Comparison of Process Parameter Optimization of a Jig Boring process using Taguchi Based Grey Analysis and Genetic Algorithm

Volume 14 Issue 4 May - July 2019

Research Paper

Comparison of Process Parameter Optimization of a Jig Boring process using Taguchi Based Grey Analysis and Genetic Algorithm

Vikas Kumar Sukhdeve*, S. K. Ganguly**

* Bhilai Institute of Technology, Durg, Chhattisgarh, India.

** Mechanical Engineering, Bhilai Institute of Technology, Durg, Chhattisgarh, India.

Sukhdeve, V. M., and Ganguly, S. K. (2019). Comparison of Process Parameter Optimization of a Jig Boring Process Using Taguchi Based Grey Analysis and Genetic Algorithm. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology, 14(4), 58-66.https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.4.14803

Abstract

In the present work few process parameters of a Jig Boring machine like 'Feed Rate', 'Depth of Cut' and 'Cutting Speed' have been optimized for best possible values of few performance parameters or target parameters like 'Vertical Reaction Force', 'Surface Roughness' and 'Material Removal Rate' for a Mild Steel work specimen. The grade of the steel used in the specimen is AISI 1040. Though optimization of process parameters of a Jig Boring machine has been done by many researchers or engineers previously, in the present work a mathematical model has been formulated by regression analysis from the experimental data created as per Taguchi method. Next, from the experimental data, Grey Relational Analysis has been done to predict the optimum combination of process parameters for the best result of performance parameters. Lastly, to validate the mathematical model which has been derived by regression analysis, optimization of the process parameters have been done using Genetic Algorithm optimization tool of MATLAB Program and the optimum result of the process parameters have been verified with the optimum result determined by Grey Relational Analysis.

Effects of Chemical Reaction, Radiation and Aligned Magnetic Field on Unsteady MHD Casson Fluid Flow Past a Moving an Infinite Vertical Plate Through Porous Medium in Presence of Heat Absorption

Volume 14 Issue 4 May - July 2019

Research Paper

Effects of Chemical Reaction, Radiation and Aligned Magnetic Field on Unsteady MHD Casson Fluid Flow Past a Moving an Infinite Vertical Plate Through Porous Medium in Presence of Heat Absorption

S. Rama Mohan*, G. Viswanatha reddy**, S. V. K. Varma***

*-*** Department of Mathematics, S.V. University, Tirupathi, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Mohan, S.R., Reddy, G.V., and Varma, S. V. K. (2019). Effects of Chemical Reaction, Radiation and Aligned Magnetic Field on Unsteady MHD Casson Fluid Flow Past a Moving an Infinite Vertical Plate Through Porous Medium in Presence of Heat Absorption. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology, 14(4), 47-57. https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.4.14712

Abstract

The present paper studies the effect of aligned magnetic field on an unsteady MHD free convection Casson fluid flow past an infinite plate through porous medium in the presence of thermal radiation and heat absorption. When t*>0, the velocity u*=u₀, and that time, plate temperature and the concentration are raised to T*_w and C*_w and a first order chemical reaction takes place. A uniform magnetic field B₀ is applied in y*-direction. The systems of non-dimensional governing linear partial differential equations are solved analytically by using the Laplace transform technique. The influences of various non-dimensional parameters on the velocity, the temperature, the concentration, the Sherwood numbers, the local Nusselt and the skin friction have been discussed and analyzed through graphs and tables.

Multi - Objective Optimization of Process Parameters in Abrasive Water Jet Machining by using VIKOR

Volume 14 Issue 4 May - July 2019

Research Paper

Multi - Objective Optimization of Process Parameters in Abrasive Water Jet Machining by using VIKOR

S.Siva Sankar*, M. Vijay Kumar Reddy**, R. Sudhakara Pandian***

*-** Department of Mechanical Engineering, Annamacharya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Tirupati, Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, India.

*** School of Mechanical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamilnadu, India.

Sankar, S. S., Reddy, M. V. K.,and Pandian, R. S. (2019). Multi - Objective Optimization of Process Parameters in Abrasive Water Jet Machining by using Vikor. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology, 14(4), 39-46.https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.4.15493

Abstract

Abrasive water jet machining (AWJM) process is one of the unconventional machining processes used in many industrial applications. Abrasive water jet machining process withstand very high operating pressures and also the flow of abrasive particles are at very high water pressure is made to remove material from work surface by erosion process. In AWJM process pure water and abrasive particles such are Si0₂, beads of glass; aluminum oxide and silicon carbide are majorly used. In this work, optimization of process parameters on the material removal rate, kerf width and surface roughness of Al6082 are done by using AWJ machining process. The experiments were conducted according to Taguchi Experimental design using four factors each at three levels to determine the effect of output responses like material removal rate, surface roughness and kerf width. Finally, multi-criteria optimization and compromise solution (VIKOR) algorithm has been applied for multi-objective optimization of the responses of Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) process on Al6082 alloy.

Study of Transient Characteristics of Belt Conveyor by Lumped Mass Method

Volume 14 Issue 4 May - July 2019

Research Paper

Study of Transient Characteristics of Belt Conveyor by Lumped Mass Method

Sanjay G. Sakharwade*, Shubhrata Nagpal**

*_** Department of Mechanical Engineering, Bhilai Institute of Technology, Durg, Chhattisgarh, India.

Sakharwade, S. G., and Nagpal, S. (2019). Study of Transient Characteristics of Belt Conveyor by Lumped Mass Method. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology, 14(4),33-38. https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.4.15368

Abstract

Belt Conveyor system is most preferred and cost efficient bulk material handling system. Rubberized flat belt is the main and the costliest component of belt conveyor system. It greatly affects the overall performance of whole system. For large capacity and long distance conveyor, dynamic characteristics plays vital role. In this paper viscoelastic properties of belts are simplified as a series lump mass and their equation of motion is established by Lagrange approach. Inclined belt conveyor for fully loaded condition is studied as a five degree of freedom problem and its transient performance analyzed by simulating 2^nd order differential equations with Simulink. Conveyor displacement, velocity, acceleration and dynamic tension during staring transient process reveals the nonlinear viscoelastic characteristics of conveyor belt. Staring pull is requiring being optimum in view of starting belt stresses and safety of drive motor. Output data helps to improve stability and lower down the factor of safety of belt conveyor system.

Investigation of Mechanical Properties by Optimizing process Parameters of FSW for AZ31B Magnesium Alloy

Volume 14 Issue 4 May - July 2019

Research Paper

Investigation of Mechanical Properties by Optimizing process Parameters of FSW for AZ31B Magnesium Alloy

Gopal Rana*, Piyush Gulati**, S. S. Banwait***

*-** Department of Mechanical Engineering, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara (Punjab), India.

***Department of Mechanical Engineering, NITTTR, Punjab, India.

Rana, G., Gulati, P.,and Banwait, S. S. (2019). Investigation of Mechanical Properties by Optimizing Process Parameters of FSW for AZ31B Magnesium Alloy. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology, 14(4), 22-32.https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.4.14828

Abstract

In the present experimental work, the friction stir welding was performed on AZ31B magnesium alloy. Four process parameters selected for the optimization of were rotational speed, weld speed, plunge depth and tool shape. Taguchi method was used to design the set of experiment that were carried out for the optimization of welding. Aforementioned four parameters, at four level each and L16 orthogonal array was used. The response characteristics selected was ultimate tensile strength and Taguchi's larger is better approach was used for calculating signal to noise ratio. The experiments were carried out according the Taguchi design of experiment made in Minitab 17 Software. Using signal to noise ratio, the optimum level of each parameter was found. Signal to noise ratio indicate the most influencing parameter for optimum tensile strength was weld Speed followed by plunge Depth and rotational Speed. The tool Pin profile has the least effect on the response characteristics. The effect of all these parameters on the tensile strength was validated by the ANOVA. Further, the contribution of each parameter was found by using ANOVA.

Assessment of Impact of Bauxite Mining on Environment

Volume 14 Issue 4 May - July 2019

Research Paper

Assessment of Impact of Bauxite Mining on Environment

Prashant Hindurao Kamble*, Shrikant M. Bhosale**

*-** Environmental Science and Technology, Department of Technology, Shivaji University, Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India.

Kamble, P. H., and Bhosale, S.M. (2019). Assessment of Impact of Bauxite Mining on Environment. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology, 14(4), 14-21. https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.4.16069

Abstract

Kolhapur district seems to be favorable place in regard to the availability of some of the important minerals. Manganese and Iron ores are found in the southern area of Kolhapur district. Another important mineral found in this district is bauxite. The present research paper deals with the assessment of possible environmental impacts due to the proposed bauxite mining in the area of Shahuwadi of Kolhapur district of Maharashtra. Exploitation of minerals from the earth surfaces through mining activities causes ecological and environmental instability. Impact Assessment Studies are used to quantify impacts of mining activities within the zone of impact. To prevent adverse impacts of mining, environmental management plan is prepared through the findings of Impact Assessment studies. Though mining initially provided employment opportunities for few inhabitants and generated some revenue to Government, it would last only for a small period. However, the damages caused to the regional biodiversity as a result of the changed land use would remain permanent.

Performance Analysis on the Effect of Different Electrolytes During Glass Micro Drilling Operation Using ECDM

Volume 14 Issue 4 May - July 2019

Research Paper

Performance Analysis on the Effect of Different Electrolytes During Glass Micro Drilling Operation Using ECDM

Viveksheel Rajput*, Mudimallana Goud**, Narendra Mohan Suri***

*-*** Production and Industrial Engineering, PEC, Chandigarh, India.

Rajput, V., Goud, M., and Suri, N. M. (2019). Performance Analysis on the Effect of Different Electrolytes During Glass Micro Drilling Operation Using ECDM. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology, 14(4), 5-13.https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.4.15788

Abstract

Electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) is a proven technology for machining glass work materials with effective material removal rate. In the ECDM process, electrolyte selection plays a pivotal role in controlling the gas film stability and other machining features owing to their discrete electrochemical properties. This present article investigates the effect of three different electrolytes viz. NaOH, KOH, and NaCl on the removal rate of material by using Taguchi's L9 Orthogonal array design. Electrolyte type, its concentration, and applied voltage were chosen as process parameters. Response measurements were analyzed through the S/N ratio to obtain parametric optimization for maximum removal rate of material or Material Removal Rate (MRR) values. Results revealed that the electrolyte type is the most significant parameter influencing the removal rate of material with a percentage contribution of 60.83% followed by applied voltage and electrolyte concentration. The optimum values of parameters for maximum MRR are found to be A3B1C3 i.e., (50V, NaOH, 25 wt %).

Complex Variable Method to Predict Aerodynamics of Arbitrary Shape Space Debris

Volume 14 Issue 4 May - July 2019

Research Paper

Complex Variable Method to Predict Aerodynamics of Arbitrary Shape Space Debris

Sayavur I. Bakhtiyarov*, Mostafa Hassanalian**

* Department of Mechanical Engineering and the lab head of the Autonomous Flight and Aquatic Systems Laboratory (AFASL) at New Mexico Tech, NM, USA.

** New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology,Socorro, NM, USA.

Bakhtiyarov, S. I., and Hassanalian, M. (2019). Complex Variable Method to Predict Aerodynamics of Arbitrary Shaped space Debris. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology, 14(4), 1-4. https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.4.16074

Abstract

The objective of this research project is to develop a novel engineering technique to predict any aerodynamics of arbitrary shape space debris in the Earth's atmosphere produced during the collisional breakup. The linear size characteristics of the cross-section of arbitrary shape space debrisare determined by using a conform representation method. A model of superposition of the molecular and turbulent viscosities was used to describe the turbulent flow of air. Using a complex variable method “linearization of single-bonded area" a universal formula for velocity of arbitrary shape space debrisis derived. This technique allows describing the aerodynamics of the space debris of various shapes, sizes and masses in the Earth's atmosphere.

Artificial Intelligence in Autonomous Vehicles - A Literature Review

Volume 14 Issue 3 February - April 2019

Review Paper

Artificial Intelligence in Autonomous Vehicles - A Literature Review

Vinyas D. Sagar*, T. S. Nanjundeswaraswamy**

* UG Scholar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, JSS Academy of Technical Education, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.

** Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, JSS Academy of Technical Education, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.

Sagar,V.D., Nanjundeswaraswamy,T.S. (2019). Artificial Intelligence in Autonomous Vehicles, a Literature Review. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology,14 (3), 56-62. https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.3.15149

Abstract

In recent days, technology is being an integral part of everyday life and artificial Intelligence becomes a part and parcel of both manufacturing and service systems. Today, researches on autonomous vehicles have been greatly improved. Currently, there is a need for a paper that presents a holistic literature survey of artificially intelligent autonomous vehicles. This paper presents holistic views of an artificially intelligent vehicle, the different methods adopted like a neural network, fuzzy logic, the different components, their advantages and disadvantages, etc. Also, the various sensors and map building are explained which makes an autonomous car more robust. Incorporation of machine learning and fuzzy - neural vehicle systems control have been explained in detail in this paper.

Automation and Robotics in the Construction Industry - A Review

Volume 14 Issue 3 February - April 2019

Review Paper

Automation and Robotics in the Construction Industry - A Review

K. N. Narasimha Prasad*, Vinay Mohan Agrawal**

* Associate Professor, National Institute of Construction Management and Research, Goa Campus, India.

** Assistant Professor, National Institute of Construction Management and Research, Goa Campus, India.

Prasad,N.K.N., and Agrawal,V.M. (2019). Automation and Robotics in the Construction Industry, a Review.i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology,14 (3), 49-55. https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.3.15654

Abstract

Robotics and automation was considered unsuitable for the construction site due to uniqueness of construction projects, their dynamic nature, and aggressive environmental conditions at site. However, shortage of skilled labour and their high costs and the need to ensure quality, safety along with fast track constructions has made entry of robotics and automation into construction sites, which is an inevitable fact. Also increased awareness of artificial intelligence technology, use of lasers and sensors in making robotics and automation are more user-friendly even in construction sites. In this study, the available literature on automation and robotics developed for the construction industry is analysed.

Experimental Study on Compression and Hardness Characteristics of Aluminium Alloy Al7068

Volume 14 Issue 3 February - April 2019

Research Paper

Experimental Study on Compression and Hardness Characteristics of Aluminium Alloy Al7068

Amardeepak M.*, Narayana B. Doddapattar**, Sanjeev Murthy***

* Research Scholar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, SSAHE, Tumkur, Karnataka, India.

** Principal, Cambridge Institute of Technology (North Campus), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

*** Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, SSIT, Tumkur, Karnataka, India.

Amardeepak,M., Narayana,B., Doddapattar., Murthy,S.(2019). Experimental Study on Compression and Hardness Characteristics of Aluminium Alloy Al7068. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology,14 (3), 43-48.https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.3.15174

Abstract

Aluminium has contributed very significantly in its development as a versatile metal. Because of unique characteristics, aluminium has substituted much older and established materials like wood, copper, iron, and steel. On volumetric basis, more aluminium is consumed than all other non-ferrous metals including copper and its alloys as well as lead, tin, and zinc. Aluminium has achieved this position in spite of the fact that its commercial production began only towards the end of the 19^thcentury, and thus aluminium was a latecomer to the industry. The present work mainly focuses on the mechanical strength of the alloy Al7068 with Mg% and Zn% variation in composition. The compression behaviour and hardness of the aluminium alloy Al7068 by varying the Magnesium and Zinc composition was studied in this research work. Compression behaviour and hardness of the material are studied for Mg variation (2.2 to 3%) and Zn variation (7.3 to 8.3%) individually. These specimens were first machined to ASTM standard size and then the experiment was conducted for the required parameters. The results show that low strain was obtained for the Mg composition of 2.5% and Zn composition of 7.6%, whereas the highest hardness of the material was achieved at 3% Mg and 8% Zn compositions.

Heat Source/Sink Effect on MHD Free Convective Mass Transfer Flow Past an Accelerated Vertical Plate

Volume 14 Issue 3 February - April 2019

Research Paper

Heat Source/Sink Effect on MHD Free Convective Mass Transfer Flow Past an Accelerated Vertical Plate

B. P. Garg*, Shipra**

*Research Supervisor, IKG Punjab Technical University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India.

** Research Scholar, Department of Applied Sciences, IKG Punjab Technical University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India.

Garg, B.P and Shipra. (2019). Heat Source/Sink Effect on MHD Free Convective Mass Transfer Flow Past an Accelerated Vertical Plate. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology,14 (3), 28-42.https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.3.15411

Abstract

The effect of heat source/sink on free-convective mass transfer flow past an accelerated infinite vertical plate in the presence of transverse magnetic field is investigated. Laplace transformation technique is used to find the exact solution of the problem. The profile of temperature, concentration, and velocity are shown graphically for magnetic field parameter, Prandlt number, Heat source/sink parameter, Thermal Grashof number, Mass Grashof number, and Schmidt number. Variations of Skin-friction, Nusselt number, and Sherwood number are also discussed with the help of graphs. It is shown that velocity of the fluid increases with increase value of Schmidt number and magnetic field parameter. Velocity of fluid decreases with increasing time, heat source/sink parameter, thermal Grashof number, mass Grashof number, and Prandlt number. It is also shown that mass diffusion increases the species concentration. Further, the study concludes that the skin friction coefficient decreases with increased heat source/sink parameter.

Mechanical & Microstructure Aspects of Friction Stir Welded Aluminum Alloy AA2014 Butt Joints

Volume 14 Issue 3 February - April 2019

Research Paper

Mechanical & Microstructure Aspects of Friction Stir Welded Aluminum Alloy AA2014 Butt Joints

Abhishek Chauhan*, Sanjeev Kumar**

* Assistant Professor, UIET PUSSGRC, Hoshiarpur, India.

** Professor, Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh, India.

Chauhan,A.,and Kumar,S.(2019).Mechanical & Microstructure Aspects of Friction Stir Welded Aluminum Alloy AA2014 Butt Joints. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology,14 (3), 27-34. https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.3.15283

Abstract

This is an experimental study to investigate the mechanical and microstructure aspects of Friction Stir Welded (FSW) butt joint. From previous studies, it is found that friction stir welding parameters such as Tool rotation and Tool pin profile significantly affect the mechanical and metallurgical properties of the welded joints. The joints were welded using AA2014 aluminum alloy plates of 5 mm thickness with High carbon steel tool using different pin shapes. Two shapes, i.e. straight cylindrical pin and tapered pin were used to join the plates at tool rotation of 1200 rpm. Tensile properties of the welded joints were investigated using universal testing machine. Both the joints demonstrated good yield and ultimate strength. It was found that the cylindrical pin has better tensile strength as compared with tapered pin profile. It may be concluded that the strength of the weld is directly proportional to the surface area of the pin profile. Improvement in hardness of stirred zone is noticed due to smaller grain size in both the joints. Some specimens of the weld failed in the regions corresponding to heat affected area and some failed in the welded area.

Assessment of Air Quality Health Index: Status of Ambient Air Quality for Noamundi Mines and Surrounding Area, Jharkhand

Volume 14 Issue 3 February - April 2019

Case Study

Assessment of Air Quality Health Index: Status of Ambient Air Quality for Noamundi Mines and Surrounding Area, Jharkhand

Surajit Panda *, Manish Kumar Jain**, Krishnendu Banerjee***, A. T. Jeyaseelan ****

*-*** Indian Institute of Technology (ISM), Dhanbad, Jharkhand, India.

**** Consultant, National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) & Former Scientist of NRSC / ISRO.

Panda,S., Jain,M.K., Banerjee,K., and Jeyaseelan, A.T. (2019). Assessment of Air Quality Health Index: Status of Ambient Air Quality for Noamundi Mines and Surrounding Area, Jharkhand.i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology,14 (3), 20-26. https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.3.15285

Abstract

In modern years, numerous occurrences of air pollution proceedings in India have periodically caused terror and an important issue of discussion by pollution specialists of government and non-government organization or institutes. It may cause both long and short-term impacts on the environment and human health. Therefore, Canadian Environmental division proposed a new term, Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) to measure the air quality status, based on health effects. In the present study, Noamundi mining area has been considered to study the Air Quality Health status as it is an active mines area. The PM₁₀(Particulate Matter), PM_2.5, SO₂ (Sulphur Dioxide), and NO_x (Nitrogen Oxides) have been used as main air pollutants for the analysis. Normally, the results of AQHI varied in between 1 to 10, but it may be rarely higher above 10 through critical or very high pollution episodes like smoke. The higher pollution is observed at western to south-western part of the study area (Average: 6-10). Somewhere in south-western part of the study area, it needs the limit of critical pollution level (above 10). The north-western, North-eastern part of the study area reflects the low level of health risk (within 3) and south-eastern part of the study area registered the moderate level (health risk 6). From the Exceedence Factor (EF) analysis, it is concluded that the PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ are the main reasons for higher health risk at south-western part as it falls in the core zone of the mining.

Experimental Investigations into Magnetic Abrasive Finishing of Thick Cylinders

Volume 14 Issue 3 February - April 2019

Research Paper

Experimental Investigations into Magnetic Abrasive Finishing of Thick Cylinders

Gursharan Singh Gandhi*, Lakhvir Singh**

* Research Scholar, IK Gujral Punjab Technical University, Kapurthala, Punjab, India.

** Professor and Head, Mechanical Engineering Department, BBSBEC, Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab, India.

Gandhi,G.S., and Singh,L. (2019). Experimental Investigations into Magnetic Abrasive Finishing of Thick Cylinders. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology,14 (3), 10-19. https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.3.14829

Abstract

Magnetic Abrasive Finishing (MAF) is one among the unconventional finishing methods, wherein the workpiece is placed between two magnets, and the operating gap and the magnetic flux is between the two magnets control the cutting force. Surface is finished by eradicating the material in the form of microchips by abrasive particles in the prevalence of magnetic field. The material is detached in such a way that surface finishing and deburring are performed at the same time with the functional magnetic field in the finishing zone. MAF setup is designed for internal finishing of Leaded Tin Bronze (SAE 660) cylindrical work pieces and it is mounted on lathe machine. The sintered powder is prepared for experimentation by compacting of magnetic powder (Fe powder of 300 mesh size), and abrasive powder (Al O of 300 2 3 mesh size). In order to analyze the outcomes of operating gap and rotating speed on material exclusion, surface finish changes and ΔRa %, a sequence of trials were performed using in-house manufactured MAF setup. On the basis of results obtained, in general, the method generated best results at Rotational Speed of 146 rpm, Magnetic flux of 0.2 Tesla, weight of Abrasive particles of 15 grams, and Surface finishing time of 20 minutes.

Performance Assessment of RO Desalination Plant at Different Salinities and Recovery Ratios

Volume 14 Issue 3 February - April 2019

Research Paper

Performance Assessment of RO Desalination Plant at Different Salinities and Recovery Ratios

Giuma Fellah*

* Professor, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Tripoli, Libya.

Fellah,G. (2019). Performance Assessment of Ro Desalination Plant at Different Salinities and Recovery Ratios. i-manager’s Journal on Future Engineering and Technology,14 (3), 1-9. https://doi.org/10.26634/jfet.14.3.15516

Abstract

Two parameters might affect the thermodynamic performance of Reverse Osmosis (RO) desalination plants, those are the recovery ratio and feed water salinity. Exergy analysis is performed to determine the effect of those parameters on the thermodynamic performance of a reverse osmosis desalination unit. Irreversibility, effectiveness, and specific energy consumption are obtained at different recovery ratios and salinities. The results of the developed thermodynamic model of the present work are validated against the obtained results from the literature, where the effectiveness and the contributions of the membrane, high-pressure valves, friction, and the other components to total irreversibility are compared. The results show that the contribution of the high valve and membranes to total irreversibility depends strongly on the recovery ratio. The contribution of other components to total irreversibility is a minor one. The effect of source salinity on the percentage of the recovered exergy is not substantial, for instance, it is found that 7.96% and 6.88% of the destroyed exergy can be recovered, at salinities of 1000 ppm and 5000 ppm, repectively. The analysis shows that using the Pelton wheel to recover part of the destroyed exergy is only reasonable at low and moderate recovery ratio. For instance, the input power decreases by 7% and 60% for recovery ratio of 0.9 and 0.1, respectively.