SAIMC


Durban branch

May 2010 SAIMC

Forthcoming attractions

Kevin Swamy from Sappi will be presenting at the June SAIMC Durban branch technology evening on 2 June. The topic is Fuzzy logic boiler control. Kevin has a BTech in Electrical Engineering (Process Instrumentation and Control).

At the April SAIMC Durban branch technology evening, Neil Webb from Isinyithi Cathode Protection gave an interesting presentation on ‘Cathodic Protection’ and the underlying electromechanical theory and techniques. Pictured here is Vinesh Maharaj thanking Neil Webb for his participation
At the April SAIMC Durban branch technology evening, Neil Webb from Isinyithi Cathode Protection gave an interesting presentation on ‘Cathodic Protection’ and the underlying electromechanical theory and techniques. Pictured here is Vinesh Maharaj thanking Neil Webb for his participation

He has worked for Sappi for approximately 15 years and is currently a systems engineer at Sappi Tugela. In fired applications it is commonly known that the amount of air supplied via the forced draught fan to a coal fired boiler is critical in ensuring that the fuel is ignited completely to release the total energy content to the flue gas stream exiting the combustion zone of the boiler. It is therefore imperative that air or fuel is measured correctly and the fuzzy control strategy tested at the Sappi mill has been designed to calculate a 'setpoint' for the airflow controller to ensure that the combustion process is efficient. Based on the test results Kevin will demonstrate a marked improvement in his plant’s boiler efficiency and will take us through the steps necessary for us to achieve similar results in our boilers.

The hotly contested race for Branch of The Year was this year won by the Durban branch. Here, some of the committee members are seen proudly showing off the certificate. From Left:  Vinesh Nundkishore, John Owen-Ellis, Vinesh Maharaj, Jane van der Spuy, Howard Lister and John De Castro. Not present but on the committee:  Kevin McElroy, Dean Trattles and Navin Singh
The hotly contested race for Branch of The Year was this year won by the Durban branch. Here, some of the committee members are seen proudly showing off the certificate. From Left: Vinesh Nundkishore, John Owen-Ellis, Vinesh Maharaj, Jane van der Spuy, Howard Lister and John De Castro. Not present but on the committee: Kevin McElroy, Dean Trattles and Navin Singh

Date: 2 June 2010

Time: 17h30 for 18h15

Venue: University of KwaZulu-Natal, Howard College

Visitors welcome

Queries: Jane van der Spuy, +27 (0)31 764 0593, [email protected]



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