Disciplinary Differences in the Uptake of a Learning Management System: A Case of a South African Historically Disadvantaged Institution

The provision of a Learning Management System (LMS) for use in distributed, blended or open distance e-learning as a management tool has become a basic standard requirement in higher learning institutions globally. Many students and lecturers use an LMS in support of innovative and engaged teaching and learning, both inside and outside the classroom—whether blended or open leaning. However, many academics choose not to make use of the institutional LMS. This is the specific issue that this study addresses, with a particular focus on the role played by disciplinary differences in the uptake of an LMS. The research question guiding the study is thus: To what extent do disciplinary differences affect the uptake of an LMS? The research study drew on Legitimation Code Theory, a sociological theory that explains the knowledge principles underpinning practices, in this case, the practice of the uptake (or non-uptake) of an institutional LMS. The study made use of quantitative data collection and data analysis methods, drawing on the institutional LMS activity data. The study found that there was a significant relationship between the disciplines and LMS uptake. However, the study also found a number of unexpected exceptions, where the nature of the discipline did not seem to impact uptake or non-uptake. The contribution that the study makes is to show the significant role that the academics’ home discipline plays in LMS uptake.

A New Method for Correcting Deviation of Volatiles Content and Chamber Pressure for Single Base Propellant

In this study, special treatment was applied to two production batches of single-base propellant to correct three of the most important properties in the final product. These properties are internal and external volatile content (IV%, EV% respectively) and chamber pressure, the special treatments depend on mixing two batches with different percentages of mixing starting with sieving and ended with blending to guarantee the homogeneity of the final batch. The batches under study (A and B), batch A with (IV% 0.53%) which must be not less than 0.6%, so it deviated from standard requirement and Bach B with (IV =0.88%), the treatment applied for these batches to generate (C and D) batches. Batch C was a mixture composed of (25% of batch A and 0.75% of batch B). batch D was a mixture composed of (50%batchA and 50% of batch B). Six samples were subjected to sieving and blending according to calculations to correct internal and external volatile content and chamber pressure. For all samples lab, ballistics test, and executive calculations were done. After the test observed that no significant difference between the test and the results of calculations for all samples with different mixing ratios either volatiles content or chamber pressure so according to the result achieved the procedure (Method) was dependable for correcting the deviation of volatiles content and chamber pressure. The selectivity of the optimum mixing ratio can be controlled by using the equation used in this study. The importance of this study in reducing material losses due to the non-conformity of the final product with the specification.

Global Buckling Characteristics of Offshore Bundled Pipeline System

In recent years, the global buckling assessment of offshore pipelines in High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT) condition become increasingly challenging since more complex pipeline system arrangement e.g. pipe(s) or cable(s) is strapped onto a larger pipeline, are rapidly utilized in many areas. Yet, the detailed guideline to assess the buckle of bundles remains unclear, therefore this study will focus to investigate on a methodical and reproducible approach to analyze in-service buckling behavior of bundled offshore pipeline system. The global buckling behavior of bundled offshore pipeline system in this study is investigated using commercial Finite Element (FE) software. Two carbon steel pipelines with different diameter are bundled and the buckling behavior is studied under the influence of buckle triggers. In the actual condition, the rogue buckle trigger is generated from OOS (out of straightness) or imperfection e.g. due to laying tolerance. Varying dimension parameter such as diameter ratio between the main pipeline and strapped pipeline are considered to understand the impact of this parameter on the buckle behavior. The study begins with a comparison of the results using numerical and analytical approaches on a straight pipeline in an unbuckled condition for validation purposes. The design parameters including wall thickness, process data, and pipe-soil interaction data, are varied since it influences the buckle behavior. In addition, some design parameter such as material properties and pipeline length will be adopted from a typical offshore pipeline project and the values are fixed so the exercise can focus on the most governing parameters. Following this, two numerical modelling methods, the equivalent properties method and the connector method, are presented in this study to simulate bundled systems. With a good agreement between the analytical and numerical approach, some buckle trigger is introduced on the numerical model of the bundled pipeline so the system is able to buckle and the behavior can be evaluated further. The strain level, lateral displacement, axial feed-in and pipe integrity shall be reported in the post-buckle conditions for both main pipe and strapped pipe as per current code and standard requirement. With more reliable results of buckling assessment for bundled pipeline system, it gives technical confidence and a major saving in both Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) and Operational Expenditure (OPEX). Industry has put serious effort through various Joint Industry Projects (JIP) to develop the global buckling assessment guideline in order to ensure long term integrity operation. Although the JIP guideline is predominantly for single pipeline system, similar assessment is demanded also for bundled pipeline system which described in this study. Key findings of the assessment are presented along with an overview of the design process and the typical mitigation techniques to be considered for similar subsea pipeline projects.

Risk Based Inspection Study Challenges - An EPC Contractor's Perspective

1.0 Abstract In order to develop an effective inspection program for the early operational phase, Risk Based Inspection (RBI) study is included as a standard requirement in recent EPC Oil & Gas Projects. Conventionally, RBI study was managed by Operators, however nowadays EPC contractors are mandated to execute the same. This paper discusses the challenges faced by EPC Contractor during the execution of RBI study and provides an approach for timely completion of study. RBI study involves enormous data gathering and risk assessment to identify critical equipment, piping systems to optimize inspection programs and recommends inspection frequencies, locations and techniques. In addition, RBI study covers potential damage mechanisms identification, risk ranking and identification of potential hot spots for development of inspection program. RBI is normally performed based on risk assessment methodologies derived from International Standards such as API 580/581, DNV RP G101and applicable Operator guidelines. Specialized software is widely used for carrying out integrated activities involving failure probability, consequence assessment and inspection details. Finally, RBI inspection programs are integrated with Computerized Maintenance Management System. In order to execute RBI study successfully, a specialized third-party Consultant is normally engaged., Further alignment of all stakeholders including RBI study specialist is essential to address the following: - Timely availability of "As-built" data for study such as baseline inspection survey reports Agreement on design data versus baseline inspection data for RBI analysis Agreement on appropriate RBI approach: quantitative vs. semi-quantitative/qualitative Acceptance of RBI software Agreement on inspection program recommendations including hot spots, inspection intervals RBI study activities can be effectively initiated once the equipment fabrication records, piping isometrics, baseline reports and hydro-test data are available. In case of pipelines, inline inspection data should be the initial basis for the pipeline RBI assessment. EPC contractors normally face following challenges during RBI study execution: Delay in finalizing the study due to lack of "As-built" data Inconsistency between the outcomes of Corrosion Risk Assessment Study and RBI study performed by third party due to different corrosion modeling software Implications on selected material of construction as a result of RBI Study findings Ensuring compatibility of RBI templates with Operators CMMS. NPCC, as a large EPC company, has extensive experience in various Oil & Gas projects where RBI studies are developed in recent EPC projects and ensuring the integrity of the newly constructed assets. This paper attempts to address the challenges faced by EPC Contractor during execution of RBI studies; emphasizing the strategic considerations to be adopted for successful and timely completion of the study, providing benefits to the End users.

Investigation on the Micromechanisms of the Cracking of 316L Heat Exchanger Tubes

The cracking mechanisms of 316L heat exchanger tubes employed in power station were studied using optical microscope (OM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). It is demonstrated that the hardness value, microstructure and tensile properties of selected #1 and #2 tube samples all meet the requirements of relevant standards, but the contents of Ni and Mo element of #1 tube are slightly lower than the standard requirements. The circumferential cracks on the two samples nucleate at the corrosion pits on the inner wall of the tubes, while Cl element was detected in the corrosion products of these pits. The cracks propagate from the inner wall to the outer wall along the circumferential direction of the tube, forming a dendritic crack morphology with both transgranular and intergranular propagation characteristics. Combined with the investigation of the service condition of the heat exchanger tubes and the analysis of the experimental results, it can be concluded that the main reason for cracking is the initiation of pin-corrosion when the content of chloride ion exceeds the standard during the service of the tubes, which will induce stress corrosion cracking, causing crack expansion through the wall thickness, and finally lead to leakage of the tube. In addition, from the point of view of materials, Mo is an important element to improve the pitting resistance of materials. The content of Mo element detected in the samples is lower than the standard requirement, which is also one of the reasons for the easy pitting corrosion of the inner wall of the pipe.

Injury Risks of Rear Occupant in Typical Four-door Type of Pick-up Truck under Vehicle Collision

This research explores the injury risks of occupants in four-door type of pick-up truck using experimental based collision with Hybrid III dummy for occupant injury indicators. The full-sized crash laboratory was developed to conduct full frontal impact based on standard regulation. To verify performance of full-sized crash laboratory and vehicle deceleration, low and high speed tests were conducted at the same vehicle. The Hybrid III dummy with head and chest sensors was used at the rear outboard seat during high speed test. Consequently, the deflection and thoracic viscous criteria, which represent the chest injuries, are up to 93 mm and 3.96 m/s, respectively, high beyond the standard requirement. Moreover, the most important finding of this research is that the four-door pickup truck is subjected to the 2nd impact up to 116.51 G at dummy head with higher resultant acceleration than the 1st impact (65.62 G) due to the limited space behind the rear headrest and thinner backrest of rear seat. This research also investigates the post-crash results to illustrate the suggestive idea for improving crashworthiness of future design resulting in mitigation of occupant injuries.

Systematic Design and Circuit Analysis of Lightning Impulse Voltage Generation on Low-Inductance Loads

The well-known circuit for the generation of lightning impulse voltage (LIV) on low-inductance loads was introduced by Glaninger in 1975, and the circuit component selection was proposed by Feser. However, the circuit and the approach for the component selection have some difficulties for which further adjustment is required for obtaining the waveform parameters according to the standard requirement. In this paper, an extended Glaninger’s circuit with an additional series resistor is proposed. Furthermore, a systematic design and circuit analysis of LIV generation for low-inductance loads are developed. With the help of a circuit simulator, the circuit analysis for the component selection is described. The validity of the proposed circuit was confirmed by some experimental results in comparison with the simulated ones. The proposed circuit and component selection provide not only the generation waveform according to the standard requirement but also other promising performances in terms of the wide inductance load range from 400 μH to 4 mH, a voltage efficiency of over 80%, an overshoot voltage of below 5%, an undershoot voltage of below 40%, and a maximum charging capacitance of 10 μF. From the simulated and experimental results, the proposed circuit and component selection approach is very useful for the LIV tests on low-inductance loads instead of using the conventional approach based on trial and error.

Research Status and Environmental Protection Disposal of Recycled Electrolytic Manganese Residue

Electrolytic manganese residue (EMR) is a common industrial solid waste. The ammonia and manganese components contained in it will pollute the soil environment and have potential risks to human health. Under the premise of investigating the production of electrolytic manganese slag and conventional processes, it is found that the traditional harmless treatment methods of electrolytic manganese slag are still mainly lime solidification, cement solidification, and fly ash solidification, and the resource utilization directions such as cement, concrete, non-sintered bricks, road bases, etc. are mainly used. But, EMR contains ammonia nitrogen, and manganese (prone to leaching) that difficult to meeting environmental protection requirements by using general cement cementitious material solidification. Therefore, this study focused on manufacturing new eco-friendly bricks with EMR using calcination process. Specifically, the physical performance and environmental characterization of the sintered bricks were investigated. Furthermore, the sintering behavior and crystallization of all bricks containing EMR were studied using XRD, FT-IR, and SEM. The results showed the EMR leaching solution contained 1256 mg/L and 8120 mg/L of ammonia nitrogen and manganese, respectively, both of them exceeds Chinese standards (GB 8978-1996). Because of EMR is rich in Fe2O3 and K2O, it greatly promotes particle rearrangement and transfer in the EMR system, reducing the sintering temperature. The compressive strength, leaching performance and radioactivity of sintered bricks with EMR all met the state standard requirement for "sintered common bricks" (GB/T 5101-2017) and (GB 8978). The product can be used as bricks of MU20 grade of Chinese standard. The study provides an effective method for the safe and environmentally friendly disposal of EMR.

Particle Size Effect of Oyster Shell on Mortar: Experimental Investigation and Modeling

In order to solve the problem of lack of natural river sand, crushed waste oyster shells (WOS) were used to replace river sand. By replacing 20% river sand, WOS mortar with different particle sizes of WOS were made for the experiment. Through experimental observation, the initial slump and slump flow loss rate were studied. The effects of different particle sizes and curing times on the compressive strength, flexural strength, static elastic modulus, and dry shrinkage of WOS mortar were analyzed. The relationship formulas between the compressive strength, flexural strength, particle size, and curing age were proposed. The results showed that the setting time and slump flow decreased with a decrease in the particle size of WOS. It was also found that the mortar with fine crushed WOS had high compressive strength, flexural strength, and static elastic modulus at both early and long-term curing age. A formula was proposed to describe the development of the compressive strength with the particle size of WOS and curing time, and the relations among these mechanical properties were discussed. Furthermore, drying shrinkage increased when WOS was used and could not satisfy the standard requirement of 0.075%. In contrast, the addition of fine WOS and double-dose sulfonated naphthalene-formaldehyde superplasticizer (SNF SP) reduced the shrinkage rate of the mortar by 8.35% and provided better workability and mechanical properties for mortar.

Optimization Process to Increase the Quality of Lombok Porang Flour

As a primary source of glucomannan, porang (Amorphophallus oncophyllus Prain) has a decisive role in the food and non-food industry development. However, the naturally high calcium oxalate content in the corm is one obstacle why it is not safe as a food material. This paper describes and discusses the optimizing process to reduce the level of calcium oxalate content and improve the quality of the flour of porang locally grown in Lombok. Porang samples were obtained from the center of growing area in North Lombok. Series of trials were carried out, including treatment using a salt solution, blanching, and fermentation technology. The parameters observed in this study were the calcium oxalate content, moisture content, and the color of porang flour. The results from these trials indicated that soaking in salt solution and blanching technology significantly reduced the calcium oxalate concentration in the flour. However, the oxalate levels in the flour were slightly higher than the quality standard requirement. In contrast, fermentation treatment was not effective in reducing the oxalate level. In general, all treatments significantly reduced the flour-moisture content. Further research is required in order to produce quality local porang flour that meets quality standards.