Journal of Advanced Research in Experimental Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer

Performance Analysis of a Dual-Generation of Energy Using Hybrid Wind-Solar System

Muhammad Azizul Hakim Sazali — 2025-01-17

The demand for renewable energy technologies has surged due to the global energy transition and the push for decarbonization. This study explores the development of a Hybrid Renewable Energy System (HRES) combining solar and wind energy, focusing on selecting an optimal location in Malaysia based on available resources and analyzing its power generation and efficiency. A site study using anemometers and pyranometers was conducted from 8 am to 5 pm over five days, and SMath Studio was employed for mathematical modeling to determine average wind speed at varying heights, wind energy density, peak sun hours, and the optimal photovoltaic (PV) panel angle. The HRES, consisting of a Savonius turbine blade and a thin-film PV panel, was installed atop the Fakulti Kejuruteraan Alam Bina academic building. The wind turbine achieved an average power output of 0.2129 W, producing 5.11 Wh/day, while the PV panel generated 6.9083 W, yielding 43.45 Wh/day. Combined, the HRES produced 48.56 Wh/day with an efficiency of 7.02%. The findings demonstrate the suitability of the Savonius turbine for low wind speeds and the effectiveness of solar panels under high irradiance conditions. Although the system's overall efficiency was low, it successfully stabilized power output, determined optimal resource utilization, and provided valuable insights into hybrid energy generation. This study offers practical guidelines for developing dual renewable energy systems and advancing sustainable energy solutions.

An Investigation into the Potential Capabilities of a YSZ-SDCC Composite Electrolyte for Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Nurul Farhana Abdul Rahman — 2025-01-17

The development and analysis of Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia-Samarium-Doped Ceria Carbonate (YSZ-SDCC) composite electrolytes that are intended for use in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (ITSOFC) at intermediate temperatures is the primary focus of this study, which represents a significant advancement in the technology of SOFC. When it comes to assessing the efficiency of fuel cells, which is a strategy that shows promise for the conversion of energy, the electrolyte material is one of the most significant components that must be considered. In this study, several different compositions of YSZ-SDCC composite electrolytes were investigated in detail. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, often known as EIS, was applied in order to carry out a thorough investigation into the conductivity and area-specific resistance (ASR) of these composite electrolytes. This

Design and Implementation of a Smart Solar Tracker using Arduino for Enhanced Energy Efficiency

Mohd Noor Asril Saadun — 2025-01-17

In the universe of solar energy systems, the quest for enhanced energy efficiency has led to the design and implementation of a Smart Solar Tracker using Arduino. This innovative solution leverages advanced control mechanisms to optimize solar panel orientation dynamically, addressing the inherent challenges posed by varying climatic conditions. Traditionally, solar trackers have faced limitations in adapting to changing weather patterns, impacting energy capture efficiency. The Smart Solar Tracker, outlined in this study, overcomes these challenges by integrating Arduino-based technology, demonstrating a robust and strong approach to solar tracking. The main result presented in this work showcases the superior performance of the Smart Solar Tracker, consistently delivering high and stable voltage outputs even in adverse weather conditions. Shows that the implementation of Arduino-based control systems in solar tracking significantly enhances energy efficiency, ensuring consistent power generation across diverse climatic scenarios. This advancement not only underscores the critical role of technology in optimizing renewable energy systems but also positions the Smart Solar Tracker as a promising solution for reliable and resilient solar energy harvesting. In terms of costing smart solar tracker is 3 times higher compared to traditional solar tracker whereas in terms of efficiency smart solar tracker using Arduino is 10 times which is 100 percentage more efficient compared to traditional solar tracker. The smart solar tracker using Arduino efficiency output was 68% which is the highest compared to both solar tracker which is 5% and 27% over 5 days of reading the Smart Solar Tracker. Comparison shows that the smart solar tracker using Arduino is the most efficient. The findings presented specifically lead the way for the broader integration of advanced control mechanisms in renewable energy infrastructure, fostering sustainability in the face of environmental variability.

Experimental Study of Novel Linear Compressor in Refrigeration System

Tahir Jamal — 2025-01-17

This study investigates the performance of linear compressor used in vapour compressor refrigeration systems (VCRS). Conventionally, crank-drive reciprocating compressors or rotary compressors are used in VCRS, but the study deals with the innovative Linear compressor, which has been found to pose many merits in comparison to conventional ones. The objective of this research is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the system's performance characteristics from various perspectives, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of future VCRS designs. The experimental test rig has been meticulously designed and developed, utilizing a simple VCRS that incorporates both a crank drive reciprocating compressor and a spring-based linear compressor. A solenoid valve facilitates the operation of one compressor at a time. The performance of this experimental setup was assessed by varying the air flow speed of the fan mounted on the evaporator, ranging from 1 m/s to 2.5 m/s in increments of 0.5 m/s. Also, the observations were made at different ambient conditions. Performance evaluation was conducted based on key parameters, including power consumption, cooling capacity and the Coefficient of Performance (COP). The refrigerant considered for analysis in this study is R600a, which is used in both crank drive and linear compressors. The experimental results indicate the relative advantages and disadvantages of the spring-based linear compressor over the crank-drive compressor. With a redesigned configuration, it is expected that the linear compressor's overall performance could be further improved.

Estimation of Outlet Water Temperature of a Cooling Tower Based on Weather Data in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Wan Najmi Ainan Ismail — 2025-01-17

The study centres on predicting the outlet water temperature of a cooling tower in Kuala Lumpur (KL) by evaluating weather data, with the goal of reducing energy usage through improved forecasting. The objective of the study is to develop an accurate prediction equation for obtaining the wet-bulb temperature (T_w) using the dry-bulb temperature (T_d) and relative humidity (R_h). This study also aims to prove the coefficient of performance (COP) of refrigeration cycles that are cooled by water from cooling towers. Using a weather station equipped in the UTM-KL campus, the T_d and R_h were measured for every minute. The T_w was calculated by applying the bisection method and Sprung's formula to obtain the prediction equation for T_w. The maximum prediction error of the proposed equation for T_w was 0.15 °C. The prediction error by the previously proposed Stull’s formula was 0.69 °C. The COP of the water Carnot cooling refrigeration cycle was 1.9 times higher than that of the air cooling refrigeration cycle.

Effect of Coolant Concentration Ratio on Surface Roughness in Machining Aluminium 6061: A Case Study

Nur Hanis Othman Ali — 2025-01-17

Machining of Aluminium 6061 alloy is critical in various industries, but achieving optimal surface finish while maintaining cost-effectiveness remains a challenge. The concentration of coolants significantly impacts machining characteristics, yet its optimal ratio for specific alloys and processes is not fully understood. This study addresses this gap by investigating the effect of coolant concentration on surface roughness during the machiningof Aluminium 6061 alloy. Two coolants, Coolant A and Coolant B, were evaluated at concentrations of 5%, 7%, 9%, 10% and 11%. The researchemployed a Hision VMC 850 CNC machine with carefully controlled parameters, including a spindle speed of 1500 RPM and specific feed rates. Surface roughness measurements were taken using a Mitutoyo SJ-410 Electronic Surface Roughness tester before and after machining operations.Results demonstrated a clear correlation between increased coolant concentration and improved surface finish for both coolants.

Diesel and Oxyhydrogen Dual-Fuel: Reducing Emissions of a Diesel Engine using Diesel-Oxyhydrogen Dual Fuel Combustion

Waqad Ul Mulk — 2025-01-17

Diesel engines are frequently used because of their high efficiency and durability. However, they are also known for emitting high amounts of pollutants, including CO2, CO, NOx and particulate matter. Current studies have focused on alternate fuel techniques to reduce these emissions. An effective method involves using oxyhydrogen (HHO) with diesel and biodiesel can increase combustion efficiency and minimize harmful emissions. Additionally, HHO serves as a viable alternative to hydrogen, especially considering the current challenges in global hydrogen production and storage, which may not be sufficient to meet the increasing demand for transportation applications. Hence, the current study investigated the effect of using a diesel-HHO dual fuel on the emission characteristics of a single-cylinder, four-stroke diesel engine. The engine was operated at a constant speed of 1500 rpm and was tested under varying loads of 0%, 50% and 75%, with diesel (D100) serving as the primary fuel and HHO gas as the inducted fuel. The HHO gas, produced at a constant flow rate of 0.80 LPM through alkaline water electrolysis was continuously injected into the combustion chamber through air suction manifold. The results revealed that compared to diesel fuel, the injection of HHO has increased the CO2 emissions by 23.08, 23.81 and 20.0% at an engine load of 0, 50 and 100%. The CO emissions were reduced by 23.53, 34.78 and 41.38% at 0, 50 and 100% engine load. Similarly, the HC emissions were reduced by 26.09, 23.08 and 23.33% at 0, 50 and 100% engine load. The NOx emissions were increased by 25.0, 10.53 and 4.17% at 0, 50 and 100% engine load. Overall, introducing HHO has increased the CO2 and NOx emissions as the hydrogen and additional oxygen in the HHO gas promote more complete combustion and higher combustion temperatures. However, this enhancement in combustion efficiency has resulted in a significant reduction in CO and HC emissions.

Effects of Temperature and Agitation on the Kinetics of Vegetable Oil Adsorption onto Kapok Fiber

Rosniza Hussin — 2025-01-17

The unique properties of this natural fiber have sparked interest among researchers, opening possibilities for its potential use in oil spill cleanup. The oil adsorption may be influenced by temperature and agitation as revealed by past studies. This research focuses on both agitation speed at maximum of 200 rpm and temperature ranges from 30°C to 90°C in adsorption process to find an optimal condition to enhance the oil adsorption process. The analysis and characterization of kapok fiber by using scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and contact angle analysis that provided understandings into the structural and surface morphology of kapok fiber before and after oil adsorption. From the SEM morphology the kapok fiber observes the waxy surface and hollow lumen and porous structures believed can provide substantial capacity for oil storage.

Heat of Combustion and Thermal Decomposition of Ammonium Perchlorate/Sorbitol Solid Propellant with Metal Additives

Muhammad Zakwan Azizi — 2025-01-17

Ammonium perchlorate (AP) stands out as the predominant oxidizer in solid rocket propulsion systems, while sorbitol, frequently employed as a fuel in sounding rockets, is expected to generate non-hazardous gases during combustion. This study reports on the effect of sorbitol as potential organic green fuel in addition to additive metals on heat of combustion, thermal properties and specific impulse for ammonium perchlorate based solid propellant. The specific impulse was measured using PROPEP 3.0 (Propellant evaluation program). Solid propellant characterization included measuring energy using a bomb calorimeter and conducting thermal analysis using DSC and TGA. Various compositions were prepared by varying the AP and sorbitol content in the propellant, and additive metals like magnesium and ferrite were introduced. The findings reveal that the formulation of 77% ammonium perchlorate into the 23 % sorbitol releases the optimum combustion energy at 2144.47 KJ/mol and lowers the thermal decomposition temperature of AP to 210.38 °C compared to common AP solid propellant formulation. Meanwhile, the addition of 1 % magnesium metal to the mixture significantly improves the combustion energy, propellant performance, and decreases thermal decomposition temperature of the AP/sorbitol. The addition of 0.05% ferrous oxide shows a catalytic capability to decrease the ignition temperature of the sample to 199.15 °C and merge two exothermic peaks into single peak. The main outcome of this work is, AP can interact synergistically with sorbitol mixed with both additive metals by increase the heat combustion, specific impulse, improve AP sensitivity toward heat and lower the thermal decomposition temperature.

Estimation of the Damping Derivative in Pitch for a Wedge at Supersonic Mach Numbers using Design of Experiments

Sher Afghan Khan — 2025-01-17

This work primarily focuses on numerically modelling the damping derivative over the 2D wedge at different pivot points for considerable values of Mach number and incidence angles. The damping derivative is numerically simulated using regression model analysis. The two-dimensional piston theory of Ghosh is applied to obtain the analytical findings. The current study considers the variables Mach number, wedge angle and pivot location.

Introducing Semarak Ilmu Publishing In Fluid Research: Bibliometric Analysis

Nor Azwadi Che Sidik — 2025-01-17

This research aims to introduce Semarak Ilmu Publishing in the field of fluid research through bibliometric analysis. This analysis evaluates publications, research trends, and major contributions in the fluid-related scientific literature. Data was collected from the Scopus database and analyzed using a bibliometric tool called VOSviewer. The research results show a significant increase in the number of publications, especially in 2023-2024. Apart from that, there is visible collaboration between authors from different affiliations and countries. This collaboration had an impact on increasing the number of citations. These findings also highlight the strategic position of Semarak Ilmu Publishing in facilitating the dissemination of knowledge and innovation in the field of fluid research.