Final summary report for 1991-1999 : and year - 8 report for 9/1/98-8/31/99

Abstract

The mission of Capsule Pipeline Research Center of the last eight years (1991-99) has been focused on the coal log pipeline (CLP) technology. Year 8 saw the construction of a testbed (pilot plant) to test both CLP and other hydraulic capsule pipeline applications. Built with equipment, materials and services valued at over $400,000 donated by nineteen companies, the plant will ready the CLP technology for commercial use in two years. During year 8, a rotary press was designed for compacting coal and biomass fuel, a coal log sensor was invented, and the U.S. Department of Energy sponsored a project which will develop a new biomass fuel for coal-fed power plants, using the compaction technology developed from coal logs research. In addition, significant advancements were made in the study of pneumatic capsule pipeline powered by linear induction motors including the construction of a laboratory test facility. Also, during year 8, the Center hosted an international symposium and short course on underground transportation of freight by capsule pipelines. National and international experts on pipeline freight transportation attended this symposium and presented papers here. Over the last eight years, the Center has greatly advanced various technologies related to capsule pipelines, readying them for commercial use. Future plans revolve around testing the CLP technology in the pilot plant in order to ready it for commercial use. The Center will also develop a new biofuel for use by power plants, and engage in further research in underground shipment of freight by pneumatic capsule pipelines.