Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

Module 1

Unit 1: Introduction to Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the study, design, development,
construction, and testing of mechanical and thermal systems. Mechanical engineers apply
principles of physics and materials science to create and improve various devices, machinery, and

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tools used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, manufacturing, and more.

Mechanical engineering involves a wide range of activities, including:

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 Designing: Mechanical engineers use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create
detailed plans and specifications for mechanical systems and components.
 Analysis: They use mathematical and computational tools to simulate and analyze the

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performance, strength, and reliability of mechanical systems.
Prototyping: Mechanical engineers build and test physical prototypes to validate designs
and ensure they meet the desired specifications.
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 Manufacturing: They collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure efficient and cost-
effective production of mechanical components and systems.
 Maintenance and repair: Mechanical engineers are involved in the maintenance,
troubleshooting, and repair of mechanical systems to ensure their optimal functioning.
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Research and development: They contribute to the development of new technologies and
innovative solutions to address emerging challenges in various industries.

Mechanical engineering plays a crucial role in industries and society

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in several ways:

 Design and Innovation: Mechanical engineers are involved in designing and developing
new products, machinery, and systems that improve efficiency, productivity, and safety
across various industries. They contribute to the creation of innovative technologies and
solutions that address societal needs.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 1

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

 Manufacturing and Production: Mechanical engineers play a key role in the

manufacturing sector by developing efficient production processes and ensuring the quality
and reliability of manufactured goods. They work on optimizing manufacturing systems,
improving automation, and reducing costs.
 Energy and Power Generation: Mechanical engineers are involved in designing and
maintaining power plants, renewable energy systems, and energy-efficient technologies.

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They work on developing sustainable solutions for energy production, storage, and
distribution, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
 Transportation: Mechanical engineering is essential in the automotive, aerospace, and

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transportation industries. Mechanical engineers design and improve vehicles, engines, and
propulsion systems for increased performance, fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions.
They also work on developing transportation infrastructure and improving safety measures.
 Environmental Impact and Sustainability: Mechanical engineers play a role in
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developing technologies that minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability.
They work on designing energy-efficient systems, optimizing resource utilization, and
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developing eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
 Healthcare and Biomedical Engineering: Mechanical engineers contribute to the
development of medical devices, prosthetics, imaging systems, and rehabilitation
equipment. They work on improving healthcare technologies and ensuring patient safety.
 Research and Development: Mechanical engineers engage in research and development
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activities to advance knowledge, explore new technologies, and solve complex engineering
problems. Their work drives innovation and pushes the boundaries of what is possible in
various fields.
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DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 2

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

Emerging Trends and Technologies in Mechanical Engineering in different

Sectors:

1) Energy Sector

In the energy sector, mechanical engineering is witnessing several emerging trends and
technologies that are transforming the way energy is generated, stored, and utilized. Here are some

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prominent examples:

 Renewable Energy Systems: The focus on renewable energy is growing rapidly.

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Mechanical engineers are involved in the design, optimization, and integration of
renewable energy systems such as solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines, and
hydroelectric power plants.
 Energy Storage Technologies: Efficient energy storage is crucial for the effective
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utilization of renewable energy sources. Mechanical engineers are working on developing
advanced energy storage technologies such as lithium-ion batteries, flow batteries, and
hydrogen storage systems.
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 Smart Grid Systems: Mechanical engineers are involved in developing and optimizing
the mechanical components of smart grid systems, such as advanced sensors, actuators,
and control systems.
 Energy Efficiency and Conservation: They work on designing and optimizing energy-
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efficient systems and processes, such as HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air
Conditioning) systems, industrial equipment, and energy management systems. Their aim
is to reduce energy consumption and minimize environmental impact.
 Advanced Turbine Technologies: Mechanical engineers are involved in the development
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of advanced turbine technologies for power generation. They work on improving turbine
efficiency, reliability, and reducing emissions to maximize energy production from fossil
fuels and wind resources.

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 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

2) Manufacturing Sector:

In the manufacturing sector, mechanical engineering is witnessing several emerging trends and
technologies that are revolutionizing the way products are designed, produced, and delivered. Here
are some prominent examples:

 Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing): Additive manufacturing is transforming the

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manufacturing industry by enabling the creation of complex geometries, rapid prototyping,
and customization. It allows for the production of parts with reduced waste and increased
design freedom.

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 Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT): The integration of sensors, actuators, and
connectivity in manufacturing systems is leading to the rise of the Industrial Internet of
Things (IIoT).
 Robotics and Automation: Mechanical engineers work on the design, programming, and
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integration of robots and automation systems in manufacturing processes to achieve higher
levels of efficiency, quality, and safety.
 Advanced Materials and Composites: Mechanical engineers are involved in the
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selection, testing, and integration of materials with improved properties, such as
lightweight, high strength, and enhanced durability. These materials find applications in
sectors like aerospace, automotive, and consumer electronics.
 Sustainable Manufacturing: They focus on optimizing energy consumption, reducing
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waste generation, and implementing recycling and circular economy principles in

manufacturing processes.
3) Automotive Sector
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In the automotive sector, mechanical engineering is witnessing several emerging trends.

 Electric Vehicles (EVs): The rise of electric vehicles is one of the most significant trends
in the automotive sector. Mechanical engineers work on enhancing range, efficiency, and
overall performance of electric vehicles.
 Autonomous Vehicles: Mechanical engineers contribute to the design and integration of
sensors, control systems, and vehicle dynamics for autonomous driving.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 4

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

 Lightweight Materials: Mechanical engineers are involved in the selection and integration
of materials such as high-strength steel, aluminum, composites, and carbon fiber-
reinforced polymers. These materials help reduce weight while maintaining structural
integrity.
 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Mechanical engineers work on
developing and integrating ADAS features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping

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assist, collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. These systems enhance safety
and provide a stepping stone towards fully autonomous vehicles.
 Connected Vehicles: Mechanical engineers contribute to the development of connected

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vehicle systems that enable communication with other vehicles, infrastructure, and smart
devices.
4) Aerospace Sector
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Here are some prominent emerging trends and technologies in mechanical engineering within the
aerospace sector:

 Lightweight Materials: Mechanical engineers are involved in the development, testing,

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and integration of materials to reduce the weight of aircraft structures, leading to improved
fuel efficiency and increased payload capacity.
 Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing): Additive manufacturing is revolutionizing
aerospace manufacturing processes by enabling the production of complex geometries,
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reducing material waste, and allowing rapid prototyping.

 Electric Propulsion and Hybrid Systems: Mechanical engineers contribute to the
development of electric aircraft, drones, and hybrid propulsion systems that reduce carbon
emissions, noise levels, and operating costs.
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 Advanced Aerodynamics and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD): Mechanical

engineers utilize advanced aerodynamic principles and computational fluid dynamics to
optimize aircraft designs.
 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs): Mechanical engineers play a crucial role in the
development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 5

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

 Space Exploration and Satellites: Mechanical engineers are involved in the design and
development of spacecraft, satellites, and space exploration technologies.

5) Marine Sector

In the marine sector, mechanical engineering is witnessing several emerging trends.

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 Autonomous Vessels: Autonomous or unmanned vessels are gaining traction in the marine
industry. Mechanical engineers are involved in designing and developing autonomous
systems for navigation, collision avoidance, and remote operation.

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 Advanced Propulsion Systems: This includes the development of hybrid propulsion
systems, electric propulsion, and alternative fuel technologies. These advancements aim to
reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and comply with stricter environmental
regulations. e.
 Offshore Renewable Energy: The marine sector is playing a significant role in the
development of offshore renewable energy sources, such as offshore wind farms and tidal
energy systems.
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 Underwater Robotics: Underwater robotics, such as remotely operated vehicles (ROVs)
and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), are used for various applications in the
marine sector.
 Advanced Materials and Corrosion Protection: Mechanical engineers are working on
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the development and application of advanced materials that can withstand harsh marine
environments.
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DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 6

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

Unit 2: Energy Sources and Power Plants

ENERGY- Capacity to do work.

energy, the rate of depletion of these resources has reached alarmingly

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low levels.

y sources such as solar, wind, ocean,

biomass, Hydel etc.

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Renewable Sources of Energy:

Energy sources which are continuously produced in nature and are essentially inexhaustible are
called renewable energy sources.

1. Direct solar energy

2. Wind energy
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8. Peat
3. Tidal energy 9. Fuel wood
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4. Hydel energy 10. Fuel cells
5. Ocean thermal energy 11. Solid wastes
6. Bio energy 12. Hydrogen
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Nonrenewable Energy Sources:

Energy sources which have been accumulated over the ages and not quickly replenish able when
they are exhausted.
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1. Fossil fuels.

2. Nuclear fuels.

3. Heat traps.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 7

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

Differences between Renewable and Non Renewable Energy Sources

Sl. No. Renewable energy sources Non-renewable energy sources

1 Inexhaustible in nature. Exhaustible in nature.
2 Most of the renewable energy sources are Most of the non-renewable energy sources
freely and readily available in nature. are not readily available in nature.

3 Non-reliable since energy concentration Reliable, since energy concentration is

varies from region to region and time to

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almost constant in all regions.
4 time.
Initial costs of extracting energy are high. Initial costs are comparatively less.
5 Rarely used due to limitations in their Widely used due to maximum availability of
equipment’s. their equipment’s.

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6 Energy transmission cost is less. Energy transmission cost is relatively more.
7 Eco-friendly in nature. Not eco-friendly in nature.
8 Maintenance cost is low. Maintenance cost is high.
9 Energy conversion equipment’s are not well Energy conversion equipment’s are well
developed. developed.

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efficiency.
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Energy conversion equipments are of low

E.g. direct solar energy, wind energy, tidal

Energy conversion equipments are of
relatively high efficiency.
E.g. Fossil fuels (coal, petroleum and
energy, hydel energy, ocean thermal energy,
petroleum products), nuclear fuels and heat
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bio energy, geothermal energy, peat, fuel
traps.
wood, fuel cells, solid wastes, hydrogen
energy etc.

Types of Fuels
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The important fuels are as follows-

1) Solid fuels

2) Liquid fuels
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3) Gaseous fuels

1) Solid fuels

 Coal is the major fuel used for thermal power plants to generate steam.
 Coal occurs in nature, which was formed by the decay of vegetable matters buried under
the earth millions of years ago under pressure and heat.

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 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

 This phenomenon of transformation of vegetable matter into coal under earth’s crust is
known as Metamorphism.
 The type of coal available under the earth’s surface depends upon the period of
metamorphism and the type of vegetable matter buried, also the pressure and temperature
conditions.
 The major constituents in coal moisture (5-40%), volatile matter (combustible & or

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incombustible substances about 50%) and ash (20-50%).
 The chemical substances in the coal are carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur.
 In the metamorphism phenomenon, the vegetable matters undergo the transformation from

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peat to anthracite coal, with intermediate forms of lignite and bituminous coal.
2. Liquid Fuels

 All types of liquid fuels used are derived from crude petroleum and its by-products.
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The petroleum or crude oil consists of 80-85% C, 10-15% hydrogen, and varying
percentages of Sulphur, nitrogen, oxygen and compounds of vanadium.
 The crude oil is refined by fractional distillation process to obtain fuel oils, for industrial
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as well as for domestic purposes.
 The fractions from light oil to heavy oil are naphtha, gasoline, kerosene, diesel and finally
heavy fuel oil.
 The heavy fuel oil is used for generation of steam.
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 The use of liquid fuels in thermal power plants has many advantages over the use of solid
fuels.
Some important advantages are as follows:
1. The storage and handling of liquid fuels is much easier than solid and gaseous fuels.
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2. Excess air required for the complete combustion of liquid fuels is less, as compared to the solid
fuels.
3. Fire control is easy and hence changes in load can be met easily and quickly.
4. There are no requirements of ash handling and disposal.
5. The system is very clean, and hence the labour required is relatively less compared to the
operation with solid fuels.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 9

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

3) Gaseous Fuels

 For the generation of steam in gas fired thermal plants, either natural gas or manufactured
gaseous fuels are used.
 However, manufactured gases are costlier than the natural gas.
 Generally, natural gas is used for power plants as it is available in abundance.
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The natural gas is generally obtained from gas wells and petroleum wells.
 The major constituent in natural gas is methane, about 60-65%, and also contains small
amounts of other hydrocarbons such as ethane, naphthene and aromatics, carbon dioxide

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and nitrogen.
 The natural gas is transported from the source to the place of use through pipes, for
distances to several hundred kilometers.
 The natural gas is colourless, odourless and non-toxic.
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Its calorific value ranges from 25,000 to 50,000 kJ/m3, in accordance with the percentage
of methane in the gas.
 The artificial gases are producer gas, water gas coke-oven gas; and the Blast furnace gas.
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 Generally, power plants fired with artificial gases are not found.
 The gaseous fuels have advantages similar to those of liquid fuels, except for the storage
problems.
 The major disadvantage of power plant using natural gas is that it should be setup near the
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source; otherwise the transportation losses are too high.

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DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 10

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

Construction and working of Hydel power plant

A power plant that utilizes the potential energy of water for the generation of electrical energy
is known as a hydroelectric power plant.

Hydroelectric power plants are generally located in hilly areas where dams can be built easily,
and large water reservoirs can be made. In a hydropower plant, a water head is created by

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building a dam across a river or lake. From the dam, water is fed to a water turbine.

Working Principle of Hydroelectric Power Plant

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The water turbine changes the kinetic energy of the falling water into mechanical energy at the
turbine shaft. In simple words, falling water spins the water turbine. The turbine drives the
alternator coupled with it and converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. This is the
basic “working principle of hydroelectric power plant.”
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Advantages of Hydropower:

1. Renewable and Sustainable: Hydropower is a renewable energy source because it relies

on the natural water cycle.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 11

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

2. Clean Energy: It produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants, making
it one of the cleanest energy sources available.

3. Reliable and Consistent: Hydropower can provide a stable and reliable source of
electricity, as water flow can be regulated to match demand.

4. Low Operating Costs: Once the infrastructure is in place, the operational and maintenance

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costs of hydroelectric power plants are relatively low.

5. Flood Control: Dams and reservoirs built for hydropower can help control flooding in
downstream areas, improving water management.

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Disadvantages of Hydropower:

1. Environmental Impact: Building large dams and reservoirs can have significant
environmental impacts. It can disrupt aquatic ecosystems, displace wildlife, and alter the
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natural flow of rivers.

2. Land Use: Large hydroelectric projects require substantial land use, which can affect local
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ecosystems and communities.

3. Limited Locations: Effective hydropower generation depends on the availability of

suitable water resources, limiting its potential to certain geographic areas.

4. Upfront Costs: The construction of hydropower facilities, especially large dams, can be
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expensive and time-consuming.

5. Sediment Accumulation: Over time, sediment can accumulate in reservoirs, reducing

their capacity and requiring maintenance.
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DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 12

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

Construction & Working of Nuclear Power Plant:

The schematic diagram of nuclear power station is shown in figure. A generating station in
which nuclear energy is converted into electrical energy is known as nuclear power station.
The main components of this station are nuclear reactor, heat exchanger or steam generator,
steam or gas turbine, AC generator and condenser.

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 The heat liberated in the reactor due to the nuclear fission of the fuel is taken up by the
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coolant circulating in the reactor.

 A hot coolant leaves the reactor at top and then flows through the tubes of heat exchanger
and transfers its heat to the feed water on its way.
 The steam produced in the heat exchanger is passed through the turbine and after the work
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has done by the expansion of steam in the turbine, steam leaves the turbine and flows
to the condenser.
 The mechanical or rotating energy developed by the turbine is transferred to the generator
which in turn generates the electrical energy.
 Pumps are provided to maintain the flow of coolant, condensate, and feed water.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 13

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

ADVANTAGES:

 Nuclear power generation does emit relatively low amounts of carbon dioxide
(CO2).

 The emissions of greenhouse gases and therefore the contribution of nuclear power
plants to global warming is therefore relatively little.

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This technology is readily available; it does not have to be developed first.

 It is possible to generate a high amount of electrical energy in one single plant.

DISADVANTAGES:

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 The problem of radioactive waste is still an unsolved one.

 High risks: It is technically impossible to build a plant with 100% security.

 The energy source for nuclear energy is Uranium. Uranium is a scarce resource; its
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supply is estimated to last only for the next 30 to 60 years depending on the actual
demand.
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Solar Energy:

Solar energy is the energy obtained by capturing heat and light from the Sun. Energy from the Sun
is referred to as solar energy. Technology has provided a number of ways to utilize this abundant
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resource. It is considered a green technology because it does not emit greenhouse gases. Solar
energy is abundantly available and has been utilized since long both as electricity and as a source
of heat.

There are several ways the solar energy can be harnessed. Such as;
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a) Solar Photovoltaic Conversion b) Solar Thermal Conversion

For, electricity generation Solar P-V cells are used at a larger extent.

a) Solar Photovoltaic Conversion:

The major components of the Solar power are plants are: Solar Panels, Solar cells, Battery and

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 14

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

Invertor.

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As sunlight falls over a solar cell, a large number of photons strike the p-type region
of silicon. Electron and hole pair will get separated after absorbing the energy of photon. The
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electron travels from p-type region to n-type region due to the action of electric field at p-n
junction. Further the diode is reversed biased to increase this electric field. So, these current starts
flowing in the circuit for individual solar cell and combining the current of all the solar cells of a
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solar panel, to get a significant output.

voltage output. The electrical energy coming from the combined effort of solar panels is stored in
the Lithium-ion batteries to be supplied at night time, when there is no sunlight.

b) Solar Thermal Conversion

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 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

A concentrating solar collector uses mirrors or lenses to focus sunlight onto a small target area.
This concentration increases the intensity of the sunlight, which is then absorbed by a material,
such as a fluid or solid with high thermal conductivity.

The absorbed sunlight is converted into heat energy, which can be used for heating purposes or
converted into electricity. The collector often incorporates a tracking system to follow the
movement of the sun and maximize energy capture. By concentrating sunlight, these collectors

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offer a more efficient way of harnessing solar power compared to flat-plate collectors.

Advantages of Solar Energy:

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1. Renewable and Sustainable: Solar energy is a renewable resource, meaning it is virtually
inexhaustible as long as the sun exists. It's a sustainable source of energy that doesn't
deplete natural resources.
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2. Environmentally Friendly: Solar power is one of the cleanest sources of energy. It
produces no greenhouse gas emissions, air pollutants, or water pollution, helping reduce
the impact of climate change.
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3. Reduced Electricity Bills: Installing solar panels can lead to significant savings on
electricity bills. Solar power can either supplement or completely replace grid electricity,
depending on the system's size and efficiency.
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4. Low Operating Costs: Solar panels have relatively low maintenance and operating costs,
requiring periodic cleaning and occasional maintenance. They typically have long
lifespans, often exceeding 25 years.

5. Energy Independence: Using solar energy reduces dependence on fossil fuels and foreign
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energy sources, increasing a region's energy security.

Disadvantages of Solar Energy:

1. Intermittency: Solar power generation depends on sunlight, making it intermittent.

Energy production drops during cloudy days, at night, and in certain geographic regions.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 16

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

2. High Initial Costs: The upfront cost of purchasing and installing solar panels, inverters,
and battery storage systems can be significant. However, these costs have been decreasing
in recent years.

3. Space Requirements: Solar panels require a significant amount of space, especially for
large-scale installations, which may not be feasible in densely populated areas.

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4. Energy Storage Challenges: To use solar power at night or on cloudy days, energy storage
systems like batteries are needed, which can be expensive and have limited lifespans.

5. Environmental Impact of Manufacturing: The production of solar panels involves

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energy-intensive processes and the use of certain materials, some of which can be harmful
to the environment. However, the environmental impact is typically offset by the clean
energy production during a solar panel's lifespan.
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DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 17

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

Wind Power plant:

Wind energy is defined as the kinetic energy associated with the moment of large mass of air over
the earth surface. The circulation of air is caused by the uneven heating and cooling of the earth
surface. In general, during the daytime the land masses heated up faster than sea hence air moving
over the land masses heated up and becomes less dense. This makes the cold denser air from the

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sea blow towards the land masses.
But during the night, the land cools faster than the sea and hence, the denser air from the
landmasses starts moving towards the sea. That is offshore.

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As the wind flows over the windmill, the blades of the mill start rotating slowly. Blade starts
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rotated because of their aerodynamic profile. The wings are connected to hub, which is in turn
connected to main driving shaft, which is intern connected to gearbox. The function of the gearbox
is to increase the speed of the shaft which is connected to the generator. The generator, generates
the power and transmitted to grid. The minimum velocity in air required to run the windmill is
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more than five meter per second.

Advantages of Wind Power:

1. Renewable and Sustainable: Wind is an inexhaustible resource. As long as the sun shines
and the Earth exists, we will have wind. This makes wind power a sustainable and
renewable energy source.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 18

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

2. Environmentally Friendly: Wind power produces no direct greenhouse gas emissions or

air pollutants. It helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change
and air pollution.

3. Low Operating Costs: Once a wind turbine is installed, the operating and maintenance
costs are relatively low. This makes wind power economically attractive in the long term.

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4. Energy Independence: Using wind power can reduce a nation's dependence on imported
fossil fuels, improving energy security.

5. Job Creation: The wind energy industry creates jobs in manufacturing, installation, and

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maintenance of wind turbines.

Disadvantages of Wind Power:

1. Intermittency: Wind is not constant, and the energy production from wind turbines is
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intermittent. Wind doesn't always blow, which can lead to variations in power generation.
This intermittency can strain the stability of electrical grids.
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2. Land and Space Requirements: Large wind farms require a significant amount of land
or offshore space, potentially encroaching on agricultural or natural areas.

3. Noise and Vibrations: Some people near wind turbines report noise and vibrations as an
annoyance, although modern turbines are designed to minimize these effects.
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4. Initial Costs: The upfront costs of installing wind turbines and associated infrastructure
can be high, although they have been decreasing over the years.

5. Transmission and Storage Challenges: Wind power may require long-distance

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transmission to reach urban areas, and energy storage solutions are needed to smooth out
the intermittency issue.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 19

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

Introduction to Bio-fuels
Bio Fuels are liquid fuels which are derived from biomass or bio waste. Bio fuels are produced
from sugar crops, starch crops, oilseed crops and animal fats.
The most common first-generation biofuels are:
Biodiesel: extraction with or without esterification of vegetable oils from seeds of plants like
soybean, oil palm, oilseed rape and sunflower or residues including animal fats derived from

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rendering applied as fuel in diesel engines.
Bioethanol: fermentation of simple sugars from sugar crops like sugarcane or from starch crops
like maize and wheat applied as fuel in petrol engines

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Bio-oil: thermo-chemical conversion of biomass. A process still in the development phase
Biogas: anaerobic fermentation or organic waste, animal manures, crop residues an energy crops
applied as fuel in engines suitable for compressed natural gas.
Biochemical: modification of the bio-ethanol fermentation process including a pretreatment
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procedure
Thermo chemical: modification of the bio-oil process to produce syngas and methanol, Fisher-
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Tropsch diesel or dimethyl ether (DME).
Advantages and Applications:
Biogas is cheap and sustainable fuel used in lighting, cooking or generating electricity.
Biodiesel finds its use in automotive industry mainly in cars and trucks.
Small engines are seen in lawn movers and chain saw.
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The marine industry finds application of biofuel in suitable blend mixtures to be used
in boats and ships.
Disadvantages
Biodiesel is compatible with current engines but with certain issues The most important of these
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are:
Biodiesel exhibits cold weather problems
Some types of biodiesel have exhibited storage in stability that could lead to engine problems
Diesel additives may not provide the same benefits when used with biodiesel.
Sometimes, vegetable oils create adverse effects on engine components due to their volatility,
molecular structure and high viscosity.

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, JITD 20

 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

Global warming
Global warming refers to the gradual rise in the overall temperature of the atmosphere of the Earth.
There are various activities taking place which have been increasing the temperature gradually. Global
warming is melting our ice glaciers rapidly. This is extremely harmful to the earth as well as humans.

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Causes of Global Warming

It's important to note that these human activities have led to an increase in the concentrations of
greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), in the

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atmosphere. The resulting enhanced greenhouse effect is the primary driver of global warming.
1. Burning Fossil Fuels: The combustion of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas,
for energy production is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. When these fuels are
burned for electricity generation, heating, transportation, and industrial processes, they
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release carbon dioxide (CO2) and other pollutants into the atmosphere.

2. Deforestation: The clearing of forests for agriculture, urban development, and other
purposes reduces the planet's capacity to absorb CO2. Trees and other vegetation act as
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carbon sinks, capturing and storing carbon from the atmosphere. When trees are removed
or burned, the stored carbon is released, contributing to the buildup of greenhouse gases.

3. Agricultural Practices: Agriculture is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions.

Livestock, particularly cattle, produce methane during digestion (enteric fermentation), and
manure management also releases methane. Additionally, the use of synthetic fertilizers in
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agriculture releases nitrous oxide, another potent greenhouse gas.

4. Industrial Processes: Various industrial activities release greenhouse gases, including

CO2, methane, and nitrous oxide. These emissions result from chemical reactions, energy
consumption, and the production of specific goods, such as cement and chemicals.
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5. Waste Management: Landfills and waste treatment facilities emit methane as organic
waste decomposes anaerobically. Methane capture and management can help mitigate
these emissions.

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Global Warming Solutions

 Keep fossil fuels in the ground. Fossil fuels include coal, oil and gas – and the more that

are extracted and burned, the worse climate change will get. All countries need to move

their economies away from fossil fuels as soon as possible.

 Invest in renewable energy. Changing our main energy sources to clean and renewable

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energy is the best way to stop using fossil fuels. These include technologies like solar, wind,

wave, tidal and geothermal power.

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 Switch to sustainable transport. Petrol and diesel vehicles, planes and ships use fossil

fuels. Reducing car use, switching to electric vehicles and minimising plane travel will not

only help stop climate change, it will reduce air pollution too.

Ozone layer depletion

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Ozone is a gas in the lower level of stratosphere. It is a kind of super-charged oxygen (O3). It
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makes a layer in the atmosphere which acts as a cover to the Earth against ultraviolet radiation of

the Sun. The canopy of ozone layer is with variable extent less dense near the surface of the Earth

compared to the height of 30 km.

Ozone works like an umbrella and protects from the harmful UV radiations coming from cosmic
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rays to earth. In spite of being a trace gas, it plays a major role in the maintenance of climate and
biology of earth. It filters out all radiations below 3000 A0 (UV-B radiations) that are biologically
harmful, and controls the heat budget of the earth.
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Causes of Ozone Layer Depletion

Ozone layer depletion is a major concern and is associated with a number of factors. The main
causes responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer are listed below:
Chlorofluorocarbons
Chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs are the main cause of ozone layer depletion. These are released by
solvents, spray aerosols, refrigerators, air-conditioners, etc.

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 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

The molecules of chlorofluorocarbons in the stratosphere are broken down by ultraviolet radiations
and release chlorine atoms. These atoms react with ozone and destroy it.
Unregulated Rocket Launches
Researches say that the unregulated launching of rockets results in much more depletion of the
ozone layer than the CFCs do. If not controlled, this might result in a huge loss of the ozone layer
by the year 2050.

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Nitrogenous Compounds
The nitrogenous compounds such as NO2, NO, N2O are highly responsible for the depletion of the
ozone layer.

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Natural Causes
The ozone layer has been found to be depleted by certain natural processes such as Sun-spots and
stratospheric winds. But it does not cause more than 1-2% of the ozone layer depletion.
The volcanic eruptions are also responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer.
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Effects of Ozone Layer Depletion:
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1. Increased Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation: Ozone depletion allows more harmful UV
radiation to reach the Earth's surface. This has health implications, as excessive UV
exposure can lead to skin cancer, cataracts, and other health problems.

2. Environmental Impacts: Increased UV radiation can harm ecosystems, affecting

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phytoplankton, marine life, and terrestrial plant life. It can disrupt food chains and
ecosystems.

Solutions to Ozone Layer Depletion

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The depletion of the ozone layer is a serious issue and various programmes have been launched by
the government of various countries to prevent it. However, steps should be taken at the individual
level as well to prevent the depletion of the ozone layer.
Following are some points that would help in preventing this problem at a global level:
1. Avoid Using ODS
Reduce the use of ozone depleting substances. E.g. avoid the use of Chlorofluorocarbons
in refrigerators and air conditioners, replacing the halon based fire extinguishers, etc.

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 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (BESCK104D/204D)

2. Minimise the Use of Vehicles

The vehicles emit a large amount of greenhouse gases that lead to global warming as well as ozone
depletion. Therefore, the use of vehicles should be minimised as much as possible.
3. Use Eco-friendly Cleaning Products
Most of the cleaning products have chlorine and bromine releasing chemicals that find a way into
the atmosphere and affect the ozone layer. These should be substituted with natural products to

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protect the environment.
4. Use of Nitrous Oxide should be Prohibited
The government should take actions and prohibit the use of harmful nitrous oxide that is adversely
affecting the ozone layer. People should be made aware of the harmful effects of nitrous oxide and

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the products emitting the gas so that its use is minimised at the individual level as well.

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