Design of photovoltaic systems to power aerators for natural purification of acid mine drainage. (November 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Song, Jinyoung; Choi, Yosoon
• Is Part Of: Renewable energy. Volume 83(2015)
• Page Start: 759
• Page End: 766
• Publication Date: 2015-11
• Subjects: Photovoltaic systems -- Aerator -- Acid mine drainage -- Simulation -- System Advisor Model; Renewable energy sources -- Periodicals; Power resources -- Periodicals; Énergies renouvelables -- Périodiques; Ressources énergétiques -- Périodiques; 333.794
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2015.05.014
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0960-1481

Abstract

Abstract: This paper presents a case study of photovoltaic (PV) system design at Hwangji Youchang facility in Korea, to power an electrical aerator for natural purification of acid mine drainage. The aerator was designed as 13 units with air flow capacity of 60 L/min at the oxidation pond by considering the characteristics of incoming drainage. Site evaluation was conducted to identify a suitable location. The resulting PV system capacity was designed as 30.1 kW by considering monthly power consumption (342.39 kWh/month), safety factor of 5, and winter solar irradiance. Electricity production from the PV system was simulated via SAM software. The simulation results indicate that the PV system can generate at least 3016 kWh/month, which is sufficient to operate the 13 units of the aerator. The procedure has broad relevance for designing off-grid PV applications, particularly mining facilities that are often situated in remote locations. Highlights: Photovoltaic (PV) powered aerator for purification of acid mine drainage (AMD). Design parameters included incoming drainage, site shading, and winter performance. At half capacity, the system can power the aerators during winter. Reliably simulates solar irradiance, power generation, and safety factors. Broad relevance for designing off-grid PV, particularly in remote locations.