Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 130

Abstract: During COP26, India made commitments regarding generation of 50% of its electricity from non-fossil fuel resources by year 2030, which includes utilization of renewable energy sources. Keeping in view of the rapidly growing energy demand, the current study explore the exploitable solar and biomass power potential in the state of Punjab, India. This work discusses the potential and feasibility analysis of solar-biomass hybrid energy system for power generation in all districts of Punjab. Solar energy potential and biomass generation estimation have been identified using various parameters like global solar radiation, sunshine hours, solar suitable land area, surplus biomass, heating values, and feed rate. Simulations for feasibility analysis were performed on System Advisor Model using data available for all the districts. The renewable output of the study is estimated in terms of capacity potential (MW) and exploitable electricity potential (MWh) for the state of Punjab. The study showed that Rupnagar district has the maximum solar potential (i.e., 69.03 MW) among all the districts of Punjab due to huge availability of wasteland area whereas, Jalandhar district has the minimum solar potential (i.e., 0.23MW) in Punjab due to less availability of wasteland area. Similarly, Sangrur districts produces huge amount of biomass (6838.23 kt/yr) while Nawanshahr produces least amount of biomass power. In the end, the study concluded that the electricity potential for both technologies and its capability to fulfil entire electricity demand of the state.

Abstract: The architecture, engineering, and construction industry has been characterized in recent years by large losses of resources, time, and costs. One of the main reasons for this problem is the lack of integration and collaboration between project stakeholders in different areas and specialties. The design, coordination and installation of mechanical, plumbing, electrical (MEP), and fire protection (FP) systems represent one of the main areas of improvement in the construction industry, especially in complex projects. The present research implements the Virtual, Design and Construction (VDC) methodology as an empowering agent in the optimization of time in the design and execution processes of plumbing systems in a 6-floor building of approximately 2,120 square meters in Lima, Peru. Initially, the traditional workflow for designing and executing sanitary systems was mapped. Then, an optimized workflow was developed considering the principles of the VDC methodology. As a result of the optimized workflow, it is possible to foresee a 5% reduction in design time and a 23% reduction in execution time.

Abstract: Despite the benefits of BIM, some challenges to implementing it have appeared due to traditional project management, especially in the construction of complex projects. This article presents the challenges to applying ISO 19650:2018 Parts 1 and 2 in public hospital projects in Peru. These challenges were identified through 28 interviews with owners, designers, contractors, suppliers, operators, and final users (doctors and nurses) and complemented by a literature review. The identified challenges were divided into the budget, legal framework, organizational culture, and personnel. The results suggest that the adversities identified in the four groups should be overcome to implement BIM according to the ISO 19650 guidelines. Therefore, recommendations are presented to facilitate the ISO 19650 implementation in public hospital projects.

Abstract: The construction industry is an engine of economic and social development; however, it has grown the least in terms of productivity in comparison with other industries. Furthermore, it is characterized by inefficiencies that lead to time and cost overruns. This research seeks to optimize the execution time of a multipurpose building's concrete columns, beams, and slabs by applying the Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) methodology. The VDC framework was developed to establish the client's objectives, the project's objectives, production metrics, and controllable factors. As a result, 60 possible clashes among 2 disciplines (structure & MEP) were identified before construction and solved in a collaborative environment. In addition, the execution time of the structure's concrete beams, slabs, and columns was shortened by 37% compared to the baseline from the execution of the first work lot.