Testing for knowledge : maximising information obtained from fire tests by using machine learning techniques

A machine learning (ML) algorithm was applied to predict the onset of flashover in 1:5 scale Room Corner Test experiments with sandwich panels. Towards this end, a penalized logistic regression model was chosen to detect the relevant variables and consequently provided a tool that can be used to make predictions of unseen samples. The method indicates that a deeper understanding of the contributing factors leading to flashover can be achieved. Furthermore, it allows a more nuanced ranking than currently offered by the commonly used classification methods for reaction to fire tests. The proposed methodology shows a substantial value in terms of guidance for future large and intermediate scale testing. In particular, it is foreseen that the method will be extremely useful for assessing and understanding the behaviour of innovative materials and design solutions

Mechanism of saline deposition and surface flashover on high-voltage insulators near shoreline:mathematical models and experimental validations

This paper deals with sea salt transportation and deposition mechanisms and discusses the serious issue of degradation of outdoor insulators resulting from various environmental stresses and severe saline contaminant accumulation near the shoreline. The deterioration rate of outdoor insulators near the shoreline depends on the concentration of saline in the atmosphere, the influence of wind speed on the production of saline water droplets, moisture diffusion and saline penetration on the insulator surface. This paper consists of three parts: first a model of saline transportation and deposition, as well as saline penetration and moisture diffusion on outdoor insulators, is presented; second, dry-band initiation and formation modelling and characterization under various types of contamination distribution are proposed; finally, modelling of dry-band arcing validated by experimental investigation was carried out. The tests were performed on a rectangular surface of silicone rubber specimens (12 cm × 4 cm × 8 cm). The visualization of the dry-band formation and arcing was performed by an infrared camera. The experimental results show that the surface strength and arc length mainly depend upon the leakage distance and contamination distribution. Therefore, the model can be used to investigate insulator flashover near coastal areas and for mitigating saline flashover incidents.</p

Effect of equivalent salt deposit density on flashover voltage of contaminated insulator energized by HVDC

In Malaysia, the demand for electric power is increasing day by day due to more consumption of power in the industrial sector. Recently, the high voltage DC transmission lines are under construction near the coastal environments for transmitting the power to the all states of Malaysia. Therefore, there is a concern about the reliability of these systems especially under adverse environmental conditions due to sea salt spray contamination. This reliability of this contaminated insulator can be improved through its performance studies. For this performance study, an analytical expression between flashover voltage and ESDD of the contaminated insulator has been proposed using Dimensional Analysis technique. The results obtained from the analytical expression are compared with the experimental results and in close agreement are foun

Charge distributions near metal-dielectric interfaces before and after dielectric surface flashover

A technique was developed for measuring surface charge distribution near interfaces without placing any measuring apparatus near the face of the samples. The results of measurements which were made on FEP Teflon and Kapton dielectrics, before and after are given flashover, with various types of interfaces. Also given are data showing mean time between flashovers for various configurations exposed to a variety of environmental conditions. Several charge transfer mechanisms are considered as a means by which stable charge distributions may be maintained near interfaces

An overview of biodiesel energy

Over the last ten years’ attention to biofuels production has increased dramatically and become crucial. One of the main factors is the rise in world oil prices, coupled with the abatement of greenhouse gas emissions and concerns about energy security. Biodiesel is diesel fuel extracted and made out of animal fats, vegetable oils, or recycled restaurant greases. It is harmless, biodegradable, and generate fewer air pollutants than conventional-based diesel. This paper will be summarized the overview of biodiesel including. competitiveness of biodiesel, ii. biodiesel production and iii. engine performance using biodiesel