Kevin Swamy, who is currently a systems engineer at SAPPI Tugela, gave a well structured and interesting talk to members and visitors at the last technology meeting which was held at UKZN. He gave the group an overview of their steam distribution system and how the various types of boiler fitted in to the overall scheme before describing how fuzzy logic had been developed to improve the combustion efficiency of one of their water tube boilers. Their system currently has shown significant benefit using only existing measurements; steam demand, flue gas oxygen content and flue gas particulate loading, to regulate the FD fan damper. Fuzzy logic has enabled them to achieve improved efficiency without adding the complexity of measuring the coal feed rate to the boiler. This is the first phase of their programme to improve boiler efficiency and reduce particle emissions from their coal fired boilers.
Kevin Swamy (left) with John Owen-Ellis
Forthcoming attractions
Our next Technology evening will be held on the first Wednesday in August. Bruce Barratt from Dimension Data will be giving a presentation on industrial networking.
From the office of the CEO SAIMC
SAIMC
When South Africa clinched victory in the Rugby World Cup for the fourth time, the nation collectively rejoiced. However, amidst this optimism lies a pertinent question: is South Africa truly a land of hope, or is it merely a fool’s paradise?
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The local Johannesburg Branch of the SAIMC hosted a technology evening at the Bryanston Sports Club on 13 March 2024. It was sponsored by Phoenix Contact and the technical presentation covered the full gambit of industrial wireless technology in the automation field.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban Branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Durban technology meeting in March drew a record attendance, with an old friend of the SAIMC, Gary Friend presenting on the very topical subject of ‘Risks, rewards, advantages and disadvantages of new technologies and the impact of legislation’.
Read more...SAIMC: Secunda Branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Secunda branch held its monthly Technology Evening on 6 March 2024 at the Proconics, Secunda office. Sagadevan Kanniappen from WIKA presented on Thermowell stress calculations as per ASME PTC 19.3.
Read more...SAIMC: From the office of the CEO SAIMC
SAIMC
The manufacturing industry is facing some challenges due to automation and outsourcing, but there are still opportunities in advanced manufacturing, such as 3D printing and robotics. It’s essential to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in the industry to remain competitive.
Read more...SAIMC:Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The annual general meeting of the SAIMC Johannesburg branch was held on 7 February 2024 at the Northcliff Country Club.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The Durban branch of the SAIMC held its annual general meeting at the Premier Splendid Inn in Pinetown on 24 January 2024
Read more...Reminiscences of a life in control Michael Brown Control Engineering
SAIMC
Reminiscences from Michael Brown on a long and rich journey in the world of automation together with SAIMC.
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