RUPAL RANJAN

Active Learner

Student at IIT Delhi

UCG

UCG typically consists of two adjacent bore holes drilled into a coal seam and pressurized oxidants such as air or steam are used for ignition of coal seam. The oxidant and the gasifying agent are fed through the injection borehole and the combustion and gasification products are recovered from the production bore hole. Injecting oxygen and steam instead of air produces the most useful product gas, since the dilution effect of nitrogen is avoided. The main constituents of the product gas are H2, CO2, CO, CH4 and steam. The proportion of these gases varies with the type of coal and the efficiency of the gasification process. UCG requires an understanding of various aspects of the selected site. The geology, hydrology, mining, drilling, exploration, chemistry and thermodynamics of the gasification reactions in the cavity are important parameters for successful operation. An exchange of knowledge between the various fields is necessary. Before starting UCG, many issues should be considered. Some of them are: 1. Exploration of the UCG site. 2. Choice of a suitable drilling technique. 3. The gasification process (air blown versus O2 blown). 4. The use of the UCG product gas. 5. Environment and safety. 6. Economics.

Designing and Setting up of UCG

India is a traditional coal country, possessing >250 billion tonnes of coal, with >60% of energy needs being met through coal-based technologies. The concerns around the potential depletion of coal reserves in the foreseeable future have been abundant in recent times, alongside the focus on the environmental impacts of coal utilization. At least 30 % of Indian coal reserves are situation at a depth > 300m below the earth’s surface. Furthermore, the ‘rank’ or quality of Indian coals is usually low, with high ash content. Thus, the economical mining and utilization of this valuable, deep, coal resource is not feasible through conventional techniques. Table: Indian coal reserves at various depths (Khadse et al., 2007)     It is believed that UCG will play a unique role in enabling us to utilize these reserves. The norms & guidelines for the practice of UCG have been recently notified by the coal ministry (on July 13, 2009). It seems logical and evident that in the near future, UCG will emerge as a major clean coal utilization technology capable of providing significant impact in our country. Thus it is highly logical and justified to set up the plant in Gujarat which has abundant resources of unmineable coal available.

GUERILLA MARKETING COCA COLA

In January 2010, The Coca-Cola Company created the “Happiness Machine” video with the help of interactive marketing agency. The video featured a Coca-Cola vending machine that dispensed a lot more than just a cold beverage. The film was shop at St. John’s University in Queens, New York, using 5 strategically placed hidden cameras. The reactions from the students were completely unscripted. The video went viral and now has over 4.5 million views on YouTube. In May 2010, it won a prestigious CLIO Gold Interactive Award. The film had the highest penetration in Brazil, Mexico, Japan and Russia. After seeing the amazing ROI on this video, Coca-Cola decided to continue the ‘Happiness’ theme by releasing several other videos using the same concept.

NH 58

Risks Injury to the Human Resources(Skilled or Unskilled): During the course of construction  there might be sudden or unexpected happenings that might cause injuries(due to faulty or improper use of machinery )or might even prove to be fatal  for the workers, engineers, company executives or any civilian as well. Adverse Environmental Impact of The Materials Used in Construction: The materials used in construction for example the fillers used in highway might not be environment friendly and not get the approval from the environmental authorities supervising the project. Unexpected or Sudden Failure of Machines or Equipment During Construction: The machines or equipments might suddenly  break down during their use in the construction of road due to improper handling or their poor quality itself. Delay In Project Due to Weather Phenomena: The project might move out of the scheduled time limit due to the changes in weather phenomena most commonly including delay due to rain..   Dixit.5 RESULTS        The following results were found from the tests conducted on increasing the strength and durability of the road in the process of pavement construction: Ø The extension of highway can lead to reduction of time travel by 3 hours. Ø It lead to smooth flow of traffic . Ø Due to the increment in width of highway the accident rate can be reduced by 18%. Dixit.6     Ø Other properties such as tear propagation and resistance of the road can be encourage by using their use and promote research and development on their properties. Dixit.7   CONCLUSIONS   A detailed study was carried on the extension of NH 58 and stability of the pavement which was constructed using these materials. In the study it was found that by increasing width of NH58 the time of travelling is reduced by 3hours geo material are the best suited materials for pavement construction. They lead to an increase in the stability of the pavement by strength, by environmental feasibility and endurance to vehicular loads and environmental impacts. Thus, the extension of Highways has been recommended in various states and countries where the population is large and ongoing research is being conducted to improvise the properties and durability of roads and Highways for pavement construction.

Volkswagen Will Launch One New EV Every Month From

Volkswagen's has an ambition to become a global EV giant. This has been known to the world and is nothing new. But now the German brand has revealed its mega-plan to launch a new EV every month from 2022. They has also revealed that they wants to increase their production facilities. A step in this regard is setting up of 16 new electric car production facilities. The brand is keen to launch around 300 different electric-powered models by 2030. Many of the models launched will be the electric variants of the existing models. It’s a very ambitious and well-planned strategy to become a global EV giant. Through this strategy, Volkswagen will be able to launch the bigger fleet of environment-friendly zero-emission cars and it will be a big step in becoming successful as a global EV giant. The first pure electric model from Volkswagen will be launched in 2020. This hatchback will be christened as ID, in line with the concept model. Volkswagen is investing a huge amount of Rs. 1,600 crore in powertrain development. The German auto manufacturer have claimed that its future powertrains will be built in such manner that will comply with the upcoming stringent emission norms. The brand also believes its drive towards zero emission mobility will help the automaker to also meet the new stricter emission norms easily. Volkswagen has its own reason as also the rest of the world automobile market which is thriving towards zero emission pure electric mobility. Not only that the German brand aims to become a global EV giant by 2030, but is also trying to improve its brand image that was severely affected due to the dieselgate scandal. This scandal had led the brand to face numerous lawsuits across the world and also pay hefty fine amounts to the affected customers in several countries. The automaker believes that launching a wide range of zero-emission pure electric vehicles will help the brand to come out of the darkness created by the scandal. During the conference, Müller admitted that Volkswagen’s rapid transformation and focus on EVs has been driven by the diesel scandal. He said: “The diesel scandal told us there was a need for radical change; the crisis has acted as a catalyst.” With this statement the brand has made its intentions clear that they have realised that it is time to change and a small bump in its path will not be ignored in its bid to become a global force in coming years.

Extension Of National Highway 58

The NH 58 is one of the busiest and most travelled highway in northern India. It is only 4 lane highway. Due to which the jams take place. As a result the travelling time from Ghaziabad to MuzzafaeNagar is delayed by 4 hours regularly. So to make the travelling smooth and easier the highway should be made 6 lane highway. Due to which the time of travelling is reduced by 3 hours. The first step to a good construction process is to identity the needs of the transportation in the area and of the road. Teams must thoroughly examine the road and define the project in order to get buyoff from the appropriate officials. Make sure the project selected is going to actually enhance the roads. 

Maruti Suzuki cars to get six-speed gearbox

Maruti Suzuki is in the process of a complete overhaul of its image in Indiafrom being a budget family car to a high end beast model. The company has already had a change in reputation inclining towards becoming a premium brand. The introduction of cars like Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and dealership concepts like Nexa and Maruti Suzuki Arena has made their image transformation easier. It will also improve performance & fuel efficiency. Missing Piece : All of the Maruti Suzuki cars sold in India come with a five-speed transmission. The one thing that was missing from Maruti Suzuki cars was a six-speed gearbox. Preliminary reports suggest that Maruti Suzuki has confirmed six-speed gearboxes for its cars rolling out this year. Change : Any car from Maruti Suzuki Alto to Ciaz, is currently sold with a five-speed gearbox, but a six-speed unit is coming soon. It has been codenamed MF30 and will improve the performance of the cars. “Maruti is looking to shore up the use of six-speed transmissions in a gradual way. Starting with 50,000 units in the first year the demand is projected to go to 400,000 units per year by 2020”, an industry source told Money Control. The first Maruti Suzuki car to get a six-speed gearbox is expected to be the newly launched Maruti Suzuki Swift hatchback. An additional gear will enhance fuel efficiency and power delivery as well. This is, however, not the first time a Maruti Suzuki car will have a six-speed gearbox. The previous generation Maruti Suzuki S-Cross came with a 1.6-litre diesel engine paired with a six-speed unit. The new S-Cross comes with a 1.3-litre diesel engine paired with a five-speed gearbox. Competition : Another reason for Maruti to consider this move is that competition cars like Hyundai Elite i20, Tata Nexon and many others are available with a six-speed transmission. References: ·         http://www.financialexpress.com/auto/car-news/maruti-suzuki-cars-to-get-six-speed-gearbox-this-year-heres-what-to-expect/1097150/ ·         http://www.livemint.com/Industry/4CBAjbViP36JzExjGQLvQK/Maruti-Suzuki-Swift-likely-to-get-a-sixspeed-gearbox-Repor.html ·         https://www.cartoq.com/maruti-suzuki-swift-to-soon-get-a-6-speed-manual-gearbox-ciaz-other-cars-to-follow/

TVS Apache RTR 160 Facelift

The old Apaches (160 and 180) have been doing pretty well in the market despite seeing no significant changes after that infamous facelift. But now, with the launch of new age bikes in the segment in the form of Bajaj Pulsar NS 160, Suzuki Gixxer, Honda Hornet, Yamaha FZ-S FI V 2.0, etc it is high time that TVS updated their Apache 160 and the 180. TVS Apache RTR 160  will be launched in Indian market on 14th March. The bike comes with enhanced features that will appeal further to the audience. The bike has been spotted in the country giving us a preview of the bike. It appears that the new Apache RTR 160 will draw inspiration from its bigger sibling Apache RTR 200. Apache RTR 160 facelift will be the biggest launch from the home grown brand since the launch of Apache RR 310. The two wheeler manufacturer is ready to roll out the bike now.   Pricing : Expect the 2018 TVS Apache RTR 160 to be priced competitively when it hits the showrooms soon, something around Rs. 80,000 (ex-showroom, New Delhi), little closer to the current model’s pricing. Features : The bike gets a redesigned chassis and new features that add appeal to it. The 2018 TVS Apache RTR 160 comes with sharper headlamp. The headlamp featuring an integrated LED daytime running light is present in the current model. The tank scoops add sportiness to the model. The side panels have been updated to give it a more stylish appearance.   Engine : It will carry the same engine, but power and torque output could be revised in the new model. Power comes from a 159.7 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that is coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission. The engine is capable of churning out 15 bhp of peak power and 13 Nm of peak torque in the current model. The new version is expected to generate slightly improved power and torque output. The new Apahe RTR 160 also gets disc brakes on both the front and rear ends and it could come with an ABS as well ensuring better protection for the rider.

Kia at Auto Expo 2018

The Korean carmaker is leaving no stone unturned to make the first impression that will last an entire lifetime. Auto Expo 2018 will be the first time Kia will be doing a public showing in Indian market. They will start to sell from 2019 and will be displaying their array of models from international line-up. The spotlight will be on SUV concept that will not be a small SUV but instead a larger SUV that will be a competition to Hundayi Creta. It's a precursor to the Indian version set to come in 2019. In addition to SUV concept Kia is going to display multiple models from its international array. Kia Picanto can bear a resemblance to Hundayi Grand i10 and is available with a 67hp and95Nm, 1.0l petrol engine in international markets. In the order we have Kia Rio which can be seen as a competition to Maruti Baleno and Honda Jazz. Kia would have to trim it down to 4m if it decides to bring it to India. A 1.2l petrol engine with 84hp and 122Nm of torque is sure to turn a few heads. The model sold as Forte in US market, Kia's Cerato sedan is a rival to Hyundai Elantra, Skoda Octavia and Honda Civic. It comes with a 1.6l engine that's tuned to produce 130hp and 157Nm torque and has six speed automatic gearbox. Kia Optima is a smart looking large sedan with a well-specced cabin to match.It is a direct rival to Toyota Camry, Skoda Superb and Honad Accord. It comes as a 2l petrol engine that produces 143hp and 204Nm torque and has six speed automatic transmission gearbox. Kia will also be showcasing Kia Sportage, Kia Sorento and Kia Niro. The company officials have confirmed that the sporty singer sedan won't be coming to India but is likely to be displayed at the Auto Expo 2018. The company has made public its plans to start its India innings with a compact sedan, but this model will not be shown at the Auto Expo 2018.

Virat Kohli named ICC Cricketer of the Year

After the second test debacle against South Africa, where the batting unit collapsed again only for a late fightback from Rohit Sharma to save some grace, the times were not going good for the recently married Indian Cricket Team Captain. But Virat Kohli had something to cheer about on Thursday night when he was named as the ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year at the ICC Awards. Virat Kohli was also named the ICC Cricketer of the year and captain of both ODI and Test teams. Kohli has been the batting mainstay of this talented Indian batting line-up. He had amassed 1460 runs in 26 innings and at a humongous average of 76.84 with a strike rate of 99.11. During this period he scored 6 centuries and led India to the final of Champions Trophy. He was also there to lead India to ODI series wins over England, West Indies, Sri Lanka, Australia, New Zealand and Test series wins over Bangladesh, Australia and Sri Lanka (twice). Many records tumbled during the record breaking year. When he scored his 31st ODI hundred he went past Ricky Ponting in the all time ODI centurion list and is now at second position. During the course of his 32nd century he became the fastest to reach to the milestone of 9,000 runs and the most successful captain in an year, surpassing the Australian great Ricky Ponting. Kohli also regained the top position in ICC rankings for ODI batsmen. ICC had listed out Kohli's achievements and tipped him to surpass the record 49ODI tons scored by Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli posted a video message thanking his supporters and mentioned that he was honoured to win the Sir Garfield Sobers award. This is also the first time since 2009 that an Indian player has been named captain for both the formats with MS Dhoni being the last one to achieve this feat. Kohli has been the pride of the country and ever since the retirement of Sachin Tendulkar and his incredible record justifies the comparision. Carrying the hopes and expectations of a billion people is no mean feat and getting this prestigious award adds another feather in the cap of soon to be one of the greatest players to have played the game.

Auto Expo 2018: Hyundai to showcase 2 Electric Car

The Auto Expo 2018 is going to come soon and its going to be very exciting as the Hyundai is coming up with three exciting prospects. The excitement is due to two factors, the re-emergence of Santro into the small car space and the coming up of "Electric Cars". Rakesh Srivastava , Director Sales and Marketing, had said, " We will bring electric cars to India and will meet the timeline set by government. Hundayi has the technology and we will bring them in all the segments we are present in. Going by the current scenario, auto-component suppliers and electric component manufacturers in India do not have the volumes to locally invest in making components for a premium car like Ioniq. If Hyundai decides to import and sell the car then costs of the vehicle will at more than double thanks to import duty structure and at about Rs 45 lakh the car will hardly see any buyers. Earlier in an interview, Y K Koo, MD, Hyundai Motor India had mentioned that “Electric cars are a focus for us. We have to go by the government’s policy and norms, it’s better to implement electric cars on lower-segment products. The Grand i10 and i20 and small cars are more convenient, more easy, and more practical for electric than bigger-sized vehicles when it comes to the Indian market."   The Models : Hundayi's electric SUV, the Ioniq which has an EPA certified range of 200km and makes 118HP from its single electric motor, which is a lot less than the hybrid having 139HP. The Indian version will see the range being pushed to 300km and increase in horsepower as well. The second model we have is Kona SUV and has an exceptionally well designed interiors. It is going to have an 8inch infotainment system which uses Android Autoand Apple CarPlay. It will also have an optional wireless Smartphone charging pad, a heads up display system and an 8 speaker Krell surround sound system in place. The big heading is going to be the re-launch of Hundayi Santro. The small car space segment was left unfought since Hundayi retired EON and it was a fight between Tata Tiago and Maruti Suzuki WagonR and now Hundayi wants its share of the pie back for itself. There are lots of safety features and driver aids such as ABS and airbags.

Mercedes-Benz at Auto Expo 2018

The Auto Expo is around the corner and all the leading car makers are ready to showcase their models and concepts. Mercedes-Benz is not going to be left behind in this race and has decided not to withhold from showcasing its technical prowess. This is going to be like a sneak peek into the future where you can expect a lot more developments but this can provide you some pathway to build your imagination. The company has already expressed its viewpoint of electric cars being the future and there can't be a better way than to showcase the EQ concept in the Auto Expo 2018. The company has committed to introduce 10 electric cars by 2022. These models will include SUVs, sedans and hatchbacks. The vehicle architecture will be similar to latest models and will have an intelligent multi-material mix of steel, aluminium and carbon fibre. This will help in achieving lightweight design, strength and  cost efficiency. The Mercedes-Benz EQ Concept is no mean option with the company claiming a power output of 400hp and a driving range of up to 500km on a single charge. There is a lithium ion battery pack which is mounted between the axles. Despite its size the company says it can do 0-100 km/h in under 5 seconds. Aesthetics are one of the key features and it looks suave and a part of Mercedes family with sharper lines. The main distinguishing feature in terms of design would be the black panel front grille that comes with a white-illuminated Mercedes star and integrates all the elements under one surface.