TITLE:
Optimization of Flow Parameters for Waste Lubricating Oil Combustion
AUTHORS:
Dorcas Makworo, Robert Kiplimo, Meshack Hawi, Bernard Owiti
KEYWORDS:
Waste Lubricating Oil, Combustion, Burner, Optimization, Flame Temperature, Response Surface Methodology
JOURNAL NAME:
World Journal of Engineering and Technology,
Vol.10 No.4,
November
28,
2022
ABSTRACT: The global energy demand has continued to skyrocket, exacerbating the already severe energy problem and environmental pollution, prompting researchers to look for alternative energy sources. Exploration of waste lubricating oil (WLO) as an alternative source of fuel has gained prominence among researchers due to its availability at low cost and the potential to generate energy while providing a safer means of disposal. The main challenge with WLO combustion is proper regulation of fuel and oxidizer during combustion to realize a near stoichiometric result. Additionally, WLO has high viscosity, hence preheating of the oil is necessary to lower the viscosity and enhance atomization, for a more efficient combustion process. This paper presents the optimization of flow parameters for combustion of WLO in a burner system by use of response surface methodology (RSM). The effects of air flow rate, injection pressure and fuel flow rate on combustion performance of a WLO burner were investigated. The highest flame temperature recorded was 1200°C at an air flow rate of 1 m3/min, fuel flow rate of 0.08 m3/hr and injection pressure of 20 bar. Tests on physical and chemical properties of WLO were conducted and characterized according to ASTM standard to ascertain its potential as an alternative fuel. The calorific values of WLO from petrol and diesel engines were found to be 41.23 MJ/kg and 42.65 MJ/kg respectively. Therefore, recycling of WLO by utilizing it as a fuel for burners has double benefits of mitigating environmental pollution and harnessing energy for process heating and power generation.