Numerical Modeling and Investigation of PEM Fuel Cell for Performance Augmentation

Fuel cell is an important promised source of clean renewable energy that is being under extensive scientific investigation and developments. One important type of fuel cells is PEM （proton exchange membrane fuel cell）, which is considered in this study. Specifically, this study aimed at building-up of mathematical computerized model to simulate the stages of PEM fuel cell and to investigate the effects of cell design and operation parameters on its general performance. These include membrane thickness, cell area, hydrogen pressure and ionic current density. One-dimensional model has been introduced and appealed to analyze the effects of PEM fuel cell parameters on its overall performance. The results demonstrate that the cell power （and electrical efficiency） reduces as the thickness of cell membrane gets larger. Moreover, the peak point of cell power gets its maximum value at membrane thickness of 0.005 cm and its minimum value at 0.05 cm. However, the optimum value for ionic current density to get relative high cell power and electrical efficiency is equal 0.81 A/cm^2. These findings enhance research efforts toward new design and materials of PEM fuel cell.     

Electrochemical Energy Storage Technologies and Applications

The current need to fasten the implementation of renewable energies greatly depends on the development of competitive storage devices, and while there is not a single technology which is likely capable to competitively cover the wide range of possible demands, electrochemical technologies are one of the most promising for many of them. For the realization of this promise, new materials fulfilling criteria such as high energy density, high power density, competitive cost, reliability, and environmental compatibility need to be developed in the near future. Electrochemical energy storage devices can be classified into two main technologies： supercapacitors and batteries （including redox flow batteries）. Materials and applications for these technologies are discussed and compared, listing current status, technical and strategic challenges.     

State-Model Based Time-Domain Diagnosis of Internal Faults for Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine Wind Application

Upon occurrence of an internal fault on the PMSM （permanent magnet synchronous machine）, the topology of the stator is amended causing structural imbalances due to the change of the connection within the windings. In this work, a state model of internal faults of the PMSM is developed. This model is in the （abc） reference frame. The modeling approach is based on the assumption that each stator phase is replaced by two major and minor sub-windings. This model is used subsequently in the residual generation for diagnosis. The fault indicators are obtained by the projection in parity space and estimated using the Luenberger observer. A scenario of fault inter-turn by the short-circuit occurring between phase （a and b） is validated by simulation.     

Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Stack Modelling in VHDL-AMS Language with Temporal and EIS Experimental Validations

This paper deals with two basic issues of fuel cell research： modelling and experimental validation. In particular, the EIS （electrochemical impedance spectroscopy） technique is applied to a PEMFC （proton exchange membrane fuel cell）. Experiments have been performed using a low-cost test bench and instrumentation developed around a 1,200 W Ballard Nexa fuel cell system. An electrical and dynamic model in VHDL-AMS language for PEM fuel cell stack is described. The privileged approach in this paper is an electrical method. Few papers deal with the modelling of a fuel cell in VHDL-AMS language with an electric approach. The fuel cell is characterised cell wise in VHDL-AMS; AC and DC measurements show the good agreement between the simulation results of the model and those measured in experiments. The model is capable to predict accurate stack profiles. The model is validated using temporal and impedance spectroscopy method; the impedance spectroscopy is performed at low and high frequencies. The experimental and simulated Nyquist plots show that the frequency response of the fuel cell stack can be predicted by the proposed fuel cell stack model. At high frequencies, comparisons between experimental and model impedance results are performed and show some similarities between the two Nyquist. Error between the two approaches is below 1.5%.     

Network Reconfiguration for Load Balancing in Distribution System with Distributed Generation and Capacitor Placement

This paper presents an efficient algorithm for optimization of radial distribution systems by a network reconfiguration to balance feeder loads and eliminate overload conditions. The system load-balancing index is used to determine the loading conditions of the system and maximum system loading capacity. The index value has to be minimum in the optimal network reconfiguration of load balancing. The tabu search algorithm is employed to search for the optimal network reconfiguration. The basic idea behind the search is a move from a current solution to its neighborhood by effectively utilizing a memory to provide an efficient search for optimality. It presents low computational effort and is able to find good quality configurations. Simulation results for a radial 69-bus system. The study results show that the optimal on/off patterns of the switches can be identified to give the best network reconfiguration involving balancing of feeder loads while respecting all the constraints.     

Integrated Power Conversion for Multiple DC Voltage Sources and Its Power Quality

In a smart grid, electric loads are supplied by various DC （direct current） power sources, such as solar cells or batteries. On the other hand, traditional AC （alternating current） loads like a directly connected induction motors will also be used. In the circumstances, a smart power conversion unit is one of key components, which can integrate these DC or AC apparatus and trade power among them. Authors have developed an integrated power converter based on a well-known circuit topology of flying capacitor multilevel converter. This paper describes the detail of the circuit topology and its characteristics depending on designed parameters. The achieved power quality is also verified by simulation study.     

Evaluation of C02 Reduction and Primary Energy Savings for Collective Housing with Fuel Cells Considering Variability in Demand

In Japan, residential FCs （fuel cells） are being introduced not only in detached houses but also in collective housing. In this context, the effects of FC introduction （e.g., primary energy savings） should be quantitatively evaluated, but this has not been done sufficiently for collective housing, particularly with regard to demand variability. Here, the authors propose a method taking into account demand variability to evaluate the effects of FC introduction into collective housing, based on a finite set of observational demand data. The method provides a new viewpoint for evaluating the effects of FC introduction. Numerical simulation results based on real-world data indicate the validity of these effects in terms of primary energy savings and CO2 reduction considering demand variability.     

Clever Nuclear Fuel Technology

The purpose of given article-consideration of the basic features of modern manufacturing of nuclear fuel which would confirm fact, that the manufacturer does everything that its production would respond not only to requirements of the consumer, but also to its expected inquiries, and would correspond to intended purposes of fuel. It was defined main tendencies and features of modern technology, especially in nuclear fuel production, on base of meeting discussions, themes of journal articles on nuclear subject. They are correspond with practice of JSC NCCP （Novosibirsk Chemical Concentrates Plant） and listed in the paper. In result of it number of base features of any advanced technology, not only nuclear, described here with examples from NCCP＇s practice. Of course, there is no certain list of all attributes of modern manufacturing as there is no limit to its perfection. These categories are forming by current needs of the market, but listed ones must be.     

3D Conceptual Modeling and Direct Utilization Calculations of the Albanian Low and Middle Enthalpy Geothermal Resources

The use of the Albanian geothermal springs and waters, for their curative effects （Natural SPA） dates back centuries, since the time of the Roman Empire, while their first modern use started only in 1937. Unfortunately they had not been used for its energetic values yet. The temperature of the water is above 60 ~C and the flow above 16 L/s, thus direct utilization is possible, in particular for space heating. Three-dimensional temperature field calculations and engineering calculations on a heating system with heat exchangers are presented here. The results show that the water temperature is expected to be stable and considerably higher temperature is expected through deep well drilling. The University＇s Campus of Tirana is composed of 29 buildings, which are partially heated through a coal heater. The installed capacity is 2,558 kW while the coal consumption is about 920 kg/h. The University＇s Campus of Tirana is one of the most important areas and with the highest density of population in Tirana, so it is the best area to show the heat exchanger efficiency. The economic analyses prove that the borehole heat exchangers are more convenient than the coal heating systems.     

Optimizing GSHP Performance with ICT and RETScreen Plus

Under the RHO （renewable heat obligation）, public buildings in the Republic of Korea must achieve an 11% overall reduction to thermal energy consumption in buildings more than 10,0O0 m^2. RETScreen Plus is a freely available software tool developed by the Canadian Government which can be used to develop energy baselines of clean energy technologies. Using curve-fitting and statistical methods like CUSUM, the software can combine actual energy performance with near real time weather information from NASA. We developed a method to simulate the performance of a GSHP （ground source heat pump）. The three distinct energy zones involve heating, no-energy, and cooling. RETScreen Plus methodology is used to develop curve fits for each distinct zone as it builds a correlation with NASA satellite data. The model then factors the impact of ICT （information and control technologies） as a means to improve and lower the building＇s energy consumption. Two values of COP （coefficient of performance） are used--the first is a standard ICT COP, while the second is an improved ICT COP with a smart controller. This methodology can then be expanded to incorporate current and future smart meter technologies, time of use rates, energy price signals, demand response and electricity storage options. In summary, this methodology enables a building owner or energy conservation official to quickly and accurately determine the baseline energy for a building and the potential impacts of smart ICT technologies, especially for buildings equipped with GSHP technologies.     

Modeling of the Double Leakage and Leakage Spillage Flows in Axial Flow Compressors

A model to predict the double leakage and tip leakage leading edge spillage flows was developed.This model was combined by a TLV trajectory model and a TLV diameter model and formed as a function of compressor one-dimensional design parameters,i.e.the compressor massflow coefficient,Ф and compressor loading coefficient,ψ,and some critical blade geometrical parameters,i.e.blade solidity,σ,stagger angle,βS,blade chord length,C,and blade pitch length,S.By using this model,the double leakage and tip leakage leading edge spillage flow could be predicted even at the compressor preliminary design process.Considering the leading edge spillage flow usually indicates the inception of spike-type stall,i.e.the compressor is a tip critical design,this model could also be used as a tool to choose the critical design parameters for designers.At last,some experimental data from literature was used to validate the model and the results proved that the model was reliable.     

Impact of Weather Conditions and Dynamic Load Models on Steady State and Dynamic Response of Power System

This paper gives an insight on the effect of transmission line temperature variations, resulting from loading and weather conditions changes, on a power system＇s steady state and dynamic performance. The impact of dynamic load models on system stability is also studied. The steady-state and dynamic stability simulation results of a 39 bus system for constant line impedance （the traditional simulation practice） are compared to the results with estimated, but realistic, temperature varied line impedances using PSLF （positive sequence load flow） software. The modulated line impedances will affect the thermal loading levels and voltage profiles of buses under steady state response, while the dynamic results will show improved damping in electro-mechanical oscillations at generator buses.     

Utilization of DFIG on an Islanded Power Generation and Distribution System

The utilization of wind generation equipment, such as DFIGs （double fed induction generators）, interconnected to islanded power generation and distribution systems is investigated in order to determine their effects on the overall system operating characteristics and stability. The use of a stable power station （with high speed machines） will be critical in achieving fast and reliable transient response to network events, in particular, when large transient loads are expected on a continuous basis, i.e., industrial mining and mineral processing equipment. Simulation results of this paper assist in understanding how small power stations and wind generation equipment respond to large transients in an islanded network. In particular, detailed simulations and analyses will be presented on impacts of distributed wind generation units （1.5 MW DF1G） on the stability of a small weak network. The novelty of this paper is on detailed analyses and simulation of weak networks with interconnects DFIG＇s including their impacts on system stability under various transient operating conditions.     

Impacts of Parameter Scaling for Low-Power Applications Using CNTFET （Carbon Nanotube Field Effect Transistor） Models： A Comparative Assessment

This paper provides an extension to the earlier work wherein a comparison between different models that had studied the effects of several parameters scaling on the performance of carbon nano tube field-effect transistors was presented. The evaluation for the studied models, with regard to the scaling effects, was to determine those which best reflect the very essence of carbon nano-tube technologies. Whereas the models subject this comparison （Fettoy, Roy, Stanford, and Southampton） were affected to varying degrees due to such parametric variations, the Stanford model was shown as still being valid for a wide range of chiralities and diameter sizes; a model that is also applicable for circuit simulations. In this paper, we present a comparative assessment of the various models subject to the study with regard to the effect of incorporating multiple carbon nanotubes in the channel region. We also assess the effect of oxide thickness on transistor performance in terms of the supply voltage threshold effects. Results leveraging our findings in this ongoing research endeavor reveal that many research efforts were not efficient to high degree due to high delay and not valid for circuit simulations.     

Dynamic Voltage Restorer with Active Disturbance Rejection Control

Power quality is one of the major concerns among consumers and electric utility companies. CUPS （custom power systems） devices are used to improve the quality of power and enhance the reliability of the power supply in the distribution networks. The DVR （dynamic voltage restorer） is an important CUPS device used to mitigate voltage sag/swell and imbalances. Various control techniques have been implemented to control the DVR, among which the PID （proportional-integral-derivative） controller is dominant because of its model independent property and its error driven technique. In this paper, a new controller based on the ADRC （active disturbance rejection control） concept is developed, and its performance is compared to that of the PID controller. The model of the DVR and its ADRC and PID controllers were developed under the MATLAB （matrix laboratory）/Simulink environment. The simulation results demonstrated the effectiveness of the ADRC over the PID controller.     

Integration of CATHENA Thermal-Hydraulic Model with CANDU 6 Analytical Simulator Controller

This paper introduces a powerful design and analysis tool named SIMCAT, that is developed to support applications to license a CANDU nuclear reactor, refurbish projects, and support the existing CANDU stations. It consists of the CATHENA （Canadian Algorithm for Thermo-Hydraulic Network Analysis）, the control logics from C6SIM （CANDU 6 Analytical Simulator）, and a communication protocol, PVM （parallel virtual machine）. This is the first time that CATHENA has been successfully coupled directly with a program written in another language. The independence of CATHENA and the C6SIM controllers allows the development of both CATHENA and C6SIM controller to proceed independently.     

New,Simple Blade-Pitch Control Mechanism for Small-Size,Horizontal-Axis Wind Turbines

In the present research work, the pitch-control is carried out such that the rotor blades are rotated around their longitudinal axis while the rotor continues its normal rotation. It is really a challenge to produce a clever design to pitch the rotor blades by the optimal amount so as to maximize the power output at all wind speeds. The mechanism is implemented to a three-blade, horizontal-axis, home-scale wind turbine. The mechanism is powered by a suitable DC （direct-current） motor. The tests were carried out in the open section of a delivery wind tunnel. The air speed was measured by a suitable anemometer. The corresponding rotational speed （rpm） and output voltage at different wind speeds were measured and recorded for calibration of the control system. The mechanism proved to be successful in controlling the pitch angle over a wide range of wind speeds.     

Assessment of the Wind Field in the East Coast Algerian Regions for the Installation of Wind Farms

The available electricity generated by a wind power generation system depends on mean wind speed, standard deviation of wind speed and the location of installation. Since year-to-year variation on annual mean wind speed is hard to predict, wind speed variations during a year can be well characterized in terms of a probability distribution function, as well Weibull distribution has been one of the most commonly used, accepted and recommended distribution to determine wind energy potential. In this study, the two Weibull parameters of the wind speed distribution function （the shape parameter k （dimensionless） and the scale parameter c （m/s））, were computed from the wind speed data for Algerian east coastal regions, recording over a 1 l-year period （1995-2005）. It was found that the numerical values of both Weibull parameters （k and c） vary over a wide range. The yearly values ofk range from 1.20 to 1.94, while those of c are in the range from 4.31 to 1.94. To minimize the uncertainties of statistical calculation, a spatial representation indicating distribution and occurrence frequency the direction from which the wind comes, appears a very primordial step. Over the whole valid data during the study period, the compass shows that there is no dominant direction marked. However, we can identify a preferred wind direction. The statistical results correspond to the analysis of the rose compass.     

A Review of Direct Driven PMSG for Wind Energy Systems

This paper presents a comprehensive overview study of the DDPMSG （direct driven permanent magnet synchronous generator） for wind energy generation system. Wind turbine controls are provided. The PMSG （permanent magnet synchronous generator） is introduced as construction and model. Configurations of different power converters are presented for use with DDPMSG in wind systems at variable speed operation and maximum power capture. Control techniques for the system are discussed for both machine-side and grid-side in details. Grid integration is provided with focus on how to insure power quality of the system and the performance at disturbances.