IPS Journal of Engineering and Technology
Journal Summary: Scope: Publishes in all areas of Engineering and Technology. ISSN: Print and Online. DOI Prefix: Crossref. Frequency: Quarterly. Journal model: Open Access. Article Processing Charges: $30 or #30,500. Abstracting & Indexing: Google Scholar, Semantic Scholar, Index Copernicus, Crossref, WorldCat. Type of articles: All kinds of articles including book of abstracts and conference proceedings. Review type: Double-blind peer review. License type: CC BY 4.0. Area of coverage: Engineering, Architecture, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Civil Engineering, Building Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Petrochemical Engineering.
Tensile and Flexural Properties of Sisal, Banana and Bamboo Fibre Epoxy Composites
Opportunities abound for more innovative development work involving naturally-occurring fibrous materials with good strength and stiffness properties in their use as reinforcements/fillers in polymeric composites fabrication. Utilisation of these waste materials in new composite materials fabrication is important in engineering economics especially in resource savings and ecological considerations. It is in realization of this that tensile and flexural behaviour of chemically retted sisal (Agave sisalana), bamboo and banana (Musa sapientum) fibre reinforced epoxy composites were investigated. The carefully characterised fibres were cut into short lengths and ASTM sample pieces were fabricated in appropriate moulds. The three fibres composites show similar trend of strength deterioration with increasing fibre concentration. From the analysis, only sisal showed consistent and steady strength reduction through all the fibre concentration range. The tensile strength, modulus, stress and strain at break for single fibre epoxy composite obtained varied in the range of 34 MPa to 12 MPa, 1.5 GPa to 0.6 GPa, 34 MPa to 12 MPa and 5% to 1% respectively while flexural strength, modulus, stress and strain at break of single composites ranged from 58 MPa to 18 MPa, 1.4 GPa to 0.9 GPa, 8 MPa to 3 MPa and 5% to 1% respectively. The sisal fibre has the highest tensile properties which contributed to increase strengthening of the composites when compared to that of banana and bamboo composites. The data obtained in certain fibre concentration range were found to show promises in various non-load-bearing engineering applications especially in the power sector (wind-power blades), building (panels, flooring etc.), transportation (automobile, railways, aircraft, ship, interiors etc.) and others.
Copyright (c) 2026 Opeoluwa Aderomoke Adeyemi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Students’ Awareness of Fire Safety Measures in a University Building: A Case Study of a Clinical Hostel
This study investigated students' knowledge of fire safety measures in a university hostel building in Nigeria, aiming to identify lapses in effective fire safety management through user involvement in educational environments. The research is a case study that adopted quantitative and qualitative research approaches. Data were gathered from 165 randomly selected students using a closed-ended, structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses of the data were used, which included frequency counts and percentages. Generally, the results indicated that most of the students’ lacked knowledge of some basic fire prevention and protection measures. More than half of the students (52.3%) reported high and very high awareness of the possibility of a fire outbreak in their hostel. However, in the event of evacuation during a fire accident, a relatively low percentage of the students (32.8%) showed high and very high awareness of evacuation procedures. Only 29.7% indicated high and very high awareness of the use of fire equipment. Recommendations include enhanced training programs, regular fire drills, improved signage, and strategic architectural modifications to reduce bottlenecks and improve emergency egress. The findings provide valuable insights for architects, policymakers, hostel administrators, and educational institutions, and underscore the need for a paradigm shift from reactive to proactive fire safety planning in student housing design.
Architects, case study, educational institution, students’ knowledge, university hostel
Copyright (c) 2026 Michelle Enelichi, Charles C. Munonye, Emmanuel Udomiaye https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Post-Occupancy Evaluation of Users’ Perception of Thermal Environment in an Office Building in a Tropical Climate
High or low indoor temperatures can negatively impact the health and productivity of office workers. This study adopted the Post Occupancy method to investigate users’ perception and adaptive actions in a naturally ventilated office building in the tropical climate. Approximately 244 responses were collected from 89 staff members from Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State. A questionnaire on users’ perception towards indoor environmental variables was administered during the rainy season, a period when users’ perception of the indoor environment is usually not thoroughly investigated. As the questionnaires were administered, the indoor and outdoor thermal variables were simultaneously measured with data loggers. Results indicate significant dissatisfaction with indoor temperatures (70% generally dissatisfied, 24% generally satisfied) when the mean indoor temperature recorded was low (27.8oC). Occupants preferred warmer environments, with majority of the staff (51%) choosing closing window as an adaptive action due to cold temperatures. The findings highlight the importance of knowing users' perception of the indoor environment and occupant behavior. Prioritizing occupants' thermal comfort in naturally ventilated office buildings, by incorporating adaptive design elements and providing occupants with control over their thermal environment, is recommended. By implementing these recommendations, building designers and operators can improve occupants' thermal comfort, productivity, and job satisfaction, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more productive work environment.
Buildings, occupants, post-occupancy evaluation, offices, productivity
Copyright (c) 2025 Cynthia C. Obi, Charles C. Munonye, Emmanuel Udomiaye, Anthony I. Maduabum https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Load Optimization of a Single-Sided Electromagnetic Elevator
This study investigates load optimisation in an existing elevator system to evaluate variations in thrust relative to defined performance objectives—thrust and efficiency. Using the elevator’s actual design specifications, simulations were conducted to assess performance under varying load conditions. A user-driven iterative optimisation algorithm, termed the Wire Gauge Variation and Slot/Tooth Ratio (WGVSTR), was developed and implemented in MATLAB. The key advantage of the WGVSTR algorithm lies in its flexibility, allowing users to achieve desired optimisation goals by adjusting relevant design parameters. The analysis focuses on identifying the load condition that produces a thrust output closest to the target value while maintaining efficiency. The total weight of the elevator system without passengers is 1680 kg. Passenger loads, with each passenger assumed to weigh 75 kg, were incrementally added in eight steps up to 600 kg, exceeding the allowable limit of 375 kg (five passengers) for the existing model. Simulation results show that thrust and efficiency remained stable from Steps 1 to 5, corresponding to total loads of 1755 kg, 1830 kg, 1905 kg, 2055 kg, and 2130 kg. The 2055 kg load (Step 4), representing five passengers, was identified as the optimal load, yielding a full machine thrust of 26,560 N with minimal drop in output thrust. Beyond this point, thrust reduction became evident: 26,555 N, 26,530 N, and 24,500 N for Steps 6, 7, and 8, respectively. At Step 7 (2205 kg), equivalent to seven passengers, the thrust decrease was minimal (20 N below nominal), designating it as the maximum safe load. Efficiency remained constant up to Step 6 but dropped slightly to 87.28% and 87.25% at Steps 6 and 7, respectively, before declining sharply to 60.22% at Step 8 (2280 kg). The thrust and efficiency values at the maximum load were compared with those at no-load conditions to determine the elevator’s optimal and maximum allowable loading limits for safety and performance assurance.
Copyright (c) 2025 I. Daniel Nzeife, C. Chinedu Okaroh, T. S. Ilozionwu, Collins T. Nwamuo, Vincent C. Ezechukwu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Pneumatic Automation in Modern Industrialisation: Curriculum Innovation and Skills Alignment in Mechanical Engineering Education
Pneumatic automation has become a crucial component in modern industrialization, offering a reliable and efficient means of controlling and automating various industrial processes. Being akin to mechanical engineering education in universities, one expects its full inclusion into the curriculum of such universities. However, a study conducted by this paper showed that the best universities for Mechanical Engineering in Nigeria teach Fluid/Applied Fluid Mechanics but not Pneumatics as a core course. This paper not only explores the fundamentals of pneumatic systems, their circuits and applications, but also the advantages and benefits of Pneumatic Automation in modern industrial development for sustainability. The paper calls for the proper inclusion of pneumatic studies in the curriculum of mechanical engineering education. The curriculum of a total number of 68 best universities that offer Mechanical Engineering in Nigeria, as listed by EduRank, was fairly looked into to find if they included pneumatic study as a core course. However, there was no specific indication of pneumatics as a core course in all the listed universities; rather, allied courses like Fluid and Applied Fluid mechanics were taught to students. Undoubtedly, while Fluid Mechanics and Pneumatics complement each other, Fluid/Applied Fluid Mechanics deal with fluid fundamental principles like fluid dynamics, hydraulic systems, turbo-machinery as in fluid power systems, Pneumatic study specifically focuses on the use of compressed air to transmit power, which includes design and control of pneumatic systems and components, circuits and system analysis. Pneumatic applications are typically used in industrial automation, robotics, process control and mechatronics. So by implication, as long as air is being used as a medium for transmission of power in industries, acquisition of pneumatic knowledge and skills remains the bedrock for efficient operation, proper maintenance and sustainability of such industries. Pneumatic courses and skills prepare mechanical engineers for industries like manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace, where pneumatic systems are widely used and, as such, deserve adequate inclusion in the mechanical engineering curriculum.
Copyright (c) 2025 I. Daniel Nzeife, Vincent C. Ezechukwu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Design and Fabrication of a Refrigeration Demonstration Unit for Studying Condensation and Evaporation on Tube Surfaces
Refrigeration plants in the food industry have a key role, yet are very energy-intensive, which poses a serious problem given the current steep rise of energy prices. In this framework, energy consumption minimization represents a paramount goal for plant managers, yet most are loathing to test new control strategies in real-life plants, lest normal operation be disrupted and food be spoiled as a consequence. It is now essential to look inward and design functional refrigeration trainers for production using locally sourced materials and technology because of the significance of refrigeration trainers in the applied thermodynamics laboratory, or the refrigeration and air-conditioning laboratory, as the case may be, and the extremely high cost of laboratory equipment imported from overseas. The design, construction, and testing of a refrigeration demonstration apparatus for use in the mechanical engineering department's refrigeration and air-conditioning laboratory was motivated by the necessity to provide instructional aids and laboratory refrigeration trainers, as well as the prohibitive cost of importing laboratory equipment. Transparent windows allow pupils to observe the condensation and evaporation processes in the condenser and evaporator. R600A is the refrigerant chosen for vapour compression refrigeration because, when compared to other competing refrigerants, it has the lowest condenser pressure, which is less than 5 bar at 30 degrees Celsius. It is highly recommended that more work be done in the design, production, and performance analysis of a Refrigeration Demonstration Apparatus – condensation and evaporation in inside of tubes to compliment this study.
Copyright (c) 2025 IPS Journal of Engineering and Technology
Comparative Assessment of Solar Photovoltaic and FACTS Deployment for Enhancing Available Transfer Capability in Nigeria 330 kV Transmission Grid
High electricity growth in Nigeria coupled with an obsolete transmission network has necessitated novel approaches to power grid optimization. This paper compares the two technologies- Solar Photovoltaic (PV) system and Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) devices, in particular Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM), individually embedded to the 330 kV Nigeria 48-bus transmission grid in a simulation-based study. With the assistance of Power System Analysis Toolbox (PSAT) in MATLAB, this paper summarizes how these are the technologies that developed to increase Available Transfer Capability(ATC), gain better voltage stability and change power flow under normal as well as under Single Line Contingency. Five weak buses were used for the simulation featuring poor voltage performance and three deployment confirmations were studied (FACTS, PV, and the the base case without any enhancement). The results prove that solar PV and FACTS devices can independently be used to enhance the performance. ATC enhancement of FACTS deployment are almost 35.7% in ATC whereas solar PV gave an ATC enhancement of 29.6%. Voltage variation was decreased by 24.6% and 29.4% in the FACTS-only and PV-only case respectively, over the base case. These findings imply that FACTS has more transfer capacity, while PV systems have more voltage support. The results of this study offer valuable knowledge for power system planners and decision makers in developing countries where additional infrastructure development may not be feasible or immediate, but a need to reinforce the transmission network using flexible and low-cost solutions exists.
Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM)
Advancements in Mechanized Palm Oil Processing: Harnessing Automation, Robotics, and Circular Economy Principles for Sustainable Productivity
This study examines recent advances in mechanized palm oil treatment and emphasizes innovations in harvesting, milling, core recovery, and digital integration. Mechanization has greatly increased productivity, working dependence has decreased, and the quality and stability of the product have improved. Robotic, automated milling systems and smart surveillance technologies provide examples of exact agriculture and Industry 4.0. However, due to high capital costs, skills intervals, and infrastructure limits, adoption among smallholders is uneven. The review also highlights the role of circular economics practice in reducing by-products and reducing the environmental impact. A multi-interest holder approach that includes the improvement of policy, financial aid, and training is crucial for inclusive mechanization throughout the field.
Examining the Thermal Performance of a Muffler in a Spark Ignition Engine
Technological advancements in automotive engineering have led to improved comfort and safety; however, this progress often introduces environmental and thermal challenges. One such challenge lies in managing heat transfer within exhaust systems, especially mufflers in spark ignition engines. This study examines the thermal performance of a muffler, focusing on its ability to dissipate heat and minimize backpressure while ensuring acoustic efficiency. Employing theoretical modeling and experimental validation, the work investigates the heat distribution across different muffler sections, the effects of material selection, and backpressure characteristics. Results from simulations and on-field thermal imaging show that optimized muffler designs can significantly enhance thermal dissipation without compromising engine performance. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on muffler engineering by integrating thermodynamic modeling, flow analysis, and practical testing.
Multi-Objective Optimization Approach for Enhancing Production System Efficiency in a Food Processing Industry
Effective Industrial practices in the food processing Industry aim to lower production costs, maximize machine efficiency, reduced quality problems, and promote process sustainability. These goals present complex challenges that requires advanced strategies for enhancing process performance. This study explores a multi-objective optimization approach focused on achieving high overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), which translates to increased machine operating time and reduced downtime, while simultaneously decreasing energy use and overall waste. The methodology is formulated as a binary optimization problem, and solved using Sequential Least Square programming method (SLSQP) model, while a polynomial regression model is used to test findings. Analysis reveals significant variability in maximum OEE, energy use, and waste levels across different machines and products, with OEE values ranging from 0.194444 to 0.3066, energy from 1.144648 kWh to 0.025532 kWh, and waste levels from 0.91771 kg to 0.019682 kg. This inconsistency suggests inefficiencies stemming from suboptimal machine-to-product arrangements. The validation results indicate a perfect alignment with the optimal values for OEE, energy, and waste levels derived from the optimization outcome. The research emphasizes the importance of aligning machines with products and scheduling effectively to enhance production efficiency. Implementing structured multi-objective optimization solution in the food Industry presents significant opportunities for enhancing production system efficiency. By addressing multiple objectives simultaneously, food producers can achieve a balance between energy use, waste levels, sustainability, quality, and responsiveness to market demands. Continued research and development in this area will be crucial for driving innovation and improving the competitiveness of the food corporation.
Integrating Data Simulation, Machine Learning, and Mathematical Modeling for Predicting Critical Operational Parameters and Evaluating Overall Equipment Effectiveness in Food Production
In response to various challenges faced by the food Industry, such as equipment underutilization, high-energy consumption, maintenance inefficiencies, product quality variation, waste production, and inefficient data analytics, which in aggregate represent crucial impact on productivity and operational cost. This study formulated an AI-driven optimization solution for the assessment and optimization of overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) values of machines in the food Industry for enhanced operational efficiency, productivity and profitability. The study investigated real-time sensor and machine setting data, collected from the production environment to simulate the operational conditions of the production line. A Random Forest Repressors were employed to predict main operational parameters of the production system such as downtime, defect rate, and cycle time. After being trained on a portion of the simulated data, these predictions were then utilized to compute individual components of OEE: Availability, Performance, and Quality rates and ultimately determining the overall effectiveness of the production line. The models were tested using unseen samples. A mean square error method was applied to evaluate the accuracy of the model’s predictions. The results showed that the true and expected overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) values were similar, ranging from 0.59% to 0.84%, which is relatively low compared to world-class target 85%. This result demonstrates that with the application of data-driven method to enhance the three metrics of OEE can lead to improved system operational efficiency. Additionally, the strong correlation between the actual and predicted scores signifies that the model is capable of accurately evaluating equipment effectiveness by taking multiple factors into account. The results of this article revealed that the downtime, defect rate and cycle time model performed perfectly well, while the validation results showed that the implemented AI model can effectively be explored in Industrial applications. Furthermore, the results of this study will empower maintenance engineers with the tools and insights necessary to enhance operational excellence. By enabling early identification and elimination of potential events, fostering predictive maintenance, supporting continuous improvement and enhancing collaboration within the food and other manufacturing domain.
Traditional vs. Modern Coconut Oil Extraction
There are diverse methods of extracting oil from coconut with their level of operations, oil extraction yield, oil quality attributes, and the level of sustainability. Conventional procedures of home processing, including boiling, fermentation, and sun drying, are applied in rural areas where they are considered simple, that is, in line with local culture and economy, but have led to low yield and poor oxidative stability. This study undertook a comprehensive review of 17 peer-reviewed articles curated from scholarly databases spanning the years 2010 to 2025. The examination concentrated on juxtaposing traditional and contemporary extraction techniques in relation to oil yield, physicochemical characteristics, antioxidant efficacy, and implications for sustainability. The traditional methods demonstrated oil recovery rates between 6.3% and 61.3%, typically accompanied by elevated moisture levels and free fatty acid concentrations. In comparison, current techniques such as the enzymatic extraction technique, cold pressing, and supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) achieved yields as high as 77.7% and had improved retention of bioactive and greater oil stability. However, these sophisticated technologies usually require a large financial cost, energy cost, and the limited ability of technicians, so their applications are mostly limited to areas without sufficient resources. Although modern techniques offer improved yield and quality, their accessibility presents an ongoing challenge. The study highlights the necessity for hybrid models that amalgamate the straightforwardness of traditional methods with the effectiveness of modern technologies. Such innovations have the potential to advance sustainable, high-quality coconut oil production, aligned with the socioeconomic conditions of small-scale producers.
Advancements in Coconut Dehusking Technologies: A Comprehensive Review of Mechanization Trends, Performance Metrics, and Sustainability
This review thoroughly investigates the evolution, performance, and design variants of coconut dehusking machines, which range from manual to automatic systems. Through a focused Boolean search on Scopus, 25 pertinent papers published between 1990 and 2024 were chosen using a structured literature review process. The selected studies were examined to assess cost, dehusking capacity, ergonomics, and operational efficiency. The results indicate a clear mechanization trend. Despite being less expensive, manual systems only produce 60 to 100 coconuts per hour and inflict a physical strain on operators. Semi-automatic machines with hydraulic systems and spiked rollers have intermediate capacity (120–240 coconuts/hour) and efficiency (85–90%), but they need to be manually loaded and maintained regularly. Due to their high cost, complexity, and restricted accessibility in remote regions, automatic systems that use lead screws, motorized clamps, and sensors have the best performance, reaching up to 271 coconuts/hour with 98–100% efficiency. Despite this, these systems are still underutilized. The review concludes that widespread adoption requires scalable and affordable solutions made for smallholder farmers. Locally sourced materials, modular design techniques, and the integration of renewable energy sources are among the recommendations. Particularly in low-resource agricultural areas, the study backs mechanization as a feasible means of enhancing coconut processing productivity, safety, and sustainability.
Performance Evaluation of a Reliable Portable Solar Power System
The limited reliability and efficiency of existing miniature solar power systems in providing consistent AC and DC power for various applications prompted this research on the performance evaluation of a Reliable Portable Solar Power System (PSPS). To address these limitations, the Weibull analysis method was employed to estimate the reliability of individual components and ascertain the overall reliability of existing systems. This approach provided a robust framework for evaluating the system's dependability over time. A portable system was developed featuring a 266Wh capacity battery bank, bulk converters, and a mini-inverter to deliver seamless AC and DC power. The PSPS was tested for its ability to charge multiple devices and provide sustained lighting. Results indicated that the system could fully charge five laptops of varying capacities daily on a single charge, while simultaneously powering three 3W bulbs. When used exclusively for lighting, the system operated the bulbs for up to six days per charge. Additionally, a 4,000mAh phone was fully charged in just 95 minutes. The AC component demonstrated the capacity to power circuits with currents up to 13A. A comparative analysis with commercial systems revealed a 5.1% performance improvement over the Sunking 60 Home System, which was found to be more reliable than the Bee Bee Jump Solar System and the NSEL Solar Generator. In conclusion, the PSPS offers improved reliability and efficiency, making it suitable for small-scale power needs. Further enhancements are recommended, including increased battery capacity and the integration of advanced monitoring systems for real-time power management
The Effects of Plants Essential Oils on Biodiesel Fuel Properties during Storage
Dilapidation of biodiesel engineering properties is one of its major challenges during storage. The main goal of this research is to evaluate the feasibility of inhibiting the rapid deterioration of palm oil biodiesel (POME) fuel properties during extended storage by blending (incorporating) it with essential oils. POME, produced in accordance with American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) guidelines, was fortified with 1% wheat germ oil (Blend 1), 1% avocado seed oil (Blend 2), and a combination of both wheat germ oil (1%) and avocado seed oil (1%) (Blend 3). The fuel properties of these blended biodiesels—acid value and kinematic viscosity—were determined using ASTM procedures. Results obtained from this study revealed that the acid values of the control unit and Blends 1 to 3 increased by 35.90%, 23.93%, 26.04%, and 23.13%, respectively, over the course of 60 days of storage. Furthermore, the kinematic viscosity of the control group and Blends 1 to 3 increased from 4.45 to 4.71, 4.45 to 4.59, 4.45 to 4.62, and 4.45 to 4.56 cSt, respectively, as storage progressed to the 60th day. Remarkably, it was also noted that the hybridization of wheat germ oil and avocado seed oil exhibited the most effective fuel property stabilization results. Individually, the wheat germ oil-treated biodiesel yielded better results compared to the avocado seed oil blend. These findings provide valuable insights into inhibiting the oxidation of palm oil biodiesel. This knowledge has the potential to foster environmental sustainability by reducing dependence on synthetic additives.
Analysis of Nigerian leather industries economic sustainability using Parametric cost model approach; A case study of establishing Aba leather industry
The Nigerian leather industry is a major driver of sustainable employment and Nigeria's output. The industry is a significant source of non-oil revenue for Nigeria, with a nationwide supply chain and rippling value. Nigeria's leather sector has produced N24.5 billion ($700 million) in revenue annually and has the potential to support the creation of around 700,000 direct and indirect jobs. However, one of Nigeria's leather industries in Aba, Abia State, is thriving in chaos, hampered by the government’s inability to provide the right environment. The aim of this study is to analyze Nigeria's leather industry processes, economic sustainability, and alternative advancements by developing recycling and processing strategies for the recovery of leather waste and also proposing a cost model to support economic decisions regarding the implementation of a circular approach in the leather industry. The result of the finding using the parametric cost model shows that an overall economic gain is conceivable with only 52% of the expenses incurred in the direct conversion of waste into recycled products. It can also be said that the largest category of expenditures is capital equipment for waste collection and processing, with transportation costs double that of the case study.
Mathematical Modeling and Optimization of Plantain Chip Drying
Air frying is a promising technology for the production of healthy and nutritional snacks. The process optimization and parameters analysis of the drying of plantain chips was carried out using Buckingham’s pi theorem. Studies were conducted to examine how various processing conditions affected the nutritional and sensory properties. The variables considered for the study were Drying temperature (80 – 100 °C), Air flow rate (0.25 – 0.45 m/sec), Chimney diameter (20 – 40mm), Chip thickness (0.5-1mm) while the responses were drying rate and drying efficiency. The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) data showed that the variables affected the responses (drying rate and drying efficiency) significantly (p < 0.05). It was observed that for the optimal response values of 0.0161177 Kg/h and 88.88 % for the drying rate and efficiency respectively. The predictive models developed in the research work will be used for predicting process performance of drying plantain chips.
Climate Adaptations of Religious Buildings in Enugu State, Nigeria
This study investigated climate-responsive design strategies employed in Orthodox church buildings within Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria, a region characterised by a temperate-humid climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, high temperatures, and intense sunshine. These climatic conditions pose significant challenges for building design, often leading to excessive heat gain and humidity issues. Climate-adaptive architecture, which integrates natural climatic factors into building design, offers a potential solution by minimising reliance on mechanical cooling and promoting indoor comfort. Focusing on religious buildings, which often accommodate large congregations and consume substantial energy for climate control, this research aimed to identify and evaluate effective design approaches for addressing local climate requirements and enhancing climate resilience as well as proffer recommendations for future building projects. A survey design was employed, utilizing observation schedules and questionnaires to collect data from six selected churches within Enugu Metropolis, with a minimum of a 1000-person seating capacity. The findings revealed that while all surveyed churches demonstrate a good response to the tropical climate, the Cathedral Church of Good Shepherd exhibits the highest performance across various parameters, including thermal comfort, natural airflow and air quality, effective shading from the Sun, and visual appeal through landscape elements and water conservation. The study concluded by providing recommendations for enhancing climate responsiveness in future church building designs in Enugu and similar tropical climates such as optimal building orientation, natural ventilation, appropriate material selection, shading devices, rainwater harvesting, and integrated landscaping.
Analysis of the Impact of Marine Activities and Industrial Environmental Operations on Steel Structure Corrosion within Onelga, in Rivers State
Steel structures in marine and industrial environments are subjected to severe corrosion effect due to exposure to sulphates (SO₂), carbon dioxide (CO₂), chlorides, microbial activity, and industrial pollutants, in addition to unstable environmental conditions. This study investigates the impacts of marine activities, associated gaseous release during industrial operations, and also the effect of these gases on steel structures and the economic implications. An empirical review of previous studies was conducted, and data on corrosion rates from different environmental conditions were sourced and analyzed using statistical modeling. The results highlight the significant role of chloride-induced corrosion, emission of SO₂, and temperature affecting the corrosion rate in the industrial zone of ONELGA in Rivers State. However, it was SO2 that was observed to have the most effect on accelerating the rate of corrosion of the structural steel within the environment. Deterioration of the steel structure was prevalent since SO₂ forms acid and directly attacks the steel. The study concludes that in controlling the corrosion rate of an industrial environment, the reduction in the emission of SO₂ should be prioritized and recommends that for corrosion mitigation strategies, including protective coatings, cathodic protection, and real-time monitoring.
Optimizing Material Management in Manufacturing
This research analyzes the economics of material management in the Seven-Up (7Up) Bottling Company, Enugu, from 2018 to 2022, with the objective of designing an effective process inventory system. The study examines specific objectives related to product improvement and internal material management practices, offering practical recommendations for optimizing material usage. The Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) model was employed to analyze the collected data. The findings indicate that the company incurred a total production cost of ₦118.8 million while generating total sales revenue of ₦395.84 million. This suggests that the adoption of the EOQ model in production planning and material management contributes to operational efficiency and profitability. Based on these findings, the study recommends that optimizing the quality and timing of material orders is essential for maximizing profits in the manufacturing process.
Comparative Strength of Concrete Made with Stone Dust Sourced as Fine Aggregate from Abakaliki Ebonyi State and Nkwelle Ezunaka in Anambra State
This study examines the use of stone dust in concrete production as a partial substitute for fine aggregates, using a water-to-cement ratio of 0.6 and a mix ratio of 1:1.5:3. In this study, concrete samples from Nkwelle and Abakaliki will be evaluated for the impact of stone dust on their workability and compressive strength. To assess the concrete's performance at different curing phases, important tests are slump and compressive strength tests. The slump test results showed that the concrete mix had good workability, with a value of 85 mm. We tested compressive strength at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. At each interval, the Abakaliki samples showed exceptional performance, obtaining compressive strengths of 16.75 N/mm², 20.70 N/mm², 15.40 N/mm², and 16.55 N/mm², respectively. The Nkwelle samples, in contrast, showed strengths of 10.70 N/mm², 12.30 N/mm², 12.20 N/mm², and 13.30 N/mm² throughout the same periods. The increased cement-aggregate bonding and particle size distribution in the Abakaliki samples are responsible for their higher compressive strength. On the other hand, the Nkwelle samples had a more gradual and slower growth of strength, which could be attributed to variations in curing conditions and aggregate qualities. According to the study's findings, especially in places with scarce sand supplies, stone dust can be a practical and sustainable substitute for natural sand in the manufacturing of concrete. However, the final compressive strength is greatly influenced by elements like the quality of the material and the curing conditions. To maximise the potential of stone dust in concrete applications and encourage sustainable building practices, the research suggests further optimisation of the mix design and curing procedures.
Corrosion Resistance of Developed Bolted Flange Made of Momordica Angustisepala Fiber (MAF) and Breadfruit Seed-Shell Particles (BFSAP)
Connecting pipe systems and pressure vessels requires bolted flanged joints. One of the most frequent reasons why bolted flanged joints leak is corrosion of the flange surface. This research investigates the corrosion resistance of composite bolted flanges made of Momordica angustisepala fiber (MAF) and breadfruit seed-shell particles (BFSAp). The result shows 100% polarization resistance with a corrosion rate of 0.00 mil per year was obtained for the developed composite. This shows that the corrosion problem of a metallic bolted flange can be reduced using the developed composite.
Effects of Groove Angles and Quenchants on the Structural Integrity of a Single-Vee Butt Welded Joint of AISI 1024 Carbon Steel Weldment
The high failure rate of welded structures has made it necessary to investigate some welding parameters that may be involved in these failures, such as groove angles, quenchants, welding current, welding voltage, and weld pass speed. This investigation aimed to investigate the impact of quenchants and groove angle on the structural integrity of a Single-V butt welded joint, using AISI 1024 steel. Nine samples, each measuring 150 x 80 mm, were cut from an 8 mm thick AISI 1024 steel plate. The findings of the study showed that, in comparison to oil and kerosene-quenched samples, the weldments cooled with natural air had significantly greater impact strength for the corresponding groove angles of 30°-130J, 45°-128J, and 60°-122J. Furthermore, out of all the groove angles taken into consideration in this study, the weldments of the samples that were cooled naturally had the highest hardness value; the maximum value of 188HBW was obtained with a groove angle of 60°. At groove angles of 45° and 60°, respectively, Mobil oil quenchant produced greater hardness values of 150HBW and 159HBW than kerosene, but at a groove angle of 30°, kerosene produced a larger hardness value of 152HBW than Mobil oil Although the observed mechanical qualities varied across all samples due to the changes in the quantities of cementite and pearlite present in the samples, the microstructural inspection studies showed phases of cementite and pearlite structures on all samples. The study's conclusions will help structural industries achieve the best possible weldment performance for AISI 1024 carbon steel
Structural simulation analysis of the developed hybrid of Momordica angustisepala fiber and Breadfruit seed-shell particles composites Bolted Flanges
Abstract In order to examine the mechanical behavior of a natural composite bolted flange made of Momordica angustisepala fiber (MAF) and breadfruit seed-shell particles (BFSAp), this study suggested a multiscale finite element (FE) analytical technique. Based on their properties which includes, light weight, superior strength-to-weight ratio, improved fracture toughness, fatigue and tensile properties, increased corrosion resistance in harsh environments, and other qualities, composite materials are always desired and widely used in the manufacturing sector. Based on the experimental findings, it was observed that The linear structural analysis of the developed bolted flange with sustainable materials shows that the high values of the Von Misses stress of 85.9355 MPa and 42.9677 MPa obtained in this study at 5.1 MPa and 10.2MPa internal pressure applied was attributed to the stiffness and strength obtained in this composite which resulted to high toughness obtained by the reinforcement that give a minimum factor of safety of 2.99318 ul and 1.49659 ul at 5.1 MPa and 10.2MPa internal pressure applied respectively. The tensile strength and factor of safety obtained are within the recommended standard for bolted flange application