1,721,018 research outputs found
Hydrogen Gas Refueling Infrastructure for Heavy-Duty Trucks: A Feasibility Analysis
Full text linkIn view of serious environmental problems occurring around the world and in particular climate change caused significantly by dangerous CO2 emissions into the biosphere in the developmental process, it has become imperative to identify alternative and cleaner sources of energy. Compressed hydrogen is being considered as a potential fuel for heavy-duty applications because it will substantially reduce toxic greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutant emissions. The cost of hydrogen will be the main element in the acceptance of compressed hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in the marketplace because of its effect on the levelized cost of driving. This paper investigates the feasibility of developing a nationwide network of hydrogen refueling infrastructure with the aim to assist in a conversion of long-haul, heavy-duty (LHHD) truck fleet from diesel fuel to hydrogen. This initiative is taken in order to reduce vehicle emissions and support commitments to the climate plans reinforcing active transportation infrastructure together with new transit infrastructure and zero-emission vehicles. Two methods based on constant and variable traffics, using data about hydrogen infrastructure and ICE vehicles, were created to estimate fueling conditions for LHHD truck fleet. Furthermore, a thorough economic study was carried out on several test cases to evaluate how diverse variables affect the final selling price of hydrogen. This gave an understanding of what elements go into the pricing of hydrogen and if it can compete with diesel in the trucking market. Results revealed that the cost to purchase green hydrogen is the utmost part in the pump price of hydrogen. Due to the variety in hydrogen production, there is no defined cost, which renders estimates difficult. Moreover, it was found that the pump price of green hydrogen is on average 239% more expensive than diesel fuel. The methodology proposed and models created in this feasibility study may serve as a valuable tool for future techno-economics of hydrogen refueling stations for other types of ICE fleets or fuel cell vehicles
Performance analysis of domestic boilers fuelled with hydrogen-enriched natural gas blends and pure hydrogen
No full textIn response to the growing urgency of climate change, many corporations and institutions are actively working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable technologies and policies. One promising approach is the replacement of natural gas with hydrogen in residential and industrial energy applications. Currently, hydrogen is being blended in small quantities into existing natural gas networks worldwide, which affects the performance of appliances originally designed for natural gas due to changes in gas properties. This study investigates the effects of hydrogen addition on domestic boilers designed for natural gas, analysing combustion characteristics as hydrogen and oxygen content vary. Stoichiometric, lean, and incomplete combustion conditions were considered, with a focus on pollutant formation in incomplete combustion and mitigation through lean combustion with excess air. Key parameters, including oxygen levels, carbon monoxide from incomplete combustion, air and exhaust gas temperatures, water content, and relative humidity, were analysed for domestic boilers fuelled with hydrogen-enriched natural gas and pure hydrogen. Analytical combustion models were developed to estimate condensable water mass, heating value ratios, saturation temperature, exhaust gas specific heat, energy fraction of condensation, and condensation efficiency. Findings indicate that water vapour, whether in air or exhaust, significantly impacts boiler performance. Optimal efficiency was achieved at maximum water vapour molar fractions, which corresponded to stoichiometric hydrogen combustion with high humidity—applicable to both conventional and condensing boilers. Pollutant emissions formation was minimized with higher excess air in lean combustion, which also reduced the water vapour fraction. Hydrogen addition further reduced pollutants, as pure hydrogen combustion produces only water. For optimal economic and environmental outcomes, the study recommends pure hydrogen combustion under lean conditions with minimal excess air, ensuring higher performance and reduced emissions compared to natural gas. The findings emphasize the potential benefits of hydrogen as a clean alternative for residential heating while addressing the practical constraints and trade-offs associated with its adoption in domestic boiler applications. The study provides valuable insights into optimizing hydrogen combustion for both conventional and condensing boiler systems under varying operating conditions
THERMODYNAMIC MODELING AND SIMULATION OF AN ORGANIC RANKINE CYCLE-EJECTOR HEAT PUMP-BASED TRIGENERATION SYSTEM USING A ZEOTROPIC MIXTURE
No full textTo solve the problem of low thermal efficiency of the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) and to enhance the coefficient of performance (COP) of ejector refrigeration cycle, an ORC combined with an ejector heat pump-based combined cooling, heat and power system using a zeotropic working fluid mixture is proposed in this paper. Utilization of zeotropic mixtures could improve the thermodynamic performance of ORC systems owing to superior fits of the temperature profiles of the working fluid and the heat source/sink. A thermodynamic model is built to predict the performance of the proposed trigeneration system using butane/propane zeotropic mixture. The model was validated with data obtained from the open literature. It was then applied to investigate and optimize the effect of a wide range of parameters on system performance. A detailed parametric analysis was then performed to assess the influence of generator temperature and entrainment ratio on the system's heating, cooling and power efficiencies, exergy and thermal efficiencies, and COP. The analysis also examined the effect of mass fraction on the system's power and cooling efficiencies. The results disclosed that for the zeotropic butane/propane mixture with mass fractions of 0.5/0.5, a generator temperature of 75°C and entrainment ratio of 0.5 produced a net power output of 136.3 kW, with a power efficiency of 4.6%, a heating efficiency of 95.4%, a cooling efficiency of 42.9%, and a COP of 1.43.With such thermodynamic analysis, the study demonstrated that the proposed system is feasible
Organic Rankine cycle-ejector heat pump hybrid system using low GWP zeotropic mixtures for trigeneration application
No full textThis paper presents a comprehensive study focused on improving the thermal efficiency and performance of an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) combined with an ejector heat pump (EHP) for trigeneration application. The utilization of zeotropic mixtures with low global warming potential (GWP) was proposed as a solution to address the inherent inefficiencies of the ORC at low-temperature heat sources and to enhance the coefficient of performance (COP) of the ejector refrigeration cycle. A thermodynamic model was developed to predict system performance, utilizing low-temperature heat sources such as solar or geothermal energy, along with zeotropic mixtures. The model was validated with the available literature data, demonstrating very good agreement. Five zeotropic fluid mixtures were preliminary studied, and the optimal mass fractions identified. Detailed investigations were then carried out for two of these mixtures, R1233zd(E)/propane and butane/propane, which exhibit low GWP and ozone depletion potential (ODP). The influence of generator temperature and entrainment ratio on system efficiency metrics, exergy, and COP were evaluated for these mixtures. Conclusions are drawn based on the two optimized zeotropic mixtures for maximum thermal efficiency. For R1233zd(E)/propane mixture with mass fractions 0.75/0.25 and butane/propane mixture with mass fractions 0.5/0.5 at generator temperature of 75 °C and entrainment ratio of 0.5, the systems achieved a heating capacity of 1607.9 kW and 2847.9 kW, a cooling capacity of 1037.5 kW and 1280.3 kW, and a net power output of 59.2 kW and 136.3 kW. Other related performance and efficiency parameters are included in the paper. These findings indicate the feasibility of utilizing these systems for trigeneration application. Additionally, a comparative analysis with a regenerative ORC highlighted the ORC-EHP hybrid system's advantages, including enhanced heating efficiency, cooling capacity, and overall COP. This research contributes valuable insights to advance the efficiency and sustainability of combined cooling, heat, and power systems, fostering the progression of innovative energy solutions
Smart Charging Strategies for EVs: Insights from Simulation Modeling on Italian Highways
No full textThis extensive study explores the complex dynamics of electric vehicle charging infrastructure management along the Milan-Rome highway in Italy. By employing a simulation-based methodology, the research thoroughly assesses the performance and effectiveness of charging networks under various scenarios, with particular attention to the integration of a "Smart Charge"functionality. The findings highlight the crucial role of real-time communication between electric vehicles and charging stations in optimizing resource allocation and reducing charging wait times. Through detailed analysis, the study reveals the significant impact that dynamic, real-time interaction within charging ecosystems can have on the overall efficiency and reliability of electric mobility networks. The research underscores the transformative potential of advanced communication technologies in enhancing the operational capabilities of EV charging systems, offering valuable insights for the future development of more robust and efficient electric mobility infrastructures. Ultimately, this study contributes to the growing body of knowledge necessary for improving the sustainability and user experience of electric vehicle travel
Analysis of Driving Behaviour Under Different Disturbance Conditions Through Virtual Reality
No full textThe efforts in pushing toward the electric mobility is enhancing improvements for batteries and vehicle performance to extend the range, making the Electric Vehicle (EV) a competitive couce alongside conventional Internal Combustion Engine vehi-cles. However, less efforts are spent to highlight the importance of changing the driving style, to avoid unpleasant drawbacks for battery durability and range drop. In this research, a psychologi-cal insight is provided to understand the pattern of driving styles which can affect the energy consumption while driving an Electric Vehicle. The experimental setup used to perform tests with 26 different users is provided through a Virtual Reality (VR) test bench, aimed to recreate a real trafficked route with both urban and highway paths. The psycological elements are provided to constitute the basis of the analysis, that is then illustrated through energy consumption assessment
Feasibility Analysis of Refuelling Infrastructure for Compressed Renewable Natural Gas Long-Haul Heavy-Duty Trucks in Canada
No full textWith environmental concerns and limited natural resources, there is a need for cleaner sources of energy in the transportation sector. Renewable natural gas (RNG) is being considered as a potential fuel for heavy-duty applications due to its comparable usage to diesel and gasoline in vehicles. The idea of compressed RNG vehicles is being proposed especially because it will potentially significantly reduce harmful emissions into the environment. This initiative is taken in order to decrease vehicle emissions and support Canada's commitments to the climate plans reinforcing active transportation infrastructure, in concert with new transit infrastructure, and zero emission vehicles. This study examines the feasibility of implementing a nationwide network of compressed RNG refuelling infrastructure in order to accommodate a conversion of Canada's long-haul, heavy-duty truck fleet from diesel fuel to RNG. Two methods, Constant Traffic and Variable Traffic, along with data about compressed RNG infrastructure and vehicles, were developed and used to predict fuelling requirements for Canada's long-haul, heavy-duty truck fleet. Then, a detailed economic analysis was conducted on various test cases to estimate how different variables impact the final selling price of RNG. This provided insight with the understanding of what factors go into pricing RNG and if it can compete against diesel in the trucking market. Results disclosed that the cost to purchase RNG is the greatest factor in the final selling price of compressed RNG. Due to the variability in RNG production however, there is no precise cost, which makes predictions difficult. However, results revealed that it is possible for compressed RNG to be competitive with diesel, with the mean compressed RNG price being 16.5% cheaper than diesel, before being taxed. Future studies should focus on the feasibility of the production of RNG and the associated costs, with emphasis on the Canadian landscape. An in-depth analysis on operational and maintenance costs for compressed RNG refuelling stations may also provide predictions that are more accurate
Feasibility Investigation of Hydrogen Refuelling Infrastructure for Heavy-Duty Vehicles in Canada
Full text linkA potentially viable solution to the problem of greenhouse gas emissions by vehicles in the transportation sector is the deployment of hydrogen as alternative fuel. A limitation to the diffusion of the hydrogen-fuelled vehicles option is the intricate refuelling stations that vehicles will require. This study examines the practical use of hydrogen fuel within the internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered long-haul, heavy-duty trucking vehicles. Specifically, it appraises the techno-economic feasibility of constructing a network of long-haul truck refuelling stations using hydrogen fuel, across Canada. Hydrogen fuel is chosen as an option for this study due to its low carbon emissions rate compared to diesel. This study also explores various operational methods, including variable technology integration levels and truck traffic flows, truck and pipeline delivery of hydrogen to stations, and the possibility of producing hydrogen onsite. The proposed models created for this work suggest important parameters for economic development, such as capital costs for station construction, the selling price of fuel, and the total investment cost for the infrastructure of a nation-wide refuelling station. Results showed that the selling price of hydrogen gas pipeline delivery option is more economically stable. Specifically, it was found that at 100% technology integration, the range in selling prices was between 8.3 and 25.1 CAD/kg. Moreover, liquid hydrogen, which is delivered by trucks, generally had the highest selling price due to its very prohibitive storage costs. However, truck-delivered hydrogen stations provided the lowest total investment cost; the highest is shown by pipe-delivered hydrogen and onsite hydrogen production processes using high technology integration methods. It is worth mentioning that once hydrogen technology is more developed and deployed, the refuelling infrastructure cost is likely to decrease considerably. It is expected that the techno-economic model developed in this work will be useful to design and optimize new and more efficient hydrogen refuelling stations for any ICE vehicles or fuel cell vehicles
Feasibility Study of Refuelling Infrastructure for Compressed Hydrogen Gas Long-Haul Heavy-Duty Trucks in Canada
No full textIn view of serious environmental problems occurring around the world and in particular climate change caused significantly by dangerous CO2 emissions into the biosphere in the developmental process, it has become imperative to identify alternative and cleaner sources of energy. It is now indisputable that there cannot be sustained development or meaningful growth without a commitment to preserve the environment. Compressed hydrogen is being considered as a potential fuel for heavy-duty applications because it will possibly substantially reduce toxic greenhouse gas emissions. The cost of hydrogen will be a main element in the acceptance of compressed hydrogen internal combustion vehicles in the marketplace since of its effect on the levelized cost of driving. The cost of hydrogen at the pump is determined by its production cost, which is mainly a function of the feedstock and process utilised, the distribution cost and the refuelling station cost. This paper investigates the feasibility of implementing a nationwide network of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure in order to accommodate a conversion of Canada's long-haul, heavy-duty truck fleet from diesel fuel to hydrogen. This initiative is taken in order to reduce vehicle emissions and support Canada's commitments to the climate plans supporting active transportation infrastructure, together with new transit infrastructure, and zero emission vehicles. Two methods, Constant Traffic and Variable Traffic, along with data about hydrogen infrastructure and vehicles, were developed to estimate fuelling requirements for Canada's longhaul, heavy-duty truck fleet. Furthermore, a thorough economic study was conducted on various test cases to evaluate how diverse variables affects the final selling price of hydrogen. This provided insight with the understanding of what factors go into pricing hydrogen and if it can compete against diesel in the trucking market. Results revealed that the cost to purchase hydrogen is the greatest factor in the pump price of hydrogen. Due to the variability in hydrogen production, however, there is no precise cost, which makes predictions difficult. Moreover, it was found that the pump price of hydrogen is, on average, 239% more expensive than diesel fuel. Future work should concentrate on the costs and logistics of high-capacity hydrogen refuelling stations, which is required to deliver fuel to a fleet of long-haul, heavy-duty trucks. A breakdown of hydrogen production costs, with regard to the Canadian landscape and the requirements of a long-haul, heavyduty truck fleet, may possibly give further accurate predictions of those made in this study
Simulation and optimisation study of the integration of distributed generation and electric vehicles in smart residential district
No full textThis paper presents an optimisation methodology for simulating the integration of distributed generation and electric vehicles (EVs) in a residential district. A model of a smart residential district is proposed. Different charging scenarios (CS) for private cars are considered for simulating different power demand distributions during the day. Four different case studies are investigated, namely the Base Case, in which no EVs are present in the district and three study cases with different CSs. A global optimisation method based on a genetic algorithm approach was applied on the model to find the total power from PV panels installed and co-generative micro gas turbines while minimising the annual energy cost in the district for the four different scenarios. In conclusion, the results showed that the use of EVs in the district introduces considerable savings with respect to the Base Case. Moreover, the impact of the chosen CS is nearly insignificant under a purely economic perspective even if it is relevant for grid management. Additionally, the optimum amounts of installed power vary in a limited range if the distance travelled by EVs, users’ departure and arrival time change broadly
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