Life cycle assessment of a coal-fired old thermal power plant
- Authors: Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Greenhouse gas reduction , Life cycle assessment , Thermal power plants - Environmental aspects , Environmental impact assessments
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:4870 , ISBN 978-988-19251-0-7 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/12546
- Description: This paper discusses a life cycle analysis of a thermal power plant to quantify environmental impacts of thermal power production at an old power plant. Coal is used in electricity generation worldwide and many power plants in developing countries are very old. Knowing the life cycle environmental impacts of such power plants is very important since they produce a lot of greenhouse gases. This paper develops life cycle inventories for an old power plant in Africa and identifies ways to minimize coal consumption for the same capacity of power output. A life cycle assessment (LCA) was done for the power plant. The emitted carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, nitrous oxides and solid waste have adverse effects on flora, fauna, water bodies and humans. A number of environmental metrics were obtained for the thermal power plant and these form the basis for future comparative and extended studies.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Greenhouse gas reduction , Life cycle assessment , Thermal power plants - Environmental aspects , Environmental impact assessments
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:4870 , ISBN 978-988-19251-0-7 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/12546
- Description: This paper discusses a life cycle analysis of a thermal power plant to quantify environmental impacts of thermal power production at an old power plant. Coal is used in electricity generation worldwide and many power plants in developing countries are very old. Knowing the life cycle environmental impacts of such power plants is very important since they produce a lot of greenhouse gases. This paper develops life cycle inventories for an old power plant in Africa and identifies ways to minimize coal consumption for the same capacity of power output. A life cycle assessment (LCA) was done for the power plant. The emitted carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, nitrous oxides and solid waste have adverse effects on flora, fauna, water bodies and humans. A number of environmental metrics were obtained for the thermal power plant and these form the basis for future comparative and extended studies.
- Full Text:
The effect of human capital investment and motivation on miners’ productivity at a South African Platinum mine
- Makhubedu, Lucky Boy Tebogo, Nwobodo-Anyadiegwu, Eveth Nkeiruka, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Makhubedu, Lucky Boy Tebogo , Nwobodo-Anyadiegwu, Eveth Nkeiruka , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Human Capital Investment , Motivation , Productivity
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/244500 , uj:25283 , Citation: Makhubedu, L.B.T., Nwobodo-Anyadiegwu, E. & Mbohwa, C. 2017. The effect of human capital investment and motivation on miners’ productivity at a South African Platinum mine.
- Description: Abstract: Human capital investment and employee motivation are mechanisms that mining companies can use to enhance labour performance, improve organizational productivity, optimise profitability, and achieve long-term competitive advantage. This paper investigates the effects of human capital investment and motivation on mineworkers’ labour productivity at a South African Platinum mine. This study adopted a quantitative research strategy. A structured questionnaire was used to survey (n = 292) miners. SPSS version 23.0 was performed to measure the relationship between miners’ perception of subsets of human capital investment and motivation versus identified key production variables from two distinctive reefs – the Upper Ground (UG2) Reef and Merensky reef. The statistical findings corroborated the two hypotheses tested.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Makhubedu, Lucky Boy Tebogo , Nwobodo-Anyadiegwu, Eveth Nkeiruka , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Human Capital Investment , Motivation , Productivity
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/244500 , uj:25283 , Citation: Makhubedu, L.B.T., Nwobodo-Anyadiegwu, E. & Mbohwa, C. 2017. The effect of human capital investment and motivation on miners’ productivity at a South African Platinum mine.
- Description: Abstract: Human capital investment and employee motivation are mechanisms that mining companies can use to enhance labour performance, improve organizational productivity, optimise profitability, and achieve long-term competitive advantage. This paper investigates the effects of human capital investment and motivation on mineworkers’ labour productivity at a South African Platinum mine. This study adopted a quantitative research strategy. A structured questionnaire was used to survey (n = 292) miners. SPSS version 23.0 was performed to measure the relationship between miners’ perception of subsets of human capital investment and motivation versus identified key production variables from two distinctive reefs – the Upper Ground (UG2) Reef and Merensky reef. The statistical findings corroborated the two hypotheses tested.
- Full Text:
Biogas use as fuel in spark ignition engines
- Kukoyi, T.O., Muzenda, E., Akinlabi, Esther Titilayo, Mashamba, A., Mbohwa, Charles, Mahlatsi, T.
- Authors: Kukoyi, T.O. , Muzenda, E. , Akinlabi, Esther Titilayo , Mashamba, A. , Mbohwa, Charles , Mahlatsi, T.
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Biogas , Spark ignition engines , Substitute fuel
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/217660 , uj:21667 , Citation: Kukoyi, T.O. et al. 2016. Biogas use as fuel in spark ignition engines.
- Description: Abstract: This paper reviews the utilization of biogas in spark ignition engines with a view to making a case for it as an efficient substitute fuel for petrol. However, its gaseous nature which accounts for its low volumetric density implies that apart from the basic modification needed to accommodate the fuel, the engine might need further alterations to get the best from this relatively low cost and readily available fuel. Various modes of enhancing performance particularly methane enrichment, prechamber combustion, alteration of ignition parameters, increasing compression ratio and addition of hydrogen to improve performance and emissions were drawn from previous works to validate its efficiency as a viable substitute fuel in SI engines.
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- Authors: Kukoyi, T.O. , Muzenda, E. , Akinlabi, Esther Titilayo , Mashamba, A. , Mbohwa, Charles , Mahlatsi, T.
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Biogas , Spark ignition engines , Substitute fuel
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/217660 , uj:21667 , Citation: Kukoyi, T.O. et al. 2016. Biogas use as fuel in spark ignition engines.
- Description: Abstract: This paper reviews the utilization of biogas in spark ignition engines with a view to making a case for it as an efficient substitute fuel for petrol. However, its gaseous nature which accounts for its low volumetric density implies that apart from the basic modification needed to accommodate the fuel, the engine might need further alterations to get the best from this relatively low cost and readily available fuel. Various modes of enhancing performance particularly methane enrichment, prechamber combustion, alteration of ignition parameters, increasing compression ratio and addition of hydrogen to improve performance and emissions were drawn from previous works to validate its efficiency as a viable substitute fuel in SI engines.
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Value addition of coal fines and sawdust to briquettes using molasses as a binder
- Manyuchi, M. M., Mbohwa, Charles, Muzenda, E.
- Authors: Manyuchi, M. M. , Mbohwa, Charles , Muzenda, E.
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Binder , Calorific value , Coal fines
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/280296 , uj:30116 , Citation: Manyuchi, M.M., Mbohwa, C. & Muzenda, E. 2018. Value addition of coal fines and sawdust to briquettes using molasses as a binder. South African Journal of Chemical Engineering, 26:70-73. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajce.2018.09.004
- Description: Abstract: In this study, the co-briquetting of coal fines saw dust and molasses as a binder is explored as an option for value addition of the wastes generated in the various industries. The effect of the saw dust concentration and the molasses concentration was investigated through measuring the briquette's calorific value, fixed carbon, compressive strength and shatter index. Addition of Ca(OH)2 was done to effect removal of sulphur from the briquette. Measurements of the briquettes physicochemical properties such as moisture content, ash content and sulphur content were measured using the standard methods. As the saw dust and the molasses concentration increased, the calorific value, fixed carbon and compressive strength increased by 16%, 8% and 50% respectively. Whereas, the shatter index decreased by 146% as the saw dust and the molasses concentration increased in relation to the coal fines. Addition of the saw dust and the molasses are therefore critical in the production of a high quality coal-saw dust-molasses briquette which does not shatter.
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- Authors: Manyuchi, M. M. , Mbohwa, Charles , Muzenda, E.
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Binder , Calorific value , Coal fines
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/280296 , uj:30116 , Citation: Manyuchi, M.M., Mbohwa, C. & Muzenda, E. 2018. Value addition of coal fines and sawdust to briquettes using molasses as a binder. South African Journal of Chemical Engineering, 26:70-73. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajce.2018.09.004
- Description: Abstract: In this study, the co-briquetting of coal fines saw dust and molasses as a binder is explored as an option for value addition of the wastes generated in the various industries. The effect of the saw dust concentration and the molasses concentration was investigated through measuring the briquette's calorific value, fixed carbon, compressive strength and shatter index. Addition of Ca(OH)2 was done to effect removal of sulphur from the briquette. Measurements of the briquettes physicochemical properties such as moisture content, ash content and sulphur content were measured using the standard methods. As the saw dust and the molasses concentration increased, the calorific value, fixed carbon and compressive strength increased by 16%, 8% and 50% respectively. Whereas, the shatter index decreased by 146% as the saw dust and the molasses concentration increased in relation to the coal fines. Addition of the saw dust and the molasses are therefore critical in the production of a high quality coal-saw dust-molasses briquette which does not shatter.
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Barriers of sharing tacit knowledge : A case of Gauteng agricultural SMMEs, South Africa
- Seseni, Lawrance, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Seseni, Lawrance , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Knowledge management , SMMEs , Tacit Knowledge
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213219 , uj:21120 , Citation: Saseni, L & Mbohwa, C. 2016. Barriers of sharing tacit knowledge : A case of Gauteng agricultural SMMEs, South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: This study looks athe barriers that affect the sharing of tacit knowledge withing the organization. This study adopted a quantitative approach where 47 agricultural SMMEs were given questionnaire to fill out. This study discovered that organizations fail to share knowledge due to the lack of management involvement, greater distance. However, participants indicated that they understand that knowledge management is the responsibility of everyone in the organization. This study recommends that management must be highly involved in what employees are doing and give their subordinates sufficient time to share their know and receive it. A replication of this study in other sectors must be done.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Seseni, Lawrance , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Knowledge management , SMMEs , Tacit Knowledge
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213219 , uj:21120 , Citation: Saseni, L & Mbohwa, C. 2016. Barriers of sharing tacit knowledge : A case of Gauteng agricultural SMMEs, South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: This study looks athe barriers that affect the sharing of tacit knowledge withing the organization. This study adopted a quantitative approach where 47 agricultural SMMEs were given questionnaire to fill out. This study discovered that organizations fail to share knowledge due to the lack of management involvement, greater distance. However, participants indicated that they understand that knowledge management is the responsibility of everyone in the organization. This study recommends that management must be highly involved in what employees are doing and give their subordinates sufficient time to share their know and receive it. A replication of this study in other sectors must be done.
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Feasibility study of the materials handling and development of a sustainable conveying system in plastics recycling and manufacture
- Chinguwa, Simon, Nyemba, Wilson R., Boora, Kudzai, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Chinguwa, Simon , Nyemba, Wilson R. , Boora, Kudzai , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Conveyor , Materials handling , Plastic manufacturing
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/295162 , uj:32133 , Citation: Chinguwa, S. et al. 2019. Feasibility study of the materials handling and development of a sustainable conveying system in plastics recycling and manufacture.
- Description: Abstract: The appropriate handling of materials in manufacturing is essential for the realization of reductions in direct and indirect costs. This research was carried out at a plastic manufacturing company in Zimbabwe where polymer pellets are used to produce plastic packaging. An in-depth work study was carried out at the plant followed by the feasibility, review and analysis of available and affordable conveying systems. A semi-automated pneumatic conveyor system comprising of a prime mover, feeder, and mixer was designed to replace the manual handling of materials. The analysis and eventual development of the optimal conveying system assisted the company in not only freeing up space for the uninterrupted movement of materials, but also improvements in safety and reduction in transportation and operational costs for the sustainable recycling and manufacture of plastic packaging. The research also contributed to the company’s product quality and variability.
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- Authors: Chinguwa, Simon , Nyemba, Wilson R. , Boora, Kudzai , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Conveyor , Materials handling , Plastic manufacturing
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/295162 , uj:32133 , Citation: Chinguwa, S. et al. 2019. Feasibility study of the materials handling and development of a sustainable conveying system in plastics recycling and manufacture.
- Description: Abstract: The appropriate handling of materials in manufacturing is essential for the realization of reductions in direct and indirect costs. This research was carried out at a plastic manufacturing company in Zimbabwe where polymer pellets are used to produce plastic packaging. An in-depth work study was carried out at the plant followed by the feasibility, review and analysis of available and affordable conveying systems. A semi-automated pneumatic conveyor system comprising of a prime mover, feeder, and mixer was designed to replace the manual handling of materials. The analysis and eventual development of the optimal conveying system assisted the company in not only freeing up space for the uninterrupted movement of materials, but also improvements in safety and reduction in transportation and operational costs for the sustainable recycling and manufacture of plastic packaging. The research also contributed to the company’s product quality and variability.
- Full Text:
Method of lines based on finite element technique to analyse electromagnetic problems
- Mushiri, Tawanda, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Mushiri, Tawanda , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2015-03-03
- Subjects: Method of lines , Computational electromagnetics , Variational analysis , Finite element method
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:5159 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/14291
- Description: A hybrid scheme called finite element method of lines is described and proposed for modelling and analysis of generalized computational electromagnetic problems with emphasis on a number of irregular waveguide. This finite element based method of lines is developed by combining finite element method and the method of lines, so that it not only has high flexibility to treat geometrically and compositionally complex problems but also maintains high accuracy of semi-analytical technique. Analytical and numerical algorithmic building blocks of this new scheme are discussed such as geometry discretization, element mapping, element trial functions, reformulation and computational issues of non-linear ordinary differential equations. The results therefore show that this new technique is able to efficiently solve complex problems as compared with the conventional method of lines. MATLAB was used to compute the solutions of various problems.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mushiri, Tawanda , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2015-03-03
- Subjects: Method of lines , Computational electromagnetics , Variational analysis , Finite element method
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:5159 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/14291
- Description: A hybrid scheme called finite element method of lines is described and proposed for modelling and analysis of generalized computational electromagnetic problems with emphasis on a number of irregular waveguide. This finite element based method of lines is developed by combining finite element method and the method of lines, so that it not only has high flexibility to treat geometrically and compositionally complex problems but also maintains high accuracy of semi-analytical technique. Analytical and numerical algorithmic building blocks of this new scheme are discussed such as geometry discretization, element mapping, element trial functions, reformulation and computational issues of non-linear ordinary differential equations. The results therefore show that this new technique is able to efficiently solve complex problems as compared with the conventional method of lines. MATLAB was used to compute the solutions of various problems.
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Home care staff planning and scheduling an integrated operations management perspective
- Mutingi, M., Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Mutingi, M. , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Health care management , Healthcare staff scheduling , Home health care scheduling
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:6173 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13780
- Description: The Home Health Care (HHC) sector continues to grow at an increasing rate across the globe. As such, developing proper health care management systems and operations strategies is essential for survivability, growth and competitiveness of healthcare systems. As labor is the most critical asset in the home care organizations, it is crucial to obtain an in-depth understanding of HHC operations, from an operations management view point, with specific emphasis on staff planning and scheduling. The aim of this paper is to provide a taxonomic analysis of HHC staff planning and scheduling decisions, from an operations management perspective. We identify from various cases in the literature, the core activities characterizing staff planning and scheduling. We then present a taxonomic analysis of these activities, and propose an integrated approach to decision making. A conceptual modeling framework is then proposed to assist the decision maker in solving problems in HHC staff planning and scheduling.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mutingi, M. , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Health care management , Healthcare staff scheduling , Home health care scheduling
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:6173 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13780
- Description: The Home Health Care (HHC) sector continues to grow at an increasing rate across the globe. As such, developing proper health care management systems and operations strategies is essential for survivability, growth and competitiveness of healthcare systems. As labor is the most critical asset in the home care organizations, it is crucial to obtain an in-depth understanding of HHC operations, from an operations management view point, with specific emphasis on staff planning and scheduling. The aim of this paper is to provide a taxonomic analysis of HHC staff planning and scheduling decisions, from an operations management perspective. We identify from various cases in the literature, the core activities characterizing staff planning and scheduling. We then present a taxonomic analysis of these activities, and propose an integrated approach to decision making. A conceptual modeling framework is then proposed to assist the decision maker in solving problems in HHC staff planning and scheduling.
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Design of a ferrochrome – slag mechanical separator : case study
- Gudukeya, Loice Keresia, Mushiri, Tawanda, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Gudukeya, Loice Keresia , Mushiri, Tawanda , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/241716 , uj:24915 , Citation: Gudukeya, L.K., Mushiri, T. & Mbohwa, C. 2017. Design of a ferrochrome – slag mechanical separator : case study.
- Description: Abstract: This research focused on the design of a ferrochrome – slag mechanical separator for a company in Harare, Zimbabwe. The company’s current production is 420 tonnes of alloy per month. The aim of project is to raise the production from 420 to 500 tonnes of ferrochrome production per month by introducing a mechanical separator at metal recovery plant that produces 80 tonnes. The difference in specific gravities of ferrochrome and slag is the key principle applied in achieving separation of the two products. The densities of ferrochrome and slag are 6800 kg/ mand 2800kg/ m respectively hence gravity separation method in water medium can be done.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gudukeya, Loice Keresia , Mushiri, Tawanda , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/241716 , uj:24915 , Citation: Gudukeya, L.K., Mushiri, T. & Mbohwa, C. 2017. Design of a ferrochrome – slag mechanical separator : case study.
- Description: Abstract: This research focused on the design of a ferrochrome – slag mechanical separator for a company in Harare, Zimbabwe. The company’s current production is 420 tonnes of alloy per month. The aim of project is to raise the production from 420 to 500 tonnes of ferrochrome production per month by introducing a mechanical separator at metal recovery plant that produces 80 tonnes. The difference in specific gravities of ferrochrome and slag is the key principle applied in achieving separation of the two products. The densities of ferrochrome and slag are 6800 kg/ mand 2800kg/ m respectively hence gravity separation method in water medium can be done.
- Full Text:
Ore processing by PGM concentration process and assessment of CO2 equivalent emissions and environmental damage directly involved
- Mabiza-ma-Mabiza, Junior, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Mabiza-ma-Mabiza, Junior , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Bushveld complex , Direct environmental damages , Platinum group metals
- Language: English
- Type: Book Chapter
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/124047 , uj:20867 , Citation: Mabiza-ma-Mabiza, J. & Mbohwa, C. 2016. Ore processing by PGM concentration process and assessment of CO2 equivalent emissions and environmental damage directly involved.
- Description: Abstract: Platinum group metals are more and more pointed out as key players to contribute to addressing the making headway issues of environmental damage impacts through technological innovations. Of immediate past, interest in hydrogen has grown rapidly resulting to the development of the concept of hydrogen economy to address two growingly noticed challenges namely climate change impacts due to GHG emissions and the need for clean energy, security and sustainability supply. The recognitions to PGM are of without a doubt, but goings-on around PGM recovery process are reported with environmental concerns; the best known are identified as land transformation, livestock and wildlife affected by use of chemicals and other non-renewable resources. Life cycle assessment analysis of ore-concentration was developed and equivalent carbon dioxide emissions quantified. One tonne of Ore-based PGM Concentrates, a total amount of equivalent carbon dioxide of about 1.574,96 kg CO2-eq was associated with this process. In an annual initiative, the concentrator can process up to 36,547 million metric tons of ore milled accounting for 57.5 million kg CO2-eq. Important emissions in this phase are waterborne and emissions to soil.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mabiza-ma-Mabiza, Junior , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Bushveld complex , Direct environmental damages , Platinum group metals
- Language: English
- Type: Book Chapter
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/124047 , uj:20867 , Citation: Mabiza-ma-Mabiza, J. & Mbohwa, C. 2016. Ore processing by PGM concentration process and assessment of CO2 equivalent emissions and environmental damage directly involved.
- Description: Abstract: Platinum group metals are more and more pointed out as key players to contribute to addressing the making headway issues of environmental damage impacts through technological innovations. Of immediate past, interest in hydrogen has grown rapidly resulting to the development of the concept of hydrogen economy to address two growingly noticed challenges namely climate change impacts due to GHG emissions and the need for clean energy, security and sustainability supply. The recognitions to PGM are of without a doubt, but goings-on around PGM recovery process are reported with environmental concerns; the best known are identified as land transformation, livestock and wildlife affected by use of chemicals and other non-renewable resources. Life cycle assessment analysis of ore-concentration was developed and equivalent carbon dioxide emissions quantified. One tonne of Ore-based PGM Concentrates, a total amount of equivalent carbon dioxide of about 1.574,96 kg CO2-eq was associated with this process. In an annual initiative, the concentrator can process up to 36,547 million metric tons of ore milled accounting for 57.5 million kg CO2-eq. Important emissions in this phase are waterborne and emissions to soil.
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Environmental impacts assessment of the platinum nanophase composite electrode by Eco-indicator 99 methodology
- Mabiza, Junior M., Mbohwa, Charles, Mutingi, Michael
- Authors: Mabiza, Junior M. , Mbohwa, Charles , Mutingi, Michael
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Environmental impact assessments , Eco-indicator 99 , Platinum nanophase composite electrodes
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:6018 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10033
- Description: Platinum nanophase composite electrode for hydrogen generation by water electrolysis process has to meet sustainable development requirements even in its development phase by reducing GHG emissions to irrelevance. It is therefore important to determine possible emissions, to estimate the energy consumption and identify key parameters in the improvement of the process used to develop the electrode. Eco indicator 99 was used to assess and determine the types of impacts on the environment of the process of the preparation of the composite electrode and Umberto software was used to develop life cycle assessment inventory (LCIA).
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mabiza, Junior M. , Mbohwa, Charles , Mutingi, Michael
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Environmental impact assessments , Eco-indicator 99 , Platinum nanophase composite electrodes
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:6018 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10033
- Description: Platinum nanophase composite electrode for hydrogen generation by water electrolysis process has to meet sustainable development requirements even in its development phase by reducing GHG emissions to irrelevance. It is therefore important to determine possible emissions, to estimate the energy consumption and identify key parameters in the improvement of the process used to develop the electrode. Eco indicator 99 was used to assess and determine the types of impacts on the environment of the process of the preparation of the composite electrode and Umberto software was used to develop life cycle assessment inventory (LCIA).
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The impact of technology on small, micro and medium scale enterprises in Gauteng South Africa
- Agwa-Ejon, John, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Agwa-Ejon, John , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Business enterprises - Effect of technological innovations on - South Africa - Gauteng , Small business - Effect of technological innovations on - South Africa - Gauteng
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:5100 , ISBN 0-981581-8-5 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13756
- Description: Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises play a key role in South Africa’s economy especially in relation to Gross Domestic Product, unemployment as well as poverty eradication. In order to be able to compete globally and to effectively improve their productivity the SMMEs needs to utilize both existing and new technology in their Operations. This study investigates the impact of technological factors affecting productivity in SMMEs. The data used was collected by administering questionnaires to businesses within Gauteng Province selected through probability random sampling method. The data analysis was mainly through descriptive statistics where the results indicated that technological factors have significant impact on SMMEs especially during their early stages of establishment. Recommendation on better usage of Technology to improve productivity in Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises were suggested.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Agwa-Ejon, John , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Business enterprises - Effect of technological innovations on - South Africa - Gauteng , Small business - Effect of technological innovations on - South Africa - Gauteng
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:5100 , ISBN 0-981581-8-5 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13756
- Description: Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises play a key role in South Africa’s economy especially in relation to Gross Domestic Product, unemployment as well as poverty eradication. In order to be able to compete globally and to effectively improve their productivity the SMMEs needs to utilize both existing and new technology in their Operations. This study investigates the impact of technological factors affecting productivity in SMMEs. The data used was collected by administering questionnaires to businesses within Gauteng Province selected through probability random sampling method. The data analysis was mainly through descriptive statistics where the results indicated that technological factors have significant impact on SMMEs especially during their early stages of establishment. Recommendation on better usage of Technology to improve productivity in Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises were suggested.
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Application of Total Quality Management (TQM) in the South African banking sector : the case of First National Bank (FNB) in South Africa
- Edoun, Emmanuel Innocents, Mabisa, Junior, Mbohwa, Charles, Pelser, Ruan
- Authors: Edoun, Emmanuel Innocents , Mabisa, Junior , Mbohwa, Charles , Pelser, Ruan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Total quality management, , Customer satisfaction , Employee involvement , Staff engagement
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/91990 , uj:20171 , Edoun, E.I. et al. 2016. Application of total quality management (tqm) in the South African banking sector: the case of first national bank (fnb) in south Africa.
- Description: Abstract: Total Quality Management (TQM) is an essential tool for effective management. This tool takes into consideration three basics elements in order to produce quality, these include inter-alia: customer satisfaction, employee involvement and continuity in performance improvement. The study therefore set out to identify the barriers that impede the service and staff engagement portfolio to effectively implement TQM. The purpose of the current study is to collect original data in order to describe and measure the behaviour in a larger population. The initial or rather primary data for this study was obtained from an electronic administered survey which objective was to probe the kind of barriers that prevent effective TQM implementation in the service and staff engagement portfolio. The secondary data were collected through documents analysis and internet research.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Edoun, Emmanuel Innocents , Mabisa, Junior , Mbohwa, Charles , Pelser, Ruan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Total quality management, , Customer satisfaction , Employee involvement , Staff engagement
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/91990 , uj:20171 , Edoun, E.I. et al. 2016. Application of total quality management (tqm) in the South African banking sector: the case of first national bank (fnb) in south Africa.
- Description: Abstract: Total Quality Management (TQM) is an essential tool for effective management. This tool takes into consideration three basics elements in order to produce quality, these include inter-alia: customer satisfaction, employee involvement and continuity in performance improvement. The study therefore set out to identify the barriers that impede the service and staff engagement portfolio to effectively implement TQM. The purpose of the current study is to collect original data in order to describe and measure the behaviour in a larger population. The initial or rather primary data for this study was obtained from an electronic administered survey which objective was to probe the kind of barriers that prevent effective TQM implementation in the service and staff engagement portfolio. The secondary data were collected through documents analysis and internet research.
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Used Vegetable Oil (UVO) as a feedstock for biodiesel production in South Africa
- Thaba, Sebonkile Cynthia, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Thaba, Sebonkile Cynthia , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Used Vegetable Oil (UVO , Cooperatives , Small scale biodiesel plants
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/86154 , uj:19442 , Citation: Thaba, S.C. & Mbohwa, C. 2015. Used Vegetable Oil (UVO) as a feedstock for biodiesel production in South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: Although there has been much debate about biodiesel production, only now is the government showing real interest in the sector. Small scale biodiesel production has been running for more than a decade, despite all the challenges faced by biodiesel producers. The industry remains gripped by so many challenges hampering its prospects for economic development, employment creation and alternative energy production. This paper argues that there is a need for comprehensive government support, including the protection and availing of UVO to local producers if the emerging industry should sustain.
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- Authors: Thaba, Sebonkile Cynthia , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Used Vegetable Oil (UVO , Cooperatives , Small scale biodiesel plants
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/86154 , uj:19442 , Citation: Thaba, S.C. & Mbohwa, C. 2015. Used Vegetable Oil (UVO) as a feedstock for biodiesel production in South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: Although there has been much debate about biodiesel production, only now is the government showing real interest in the sector. Small scale biodiesel production has been running for more than a decade, despite all the challenges faced by biodiesel producers. The industry remains gripped by so many challenges hampering its prospects for economic development, employment creation and alternative energy production. This paper argues that there is a need for comprehensive government support, including the protection and availing of UVO to local producers if the emerging industry should sustain.
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Production planning and control of a master churn mixer for the manufacture of margarine using fuzzy logic at an oil company in Zimbabwe
- Nyemba, Wilson R., Mushiri, Tawanda, Mugwindiri, Kumbi, Mushonga, Roy, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Nyemba, Wilson R. , Mushiri, Tawanda , Mugwindiri, Kumbi , Mushonga, Roy , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Fuzzy logic , Master churn mixer , Production planning and control
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/270488 , uj:28751 , Citation: Nyemba, W.R. 2018. Production planning and control of a master churn mixer for the manufacture of margarine using fuzzy logic at an oil company in Zimbabwe. 2017 ACRID European Alliance for Innovation (EAI) Conference. DOI 10.4108/eai.20-6-2017.2270631 , ISBN: 9781631901607
- Description: Abstract: Process and chemical companies have to continually monitor and control their mixing equipment to ensure that production matches requirements and meets recommended standards especially in food processing. The oil company in this research faced challenges in meeting required specifications in some of their batches, prompting the need to look at more efficient ways to control and monitor the master churn mixer. This paper looks at how intelligent fuzzy logic was used to automate the production planning and control of the master churn mixer of the margarine plant. MATLAB 7.12 was used in developing the control algorithm that enabled all the inputs to be monitored closely before they entered the master churn, while maintaining vegetable oil at 80%, water at 20% and operating temperature at 38oC. This was enabled by sensors and programmable logic controllers which monitored all parameters using fuzzy logic to produce margarine of acceptable quality and standards.
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- Authors: Nyemba, Wilson R. , Mushiri, Tawanda , Mugwindiri, Kumbi , Mushonga, Roy , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Fuzzy logic , Master churn mixer , Production planning and control
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/270488 , uj:28751 , Citation: Nyemba, W.R. 2018. Production planning and control of a master churn mixer for the manufacture of margarine using fuzzy logic at an oil company in Zimbabwe. 2017 ACRID European Alliance for Innovation (EAI) Conference. DOI 10.4108/eai.20-6-2017.2270631 , ISBN: 9781631901607
- Description: Abstract: Process and chemical companies have to continually monitor and control their mixing equipment to ensure that production matches requirements and meets recommended standards especially in food processing. The oil company in this research faced challenges in meeting required specifications in some of their batches, prompting the need to look at more efficient ways to control and monitor the master churn mixer. This paper looks at how intelligent fuzzy logic was used to automate the production planning and control of the master churn mixer of the margarine plant. MATLAB 7.12 was used in developing the control algorithm that enabled all the inputs to be monitored closely before they entered the master churn, while maintaining vegetable oil at 80%, water at 20% and operating temperature at 38oC. This was enabled by sensors and programmable logic controllers which monitored all parameters using fuzzy logic to produce margarine of acceptable quality and standards.
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Business process re-engineering : a look at the business account opening process at MNM Bank
- Flowers, Vincent, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Flowers, Vincent , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Business process reengineering , Reengineering (Management) , Total quality management , Banks and banking - Customer services
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:4888 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/12602
- Description: The account opening process is recognised as the most critical service if banks want to retain and build long term relationships with clients. An unsatisfactory customer experience during this process can influence the customer’s perception of the organisations overall service. Organisations are under increased pressure to deliver products in an efficient and effective manner with a reduction in cost. Having a competitive advantage in the account opening process will attract customers and create future sales opportunities. Future sales opportunities lead to growth and growth leads to increased profits. The research provides an insight on the current account opening process and challenges encountered within the process. The objective of the research is to examine literature and improve the account opening process at MNM bank. The existing account opening process takes 7.5 days before the customer can transact on their account, which results in customers seeking an account at a competitor bank.
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- Authors: Flowers, Vincent , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Business process reengineering , Reengineering (Management) , Total quality management , Banks and banking - Customer services
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:4888 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/12602
- Description: The account opening process is recognised as the most critical service if banks want to retain and build long term relationships with clients. An unsatisfactory customer experience during this process can influence the customer’s perception of the organisations overall service. Organisations are under increased pressure to deliver products in an efficient and effective manner with a reduction in cost. Having a competitive advantage in the account opening process will attract customers and create future sales opportunities. Future sales opportunities lead to growth and growth leads to increased profits. The research provides an insight on the current account opening process and challenges encountered within the process. The objective of the research is to examine literature and improve the account opening process at MNM bank. The existing account opening process takes 7.5 days before the customer can transact on their account, which results in customers seeking an account at a competitor bank.
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Evaluating Maintenance Strategies Effectiveness on Overall Equipment Utilization
- Bupe, G Mwanza, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Bupe, G Mwanza , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Maintenance , Equipment Utilization , Effectiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Conference Proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/93052 , uj:20303 , Citation:Mbohwa, C. & Mwanza, B.G. Evaluating Maintenance Strategies Effectiveness on Overall Equipment Utilization.
- Description: Abstract: The performance and competitiveness of manufacturing companies is dependent on the reliability, availability and productivity of their facilities. To ensure the plant performance achievability, maintenance managers need to have a good understanding about the maintenance systems’ effectiveness. The company understudy had been experiencing frequent breakdowns of critical machines, which negatively affected productivity. The researchers set objectives to establish the causes of machine breakdown, determine the level of plant utilization and availability, evaluate the percentage of sales lost due to downtime and determine the level of Mean-Time To Repair (MTTR). The hypothesis tests developed were based on the mentioned objectives as the major indicators of maintenance effectiveness. Direct observations, structured interviews, company records and published work were used to collect data. Spreadsheet modelling and Mega Stat were used for analysing the data. The results came double folded indicating that breakdown maintenance was not effective as it underutilized the plant’s equipment, lowered plant availability, decreased the sales and increased the level of MTTR.
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- Authors: Bupe, G Mwanza , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Maintenance , Equipment Utilization , Effectiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Conference Proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/93052 , uj:20303 , Citation:Mbohwa, C. & Mwanza, B.G. Evaluating Maintenance Strategies Effectiveness on Overall Equipment Utilization.
- Description: Abstract: The performance and competitiveness of manufacturing companies is dependent on the reliability, availability and productivity of their facilities. To ensure the plant performance achievability, maintenance managers need to have a good understanding about the maintenance systems’ effectiveness. The company understudy had been experiencing frequent breakdowns of critical machines, which negatively affected productivity. The researchers set objectives to establish the causes of machine breakdown, determine the level of plant utilization and availability, evaluate the percentage of sales lost due to downtime and determine the level of Mean-Time To Repair (MTTR). The hypothesis tests developed were based on the mentioned objectives as the major indicators of maintenance effectiveness. Direct observations, structured interviews, company records and published work were used to collect data. Spreadsheet modelling and Mega Stat were used for analysing the data. The results came double folded indicating that breakdown maintenance was not effective as it underutilized the plant’s equipment, lowered plant availability, decreased the sales and increased the level of MTTR.
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Management of the humanitarian supply chain in Zimbabwe
- Chingono, Tatenda T., Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Chingono, Tatenda T. , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: HIV/AIDS , Humanitarian supply chain , Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/72192 , uj:18249 , Citation: Chingono, T.T. & Mbohwa, C. 2015. Management of the humanitarian supply chain in Zimbabwe.
- Description: Abstract: These The supply chain management system is also not well defined (UNIDO, 2011) interruption of supply of antiretroviral is a major challenge to the national program. Supply interruption will increase the risk of treatment failure and development of ARV resistance, hence there is a need to strengthen the current supply chain and logistics so as to reduce the risk of stock outs and to also strengthen the capacity of the government of Zimbabwe to absorb the high volumes of HIV/ AIDS commodities from the global fund and other donors according to the UNIDO (2011) global project report The study mainly used primary data collection method including a survey and interview. Secondary data from the literature review, was also complimented by semi-structured interviews with management and personnel in the organizations studied. Solutions and recommendations were then identified in order to attend to the identified deficiencies, problems and challenges.
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- Authors: Chingono, Tatenda T. , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: HIV/AIDS , Humanitarian supply chain , Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/72192 , uj:18249 , Citation: Chingono, T.T. & Mbohwa, C. 2015. Management of the humanitarian supply chain in Zimbabwe.
- Description: Abstract: These The supply chain management system is also not well defined (UNIDO, 2011) interruption of supply of antiretroviral is a major challenge to the national program. Supply interruption will increase the risk of treatment failure and development of ARV resistance, hence there is a need to strengthen the current supply chain and logistics so as to reduce the risk of stock outs and to also strengthen the capacity of the government of Zimbabwe to absorb the high volumes of HIV/ AIDS commodities from the global fund and other donors according to the UNIDO (2011) global project report The study mainly used primary data collection method including a survey and interview. Secondary data from the literature review, was also complimented by semi-structured interviews with management and personnel in the organizations studied. Solutions and recommendations were then identified in order to attend to the identified deficiencies, problems and challenges.
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Design of a mechanical cleaning device P.I.G (pipeline intervention gadget) connecting two transfer lines in Zimbabwe
- Mushiri, Tawanda, Ndlovu, Stephen, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Mushiri, Tawanda , Ndlovu, Stephen , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Pipeline intervention gadget , Pipeline , Design
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213988 , uj:21222 , Citation: Mushiri, T., Ndlovu, S & Mbohwa, C. 2016. Design of a mechanical cleaning device P.I.G (pipeline intervention gadget) connecting two transfer lines in Zimbabwe.
- Description: Abstract: In the Oil and Gas Industry, maintenance is done using a device or tool called a pig, chiefly to remove solids, dirt, and liquids from the pipelines. The aim of this work is to design and retrofit a pig which will clean 3 identical underground transfer pipelines linking 2 depots The movement of this tool is basically through the action of the fluid in the pipeline pushing it along as it is pumped from one point to another, hence no external power is needed in the device to help in its movement. Calculation based model analysis of the tool together with Solidworks simulations and results are included in detail, with all assumptions and limitations clearly stated and listed. The results show that the pig will move inside the pipe at a lower speed than the mean flow velocity which is good for the performance of the electronic systems installed on its body for pipeline inspection. Bypass hole is added on the central part of the pig body to control the speed as well as keep the cleaned dirt stirred and moving, being pushed by the pig as it performs its cleaning process.
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- Authors: Mushiri, Tawanda , Ndlovu, Stephen , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Pipeline intervention gadget , Pipeline , Design
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213988 , uj:21222 , Citation: Mushiri, T., Ndlovu, S & Mbohwa, C. 2016. Design of a mechanical cleaning device P.I.G (pipeline intervention gadget) connecting two transfer lines in Zimbabwe.
- Description: Abstract: In the Oil and Gas Industry, maintenance is done using a device or tool called a pig, chiefly to remove solids, dirt, and liquids from the pipelines. The aim of this work is to design and retrofit a pig which will clean 3 identical underground transfer pipelines linking 2 depots The movement of this tool is basically through the action of the fluid in the pipeline pushing it along as it is pumped from one point to another, hence no external power is needed in the device to help in its movement. Calculation based model analysis of the tool together with Solidworks simulations and results are included in detail, with all assumptions and limitations clearly stated and listed. The results show that the pig will move inside the pipe at a lower speed than the mean flow velocity which is good for the performance of the electronic systems installed on its body for pipeline inspection. Bypass hole is added on the central part of the pig body to control the speed as well as keep the cleaned dirt stirred and moving, being pushed by the pig as it performs its cleaning process.
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Municipal solid waste composition determination in the city of Johannesburg
- Ayeleru, Olusola Olaitan, Ntuli, Freeman, Mbohwa, Charles
- Authors: Ayeleru, Olusola Olaitan , Ntuli, Freeman , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: City of Johannesburg , Municipal solid waste , Robinson deep
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/214092 , uj:21235 , Citation: Ayeleru, O.0., Ntuli, F & Mbohwa, C. 2016. Municipal solid waste composition determination in the city of Johannesburg.
- Description: Abstract: This paper aims at determining the composition of various waste components at Robinson Deep landfill site (LS). The waste composition study was conducted during the summer in 2015 at Robinson LS to evaluate the various component of wastes received at the site. This was done in order to determine the amount of organic wastes that are generated daily as a basis for waste to energy (WtE) proposition in the City of Johannesburg (CoJ). The methodology used was in accordance with two international standards. Hands sorting were utilized and the samples were classified into nine broad categories. The categories include; paper, organics, plastics, metals, glasses, textiles, construction and demolition (C &D), special care and other wastes...
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- Authors: Ayeleru, Olusola Olaitan , Ntuli, Freeman , Mbohwa, Charles
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: City of Johannesburg , Municipal solid waste , Robinson deep
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/214092 , uj:21235 , Citation: Ayeleru, O.0., Ntuli, F & Mbohwa, C. 2016. Municipal solid waste composition determination in the city of Johannesburg.
- Description: Abstract: This paper aims at determining the composition of various waste components at Robinson Deep landfill site (LS). The waste composition study was conducted during the summer in 2015 at Robinson LS to evaluate the various component of wastes received at the site. This was done in order to determine the amount of organic wastes that are generated daily as a basis for waste to energy (WtE) proposition in the City of Johannesburg (CoJ). The methodology used was in accordance with two international standards. Hands sorting were utilized and the samples were classified into nine broad categories. The categories include; paper, organics, plastics, metals, glasses, textiles, construction and demolition (C &D), special care and other wastes...
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