Articles tagged with Electrical Power Generation
Scientists at Oklahoma State University are working on a new type of thermoelectric technology that can convert waste heat into electricity. This breakthrough has the potential to power military aircraft without toxic emissions or expensive cooling systems.
A team of Clemson researchers, led by Taufiquar Khan and Irina Viktorova, is developing mathematical models to optimize metering and communications in complex power-distribution networks. This effort aims to improve distribution efficiency, save energy, and reduce operating costs.
A new study from the University of Maryland suggests that investing a greater share of RGGI auction revenues in energy efficiency programs can produce significantly greater benefits for Maryland. This could lead to modest savings for consumers and a positive overall economic impact while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
A team of researchers has developed a chlorine-tolerant membrane that simplifies the water desalination process, increasing access to fresh water. The new membrane reduces the need for de-chlorination steps, leading to cost savings and potentially lowering carbon-dioxide emissions.
Researchers have modeled flameless combustion in a gas turbine engine, finding reduced NOx emissions with almost uniform heat release. This process could lead to more efficient power generation and lower polluting emissions.
Researchers developed a portable fuel cell system using JP-8 military jet fuel, reducing sulfur content and emissions. The system successfully powered area lights and a commercial refrigerator, offering cleaner, quieter, and more efficient energy generation.
A Cornell researcher has developed a system that generates power for nanoscale robots based on the energy-producing mechanism of sperm cells. The technology could enable longer-lasting and task-regulated nanomedical devices, including nanoscale pumps for targeted drug delivery.
The POX method produces high-temperature and pressure synthesis gas, enabling ten times more power generation and lower exergy losses compared to conventional methods. This process can drive a gas turbine for power generation and is more compact than existing steam turbine systems.
A Carnegie Mellon paper outlines incentives for controlling carbon emissions, warning of the consequences of delaying effective electric sector policy. Implementing an 80% reduction in carbon dioxide from power plants is likely to be cost-effective and reduce environmental impact.
Researchers at UCI create tool to analyze thousands of variables, predicting potential effect of distributed generation on Southern California air by 2010. The study found that maximum levels of ozone and particulate matter could increase slightly, but the impact would be far less than other power-production alternatives.
The Center for Power Electronics, a leading research center in power electronics technology, has received a $12.5 million funding renewal from the NSF. This investment aims to develop more efficient and integrated power electronics devices, resulting in significant energy savings and increased U.S. competitiveness.
Jacobson's solid oxide fuel cell research has the potential to improve how electricity is generated, making it less expensive and more environmentally friendly. His goal is to investigate different materials used as components in fuel cells to make reactions work at lower temperatures.
The NIST Director emphasizes the importance of improving security for critical industrial systems, particularly those using Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) technology. Immediate actions can be taken, such as creating basic security policies and closing system backdoors, to enhance SCADA security.
Researchers from the University of Warwick, Leicester, and Edinburgh are developing a nanotechnology-based electronic nose that mimics human olfactory sensors. The device aims to improve the sensitivity and processing power of existing electronic noses, allowing for real-time monitoring of environmental pollutants and food safety.
The program will study the impact of distributed power on Southern California air quality, assess air quality impact, and design low-emission combustors for micro-turbine generators. The grant is funded through the Public Interest Energy Research (PIER) program to reduce California's reliance on the power grid.
University of Michigan professor Rodney Ewing argues that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's method for assessing the Yucca Mountain site's safety is flawed due to large uncertainties. He proposes a more comprehensive approach by evaluating independent barriers, such as canisters and rock layers, to ensure the site's long-term safety.
A more thorough evaluation of energy costs can increase the value of an energy conservation project, allowing companies to carry out plans that might otherwise appear too expensive. By considering overlooked savings such as reduced maintenance and internal costs, energy managers can recoup costs faster.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed an automated optical film-thickness measurement technique that is both inexpensive and nonintrusive. The technique uses light reflection to measure film thickness with an accuracy of one-hundredth of a millimeter.
Future wireless devices may use multiple antennas to outperform single-antenna versions, reducing interference and increasing reception accuracy. This technology could enable three times as many users to operate within the same frequency band.
Researchers at the University of Illinois are developing interactive, three-dimensional displays to visualize the complex data associated with the power system network. These tools aim to facilitate informed, fast decision-making in electricity markets, where congestion can affect thousands of elements and power transfers.
Researchers at Penn State found that Beowulf clusters, composed of low-cost personal computers linked together, can offer supercomputer-like capabilities. The clusters can run multiple processors in parallel, providing a cost-effective solution for scientists who need to run complex codes.
Researchers at Purdue University are designing a new generation of automated warships that can reduce naval crews by half and continue to fight with minimal maintenance. The ships will feature advanced electric power and propulsion systems, enabling automatic rerouting of power around damaged zones.
Scientists are working on creating new thermoelectric materials that can rival the efficiency of conventional coolants in air conditioners. The goal is to develop a small, lightweight device that can both cool and generate electricity.
Penn State engineers have developed a new mini-thruster that draws only 80 Watts of power but produces more thrust than any system in its class. The thruster uses microwave technology to create a free-floating plasma, which generates thrust when released through a nozzle.
Researchers are developing a self-healing computerized system to manage electricity distribution, leveraging fuzzy logic and machine learning to predict power needs and adjust accordingly. The system, called TELOS, aims to improve grid stability and reduce power failures.
Researchers at Georgia Tech are testing the Next Generation Warning Decision Support System (NG-WDSS) to improve tornado forecasting and warning times. The system uses advanced image processing, artificial intelligence, and other algorithms to provide more efficient and effective warnings for severe thunderstorms and flash floods.
NERSC's new IBM RS/6000 SP system will increase computing capabilities by over 400%, with a peak performance of 3 teraflops and 2,048 processors. The system will enable faster turnaround of results for users across the country, supporting large-scale scientific research in fields like climate modeling and materials science.
A new cleanup system called Anodic Fenton Treatment (AFT) can clean up waste water from pesticides and textile processing on-site in just two to three minutes. The AFT process uses two electrochemical half-cells to produce hydroxyl radicals that break down unwanted chemicals, producing safe water for disposal.
A new automobile exhaust system reduces pollution and boosts engine power at the same time. The design increases overall engine performance by 5 percent while also cutting emissions by 15 percent, making it a significant improvement over standard auto exhaust assemblies.
New gallium nitride transistors operate at microwave frequencies, delivering up to 100 times more power than current semiconductors. These devices will enable hundreds of low-orbit satellites serving cellular telephone users worldwide.
The NYU Computer Lab's ReaCT-ILP laboratory is working on eliminating the programming bottleneck in embedded systems by developing an optimizing compiler that regulates instruction timing. This technology, known as EPIC computing, aims to increase information processing power and precision in smart devices.
Sandia National Laboratories and Compaq have developed a system that sorts a terabyte of data in under 50 minutes, three times faster than the previous record. This achievement demonstrates the potential for fast and cost-effective data sorting, which can be used to identify patterns in large datasets.
The Cornell researchers will examine new operating rules for the system and the effects of alternative market structures using a simulated Northeast electricity grid and laboratory experiments. They aim to strike a balance between ideal market mechanisms and traditional utility practices while maintaining system stability and reliability.
To stabilize atmospheric CO2 content at twice pre-industrial levels, non-fossil energy generation must increase from 15% to 50% of global power generation by 2050. This requires a massive transition in the global energy system, equivalent to a 150% increase in current total energy production.
Researchers in Missouri have designed a bullet that emits a powerful radar pulse as it grinds to a halt, allowing for the detection of landmines without stepping on them. This technology can help geologists survey for oil, minerals, and other buried natural resources, and may be used to locate mines in remote areas.
Researchers at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory implemented an automated computer system to operate naval plants, improving cost efficiency and reliability. The program has resulted in annual savings of nearly $800,000, with individual sites experiencing significant improvements.
Researchers at Cornell University have made significant progress in making gallium nitride transistors with output power of up to 2.2 watts per millimeter, promising to deliver hundreds of times more power at microwave frequencies.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) prototype that functions as a clock source, replacing traditional quartz crystals. The MEMS devices are made from polysilicon and can be built on one chip with integrated circuits, reducing manufacturing costs and increasing reliability.
A team of experts from Purdue University and other universities will develop computer programs to simulate advanced nuclear reactors. The research aims to investigate thermal-hydraulics and reactor safety under various conditions.
A computer program developed at Ohio State University has enabled the U.S. Navy to design a new system of antennas that reduces radio interference and makes its destroyers less visible to enemy radar. The NEC-BSC program traces the path of electromagnetic waves and allows for the design of lighter materials and improved radar performance.
The underwater laboratory Aquarius 2000 has been refurbished and upgraded with state-of-the-art communication and life support equipment. Science missions are set to resume in late March or April 1998, focusing on coral reef ecosystems and research on factors affecting their condition.
Virginia Tech students will design and develop a hybrid vehicle using the new fuel cell, which produces zero emissions. The team aims to make effective use of the fuel cell in combination with a battery pack.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have created microtransmissions, which can augment the power of tiny microengines by a significant margin. The new device increases power output by a factor of 3 million, generating enough force to move a one-pound object.
The GUSTO grid will provide pervasive access to supercomputing capabilities, enabling new problem-solving techniques and distributed supercomputing. Ten groups will use Globus software and resources for various applications, including remote visualization and tele-immersion.
A new study suggests that electrified vehicle fleets could replace large central utilities as a major source of power generation. The research calculates that the US passenger-vehicle fleet has 10 times more potential to generate electricity than all the nation's electricity-generating equipment combined.
Scientists warn that humanity's disregard for ecosystem services will have severe economic losses, estimated in trillions of dollars annually. The loss of nature's services can lead to floods, mudslides, and extinction of species, posing an existential threat to human survival.
The ozone laundry system uses highly reactive oxygen to clean clothes more quickly and thoroughly with less energy, water, and chemicals. This technology reduces labor, chemical costs by up to 60%, and hot water costs by over 80%, extending linen life.
The world's first Dynamic Voltage Restorer (DVR) has entered commercial service on Duke Power's system, correcting a severe voltage sag at Orian Rugs in South Carolina. The DVR uses advanced power electronics to rapidly inject energy onto the line and restore 100% voltage within 30 cycles.
The Electric Power Research Institute is developing new opportunities in aquaculture, including recirculating systems that use waste heat and advanced technologies like ozonation for water disinfection. These innovative solutions aim to increase U.S. seafood production and meet growing global demand.
The Central Park Wildlife Center will introduce a state-of-the-art electric-based water system using ozone to purify its aquatic exhibits. The ozone system destroys parasites, viruses, and bacteria, leaving cleaner water for the animals and better visibility for visitors.
A pilot biomass power plant will be tested in Belarus to decontaminate forests north of Chernobyl. The project aims to capture radioactivity and generate electricity, potentially reducing health risks and economic pressure on the country.
Cornell materials scientists have created arrays of atomically flat silicon surfaces, eliminating atomic steps and overcoming a major hurdle in miniaturization. The technique involves creating a grid of ridges on the surface and forcing atomic steps into them, resulting in step-free regions.
A prototype propulsion system powered by a kitchen microwave has the potential to reduce propellant needed by up to 50%, enabling longer satellite lifespans and cost savings. The microwave-powered thruster operates more efficiently than chemical systems and is safer, as it only produces thrust when microwaves are active.
A licensing agreement between Michigan Technological University and Mineral Resource Technologies aims to commercialize the recovery and processing of fly ash. The technology separates out carbon, iron oxide, and cenophores from the high-carbon byproduct, enabling its use as a replacement for cement and filler for various products.