery (CEOR) has also potential in corrosion mitigation of down hole tube due to its inhibitor properties. In this paper, corrosion mitigation performance of a commercial EOR surfactant with various concentrations under CO2 environment was analyzed using Linear Polarization Resistance (LPR) technique. The functional group of the surfactant was investigated using Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) while Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) connected to Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to study the surface characteristics changes. It was found that the injection of EOR surfactant gives a significant corrosion inhibition effect that varies upon concentration dosage. In this test, the surfactant managed to reduce the corrosion rate of API X65 steel in CO2 environment between 74% - 97% upon injection of 50ppm to 5000ppm surfactant. Higher surface coverage with possible multi-layers protective formation on sample was observed at higher concentration of EOR surfactant injection.

   

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Title: A theoretical investigation into the performance of SWCNTS as an antireflection coating layer for silicon solar cell
Author (s): Hengameh Hanaei, Morteza Khalaji Assadi, Norani Muti Mohamed and Robabeh Bashiri
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In this paper optical simulations based on Transfer Matrix Method (TMM) is developed to investigate the performance of Carbon nanotube on silicon solar cells. Reflection of the incident photons by the silicon surface is a major source of losses for photovoltaic solar cell. However, these losses can be minimized by depositing an antireflection layer. Recently, antireflective coatings (ARCs) attract critical consideration for both their fundamental aspects and wide practical applications. The TMM solutions permit us to plot the optical reflectivity versus wavelengths and layer thicknesses. The optical refractive index and thicknesses of considered materials, which allowed us to have the lowest reflection, can be used to simulate the electrical properties of the cell with PC1D and Silvaco software in the future.

   

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Title: Surface properties of nitrided layer on AISI 316L austenitic stainless steel produced by varied time low-temperature thermochemical treatments
Author (s): Hassan R. S. Mahmoud, Patthi bin Hussain and Mokhtar C. Ismail
Abstract:

Recently, there are several attempts to improve the surface properties of AISI 316L by the mean of thermochemical treatments. The expected result is a layer on the surface termed expanded austenite which is supersaturated with nitrogen and carbon and this structure is responsible for the higher hardness and better wear properties without impairing its corrosion resistance. In this work, AISI 316L stainless steel was gas-nitrided/carburized simultaneously at 4500C in quartz tube furnace for 8, 24 hours of treatment time. The morphological changes, structural phase, and elemental profile were observed by an optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). All the characterization methods confirmed the formation of nitrides and carbides on the surface layer of AISI 316L forming the expanded austenite layer (S phase), which leads to enhancement of surface properties of the nitrided samples.

   

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Title: Performance of corrosion inhibitor with sand deposit in CO2 environment
Author (s): Abd Karim M. A., Che Ismail M. and Abd Karim M. F.
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The performance of corrosion inhibitor on API X65 carbon steel covered by sand deposit under CO2 environment is presented. The effect of corrosion inhibitor concentration on a constant sand deposit thickness was analyzed using Linear Polarization Resistance (LPR) electrochemical method. In addition, the effect of each element alone on corrosion behavior was also studied for comparison purpose. The results indicated that both corrosion inhibitor and sand deposit could retard the corrosion rate either by working alone or exist together in a system. The overall performance of inhibitor with or without deposit is almost similar suggesting that the controlling factor for corrosion rate in this experiment was the rate of absorption towards the metal surface through sand deposit by corrosive species and inhibitor.

   

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Title: Process optimization in the dyeing of polyester fibers through the control variables temperature gradient
Author (s): Jimenez P. H., Delgado D. and Escalante A.
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The gradient in the change of temperature of the dyeing process is a variable that must be controlled to optimize the dyeing of polyester fibers. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the gradient in the change of temperature on the dyeing of polyester fibers. There were developed three tests of polyester fibers dyeing process considering that the dye curve is the same in all three tests, in which only varies the gradient in the temperature rise. The tests were performed with 100 % polyester fabric 150/34, samples of 100g, red dye (light shade - 1.760 gr Terasil SD Yellow and Red Terasil SD 0.192 gr). The tests were developed in the Mathis machine, the hydroextractor and stove for drying the samples. The results show that the use of dispersants and anti-breakage agents works to prevent breakdowns and improve the matching colors, but still high gradient causes an increased dye migration and breaks in the fibers, but at low gradients (2 ° C / min) the diffusion and dyeing quality is better, and thus avoids reprocessing in the dyeing step.

   

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Title: Evaluating different scenarios for optimizing energy consumption to achieve sustainable green building in Malaysia
Author (s): Morteza Khalaji Assadi, Seyed Mojib Zahraee, Mohammad Hossein Zaeimbashi Isaabadi and Khairul Habib
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One of the most users of energy in the construction industry is residential buildings that use the high value of energy. Because of the high effect of construction activities on environment, serious attention should be given to sustainability concept in construction activities. There are climate factors such as temperature, humidity and pressure that have a considerable effect on the sustainability of green buildings based on energy consumption. The main goal of this paper is to achieve a sustainable green building by optimizing the energy consumption based on two significant factors which are temperature and humidity. To achieve this goal, the design of experiments (DOE) and building simulation are applied. A two-storey house in Malaysia was selected as the case study. The final result shows that to achieve the optimum value of cooling load to have a sustained design of green residential buildings all the significant factors should be placed on a low level which it means that temperature and humidity should be equal to 20 degrees Celsius and 60% respectively.

   

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Title: Application of nano aluminum in modified EDM: PMEDM
Author (s): A. M. Abdul-Rani, A. M. Nanimina, T. L. Ginta, T. V. V. L. N. Rao and S. R. Pedapati
Abstract:

This research was conducted to investigate the effect of nano aluminum mixed with electrical discharge machining dielectric on surface roughness (Ra), corrosion rate and material removal rate (MRR) of titanium alloy. Conventional machining of titanium alloy is a challenge even when using non-conventional machining processes such as electrical discharge machining (EDM). Among the limitations of EDM are machined surface alteration, induced corrosion, low material removal rate and residual stress during the EDM process. A newly developed and improved EDM process known as powder mixed electrical discharge machining (PMEDM) is envisaged able to address some of the above mentioned problems. In this study, PMEDM machining performance on titanium alloy workpiece using nano aluminum powder is assessed to investigate its improvement for biomedical application. Machining process parameters such as peak-current, ON-time, gap voltage and nano aluminum concentration are varied when machining biomedical grade titanium alloy. PMEDM although still is its infancy has shown slight improvement in Ra, corrosion rate and material removal rate. MRR is improved about more than 33.33% due to effect of nano aluminum concentration.

   

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Title: CFD simulation of bubbly Diesel-CNG flow in a horizontal pipe under the influence of a magnetic field
Author (s): Hasanain A. Abdul-Wahhab, A. Rashid A. Aziz, Hussain H. Al-Kayiem and Mohammad S. Nasif
Abstract:

The pre-mixing Diesel-CNG was suggested to increase the air quantity inside the cylinder more than if a mixture of CNG-air is injected in the engine which may result is a rich mixture, directly. The objective of the present paper is to study the behavior of gas bubbles in the liquid fuels and the ways to control the bubbles sizes prior to injection by an external magnetic field. Numerical simulation of Diesel-CNG bubbly flow with effecting magnetic field is presented in this paper. The three-dimensional incompressible Navier-Stokes equations have been used to solve the CNG-Diesel two phase flows in 20 mm ID horizontal pipe. The simulation was carried out using ANSYS fluent software and the flow field discretization was achieved by Volume-of-fluid method (VOF) technique. The numerical results showed that CNG bubbles tend to move toward the upper wall under the buoyancy force effect and these bubbles grow to a bigger size and expand vertically in the Diesel flow before it breaks away with effecting magnetic field 0.4 to 0.8 Tesla, respectively, and the gas volume fraction values increased with noted to by increasing the magnetic intensity. The laminar behavior of the flow changed in upper zone from the pipe to increasing gas volume fraction, while the axial Diesel velocity decreases and the profiles tend to flatten with increasing of the magnetic field strength. The numerical results have been validated by comparing the computational results with experimental results reported in the literature where a good agreement was achieved.

   

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Title: Mathematical modeling to evaluate the performance enhancement of solar updraft power plant by external heat source
Author (s): Mohammed A. Aurybi, Hussain H. Al-Kayeim, Syed I. U. Gilani and Ali A. Ismaeel
Abstract:

Solar Chimney Power Plant (SCPP) is considered one of the stunts applications for the use of solar energy. The problem lies in this type of power plant in the low rate of power generation on cloudy days and at night. In this study, a mathematical model has been introduced, of a hybrid solar chimney power plant (HSCPP) generating power using solar energy and external heat source. The external heat source is a hot flue gases flows in channels called “Thermal Enhancing Channels (TECh)” located underneath the canopy. Air, as working fluid in the collector, extracts heat from the channel surface, during the night. This study also proposed a mathematical model to evaluate the performance of HSCPP. The results showed that at solar intensity 1000 W/m2, the temperatures of air inside the collector increased 5.88 % after using the external heat source when the wall temperature of the TECh was 100oC. Also the power generation has been enhanced by 23.0%.

   

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Title: Experimental investigation on the vibration induced by slug flow in horizontal pipe
Author (s): Zahid I. Al-Hashimy, Hussain H. Al-Kayiem and Rune W. Time
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Pipes used for transporting produced oil are often experienced two-phase flows. In particular, the presence of slug flow pattern will cause generation of transient pressure force and shear exerted on the interior wall of the pipe. This can cause vibration induced problems. This paper presents experimental results that enhance the understanding of the mechanism of fluid structure interaction FSI phenomena, and the nature of resulted vibration due to slug flows. Vibration measurements were taken under various slug flow rates. The effects of water superficial velocities on the vibration characteristics were investigated. The results showed that the pipe displacements of the vibration increased gradually with increased water superficial velocities, at a fixed air superficial velocity, while the predominant frequencies decreased progressively when the water superficial velocities was increased. In addition, the average maximum displacements increased by 64 % when the water superficial velocity increased from 0.65 m/s to 1.0 m/s. Meanwhile, a decrease of 9 % in the averages of the frequencies was noticed when the water superficial velocity increased from 0.65 m/s to 1.0 m/s. An investigation of the induced vibration behavior to change in air superficial velocities is recommended.

   

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Title: Developed mathematical model of solar thermal parabolic trough power plant at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS
Author (s): Sanan T. Mohammad, Hussain H. Al-Kayiem and Morteza Khalaji. Assadi
Abstract:

This paper presents the conceptual design of a concentrating solar power plant (CSPP) using Direct Steam Generation method (DSG) in a parabolic trough solar field located in Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Perak, Malaysia. The conceptual design of the CSPP includes selection and sizing of solar field, power generation cycle, types of working fluids, sizing of the power block, etc. The conceptual design is based on a mathematical modeling of the CSPP. In the present solar thermal system, a turbine is integrated with 1.2 kW generators, and steam is produced by flow loop energized by solar parabolic trough concentrators. One of the most significant factors for the successful conceptual design of a CSPP is aprecisedetermination of the transient solar radiation over the day and the season. Accordingly, in-situ measurements of the direct normal irradiance (DNI) has been carried out and used as input to the mathematical model. As a result of daily and seasonal variation of solar radiation, the developed model is designed in order to evaluate the transient behavior of the system and expected power production.

   

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Title: A comprehensive framework and key performance indicators for maintenance performance measurement
Author (s): Tahir Raza, Masdi Bin Muhammad and Mohd. Amin Abd Majid
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Effective maintenance prolongs machine lifetime, enhances equipment availability and retains the equipment in functional condition. Whereas, unreliable maintenance may result in more equipment replacement because of a shorter life. It is important to realize that maintenance function adds value, although not as obvious as other departments and that it is an equally important link as other departments. With those consequences, a good strategy of maintenance is very much needed, which helps to improve and maintain the productivity, quality and most importantly the operational cost. But unfortunately, management faces the challenges of higher maintenance cost, reworks, and unplanned shutdowns due to ineffective performance measurement and owing to the inappropriate decision of management. To make sure the plant attains the targeted performance, maintenance manager requires a better way of maintaining the performance of maintenance functions. This could only be possible through the development and implementation of a well-defined maintenance performance measurement framework and indicators that are capable of measuring the significant elements like maintenance cost, product quality, manufacturing performance, etc. The aim of this paper is to develop a maintenance performance measurement framework which is based on reliability, availability, maintainability and safety (RAMS) parameters and to show that how to calculate the KPIs related to RAMS an excel based template which comes together with list of formulas for every KPI to measure the maintenance performance. This framework will assist managers to measure the maintenance performance measurement which helps them to improve the performance of different maintenance activities and in different areas.

   

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Title: Comprehensive data collection for root cause failure analysis in oil and gas industries
Author (s): Umair Ahmed, Hilmi Hussin and Masdi Muhammad
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Equipment failure that affects plant operations is a major issue in industries. When equipment fails it causes immense loss to industries in terms of resources and time, increased maintenance cost and equipment stoppage. The priority of reliability/maintenance team is to overcome these failures as soon as possible to avoid further losses. Root cause failure analysis (RCFA) process is used to identify and stop recurrence of these failures and data collection is most significant part of this process. Comprehensive and relevant failure data is crucial to identify and understand the root causes of a failure accurately. Unavailability of correct, adequate and sufficient data can lead to undesired results of RCFA. The purpose of this study is to propose a comprehensive approach of data collection for equipment failure in oil & gas/process industries for successful identification and elimination of root causes. Furthermore, this study has also proposed a template for comprehensive data collection that can be used to gather sufficient data for equipment failure investigation.

   

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Title: Flow dynamics behavior of a novel liquid-liquid hydrocyclone with varying upper cylindrical lengths and number of inlets
Author (s): H. Osei, H. H. Al-Kayiem and A. B. Osman
Abstract:

The use of a liquid-liquid hydrocyclone in the downhole is one the few environmentally friendly ways by which water production can be limited, while at the same time ensure maximum recovery. The understanding of the fluid flow behaviors that bring about better separation and performance is therefore important and should not be underestimated. This work, through numerical simulation, studied the effects that the tangential inlet's and the height of the upper cylindrical section of a liquid-liquid hydrocyclone have on its hydrodynamics. The results showed that the single inlet hydrocyclones unlike the twin inlet types are more prone to producing asymmetrical reversal flow which meanders along the axis of the hydrocyclone. This can affect the efficiency of separation if the particles are not well segregated. The single inlet 30 mm upper cylindrical length (UCL) hydrocyclone produced the highest velocity fields that could ensure better fluid swirling and rotation, and the greatest upward core flowing pressure that could ensure better transportation of the lighter fraction concentrated at the core. Therefore, the single inlet hydrocyclone with 30 mm UCL is the best among the studied cyclonic separator types and its use for downhole oil/water separation can enhance the problem of excessive water production.

   

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Title: Effect of bauxite residue loading on heat shielding performance of an ammonium polyphosphate based epoxy intumescent system
Author (s): Arogundade A. I., Megat-Yusoff P. S. M., Ahmad F., Bhat A. H. and Gillani Q. F.
Abstract:

Bauxite residue (BR) is the aluminosilicate waste generated by the alumina industry. Its disposal has become a global industrial problem. Preliminary study has recognized its potential as synergistic filler in intumescent system. In this work, the effect of percent weight of the residue on the heat shielding performance of the system was investigated. Different formulations were prepared by varying filler loading from 0 to 5%. Performance characterization of the coatings were done by using Furnace test to determine the char expansion at 500°C and Bunsen burner test to determine insulative capacity at 900 + 100°C. Thermogravimetric analysis was used as analytical tool. The presence of hydrated minerals in BR and early dehydroxylation of layered silicates were found to have a marked effect on heat shielding and flame spread. The effect of dehydroxylation appeared optimal at 2% BR influencing the melt rheology, improving insulative efficiency and reducing the flame spread. A steel back temperature of 172°C was recorded compared to that of the unfilled with 267°C. Excessive dehydroxylation at 4% BR led to high mass loss and early oxidation of char. The combined endothermic action of the hydrates and calcites and physical thermal barrier of the ceramic metal phosphates resulted in improved heat shielding performance and flame retardation of the BR-filled epoxy intumescent systems.

   

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Title: Comparative critique on the performance evaluation of a solar – air heater for natural updraft solar system
Author (s): Ali A. Ismaeel, Hussain H. Al-Kayeim, Aklilu T. Baheta and Mohammed A. Aurybi
Abstract:

This paper presents a mathematical model and discusses the influence of several convection heat transfer correlations and thermal efficiency schemes that have been commonly discussed in the literature regarding the performance of solar updraft system to choose the optimum forms conforming to the investigational result of the Spanish prototype. Hence, it is evident from the results of the study that the heat transfer coefficient correlation utilized by Kroger and Burger in 2004 was so close to the Manzanares experimental data. Also, the thermal efficiency equation used by Schlaich in 1996 is recommended to calculate the solar air heater collector’s efficiency.

   

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Title: Dispersion of carbon black in epoxy resin and the electrical property of the nanocomposite
Author (s): Raphael Joshua Mailabari, Othman Mamat and Zeeshan Baig
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The enhanced property of nanocomposite depends largely on the physical property of the dispersed nanoparticle and the state of dispersion of the nanoparticle, a well-dispersed structure generally results in additional enviable nanocomposite properties. In this paper, the carbon black nanoparticles were characterized using XRD, SEM, FESEM, TEM and SAP/BET techniques to establish the morphology and other physical properties of the particle. The CB nanoparticles were dispersed in epoxy resin using a combination of different dispersion techniques to obtain an epoxy resin nanocomposite with a network of carbon black conducting particle. The electrical properties of the nanocomposite were measured with respect to the %wt loading of CB and the percolation threshold was found to be 20 – 25 %wt of CB. The electrical resistivity of the nanocomposite was found to be influenced by the size of the nanoparticles, morphology and the loading content of the CB nanoparticles.

   

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Title: A review of optical flow models applied for fluid motion estimation
Author (s): Osman A. B., Ovinis M., Osei H. and Hashim F. M.
Abstract:

Fluid flow estimation from image sequences is a challenging due to the large and complex nature of fluid flow. In this work, 36 papers on optical flow models applied for fluid motion estimation from 1980 to 2015 have been reviewed. The advantages and weaknesses of the optical flow models are discussed in detail. To improve the accuracy of the optical flow models, the principle of two multi-resolution schemes is discussed. The employment of higher order models provides more accurate motion vectors than the use of the standard optical flow model; however, it suffers from computational complexity. The use of the multi-resolution framework such as wavelet decomposition will reduce this complexity, as well as improve estimation accuracy.

   

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Title: Effect of heat treatment on corrosion behavior of weld deposited Co-Cr-Mo alloy
Author (s): Mantrala Kedar Mallik, Srinivasa Rao, V. V. S. Kesava Rao and Abdul Munaf Sk.
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Co-Cr-Mo samples are prepared with weld deposition method using proper process parameters and polished for mirror finish. By applying L9 orthogonal array of Taguchi method, nine sets of samples are solutionized at 1200OC for 30, 45 and 60 minutes in three groups. Two groups are further aged at 815OC and 830OC for 2, 4 and 6 hours. The corrosion resistance tests were conducted and analyzed. Tafel plots are drawn and from the readings obtained, corrosion current density and corrosion potential values are identified. Grey relational analysis and ANOVA are applied for analysis of the results. The results revealed that the corrosion resistance exhibited by the weld deposited Co-Cr-Mo alloy samples is at par with as-cast samples and highest corrosion resistance of samples is observed on the samples solutionized for 45min but not aged which indicates that the corrosion resistance is further enhanced by proper heat treatment.

   

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Title: Using fluid Structure Interaction technique to investigate the effect of vibration on bileaflet mechanical heart valve deformation
Author (s): S. K. Kadhim, M. S. Nasif, H. H. Al-Kayiem and R. Al Waked
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Fluid-Structure Interaction computer simulation technique is used to study effect of vibration due to blood flow on bileaflet mechanical heart valves structure including the deflection connection in the pin of the valve. This technique is used is to predict the deformation of the bileaflet mechanical heart valve structure, which occurs due to the heart beats. Five heartbeat models were used in this study which is 80, 90, 100, 110, and 120 BPM at variable leaflet angles of 25o, 63o and 85o. To determine the deformation, the equivalent (von-Mises) stress at the connection pin of a bileaflet mechanical heart valve were calculated and compared with the equivalent (von-Mises) stress of the connection pin in the literature. It was found when the heartbeat increased from 80 BPM to 120 BPM, 62 % increase in von-Mises stress values were recorded at the valve connection pin at a fully closed angle of 25°. The increase in heartbeat periodically for the lifetime may weaken the valve’s connecting pin and housing, which may cause damage to the bileaflet mechanical heart valve components.

   

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Title: Investigation on the influence of collector height on the performance of solar chimney power plant
Author (s): Sundus S. Al-Azawiey, Hussain H. Al-Kayiem and S. B. Hassan
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The solar chimney power plant (SCPP) has the potential of converting solar energy indirectly to electrical energy using a combination of greenhouse technology, chimney technology, wind turbine and a generator. The present paper presents results of investigation on the performance of a prototype SCPP at different canopy height at constant chimney diameter and height of 0.32 m and 6.3 m, respectively. The investigation was conducted experimentally using an experimental model designed, fabricated, and subjected to measurements under Malaysia weather conditions. The experimental SCPP model has a collector diameter of 3 m and the absorbing medium was black painted pebbles while the transparent canopy was made of Perspex. The investigations were carried out for different canopy heights, above the absorber at the inlet section, of 0.05, 0.1, 0.15 and 0.2 m. The selected performance parameters for comparison were the air stream temperature in the collector, the mass flow rate created in the system measured at the chimney base, and the system efficiency during the day. The results have shown that the lowest canopy height, 0.05 m performed better than the other tested heights. It is recommended to extend the investigation by studying the system performance under various collector diameters.

   

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Title: Application of modularity in a piston pump assembly line of a hydraulic system
Author (s): Abdul Munaf Shaik, V. V. S. Kesava Rao, Srinivasa Rao and M. Kedar Mallik
Abstract:

Modularity refers to products that fulfill various functions through the combination of distinct modules, processes and resources. Modularity plays an important role in assembly lines. An assembly line is that which consists of a number of work stations arranged along a transportation line such as a conveyor belt. In the present work an assembly line of Piston pump in a hydraulic system has been selected for analysis. Assembling times at individual stations during different times of a day have been recorded and analyzed. It has been observed that during the process some of the stations are running idle for some time. To fix the problem of wasting time, the total assembly line has been simulated using the Flexsim software. Modularity has been applied in the simulation and the results were analyzed. Observing positive response from simulation, the same has been experimented on the assembly line. The results were compared and found to be successful in increasing the total components assembled by decreasing the idle time of the stations.

   

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Title: A modeling study by artificial neural network on process parameter optimization for silver nanoparticle production
Author (s): Silvia Chowdhury, Faridah yusof, Nadzril Sulaiman, Shahrul Naim Bin Sidek and Mohammad Omer Faruck
Abstract:

Artificial neural network (ANN) is the most accepted method for non-parametric modelling and process optimization of chemical engineering. The paper focuses on using ANN to analyse the yield production rate of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The study examines the effect of AgNO3 concentration, stirring time and tri-sodium citrate concentration on the production of AgNPs yield. The yield of AgNPs was modelled and optimized as a function of three independent variables. Furthermore, assessment of the model through the coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.9778) and mean square error (MSE) showed that the optimized production conditions were found at 1mM AgNO3 concentration,15 min of stirring time and 1% tri-sodium citrate. Optimal and maximal AgNPs production were 20.62 (Area*) of yield experimentally, which was calculated using area under the curve from UV-vis analysis in the wave length range of 350 nm to 420 nm. Meanwhile, under the same conditions, the ANN predicted value is 19.84 (Area*) of AgNPs yield with 3.95% error. Besides that, the ANN model was employed to construct an output surface plot to reveal the impact of input variable as well as figure out the interaction effect and clear representation of optimized condition. Synthesized AgNPs at optimized condition (absorbance 0.93AU at 420 nm wavelength) were then characterized using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and UV-vis analysis.

   

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Title: Empirical modeling of hydrate formation prediction in deepwater pipelines
Author (s): F. M. Hashim and A. Abbasi
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Gas hydrate is a challenging problem in deep-water natural gas transmission lines. Temperature, pressure, and composition of gas mixtures in deep-water pipeline promote rapid formation of gas hydrates. The petroleum industry spends millions of dollars yearly to minimize the effects of hydrate formation on flow assurance. In this scenario, on the basis of experimental data from Sloan and Avlonits work, an artificial intelligence (AI) for methane gas hydrate of deepwater gas pipelines has been developed. This model is based on temperature and pressure conditions. The correlations between temperature and pressure are developed by using MATLAB software and then optimize with optimization techniques, such as genetic algorithm and particle swarm optimization. All correlations are computed with the existing experimental work and it satisfies that the new correlation has the minimum error with high accuracy.

   

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Title: Prototype development of Thermoelectric Generator System for exhaust heat recovery of an automobile
Author (s): Mior A. Said, D. Bong, M.S. Mohd. and S.S. Dol
Abstract:

In this study, a Thermoelectric Generator System (TEG) for exhaust heat recovery was developed and tested in a commercial small passenger automobile. The current phase of development is still in prototype mode, where the TEG was designed and then tested in a Perodua Myvi car in an idle condition. The main components of the designed TEG system consist of heat source recovery, insulator, TEG panel and heat sink. The TEG was placed at the ideal location on the exhaust system based on the optimum temperature condition of the TEG panel which is in the range of 150-250°C and sufficient space for the TEG system. Based from the TEG performance test results, it indicates that for an idle car condition, the maximum power output of 36.4 W can be obtained. A MATLAB Simulink simulation was performed to predict the extent of TEG performance in the Perodua Myvi car with driving condition under a variable load of an urban daily drive schedule (UDDS) cycle. The simulation results shows that the TEG system can produce an average of 258 W of power output and the total amount of energy recovered is 7, 586 kJ/cycle. In comparison with the estimated amount of waste heat dissipated in exhaust gas, only 4.7 percent of energy is recovered. However, the amount of power produced is sufficient to provide auxiliary power requirement for some of the electrical systems in the vehicle.

   

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Title: Design and implementation of cooking oil and water filtration system for domestic application
Author (s): Dhanakkumar Sudiskumar, Firas B. Ismail, Mohammad Shakir Nasif
Abstract:

Piping is an important system within any premise. Without a proper piping system, daily activities would be disrupted. As such kitchens are one of the premises that utilise water in large amounts. However, there are a lot of oily content in the waste water that is being flushed away in the sink of a kitchen. As a result, this oily content slowly builds up on the wall of the pipeline slowly forming greasy layer eventually causing pipe blockage. The greasy layer also attracts solid waste that is being disposed in the sink that forms large clumps within the pipeline which makes the blockage even worse. Within this study a new method was adopted in order to prevent these types of blockages. A mechanism that utilises hydro cyclone as the separator will be used to prevent the blockages from happening. The idea is to separate the oily content of the water from the waste water before it enters the exit pipeline. The concept was tested by running simulation using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The major outcome of the system was that it is capable of functioning at an efficiency of 83% with very minimal oil content at the water exit. This 83% denotes the amount of oil that is passing through the oil exit of the system. The rest of the 17% is water. These values are to be improved in future works.

   

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Title: Finite element analysis of stress variation along the depth of gear tooth
Author (s): Saravanan Karuppanan and Santosh S. Patil
Abstract:

Gear system is one of the most important components in any mechanical power transmission system. A gear pair in action is generally subjected to contact loading at the mating surface. In this paper, the stresses due to contact loading have been evaluated on the surface of gear tooth and along the gear tooth depth. The spur gear was considered for this study for two different loading conditions, torques of 150 Nm and 200 Nm. The involutes profile of the spur gear was generated using an ANSYS APDL program prior to spur gear model development. The finite element analysis was carried out using ANSYS 15. The Finite Element Method (FEM) was comparatively an easy and accurate technique for analysing the nonlinear gear contact stresses. Frictional coefficients ranging from 0.0 until 0.3 were selected and the corresponding contact stresses were found to be directly proportional to the friction coefficients. A governing equation for the relationship between the dimensionless contact stress values and gear tooth depth ratios for varying friction coefficients was established. The results showed that the maximum stress was located beneath the surface of the gear tooth in contact for low friction coefficient values, ? < 0.23. The stress trend remains the same for ? > 0.23 but the surface stress becomes greater than the stresses beneath the surface. Furthermore, the position of maximum stress along the depth of contact was unchanged regardless of the amount of torque applied and frictional coefficient values.

   

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Title: Thermodynamic analysis of adsorption cooling cycle using consolidated composite adsorbents - ethanol pairs
Author (s): Animesh Pal, Ibrahim I. El-Sharkawy, Bidyut Baran Saha, Khairul Habib, Takahiko Miyazaki and Shigeru Koyama
Abstract:

This study deals with the thermodynamic analysis of adsorption cooling cycle using consolidated composite adsorbents-ethanol pairs. The studied composites are named as composite A (50% Maxsorb III, 40% expanded graphite (EG), 10% binder) and composite C (70% Maxsorb III, 20% expanded graphite (EG), 10% binder). The Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R) and Dubinin Astakhov (D-A) equation are used to draw pressure-temperature-concentration (P-T-W) diagrams of the assorted pairs. The specific cooling effect (SCE) and coefficient of performance (COP) of both pairs have been simulated for desorption temperatures ranging from 40 to 90 ºC at different evaporator temperatures along with a heat sink at 30 ºC by considering a time independent thermodynamic model. The maximum COPs of composite A-ethanol and composite C-ethanol based cooling systems are found to be 0.69 and 0.765, respectively.

   

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Title: Thermodynamic analysis of a single cylinder crank-rocker engine
Author (s): Salah E. Mohammed, M. B. Baharom and A. Rashid A. Aziz
Abstract:

A thermodynamic model for the simulation of a single curved-cylinder crank-rocker engine which operates on gasoline fuel is presented. The thermodynamic model is based on the single and two-zone heat release models. The general model was expanded to include friction losses as a function of engine speed and combustion efficiencies at different operating points. The model was developed in MATLAB to predict engine performance and efficiencies on a motorcycle engine. The calculated data is then used to plot various thermodynamic parameters and the engine performances with respect to crank angle. The engines volume, indicated cylinder pressure, heat release rate, pressure-volume diagram, and engine brake torque have been evaluated at different crank angle positions. The results from the simulation model were plotted and compared with existing data. It was found that for the same engine capacity, the performance of the crank-rocker engine was better than the slider-crank engine when both utilized the same injection timing.

   

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Title: Flow control in S-shaped aggressive diffuser using grooves on the inner and outer surfaces
Author (s): Raed A. Jessam, Hussain H. Al-Kayiem and Mohammad S. Nasif
Abstract:

This paper presents CFD simulation results for S-shaped aggressive diffuser to establish grooves effectiveness in improving the flow patterns. Grooves have been proposed perpendicular to the flow direction in different planes along the aggressive diffuser. The simulated flow field was generated within a normal S-shaped diffuser with curvature of 45°/45°, and then simulated for aggressive diffuser with 30o/30o by reducing the total length by 22%. CFD simulation was performed, under 3D assumption, on both normal and aggressive diffusers, as well as with and without grooves, through ANSYS-FLUENT 16.2 software. The renormalized group k–e model was used to simulate the turbulence. The simulation results were validated and were consistent with the findings of previous experimental and numerical studies. Results obtained in the current study indicated that the combination of grooves could effectively control the flow distortion in S-shaped aggressive diffusers. Predicted performance parameters, such as the coefficients of static pressure recovery and total pressure loss, suggested that the performance of the grooves was able to enhance the pressure recovery by 18.2% and total loss coefficient was reduced by 5.75% in comparison with the case of aggressive diffuser without grooves.

   

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Title: Adsorption cooling system employing activated carbon/HFC410A adsorption pair
Author (s): Ahmed Askalany, Khairul Habib, M. Ghazy and Morteza K. Assadi
Abstract:

This paper presents operation conditions and performance of an adsorption cooling system employing activated carbon powder (ACP)/HFC410a adsorption pair. The system has been modelled and simulated numerically and the effect of changing the operating conditions has been studied. The system is driven by a low grade heat source of temperature below 80ºC and effectively exploits solar heat and/or waste sources to drive the system. Results indicate that ACP/HFC410A is able to achieve specific cooling power (SCP) and coefficient of performance (COP) values of about 0.2 kW/kg and 0.3 respectively at 350 K regeneration temperature and 387 K evaporator temperature.

   

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Title: Influences of tool pin profile on the Friction stir welding of AA6061
Author (s): S. Emamian, M. Awang, P. Hussai, Bahman Meyghani and Adeel Zafar
Abstract:

AA6061 aluminum alloy is very useful material in the light weight fabrication. Friction stir welding (FSW) is a solid state joining process that is feasible for this material. Appropriate pin profiles and tool design can generate proper heat and mixing the plasticized materials. In this study AA6061-T6 used as a base metal and H13 steel is selected for fabrication of different pin profiles. Four pin profiles used to fabricate joints with different rotation and traverse speed. Obtained results showed that threaded cylindrical produced better joints. Furthermore, increasing the FSW speeds has influence on tensile strength.

   

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Title: CFD analysis of swirly flow field in conical and cylindrical cyclones for deoiling applications
Author (s): M. A. M. Nor, H. H. Al-Kayiem and T. A. Lemma
Abstract:

Hydrocyclone is a key purifying component in deoiling process as it is passive, requires low maintenance and has a small footprint. Many studies have been dedicated to the widely used design being the counter current cyclone. Concurrent on the other hand receives less attention and the geometrical shape studied only focuses on cylindrical body. To the author's knowledge, conical body has yet to be studied which prompted this investigation. In this study, numerical method using ANSYS FLUENT is employed to study the flow field differences of conical and cylindrical concurrent cyclones such as on tangential and axial velocities and recirculation region at 45° and 72° fluid swirl angles. Analyses have shown that conical cyclone increases average tangential velocity by 6.4% and 16.3% at 45° and 51.1% and 34.2% at 72° (sampled at 25% and 75% lengths respectively) compared to cylindrical one. Axial velocity improvements to the outlets of 58.8% and 32.1% at 45° and 58.9% and 62.9% at 72° on average are registered at 25% and 75% length respectively. Recirculation in conical is also thinner and shorter and the presence of reverse flow at the annulus outlet is not detected compared to cylindrical cyclone. These improvements are beneficial for droplet separation for achieving high efficiency.

   

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Title: Characterization and study of char performance of glass wool and rockwool hybrid fibre reinforced intumescent coatings
Author (s): N. Amir, A. N. A. Jalil and F. Ahmad
Abstract:

Intumescent fire retardant coating is widely used in the industry for protecting steel from high temperature and fire incident. The coating’s application can be found in the oil and gas industries especially in the offshore structures due to its ability to withstand high temperature and severe weather. However, char strength of the existing intumescent coating can be further improved by fibre reinforcement. Previously, various researches on intumescent coating were conducted using single fibre with limited study on the hybrid fibre reinforced intumescent coating. The project examined the effects of adding hybrid fibres, exploring the mechanical and char characteristics in increasing the fire performance of the coating. The study was focused on adding glass wool fibre (G) and Rockwool fibre (R) as the hybrid reinforcement using two fibre lengths; 6 mm and 12 mm, and at 10% by weight percentage with three combinations of 3:7, 5:5 and 7:3. The investigation involved determination of potential fire resistance of the hybrid fibre reinforced intumescent coatings at various compositions and lengths of the fibres. The properties and performance of the coatings were based on the chars developed by the coatings in the furnace test. The coatings and their chars were characterized using X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Finally, the chars produced were tested for strength performance test. In summary increased in the Rockwool fibre from 3% to 7% in the hybrid fibres content had produced higher char expansion (by 15.7%), lower weight loss (by 22.8%) as well as better char performance against loading (by 37%).

   

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Title: Structure formation of geopolymer perlite binder vs. type of alkali activating agent
Author (s): Kozhukhova N. I., Chizhov R. V., Zhernovsky I. V. and Strokova V. V.
Abstract:

Origins and genetic characteristics of raw materials as well as features of their preliminary preparation and production process are the basic factors when formation of structural and mineral features of geopolymer binders. In framework of this research, a wide range of experiments were carried out to study the influence of different factors on formation of phase composition and microstructure of perlite based geopolymer system. The character of degree of dispersion variation of perlite when its mechanoactivation taking into account a duration of grinding process as well as a type of grinding machine is determined. The application of alkalis and alkali salts is providing a high-basic medium in water solution as activating agent in geopolymer systems; is differently effects on perlite solution. The hardening mechanism as well as new formations when perlite geopolymer binder hardening is determined. The features of hardening process as well as structure formation of geopolymer system are recognized according to data of its phase-mineral composition and strength characteristics.

   

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Title: Event recognition on images using support vector machine and Multi-Level Histograms of local patterns
Author (s): Bassel Zeno, Dmitry Yudin and Bassel Alkhatib
Abstract:

Event recognition on images plays important role in the context of events search and review, archiving and storage of photos, advertising, media. Paper presents a classification system based on texture features (Multi-Level Histogram of Color Multi-Scale Local Binary Pattern and Local Derivative Pattern) and support vector machine (SVM). For classification process authors use several SVM classifiers and compare their results. Three classifiers are tested: "Liblinear", "LibSVM", "Pagasos". Training and test samples are taken from "Media Eval 2013" set of annotating images. The result precision of event recognition varies from 66.75% to 93.75% and the best classifier in terms of AUC metric is "Liblinear" with local binary pattern. Developed image classification system can be used in many applications, for example in internet services, robotics, automated control systems of technological processes where image scenes should be recognized.

   

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Title: Dynamic simulation of combined extremum-seeking control system for grinding-mixing unit automatic vibration suppression
Author (s): Dmitry Alexandrovich Bushuev, Vasiliy Grigorievich Rubanov and Dmitry Valeryevich Velichko
Abstract:

The study describes the dynamic simulation of the combined extremum-seeking control system of automatic vibration suppression of the centrifugal grinding-mixing unit, including extremum-seeking controller and program system with training. A virtual prototype of the unit is presented. It is shown that the virtual prototype has a similar vibrational frequency spectrum of the support column and the trajectory of movement of grinding bodies of the centrifugal grinding-mixing unit experimental-industrial sample. The mathematical description of the non-linear plant is presented in the form of Wiener by fitting the data obtained by simulation of the virtual prototype work. The functional block diagram, algorithm and model of the extremum-seeking control combined system in MATLAB/Simulink software where the plant is given in the form of a polynomial second-degree static map, with drifting parameters and dynamic part are presented. The results of simulation the proposed combined extremum-seeking control system for automatic vibration suppression of centrifugal grinding-mixing unit are shown.

   

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Title: Method of determination of vibrating screens' oscillation's amplitude in a characteristic point for plane motion
Author (s): Michail Dmitrievish Gerasimov, Oleg Vitalievish Mkrtychev, Sergey Nikolaevish Glagolev, Dmitriy Michailovish Gerasimov and Sergey Sergeevich Latyishev
Abstract:

Traditional designs of vibrating screens have a uniform field of amplitude over the entire surface of the sorting surface generally. Thus, the oscillation amplitude has the same value over the entire sieving surface, or a constant value in each point of the sieving surface. This phenomenon poses a number of problems of sorting of bulk materials, which, ultimately, do not allow to obtain maximum efficiency of the screening process. In recent years developers and manufacturers of industrial screening equipment strive to create the conditions under which it is possible to change the point of application of the driving force, the direction of its operation and value. This sorting process allows you to create amplitude fluctuations of different size on the plane of the sieve of change of state of the sorted material. The grading efficiency of such screens is expected to be much higher both in absolute and specific indicators.

   

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Title: The technological heredity in the manufacture of the metallopolymeric build-forming molds
Author (s): Nikolaj Sergeevich Ljubimyj, Mihail Sergeevich Chepchurov, Boris Sergeevich Chetverikov, Natal'ja Aleksandrovna Tabekina and Evgenii Ivanovich Evtushenko
Abstract:

The article deals with the problem of the technological heredity in the manufacture of plastic products in a mold with the metallopolymeric build-forming. The analysis of the hereditary connections and elements-carriers of hereditary information is done, the result of which is a certain system of graph, which essence is explained by the corresponding pattern. The experiment by the definition of influence of separate elements of hereditary system on a finished product is given. The influence of time of mixing of the metallopolymeric composition on its air saturation is investigated. The experiment by the definition of indicators of the thermal conductivity of the metallopolymeric composition, that has a significant impact on technological process of molding of plastic, was made. The analysis to the obtained data during experiment is also given. The solutions to eliminate the negative properties of the elements of the system of inheritance discovered during experiments have been proposed. Thus, by authors it is proven that application of the degassing in the manufacture of the metallopolymeric.

   

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Title: Magnesium fine-aggregate concretes based on integrated use of technogenic materials
Author (s): Olga Aleksandrovna Miryuk, Valentina Ivanovna Belyaeva and Ivan Nikolaevich Borisov
Abstract:

The opportunity of integrated use of skarn-magnetite ore concentration waste as a filler for magnesium binder and fine-aggregate filler has been determined. The formulas of fine-aggregate structure concretes on the base of blended magnesium binder and technogenic filler have been designed. The determining influence of the filler s fractional composition on the technological properties of moulding materials, structure and physical-mechanical characteristics of composite material has been shown. By method of mathematical planning of the experiment the fractional composition of technogenic filler for fine-aggregate magnesium concretes has been optimized. The preferability of the moulding material preparation method, implying the initial blending of the filler with saline gauging liquid and the subsequent introduction of the binder, has been substantiated. The technological scheme of wasteless processing of granular technogenic materials with obtaining artificial sands and fine-dispersed powders for binding composites has been developed.

   

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Title: Computer simulation of movements of the hexapod robot for 3D printing of building products
Author (s): Larisa Alexandrovna Rybak, Dmitry Ivanovich Malyshev, Lusine Hornikova Virabyan and Galina Valeryevna Bocharnikova
Abstract:

The article considers the construction of a mathematical model of the dynamics of the mechanism with parallel kinematics by the example of hexapod, and the use of simulation based with 3D-model. When constructing a mathematical model of the dynamics equations of motion of the platform is written in the form of Lagrange equations. Checking the correctness of the model implemented in MATLAB package using SimMechanic modules. During the simulation obtained graphs of position coordinates of the center of the platform from time to time and hexapods rods positioning errors. We also consider the problem of modeling the movements performed by the robot hexapod for the implementation of additive technologies. They assume layered volume 3D-press products or the production of coatings in construction. Synthesized algorithms for the realization of reciprocating and rotational movements of the output link.

   

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