5th annual report
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Technical Report
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Abstract
The Capsule Pipeline Research Center (CPRC) was established on September 1, 1991 as an NSF State/Industry University Cooperative Research Center (State/IUCRC). The stated mission of the Center is to perform R&D in capsule pipelines so that this emerging technology can be used to transport solids including coal, grain, other agricultural products, solid wastes, etc. The mission of the first five years (1991-95) has been focused on the coal log pipeline (CLP) technology for transporting coal. Because it will take another two to three years of extensive R&D (Research and Development) before the CLP technology is ready for commercial use, the focus of the Center for the next three years will continue to be placed on CLP. However, starting the sixth year (9/1/96), the Center will gradually broaden its mission to cover other types of capsule pipelines, for transporting other cargoes such as solid wastes and grain. This will be done by using new funds generated from companies interested in the transportation of grain and solid wastes, and by individuals (faculty and students) currently not engaged in R&D of CLP. Consequently, the expansion into the new areas will not slow down the development and commercialization of CLP. Major progress of Year 5 (9/1/95-8/31/96) includes: (a) Completion of the design of a sophisticated test machine for rapid compaction of coal logs. (Successful tests of this machine will bring the CLP technology close to commercialization.) (b) Completion of shop drawings and specifications for construction of the test machine, and selection of an outside contractor to construct the machine. (c) Application for two U. S. patents on two separate inventions--one is on a special method to inject powdered material into pipe for drag reduction, and the other is for special mold shapes to improve coal log quality. (d) Improved equations for predicting pressure drop and capsule velocity in pipe for both single capsules and capsule trains. (e) Improved understanding of various factors that affect coal log wear in pipe. (f) Demonstrated that it is possible to compact good-quality coal logs rapidly--in 5 seconds. (g) An independent consultant evaluated and confirmed the economic analysis conducted by the Center, and identified previously unknown markets. (h) Restored state matching fund and enhanced legislative understanding of the Center's mission and value to Missouri. (i) Increased industry participation and funding. (j) Strengthened tie with Rolla Campus; built a 6-inch-diameter, 320-ft.-long pipeline at Rolla for testing coal logs. (k) Strengthened relationship with State sponsor and National Governor's Association. (I) Research spin-off to solid-waste compaction, using the same technique and machine developed for coal log production.
Table of Contents
Executive summary -- Accomplishments infrastructure challenges -- Partnership and contribution to education -- Nuggets -- Contributions to state and local economic development strategies -- Research program -- Industrial collaboration/technology transfer -- Management and structure -- Center analyst's report -- Support, financial management & budget -- Budget details for years 5-6 (NSF, state, industry & university portions) -- References -- Appendices. Individual project descriptions (year 5) ; Attachments ; CPRC publications.
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