Faiq Nurzaman

Hello, everyone!

Whoever you are, I appreciate you for coming by here. My name is Faiq (1906422905), and I am a fourth-year student in Mechanical Engineering Universitas Indonesia.

This is my own page for Energy Conversion System 2 study with Mr. DAI and Prof. Adi. I will write and summarize anything I learned during the study.

I hope you enjoy it! Thank you

Oil Crisis, True or Not?

I was having my first Energy Conversion System class on Tuesday, 14 February 2023. The class was led by Mr. DAI and Prof. Adi.

I got some interesting sights from the class. During the class, Prof. Adi engages us to gain our consciousness on our daily life problems related with energy conversion. This time, one of the interesting problem was 'is it true that the world starts to run out of oil?'

Image 1.1 Illustration of Oil. Source: Otosia.com

We might have heard the oil crisis propaganda in every corner since long time ago. The question is, when does the world will totally run out of oil? We always heard that the world starts to run out of oil, but we still have them today.

Greener Energy Plants for a Better Indonesia

It was Friday on February 17th when I was in the class at around 1 PM. I opened ChatGPT to kill my time and explore my curiousities regarding Thermal Energy Conversion.

ChatGPT told me that there are currently some sources of thermal energy used for conversions worldwide, based on the specific application and technologies; fossil fuels, nuclear, solar, geothermal, biomass, and waste heat recovery.

I was curious about the most-common thermal energy source used for conversion in Indonesia, since Indonesia seems to have a positive trend in using electrified vehicles in recent years.

It turns out that the most used energy source in Indonesia is from coal-fired power plants due to the country's abundant amount of coal reserves. As of 2021, around 60% of the country's electricity sources are still based on them.

I also found that coal-fired power plants are actually advantageous in some ways; high reliability, affordable cost, and increasing the energy security by making the country independent from imported fuel.

Nevertheless, as the future engineers, we must also learn that coal-fired power plants have some bad impacts for the sustainability; significant emissions, dangerous pollutants for respiratory health, and hardly-disposable ash. Coal is also a non-renewable source whose extraction could also make a bad impact for the environment.

I was quite concerned with those disadvantages of coal-fired power plants, so that I asked ChatGPT about the preventive way taken by those power plants in Indonesia. It turns out that some power plants have been retrofitted with advanced pollution control technologies such as; Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), Electrostatic Precipicators (ESP), Low NOx burners, and coal-washing. Though not every power plants have been retrofitted with those technologies, at least the major ones have been retrofitted.

However, Indonesia has targeted to have renewable energy sources to generate up to 23% of the country's electricity by 2025, and 31% by 2050. The renewable energies targeted includes; wind, solar, hydro, and geothermal sources. The country have also been having researches regarding some cleaner energies such as natural gas or nuclear energies.

Let's support the cleaner energy plants for a better Indonesia!

Faiq Nurzaman: thermal energy conversion Thermal energy conversion refers to the process of converting thermal energy, which is the energy that comes from the temperature difference between two objects or substances, into other forms of energy, such as mechanical or electrical energy. There are several methods for thermal energy conversion, including: Steam turbines: Steam turbines are commonly used in power plants to convert thermal energy from steam into mechanical energy, which is then used to generate electricity. Internal combustion engines: Internal combustion engines, such as those found in automobiles, convert thermal energy from burning fuel into mechanical energy to power the vehicle. Thermoelectric generators: Thermoelectric generators convert thermal energy into electrical energy directly, by using a temperature difference to generate a voltage across a material. Stirling engines: Stirling engines use temperature differences to drive a piston and generate mechanical energy. Organic Rankine cycles: Organic Rankine cycles use a working fluid with a lower boiling point than water to convert thermal energy into mechanical energy. These methods of thermal energy conversion are used in a variety of applications, including power generation, transportation, and waste heat recovery. Additionally, there are several technologies that are being developed to improve thermal energy conversion, such as advanced materials for thermoelectric generators, high-temperature materials for gas turbines, and improved heat exchangers for heat recovery systems. These advancements can help increase the efficiency of thermal energy conversion and reduce energy waste, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient energy system. Faiq Nurzaman : what source of thermal is usually used for the conversion? The source of thermal energy used for conversion depends on the specific application and technology being used. Here are some examples of common sources of thermal energy: Fossil fuels: Coal, natural gas, and oil are commonly used as a source of thermal energy in power plants and other industrial processes. The fossil fuels are burned to produce high-temperature gases, which are used to generate steam to drive a turbine and produce electricity. Nuclear energy: In nuclear power plants, the heat generated by nuclear reactions is used to produce steam, which drives a turbine to produce electricity. Solar energy: Concentrated solar power plants use mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight onto a heat-absorbing material, which produces high-temperature steam to drive a turbine and generate electricity. Geothermal energy: In geothermal power plants, the heat from the Earth's interior is used to produce steam, which drives a turbine to generate electricity. Biomass: Biomass, such as wood, agricultural waste, and municipal solid waste, can be burned to produce heat, which can be used to generate steam and produce electricity. Waste heat recovery: Waste heat from industrial processes or power generation can be captured and used to produce electricity, reducing energy waste. Overall, the choice of thermal energy source depends on the availability, cost, and environmental impact of the energy source, as well as the technology used for thermal energy conversion. Faiq Nurzaman: what thermal conversion system is commonly used in Indonesia? In Indonesia, the most common thermal energy conversion system is coal-fired power plants. Indonesia has abundant coal reserves and has been heavily dependent on coal for electricity generation. According to the Indonesia National Energy Policy, the target is to have 23% of the country's electricity generated from renewable energy sources by 2025. However, as of 2021, coal still accounts for around 60% of the country's electricity generation. Besides coal-fired power plants, other thermal energy conversion systems are also used in Indonesia, including natural gas-fired power plants, geothermal power plants, and biomass power plants. Indonesia has significant potential for geothermal energy due to its location in the Ring of Fire, but its development has been relatively slow compared to other countries. Additionally, the government has been promoting the development of renewable energy, including solar and wind, to diversify the country's energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. It's worth noting that as the country is situated in a highly active seismic zone, the design and construction of thermal energy conversion systems in Indonesia, including power plants, must take into account the potential risk of earthquakes and other natural hazards. Faiq Nurzaman: what are the advantages and disadvantages of coal-fired power plants? Coal-fired power plants have been widely used for electricity generation for many years. However, they also have some advantages and disadvantages that are worth considering: Advantages of coal-fired power plants: Reliability: Coal-fired power plants are known for their high reliability and can operate continuously for extended periods, making them suitable for base load power generation. Affordability: Coal is a relatively cheap and abundant fuel source, which makes it an affordable option for electricity generation, especially in countries with significant coal reserves. Energy security: Using domestic coal reserves for electricity generation can increase a country's energy security by reducing dependence on imported fuel. Disadvantages of coal-fired power plants: Environmental impact: Coal-fired power plants are significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. They also release other pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, which can cause health problems and environmental damage. Resource depletion: Coal is a non-renewable resource, and its extraction can have negative environmental impacts, such as habitat destruction, water pollution, and soil degradation. Health impacts: Coal-fired power plants can release pollutants that can cause respiratory and other health problems in nearby communities, especially if they are located in densely populated areas. Coal ash disposal: Coal-fired power plants produce large amounts of ash and other waste products, which can be difficult and expensive to dispose of safely. Overall, while coal-fired power plants have some advantages, the negative environmental and health impacts associated with coal combustion make it necessary to consider transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. Faiq Nurzaman: since the biggest disadvantages of coal-fired power plants are more to human and environment, what are the solution of it? There are several solutions to address the negative environmental and health impacts of coal-fired power plants: Retrofitting existing power plants: One solution is to retrofit existing coal-fired power plants with advanced pollution control technologies, such as scrubbers, selective catalytic reduction, and fabric filters. These technologies can reduce emissions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS): Another solution is to capture carbon dioxide emissions from coal-fired power plants and either store it underground or use it for enhanced oil recovery or other industrial processes. Transition to cleaner energy sources: A more fundamental solution is to transition away from coal and towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, such as renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal), natural gas, and nuclear energy. This transition would require a combination of policy incentives, regulatory measures, and technological advancements. Energy efficiency and conservation: Reducing energy demand through energy efficiency and conservation measures can help reduce the need for new coal-fired power plants and their associated negative impacts. Community engagement and public education: Engaging communities and educating the public about the risks and impacts of coal-fired power plants can help raise awareness and drive demand for cleaner energy sources. Overall, a combination of these solutions is needed to address the negative impacts of coal-fired power plants, protect human health and the environment, and support the transition to a more sustainable and low-carbon energy system. Faiq Nurzaman: are the existing power plants in Indonesia have been retrofitted with those advanced pollution control technologies? what are those technologies that have been applied? In Indonesia, some existing coal-fired power plants have been retrofitted with advanced pollution control technologies. However, the extent of retrofitting and the types of technologies used vary among power plants. Here are some examples of pollution control technologies that have been applied in Indonesia: Flue gas desulfurization (FGD): FGD is a technology used to remove sulfur dioxide (SO2) from flue gas emissions. Some of Indonesia's newer coal-fired power plants, such as the 660 MW Cirebon Unit 1 and 2, and the 1000 MW Tanjung Jati B Unit 5 and 6, have installed FGD systems to reduce SO2 emissions. Selective catalytic reduction (SCR): SCR is a technology used to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The 800 MW Indramayu coal-fired power plant has installed an SCR system to reduce NOx emissions. Electrostatic precipitators (ESP): ESP is a technology used to remove particulate matter (PM) from flue gas emissions. Some of Indonesia's coal-fired power plants, such as the 660 MW Cirebon Unit 1 and 2, have installed ESPs to reduce PM emissions. Low NOx burners: Low NOx burners are designed to reduce the formation of NOx during combustion. The 750 MW Suralaya coal-fired power plant has installed low NOx burners to reduce NOx emissions. Coal washing: Coal washing is a process that removes impurities from coal before it is burned. Some Indonesian power plants, such as the 660 MW Cirebon Unit 1 and 2, use washed coal to reduce emissions of sulfur dioxide and particulate matter. However, it's important to note that not all existing coal-fired power plants in Indonesia have been retrofitted with advanced pollution control technologies. As of 2021, many older power plants continue to operate without such technologies, and their emissions can have negative impacts on public health and the environment. Additionally, the effectiveness of these technologies can be impacted by factors such as the quality of coal being burned and the maintenance of the equipment. Therefore, there is a need for continued efforts to improve the environmental performance of coal-fired power plants in Indonesia. Faiq Nurzaman: that’s all about the advanced pollution control technologies. about the transition to cleaner energy sources, is there any plan of it in Indonesia? what are the cleaner energy sources that have been planned in Indonesia? Yes, Indonesia has plans to transition to cleaner energy sources, as part of its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy security, and promote sustainable economic growth. Here are some examples of cleaner energy sources that have been planned or are being developed in Indonesia: Renewable energy: Indonesia has significant renewable energy potential, particularly in the areas of solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power. The country aims to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix to 23% by 2025, and 31% by 2050. To achieve this target, the government has implemented a range of policies and incentives to promote renewable energy development, such as feed-in tariffs, tax incentives, and land use permits. Natural gas: Natural gas is a cleaner-burning fossil fuel that emits less greenhouse gases than coal. Indonesia is a major producer of natural gas, and the government has plans to expand the use of natural gas in power generation and other sectors. Nuclear energy: Indonesia is exploring the potential of nuclear energy as a clean and reliable energy source. The government has established the National Nuclear Energy Agency (BATAN) to oversee the development of nuclear energy infrastructure and regulations. Energy efficiency and conservation: Indonesia is also focusing on improving energy efficiency and conservation, in order to reduce energy demand and promote sustainable development. The government has launched various programs and initiatives to promote energy efficiency, such as the national energy labeling program for appliances and the green building program. Overall, the transition to cleaner energy sources in Indonesia is an important priority, and the government is taking steps to promote the development and deployment of these technologies. However, there are still challenges to be addressed, such as regulatory barriers, financing constraints, and infrastructure limitations. Faiq Nurzaman: how to describe internal energy? Internal energy is a thermodynamic property of a system that represents the total energy of the molecules or particles within the system. It includes all the kinetic and potential energies associated with the random motion, vibration, and interaction of the particles that make up the system. Internal energy can be thought of as the sum of the kinetic and potential energies of all the particles within a system. These energies can take many forms, such as thermal energy, chemical energy, nuclear energy, and so on. Internal energy is an extensive property, meaning that it depends on the size and amount of matter in the system. It can also change due to heat transfer or work done on or by the system, but the change in internal energy depends only on the initial and final states of the system and is independent of the process used to get from one state to the other. Internal energy is often symbolized as U and is typically measured in units of joules (J) or kilojoules (kJ) in the International System of Units (SI). Faiq Nurzaman: what is pyrolysis Pyrolysis is a process of thermal decomposition of organic materials in the absence of oxygen, resulting in the production of solid, liquid, and gaseous byproducts. The word "pyrolysis" comes from the Greek words "pyr" meaning fire and "lysis" meaning breakdown or separation. During pyrolysis, organic materials such as biomass, waste plastics, or rubber are heated to high temperatures ranging from 300°C to 900°C, causing them to break down into smaller molecules. The process occurs in the absence of oxygen, preventing the materials from burning and producing harmful emissions. The byproducts of pyrolysis depend on the type of feedstock used and the specific conditions of the pyrolysis process. Solid byproducts can include biochar or activated carbon, which can be used as a soil amendment or a source of fuel. Liquid byproducts can include bio-oil or pyrolysis oil, which can be further refined into transportation fuels or other chemicals. Gaseous byproducts can include syngas, which can be used as a fuel or a feedstock for the production of chemicals. Pyrolysis is considered a promising technology for the conversion of waste materials into valuable products and for the production of renewable energy. It offers advantages over traditional combustion processes, such as lower emissions, higher energy efficiency, and greater flexibility in terms of feedstock. However, there are still challenges to be addressed, such as the high capital costs of pyrolysis plants, the need for consistent feedstock quality, and the need for appropriate environmental regulations to ensure safe and sustainable use of the technology. Faiq Nurzaman: is there anything we have to observe about vehicle engine without breaking it down into parts? Yes, there are many things you can observe about a vehicle engine without breaking it down into parts. Here are some things to look for: Visual inspection: You can visually inspect the engine compartment to check for any obvious signs of damage or wear, such as cracks, leaks, or loose parts. Sounds and vibrations: You can listen for any unusual sounds or vibrations coming from the engine when it is running, such as knocking, rattling, or grinding noises, which could indicate problems with the engine components. Exhaust smoke: You can observe the color and smell of the exhaust smoke to determine if the engine is running properly. Black smoke may indicate fuel system problems, while blue or white smoke may indicate oil consumption or coolant leaks. Fluid levels: You can check the fluid levels of the engine, such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, to ensure they are at the proper levels. Dashboard warning lights: You can pay attention to any warning lights on the dashboard, such as the check engine light, which can indicate problems with the engine or other components. By observing these things, you can often identify potential problems with the engine before they become more serious and require more extensive repairs. Regular inspections and maintenance can help ensure the engine performs at its best and lasts as long as possible.