DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

In order to address the growing global energy demand and reduce the environmental impact from operating gas turbine power plants, the performance and how to improve existing gas turbine power plants need to be studied. In view of this, this research work aims at carrying out the thermodynamic and environmental analyses of Azura Edo Power Plant for design and off-design conditions. Ebsilon Software is a commercially accepted energy and mass balance tool for power plant modelling. The performance of the Azura Edo Power Plant at design and off-design conditions were modelled using Ebsilon Software and the simulation exercise was validated. Energy, exergy and environmental analyses were conducted using operating data collected from the power plant to evaluate the thermal efficiencies, heat rate, energy losses and exergy destruction of each major component of the power plant and carbon dioxide emission rates with the aid of MATLAB software. The effects of ambient air temperature on the thermodynamic and environmental performances were carried out. Preliminary analyses of the effect of integrating an inlet air cooling system and heat recovery steam generator (HRSG) for future consideration were conducted. The results obtained from model validation were -3.13% to 0.88% for design and -3.24% to 2.66% for off-deign conditions. This showed that the model data were found to be in good agreement with the International Standard Organization (ISO) and Azura Edo guaranteed data for both design and off-design conditions. Energy analysis results obtained showed that the average net thermal efficiency of the three units was found to be 29.79% at the ambient air temperature range from 21 to 35 0C, the compressor pressure ratio of 10.72 to 10.96 and net power output of 148.92 to 160. 70MW. Also, results obtained showed that there was a lower performance of the plant at high ambient air temperature and a lower compressor pressure ratio. The exergy analysis results indicate that the combustion chamber has the least exergy efficiency and highest exergy destruction efficiency compared to other components studied. Findings from the research revealed that the combustion chamber also has the largest improvement potential of 101.07 to 107.23MW among the components considered. The environmental analysis results obtained showed that the average emission of CO2 for Azura Edo Power Plant was 707.741kgCO2/MWh and 690,602,489.84kgCO2/yr, which the latter is within the guaranteed values of 726,000,000 kgCO2/yr. At high ambient air temperatures, low exergy and the second law of thermodynamic efficiencies, sustainability of fuel and high exergy destruction efficiency, depletion of fuel and CO2 emission rates were observed. It was also observed from the preliminary analyses that the incorporation of air intake cooling system and HRSG caused 95.2341kgCO2/MWh and 73,542.0651kgCO2/yr; 181.52kgCO2/MWh reduction in CO2 emission respectively. The study established that the incorporation of an inlet air cooling system to maintain low compressor air inlet temperature, HRSG and steam turbine to utilize the high temperature of the flue gas to improve the plant performance was economically and environmentally feasible. Accordingly, the study has provided an understanding of suitable methods for efficient and waste minimization as ways of performance enhancement of Azura Edo Power Plant

The development of a prototype hovercraft represents a comprehensive effort to design, fabricate, and test a versatile transportation solution capable of traversing water, land, andmarshy terrain. This final year project, carried out by the author to fulfill the requirements for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering, aimed to address the challenges of stability, maneuverability, and energy efficiency inherent in hovercraft technology while exploring opportunities for innovation and
optimization. The prototype hovercraft was designed with a focus on achieving reliable performance, efficient propulsion, and a durable skirt system to maintain the air cushion necessary for lift. Through iterative design iterations, material selection, and
fabrication processes, a small-scale hovercraft prototype was constructed, integrating advanced battery technology, a lightweight aluminum structure, and an optimized skirt design. Extensive testing and evaluation were conducted to assess the craft's
capabilities across various operating conditions, including waterborne navigation, maneuvering on land, and stability in
challenging environments. The successful testing of the prototype demonstrated its potential for applications in search and
rescue, transportation, and environmental monitoring. However, limitations such as limited battery life and skirt design
inefficiencies were identified, suggesting areas for further research and optimization. Overall, the project represents a significant step towards advancing hovercraft technology and its practical applications in addressing transportation challenges across
diverse terrains

The traditional batch process for biogas production has been dominant, but it often leads to inefficiencies and inconsistent gas output. This project aims to address these issues by designing and producing a continuous household biogas digester, which promises a more stable and reliable method for generating renewable energy from organic waste. The development of the digester was guided by the design tree process, starting with feasibility studies and progressing through design specifications, conceptual designs, and detailed design phases. The fabrication involved constructing key components such as the inlet system, a 150-liter steel digester tank, and the outlet system. Although most planned components were successfully incorporated, some were excluded due to unforeseen challenges.The digester demonstrated the potential for continuous biogas production, though improvements are needed. The project concluded with recommendations for enhancing system efficiency and exploring alternative materials to reduce production costs, suggesting that with further refinement, this design could become a viable household solution for renewable energy production

The purpose of this project is to design a small-scale biogas digester that uses household food waste as feedstock to address the financial and environmental issues that arise from food waste. The aim is to reduce dependency on fossil fuels by producing biogas from biodegradable waste, which can be used for power generation and cooking. A review of the literature, conceptual design, meticulous manufacturing, and performance testing are among the goals. The study emphasizes how important it is to address rising food waste to improve the environment and provide financial relief. The project's goal is to make it easier for homes to adopt biogas plants by offering ideas that are simple enough for installation. The scope includes designing and building a biogas canister digester as well as producing biogas from home food waste.

As a response to the compelling requirements of water scarcity, hygiene exposures, and accessibility issues in traditional urinary systems, the current research evolves and implements an economic, touch-free smart urinary system specifically designed for the
University of Benin Department of Mechanical Engineering (UNIBEN) Nigeria. The system features a door-operated system of magnetic reed switches and a pulse-regulated solenoid valve for hands-free operation, significantly reducing microbial transmission while achieving maximum water savings. Enclosed within a specially designed 7.2-foot galvanized steel housing, the system features a fixed-volume flush device (500 mL ± 2%) with 92% reduced water consumption compared to conventional 9-liter manual systems. Field and laboratory testing were characterized by outstanding performance, such as a 3% false trigger rate, 0.47 seconds response time, and Nigerian safety standard (SONCAP) and disability compliance. The users were 95% satisfied with enhanced hygiene and accessibility, particularly for motor-disability users. Economically, the system is a 4-month return on investment (ROI), with a yearly water cost saving of ₦4,910,625 and a maintenance saving of₦80,000, making it suitable for resource-poor settings.

Prioritizing simplicity, affordability, and scalability eschewing IoT dependencies of complexity—the project provides an Africa-wide template for sustainable sanitation in public facilities. Future research directions are suggested as solar integration, modular upgrades, and advocacy to ensure that national standards become compatible with water conservation goals. The innovation not only addresses UNIBEN's current infrastructural deficits but also global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of clean water, sanitation, and sustainable urban development.

In this project, a metal polishing machine, an advantageous apparatus in the testing and property investigation of metals, is designed and fabricated. The essence is to produce a simple and affordable piece of apparatus that can be used in research centres, laboratories, and workshops of Nigerian higher institutions and can serve as an alternative to the imported and costly polishing
machines currently in use. The design uses motor-powered grinding wheels of appropriate composition to be rotated against a marked-out area of a sample metal piece to be polished and subsequently etched for metallographic purposes. A considerably chemically inactive liquid does the etching in Nita solution comprising nitric acid and ethanol. Mainly dependent on the type of
metal being polished, water is used for flushing the polished area to ensure a smooth polished surface that retains the original microstructural composition and arrangement inherent in the original sample as it where before polishing. The polishing wheels are fine-grained and dense structured abrasive materials bonded together with an appropriate bonding agent. Provision is
made for wheel insertion and removal from the motor spindle to accommodate different wheel types- either with a soft grinding abrasive material for polishing hard metals or hard grinding abrasive material for soft metals. A tank will also be incorporated into the machine to aid the flow of fluid needed for this experimentation. Thus, with the locally fabricated polishing machine from this project, it is possible to etch different types of metals for proper surface exposure for optical or electron microscopic investigations and analysis.

The previous system which had a 3.5KVA, 48V inverter, eight(8) 12V, 220AH wet cell batteriesb and eight(8) 150W, 24V solar panels was disconnected. A new inverter which is a hybrid inverter of rating 7.5KVA, 48V was purchased alongside with four(4) 12V, 220AH wet cell batteries. The panels which were placed on the roof 500m from the stationary unit was cleaned up with wet rags and mild detergent, and the eight(8) old batteries were cleaned up and revamped by addition of distilled water and the batteries were arranged in three(3) frameworks (four to each). A framework containing the four(4) new 12V batteries connected in series to give a steady voltage of 48V were connected to the 7.5KVA inverter of which also had the solar panels connected to it. These
made up Unit A while the other two framework which had the four(4) old 12V batteries connected in series each (making up 8 batteries) were connected together in parallel to make up for the steady 48V and then connected to the 3.5KVA inverter which was connected to a 48V, 50A charge controller on which the solar panels were connected to. These connections made up Unit B. Unit A was made to supply the departmental offices and the lecturer offices which carries more load while Unit B was made to supply the 400level, 500level class and other few minor devices which had less load. The integration of both Units and the separation of loads led to a more efficient and reliable PV system for the department of Mechanical engineering as the alternate source of power can now be used for longer hours without powering down.

This report details the design, fabrication, and testing of a system for producing dry powdered akamu, a traditional Nigerian porridge made from fermented corn, sorghum, or millet. Akamu is an important dietary staple in Nigeria, however its high moisture content and short shelf life pose preservation challenges. Converting akamu to a dry powder form can extend its shelf life for
storage and distribution. The aim of this project was to develop a process for producing preservable akamu powder. The device utilizes a vapor compression refrigeration cycle for air dehumidification coupled with electric heating to create optimal drying conditions. A control system consisting of an Arduino microcontroller which monitors and controls the operation of
the device based off key operational parameters of temperature and humidity. Data on changes in said parameter was collected to evaluate its operation. Sample of akamu with a 53% moisture content (w.b) was successfully dried to 26% moisture content (w.b). Test also showed the device capability to rival available commercial dehydrators, with the device removed 3% more wet
mass in its normal operation than when solely heat driven (as most commercial dehydrator). The relationship between akamu layer thickness and moisture removal rate was also experimentally determined. The project demonstrates a practical approach to converting high-moisture akamu into a stable powder through an energy-efficient drying process. Controlling air dehumidification and temperature enabled high product quality and shelf life extension. Further work is recommended to enhance efficiency, evaluate nutritional changes, and assess commercialization feasibility. Overall, the project advances preservation technologies for an important traditional Nigerian food.