Administrative Divisions Al-Mustaqbal Energy Research Center
Under the generous patronage of the President of Al-Mustaqbal University, Professor Dr. Hassan Shaker Magdy, and with the support of the Deanship of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technologies, represented by the Dean of the College, Assistant Professor Dr. Azhar Mohsen Abdel, a distinguished partnership contract was signed between Al-Mustaqbal University and the Chinese company SSTDC for Energy Development - Iraq Branch.This partnership aims to enhance cooperation in the fields of energy solutions and development, as SSTDC is considered one of the reputable and accredited international companies in this field. Through this cooperation, a new branch of the company will be opened in Babil Governorate, which will enhance research and development opportunities and provide an advanced educational and practical environment for university students.The Dean of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technologies pointed out the importance of this cooperation in supporting innovation and sustainability, stressing that these agreements contribute significantly to enhancing the use of solar energy in serving the Babylonian society in particular and the Iraqi society in general, in line with the goals of sustainable development and contributes to reducing dependence on energy sources. traditional energy The contract signing ceremony took place in the presence of the Dean of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technologies, and representatives of the Future Center for Energy Research, in a step considered a qualitative leap towards enhancing scientific research and innovation in the fields of renewable energy.
The first practical training course on modern industrial control using programmed logic controllers (PLC) and HMI screens - the first level - was launched on Sunday 01/12/2025, in cooperation between the University of the Future - Energy Research Center and the University of Babylon - College of Engineering. The course includes an introduction to industrial automation, detailed explanations of the physical parts of Delta PLC units, in addition to methods for connecting to sensors. Participants will also install ISPsoft, learn about Data Types and Memory Maps, program Timers Counters, And analog input modules. In addition, participants will learn about HMI displays and how to connect them with programming, while designing a practical project that simulates the labor market. The course targets electrical engineers and College of Engineering students from the disciplines of electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer engineering, and fuel and energy engineering.
Assist. Prof. dr. Azher Mohsin Abd has published a scientific research titled "Enhancing battery pack safety against cone impact using machine learning techniques and Gaussian noise" Abstract The increasing prevalence of electric vehicles underscores the need for enhanced battery pack safety, particularly against impacts that can lead to thermal runaway and fires. This study investigates the mechanical and thermal characteristics of battery packs subjected to cone impact on the lower part. Utilizing finite element model (FEM) simulations, we examined the effects of top radius, shell condition, velocity, and angle on the battery pack's response. Five machine learning (ML) techniques were employed to predict the battery pack's behavior under impact, with training data generated from a well-planned Latin hypercube experiment based on FEM dynamic simulations. The accuracy and robustness of the ML models were evaluated under various scenarios, including the introduction of Gaussian noise. Among the models tested, BESA-ELMM (Bald eagle search algorithm-Extreme learning machine model) demonstrated exceptional speed, making it suitable for real-time assessments, while WOA-SVMM (whale optimization algorithm-Support vector machine model) exhibited superior resilience and accuracy, particularly under noisy conditions. Both models, along with the other ML techniques, showed significant effectiveness in predicting the mechanical responses of battery packs to impact. Our findings indicate that ML approaches are highly efficient in evaluating the mechanical effects on battery packs, providing crucial insights for designing safer and more durable battery packs. This study contributes to the advancement of battery safety by demonstrating the potential of integrating ML techniques with FEM simulations to enhance the resilience and impact resistance of battery packs in electric vehicles.
Assistant Professor Dr. Azhar Mohsen Abd has published a research paper titled "Techno-economic assessment and transient modeling of a solar-based multi-generation system for sustainable/clean coastal urban development." Abstract To ensure the health of vulnerable coastal ecosystems, a transition to sustainable energy solutions is essential. Environmentally friendly systems powered by renewable sources offer not only a reduction in pollution but also the adaptability needed for a flexible and resilient energy future. This study proposes and comprehensively evaluates an integrated solar-based system designed to meet the daily needs of coastal cities. The proposed system incorporates key components such as dual-loop power cycles, parabolic trough solar collectors, liquefied natural gas (LNG) regasification, reverse osmosis, and proton exchange membrane electrolysis. To optimize energy utilization, the inclusion of a thermoelectric generator (TEG) is considered, harnessing the thermal gradient among the LNG stream and the power cycle fluid. We conduct transient modeling, incorporating comprehensive scenarios that account for both thermal and economic aspects. The performance evaluation of the system focuses specifically on coastal regions, with San Francisco serving as a case study. The dynamic simulation results demonstrate the capability of the integrated system in fulfilling the urban needs for one year, delivering 1,134,207 cubic meters of potable water and generating 11,306 MWh of electricity. Financial analysis reveals that the solar unit accounts for over 46 % of the total cost, with an hourly cost rate of $69.61. The levelized cost of electricity is predicted at 4.61 cents/kWh, while the levelized cost of water is calculated at 30.54 cents/m3. These findings provide valuable insights into the cost-effectiveness and competitive advantage of the system in terms of energy and water production.
Assistant Professor Dr. Azher Mohsin Abd had published a research paper titeled ''An approach of analyzing gas and biomass combustion: Positioned of flame stability and pollutant reduction" Abstract Biomass, as a renewable energy source, has gained attention as a sustainable alternative to conventional fuels due to its global availability and usability in rural areas. However, biomass combustion presents challenges such as flame instability and pollutant emissions. This study compares the use of methane gas, wood shavings, and a combination of these two fuels, examining the effects of preheating and flame stability in the combustion of natural gas, biomass, and their co-firing using numerical methods. An equivalence ratio of 1 has been used to avoid a rich-fuel mixture, and an air mass flow rate of 0.0001 kg/s are considered to ensures a sufficient supply of oxygen for the combustion process. Biomass fuel particles are injected from the surface of the fuel and its particle diameter ranging between 5 and 10 μm. The results showed that using the combined fuel not only increased the flame temperature at the beginning of the combustion chamber but also achieved more complete and stable combustion, with over 97 % of the fuel consumed at the start of combustion. As a result of this complete combustion, the emissions of toxic gases CO and NOx in the combustion products reached zero. Additionally, preheating the air increased the flame temperature by 14 %, while preheating the fuel reduced NOx emissions by 24 %.
Assistant Professor Dr. Azhar Mohsen Abd published a scientific research paper titled: "Data-driven study/optimization of a solar power and cooling generation system in a transient operation mode and proposing a novel multi-turbine modification concept to reduce the sun's intermittent effect" Abstract: This study explores the integration of solar energy via parabolic trough collectors (PTC) with the Goswami cycle, focusing on evaluating life cycle costs (LCC) and energy performance in both steady-state and transient conditions. A suitable system configuration of a single-turbine Goswami cycle is designed for integration with PTC. Then, in the system's steady-state, a parametric study is performed based on the change in the design components. Subsequently, a multi-objective optimization method using energy and lifetime cost objectives are defined to identify the best system performance. This optimization technique utilizes artificial neural network (ANN) and the grey wolf optimizer (GWO) algorithm. Accordingly, the transient performance of the system is investigated during its optimal operating point using the TRNSYS software. Suitable controllers are considered for regulating power production and cooling system. Annual transient performance graphs of the systems are obtained. Following these investigations, a novel multi-turbine system is proposed. This configuration aims to enhance system reliability and diminish the reliance on storage devices by optimizing performance. The proper configuration of the five-turbine system with the required controllers is also provided. Hence, the method of dividing the turbine into similar turbines with lower capacity is a new concept proposed in this study. In the optimal state, it is observed that for 100 kW of net power output, 161 kW of effective cooling load can be achieved. At this configuration, the system's LCC amounts to 2.91 M. Moreover, during transient operation, an average power of 90 kW is attainable with a cooling load of 120 kW. The findings indicate that modifying the system from single turbine to five-turbines incurs an additional cost of approximately 9.2% and reduces power output by 6%. However, this modification significantly mitigates the transient impact of solar fluctuations.
The Al-mustaqbal Center for Energy Research hosted the training course “Installation and Operation of Solar Water Systems” for employees of the Babylon Agriculture Department, where the second day was devoted to providing comprehensive knowledge about the practical aspects of these systems. Dr. Ali Imad Al-Qayyim provided a detailed explanation of the basic parts and components of the energy-powered water system. Solar, focusing on the importance of each component and its role in improving system efficiency. Engineer Ahmed Abdel Rasoul also explained how to install the system, starting from determining the appropriate location for installing the solar panels to connecting the pumps correctly. The different types of pumps were discussed, explaining how to choose the appropriate pump according to water needs and the required capacity. During the course, the number of necessary solar panels was reviewed, and how to calculate the required quantity based on the pump power and site conditions. This information was supported by practical examples and real models, giving participants an in-depth understanding of how these concepts can be applied in the field. Then, participants toured the center, where they viewed the available devices and equipment. They expressed great admiration for the available capabilities, which reflects the center’s ability to meet the needs of Babylon Governorate in the field of renewable energy and water. The participants expressed their thanks and gratitude to the engineering and technical staff, praising the valuable scientific and practical information that was provided. They also emphasized the importance of such courses in enhancing their skills and improving their performance in the field of solar water farming, indicating that they are looking forward to more training events in the future.
Conclusion of the training course “Installation and Operation of Solar Water Pump Systems” The activities of the training course “Installation and Operation of Solar Water Pump Systems,” organized by the al-mustaqbal Center for Energy Research, concluded on Monday 10/24/2024. The course lasted several days and was attended by employees of the Babylon Agriculture Department and a number of engineers and technicians. It focused on the theoretical and practical aspects of installing and operating solar systems used in water pumping. At the conclusion of the course, the Dean of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technologies distributed certificates of participation to the trainees in appreciation of their efforts. and their effective participation. A group commemorative photo was taken on this occasion, documenting the success of the course, which contributed to enhancing the skills of the participants in the field of modern technologies for water rationalization using clean and renewable energy. At the conclusion of the course, the participants expressed their thanks and appreciation to those in charge of the course, noting the great benefits they gained both from The theoretical or practical aspect. They also expressed their aspiration for more training courses that contribute to developing their skills and information in the field of rationalizing water consumption and renewable energy