Non Conventional Energy Sources - Dec 2015

Mechanical Engg. (Semester 7)

TOTAL MARKS: 100
TOTAL TIME: 3 HOURS (1) Question 1 is compulsory.
(2) Attempt any four from the remaining questions.
(3) Assume data wherever required.
(4) Figures to the right indicate full marks. 1 (a) Explain Tar sands and oil shale as energy source and also mention their limitations.(10 marks) 1 (b) What is the need for alternate energy sources? Explain by considering solar energy.(5 marks) 1 (c) Discuss the limitations of non-conventional sources of energy.(5 marks) 2 (a) Define the following: i) Latitude ii) Declination angle iii) Surface azimuth angle iv) Hour angle v) Zenith angle.(10 marks) 2 (b) With a neat sketch, explain the working of pyranometers?(5 marks) 2 (c) Write short notes on spectral distribution of extra terrestrial radiation.(5 marks) 3 (a) Calculate the monthly average hourly radiation falling on a flat plate collector facing south (γ=0°) with a slope of 15°, given the following data:
Location: Chennai (13° 00' N); Month: October; Time: 1100 to 1200 (LAT); I_g: 2408 kJ/m²-h; I_d: 1073 kJ/m²-h;
Assume ground reflectivity to be 0.2.(10 marks) 3 (b) Describe solar pond for solar energy collection and storage.(6 marks) 3 (c) Explain how solar energy can be used for drying, with a neat sketch.(4 marks) 4 (a) Explain briefly the parameters affecting the performance of flat plate collectors.(6 marks) 4 (b) Derive the expression for transmissivity based on reflection-refraction at the interface of two media.(8 marks) 4 (c) Write short notes on collector efficiency factor and collector heat removal factor.(6 marks) 5 (a) Describe the main considerations in selecting the site for wind generators.(8 marks) 5 (b) Explain with a neat sketch, the working of a photo-voltaic cell. Draw I-V characteristics.(6 marks) 5 (c) With a neat sketch, explain the horizontal axis wind machine.(6 marks) 6 (a) With a neat sketch and T-S diagram, explain the concept of liquid dominated total flow system of generating geothermal energy.(8 marks) 6 (b) Explain with a neat sketch, the working principle of closed cycle OTEC plant.(6 marks) 6 (c) Sketch and explain single basin type tidal power plant operation.(6 marks) 7 (a) Explain the process of photosynthesis. What are the conditions which are necessary for it?(6 marks) 7 (b) List the factors affecting biogas generation.(4 marks) 7 (c) Sketch and explain the working of floating gas holder type biogas plant used in India (KVIC plant).(10 marks) 8 (a) Explain the process of electrolytic production of hydrogen, with a neat sketch.(8 marks) 8 (b) Explain briefly the different methods of hydrogen storage.(6 marks) 8 (c) Describe how hydrogen can be used as an alternative fuel for motor vehicles.(6 marks)