By Dr. DF Duvenhage Introduction South Africa is renowned for its rich mineral resources, contributing significantly to its economy. Mining has historically been a significant contributor to South Africa’s GDP. However, its exact contribution can vary from year to year based on factors such as commodity prices, production levels, and overall economic conditions. [1]. Figure […]
By Dr. DF Duvenhage Renewable energy technologies, an overview. Renewable energy technologies are those that can be used to produce energy from direct and indirect effects on the Earth from the sun’s energy. These technologies include solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, ocean, and biomass [1]. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), renewable energy supply from […]
By Dr. DF Duvenhage Introduction Engineers and industry stakeholders have long sought innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) techniques to maximize oil recovery from mature reservoirs. Traditionally, EOR methods have relied on thermal, chemical, or gas injection processes, each presenting challenges and limitations. For example, traditional EOR approaches, […]
By Dr. DF Duvenhage Introduction Crude oil, a fossil fuel derived from the decomposition of organic matter, has been a cornerstone of global energy consumption for over a century. However, efficiently extracting this valuable resource from the Earth’s depths presents a unique set of challenges. This article delves into the history and global applications of […]
By Dr. DF Duvenhage Seawater-pumped storage is an innovative form of hydroelectric energy storage that harnesses the power of seawater as the lower reservoir in a two-tiered energy storage system. This approach offers a compelling solution for storing and regulating electrical energy. In this article, we explore the working principle, historical context, commercial implementations, and […]
By DR. DF Duvenhage 1. Renewable energy technologies, an overview. Renewable energy technologies are those that can be used to produce energy from direct and indirect effects on the Earth from the sun’s energy. These technologies include solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, ocean, and biomass[1]. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), renewable energy supply from […]
By DR. DF Duvenhage Evaporative cooling towers serve as the workhorses of industrial and commercial cooling systems, utilizing the natural phenomenon of evaporation to achieve efficient heat transfer. While seemingly simple in concept, these towers rely on a complex interplay of thermodynamics, water chemistry, and mechanical components to deliver optimal performance. Ensuring their longevity and […]
By DR. DF Duvenhage 1. Introduction: The Cornerstone of Optimal Cooling Tower Performance Evaporative cooling, a well-established and effective method for removing heat from various systems, has been utilized for over half a century. Its popularity stems from its numerous advantages, chief among which is its superior heat rejection efficiency. Moreover, evaporative cooling systems are […]
By DR. DF Duvenhage 1. What are cooling towers, and where are they used? Evaporative cooling is a well-established and effective method for removing heat from various systems and processes and has been used for over half a century. Its popularity stems from its numerous advantages, including compactness, quiet operation, low energy consumption, and potential […]