Hi Saudi Cement "Debugged."!

 Hi Energy Efficiency Perspectives for Saudi Cement Industry;

Saudi Arabia is the largest construction market in the Middle East, with large development projects under way and many more in the planning stage. The cement industry in the country is evolving rapidly and is expected to reach annual clinker production of 70 million tonnes in 2013 from current figure of 60 million tonnes per year. The cement industry is one of the highest energy-intensive industries in the world, with fuel and energy costs typically representing 30-40% of total production costs. On an average, the specific electrical energy consumption typically ranges between 90 and 130 kWh per tonne of cement. Keeping in view the huge energy demand of the cement industry, the Saudi Arabian government has been making efforts to reduce the energy consumption in the country towards a more sustainable.

Energy Demand in Cement Production;

The theoretical fuel energy demand for cement clinker production is determined by the energy required for the chemical/mineralogical reactions (1,700 to 1,800 MJ/tonne clinker) and the thermal energy needed for raw material drying and pre-heating. Modern cement plants which were built within the last decade have low energy consumption compared to older plants. The actual fuel energy use for different kiln systems is in the following ranges (MJ/tonne clinker):

• 3,000 – 3,800 for dry process, multi-stage (3 – 6 stages) cyclone preheater and precalcining kilns,
• 3,100 – 4,200 for dry process rotary kilns equipped with cyclone preheaters,
• 3,300 – 4,500 for semi-dry/semi-wet processes (e.g. Lepol-kilns),
• Up to 5,000 for dry process long kilns,
• 5,000 – 6,000 for wet process long kilns and
• 3,100–6,500 for shaft kilns.

Energy Efficiency in the Cement Industry;

With new built, state-of-the-art cement plants, usually all technical measures seem to be implemented towards low energy consumption.

So, how to reduce it further?

Energy efficiency is based on the following three pillars

• Technical optimization
• Alternative raw materials for cement and clinker production
• Alternative fuels

In Europe, the new energy efficiency directive from 2011 intends to reduce the energy consumption of the overall industry by 20%, achieving savings of 200billion Euros at the energy bill and with the goal to create 2 million new jobs within Europe. This approach will have a significant influence also on the cement industry.

Saving 20% of the energy consumption is a challenging goal, especially for plants with state-of-the-art technology.

In older plants modernizations in the fields of grinding, process control and process prediction can, if properly planned and installed, reduce the electricity consumption – sometimes in a two digit number.

Alternative Fuels

Alternative fuels, such as waste-derived fuels or RDF, bear further energy saving potential. The substitution of fossil fuel by alternative sources of energy is common practice in the European cement industry.The German cement industry, for example, substitutes approximately 61% of their fossil fuel demand. The European cement industry reaches an overall substitution rate of at least ca. 20%.

Typical “alternative fuels” available in Saudi Arabia are municipal solid wastes, agro-industrial wastes, industrial wastes and some amount of crop residues. To use alternative or waste-derived fuels, such as municipal solid wastes, dried sewage sludges, drilling wastes etc., a regulatory base has to be developed which sets

• Types of wastes/alternative fuels,
• Standards for the production of waste-derived fuels,
• Emission standards and control mechanism while using alternative fuels and
• Standards for permitting procedures.

Alternative Raw Materials;

The reduction of clinker portion in cement affords another route to reduce energy consumption. In particular, granulated blast furnace slags or even limestone have proven themselves as substitutes in cement production, thus reducing the overall energy consumption.

To force the use of alternative raw materials within the cement industry, also – and again –standards have to be set, where

• Types of wastes, by-products and other secondary raw materials are defined,
• Standards for the substitution are set,
• Guidelines for processing are developed,
• Control mechanisms are defined.

Conclusions;

To reduce the energy consumption, an energy efficiency program, focusing on “production-related energy efficiency” has to be developed. Substantial potential for energy efficiency improvement exists in the cement industry and in individual plants.

A portion of this potential will be achieved as part of (natural) modernization and expansion of existing facilities, as well as construction of new plants in particular regions. Still, a relatively large potential for improved energy management practices exists and can be exhausted by determined approaches.

"CLICK TO DOWNLOAD Hi CEMENT INDUSTRY GUIDE"

Hi My Mechanic Re-visited!.

Hi My Mechanic Cooling Tower Revisited:

System Calculations

To properly operate and maintain a cooling tower, there needs to be a basic understanding of the system water’s use. Water use of the cooling tower is the relationship between make-up, evapora- tion, and blowdown rates. There are a couple simple mathematical relationships between the blowdown rate, evaporation rate, make-up rate, and cycles of concentration of a cooling tower that are very useful to understand the principal flow rates. 

The first relationship illustrates the overall mass balance consideration around a given cooling tower:

(1) Make-up = Blowdown Evaporation
In this case, the blowdown accounts for all system losses including leaks and drift, except for evaporation.
The second principal relationship defines cycles of concentration in terms of make- up flow and blowdown flow:
(2) Cycles of Concentration = Make-up ÷ Blowdown
This equation can be rearranged to either of the following to solve for the make-up rate or blowdown rate:
(3) Blowdown = Make-up ÷ Cycles of Concentration
(4) Make-up = Cycles of Concentration × Blowdown

If the evaporation rate and cycles of concentration are known, the blowdown rate can then be determined by substitut- ing equation 4 into equation 1: 

(5) Cycles of Concentration × Blowdown = Blowdown + Evaporation
Solving for blowdown:
(6) Blowdown = Evaporation ÷
(Cycles of Concentration -1)

Also, if the blowdown rate and cycles of concentration are known, the make-up rate can be determined by solving equation 4, and then the evaporation rate can be determined by solving equation 6 for evaporation:

(7) Evaporation = Blowdown × (Cycles of Concentration – 1) 

System Concerns

Cooling towers are dynamic systems because of the nature of their operation and the environment they function within. Tower systems sit outside, open to the elements, which makes them susceptible to dirt and debris carried by the wind. Their structure is also popular for birds and bugs to live in or around, because of the warm, wet environment. These factors present a wide range of operational concerns that must be understood and managed to ensure optimal thermal performance and asset reliability. Below is a brief discussion on the four primary cooling system treatment concerns encountered in most open-recirculating cooling systems.

Corrosion:

Corrosion is an electrochemical or chemical process that leads to the destruction of the system metal- lurgy. Figure 7 illustrates the nature of a corrosion cell that may be encountered throughout the cooling system metal- lurgy. Metal is lost at the anode(3) and deposited at the cathode.(4) The process is enhanced by elevated dissolved mineral content in the water and the presence of oxygen, both of which are typical of most cooling tower systems. 

Figure 7. Example of a Corrosion Cell.

There are different types of corrosion encountered in cooling tower systems including pitting, galvanic, microbiologically influenced (Figure 8), and erosion corrosion, among others (expanded

discussion is available at www.gewater. com/handbook/cooling_water_systems/ ch_24_corrosion.jsp). Loss of system metallurgy, if pervasive enough, can result in failed heat exchangers, piping, or portions of the cooling tower itself.

Figure 8. Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (Source: Taprogge GmbH).

Scaling;

Scaling is the precipitation of dissolved minerals components that have become saturated in solution. Figure 9 illustrates calcium carbonate scale collecting on a faucet head. Factors that contribute to scaling tendencies include water quality, pH, and temperature. Scale formation reduces the heat exchange ability of the system because of the insulating properties of scale, making the entire system work harder to meet the cooling demand. An expanded discussion for scaling is available at the following link; click here.

Figure 9. Calcium Carbonate Scale (Source: Hustvedt).

Fouling;

Fouling occurs when suspended particles fall out of solution forming deposits. Common foulants include organic matter, process oils, and silt (fine dirt particles that blow into the tower system, or enter in the make-up water supply). Factors that lead to fouling are low water velocities(5), corrosion, and process leaks. Fouling deposits, similar to scale deposits, impede the heat exchange capabilities of the system by providing an insulating barrier to the system metallurgy. Fouling in the tower fill can plug film fill reducing the evaporative surface area, leading to lower thermal efficiency of the system.

Microbiological Activity;
 

Microbiological activity is micro-organisms that live and grow in the cooling tower and cooling system. Cooling towers present the perfect environment for biological activity due to the warm, moist environment. There are two distinct categories of biological activity in the tower system. The first being planktonic, which is bioactivity suspended, or floating in solution. The other is sessile biogrowth, which is the category given to all biological activity, biofilms, or biofouling that stick to a surface in the cooling system. Biofilms are problematic for multiple reasons. They have strong insulating properties, they contribute to fouling and corrosion, and the bi-products they create that contribute to further micro-biological activity. They can be found in and around the tower structure, or they can be found in chiller bundles, on heat exchangers surfaces, (see Figure 10), and in the system piping. Additionally, biofilms and algae mats are problematic because they are difficult to kill. Careful monitoring of biocide treatments, along with routine measurements of biological activity are important to ensure bio-activity is controlled and limited throughout the cooling system.(6)

Figure 10. Biofouled Heat Exchanger (Source: Taprogge GmbH).

(3) The anode in a corrosion cell is defined as the site where metal is lost from the system structure and goes into solution.

(4) The cathode in a corrosion cell is defined as the site where the metal lost at the anode is deposited.

(5) Low water velocities may occur in poorly designed or improperly operated heat exchangers, in the cooling system piping, or in locations across the tower fill where uniform distribution is not maintained.

(6) Beyond the operational and mechanical problems bioactivity causes in cooling tower systems, there is a human health issue if the system develops a specific bacterium known as Legionella. For more information regarding Legionella and Legionnaires’ disease go to www.cdc.gov/legionella/patient_facts.htm.



DECSA INSTALLATIONS REVIEW:

Closed circuit coolers

RIKSHOSPITALET HOSPITAL VERONA GENERAL WAREHOUSE ENI OIL COMPANY BANCO DE ESPANA ABB POWER SYSTEM Centrifugal cooling towers PRINCIPESSA SOFIA INTESABCI BANK NOYFIL TEXTILE FIBERS TAMPEY SUBWAY FERRARI AGIP OIL CO. Axial Decsaplast MOPLEFAN ELEOURGIKI OIL CO. ZAMBELLETTI PHARMACEUTICAL CO. FORD MOTOR CO. BOEHRINGER PHARMACEUTICAL CO. CROW CORK CO. Metal axial towers INTESABCI BANK LEONARDO DA VINCI AIRPORT SSAB STEEL MILL UNDERGROUND SHOPPING CENTER ST MICROELECTRONICS FERRERO CHOCOLATES

 Hi MiMechanic Fans Revisted:

Fan Efficiency, An Increasingly Important Selection Criteria:

The Importance of Fan Efficiency:

Why is fan efficiency so important? As a general rule, successive generations of electronic enclosures such as personal computers, telecommunications cabinets, as well as system routers, pack increasing functionality into smaller and smaller spaces. Accompanying this trend is the need to remove ever higher levels of heat energy from within those enclosures. Thermal engineers will often force air through a system using fans to regulate the internal temperatures; however as the aerodynamic performance increases so will input power.

In modern day equipment racks it's not uncommon for the total fan load to be a significant factor in the system's power budget. Coupled with the advent of equipment efficiency legislation and a growing awareness of cost of ownership, fan efficiency is becoming a critical selection parameter. Engineers now need to gain an understanding of fan efficiency, balancing it against more familiar metrics such as airflow and noise.

Understanding Fan Static Efficiency:

Fan manufacturers typically provide static efficiency as the value of efficiency, while total efficiency includes the outlet velocity term. Fan total efficiency is calculated using total pressure. Static efficiency is calculated using only static pressure.

Positive static pressure is created as a fan moves air through a system. Negative static pressure is what all other components in the airflow path create as they resist air movement. Different fan types will generate different airflow values while creating a positive static pressure to balance the negative static pressure caused by system obstructions. The fan performance curve (see Fig 1) is a representation of the airflow (X axis) that a particular fan type produces to overcome given static pressure values (Y axis).

Total pressure is the summation of static pressure and outlet velocity pressure. Outlet velocity pressure does not contribute to a fans ability to remove system heat energy; therefore it's not normally included in fan efficiency calculations.

Calculating Fan Efficiency:

As with any energy converter, efficiency is the ratio of input and output power:-

Fan efficiency = Pout / Pin
Fan input power (Pin) is:-
Pin (Watts) = V <Volts> x I <Amps>

Fan output power (Pout) or airpower using Metric units is:-
Pout (Watts) = Air pressure <m3/sec> x Air flow <Pascal's>

Using standard units the formula becomes:-
Pout (Watts) = (Air pressure <inch H2O> x Air flow <cfm>) / 8.5

Example:-
A 48V fan drawing 1A working at an operating point of 200 cfm and 0.5 inch H2O
Pin = 48 x 1 = 48 W
Pout = (200 x 0.5) / 8.5 = 11.76 W
Fan efficiency = 11.76 / 48 = 0.245 or 24.5 %

The Fan Efficiency Curve:

Fan efficiency varies dramatically as a function of aerodynamic loading. Because airpower is the product of flow and pressure, a fan working in the free air condition (no backflow pressure) has zero pressure and thus is producing no airpower and by definition has zero efficiency. Similarly, a fan in the fully shut off condition (no flow) has zero flow and is also producing no airpower and zero efficiency. The peak efficiency of an axial fan typically occurs at a pressure point of 1/3rd the maximum pressure.

Figure 1 below represents a performance plot of a 120mm size axial fan with curves for both airflow and efficiency.

Figure 1: Pressure vs. Flow Curve - 120mm Axial Fan

As a general rule, fan efficiency increases with blade diameter and speed. Fan manufacturers are now focusing on higher efficiency fans, resulting in new designs with significantly increased peak efficiency compared to older designs. Table 1 provides an indication of peak efficiency values for different standard axial fan sizes and the comparative improvement with newer generation designs.

Table 1: Axial Fans Typical Peak Efficiency;

Form Factor	Old	New
40 x 40	10%	25%
60 x 60	14%	30%
80 x 80	16%	33%
92 x 92	18%	35%
120 x 120	24%	40%
172 round	35%	45%

Fan Selection Taking Account of Efficiency:

Historically, fans were chosen by finding a standard form factor to occupy the available space and then matching airflow performance against system requirement; typically using free flow as a figure of merit. This approach has the potential for missing significant power savings which could be realized by carefully matching fan efficiency to the system operating point.

In the example shown below, (Fig. 2), selecting the fan based upon free air performance would favor the high flow fan option. Overlaying the system resistance line on the performance curve shows the high flow fan would achieve the required performance of 110cfm at 0.48 inch H2O.

However, comparing this fan efficiency at the operating point against an alternative lower free air flow fan design, it can be seen the second design would actually provide higher efficiency while still meeting the duty point.

Figure 2: Pressure Vs. Flow Curve with Fan Efficiency and System impedance

Benefits of Selecting High Efficiency Fans:

Higher levels of power are required to cool the large amount of heat generated by today's high end servers. As a result, more electrical power will be needed to be allocated to the system's cooling components. In some instances, 25% or more of the total power budget for a high end rack system is allocated to the cooling fans.

Using high efficiency fans has a cascade effect on system design. Power supplies can be down sized saving weight and space and the fans power distribution network can be minimized.

The long term benefit of specifying high efficiency fans is a reduction of ownership costs. Large data centers can contain tens of thousands of servers with anywhere between 10 and 50 fans in each.

A few percentage points improvement in the efficiency of every fan installed can quickly represent many thousands of dollars in annual energy savings.

High efficiency fans can be more costly than older fan types, and this can be seen as a deterrent. Engineers and purchasing managers should understand the wider implications of using these newer fan designs.

System level savings can result from the lower power requirements and substantial energy savings can be realized by the end user.

Hi 'UAE Top Ten Construction Companies in Dubai!'.

Hi 'UAE Top Ten Construction Companies in Dubai!'.

Construction companies in Dubai are the lifeblood of this state. Dubai cannot survive without construction companies. Dubai is the place, which has the largest number of construction projects in the world. Here is a review of major construction companies in Dubai.

ACTCO

ACTCO is a local company operating in the UAE, belonging to a group of multinational shareholders. Since its establishment in 1975, ACTCO has prided itself on an impressive record of successfully completed projects, and has enjoyed the reputation of meeting its schedules and doing so within budget and to the highest client satisfaction.

ACTCO currently employs over 3300 employees in various disciplines and activities over a wide spectrum of civil turn-key projects in industrial developments, infrastructure/ utilities, power plants, desalination plants, oil and gas projects, industrial buildings, airport facilities and commercial/residential buildings.

Arabian Construction Company (ACC)

ACC has been operating since 1967, through a comprehensive regional network throughout the Middle East. From power generation and desalination plants, to factories, hotels, hospitals, and intricately sophisticated smart buildings, ACC's track record is a prestigious list of efficiently delivered projects.

Established contacts in the region, a dedicated workforce and an exacting standard for completion have gained the company a competitive edge well recognized in the industry. ACC benefits from a working network in many areas in the Middle East which allows it to mobilize rapidly throughout the region.

ACC offers full contracting services and has the flexibility to assist the client by securing additional expertise for feasibility studies, preliminary designs, financing opportunities and joint venture partners for optimum project delivery.

Dutco GroupThe history and development of the Dutco Group of Companies is inextricably interwoven with that of Dubai itself. The establishment of Dutco, as the company is generally known, dates back to 1947, when a leading local businessmen Mr. Yousuf Baker established Dubai Transport Company.

From these beginnings, the company has grown steadily and today it is one of the largest construction companies in Dubai. There is virtually no aspect of Dubai's infrastructure development in which the Dutco Group does not play a part, with successes extending well beyond Dubai and the UAE.

Activities include large-scale civil engineering works, mechanical and electrical engineering, Piling & soil improvement, civil engineering, dredging, survey and reclamation, pipeline engineering, information technology and telecommunications, shipping and freight services, trading and luxury hotel operations.

Nakeel Group
Nakheel is the largest property developer in Dubai. They are responsible for mega projects such as The Palm Island project, The World island project etc.

Emaar

Emaar Properties PJSC is one of the world’s largest real estate companies and is rapidly evolving to become a global provider of premier lifestyles. A Dubai-based Public Joint Stock Company, Emaar is listed on the Dubai Financial Market and is part of the Dow Jones Arabia Titans Index.

In Dubai, Emaar is extending its expertise in creating master-planned communities to international markets. Simultaneously, Emaar is developing new competencies in hospitality & leisure, malls, education, healthcare and financial services, which have evolved from its integrated approach to customer service and property development.

With six business segments and more than 60 active companies, Emaar has a collective presence in over 36 markets spanning the Middle East, North Africa, Pan-Asia, Europe and North America. The company has established operations in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Libya, India, Pakistan, Turkey, Indonesia, USA, Canada and United Kingdom.

DAMAC

DAMAC Properties is part of DAMAC Holdings. DAMAC properties was established in 1995 and has grown into one of the most successful residential, leisure and commercial developers in Dubai and the Middle East, and is expanding rapidly into North Africa, Jordan, Lebanon, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the Far East.

DAMAC Properties manage all their projects from start to finish, the company’s diverse range of expertise allows them to control land purchase activity, appointment of architects and designers, construction and sales and after sales service. In addition to support services provided by their Dubai headquarters, the company’s comprehensive Customer Care Program provides solutions through its vast regional network with offices in the UK (London, Manchester, Reading, Leicester, Birmingham and Glasgow), Ireland, Italy, UAE, Russia, Jordan,Lebanon, Egypt, KSA, Pakistan and Qatar.

Al Naboodah

Established in 1975, Al Naboodah Contracting Company- Civil Engineering Division has achieved a notable record in the field of civil construction.

This is one of the most respected locally owned construction companies in Dubai.

Their construction projects are part of the landmarks that symbolise the development of United Arab Emirates.

Maritime Industrial Services

Established in the Middle East since 1979, Maritime Industrial Services Co. Ltd. Inc. (MIS) enjoys continued success in the petroleum-related construction and services industry.

MIS is one of the leading contractors in the Middle East, providing a full line of engineering, procurement, fabrication, construction, safety, operating, and maintenance services to the oil, gas, petrochemical, power generation, marine, and heavy industries.

DCC

DCC is a leading international construction company in Dubai. Right from its inception in 1962, DCC has been committed to achieving the highest standards in its field.

DCC offers a wide range of services ranging from turnkey projects to construction and service contracts.

With an eye to the future, DCC established early alliances with leading architectural, design and engineering firms, and it began to build a network of companies which, though launched in the United Arab Emirates, soon rose to global prominence.

Today, after four decades of achievements that constantly raised the bar for excellence, the company's reputation is well established in the skylines of some of the world's most modern cities.

Kanoor

Kanoor contracting is leading Civil and Electro-Mechanical construction company in the G.C.C. for more than two decades. Kanoor is a leading contractor for oil and Gas, Industries, Refineries, Cement, Fertilizer, Steel and Aluminum Plant and Power Plants, Infra-structure, Villas, Warehouses etc. in the Gulf Countries - Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman and U.A.E.

Kanoor Contracting (LLC) established in U.A.E. in the year 2001 with an aim to cater booming local Industrial, Civil & Electro Mechanical Industry. The company has played a significant role in the industrialization with well-qualified and experienced Managers, Engineers and Workforce.

(Hi) Worker Benefits of Maintaining Exhaust Fan: Food Industry Case Study.

Hi Case Study:

Application Overview:

A Snack Food Facility in needed to clean vegetable oil residues from its production line exhaust fan systems. The fans were so encrusted that they were out of balance and not adequately drawing the cooking oil vapors off the production line. With an average build-up of six inches of oil, the fan systems also were vibrating severely.

There are three fan systems, each approximately 350 square feet. Each system is comprised of a 6-foot diameter fan and motor in a fully enclosed shroud with hinged outflow louvers designed to open when the exhaust system is functional. However, the louvers were inoperable and propped up with broom handles.

Substrates:

Galvanized steel

Previous Methods:

A chemical solution was sprayed on all surfaces to soften the oils. This was followed with hand scraping and a hot water rinse. Unfortunately, the chemical solution eventually was unable to remove the continued build-up.

Special Concerns:

First, the cleaning materials needed to be approved for use in a food production facility. Second, the fan system needed to be protected from damage. Third, dust had to be minimized to avoid migration throughout the plant.

Project Schedule:

Each fan system had to be cleaned between 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on the one scheduled "down day" per week. Cleaning the rooftop mounted exhaust fans in temperature averaging 100 degrees posed a special challenge to the workers.

Containment:

Dust suppression was the only containment required. All material was flushed down the inside of the ventilation chamber to the production room floor below for clean up by the facility sanitation personnel.

Results/Benefits Summary:

The production personnel reaped immediate and measurable benefits. After cleaning, the fans and exhaust systems functioned as designed. The hinged shrouds opened easily, and fans operated with zero vibration. Production personnel reported that there was a "world of difference" on the production floor due to proper exhaust operation. As a result, the maintenance personnel are establishing an ongoing cleaning schedule.

Hi Social Media Plays 'A Key Role' In Employment in Saudi Arabia.

In Hi' summary: "Social Media"

Social media is significantly impacting entrepreneurship and helping create employment opportunities in the Arab world, according to the first ever comprehensive study on the connection between social media and Mena employment, launched this week.

Close to 5,000 respondents from around the region contributed to the Dubai School of Government (DSG) report titled "Social Media, Employment and Entrepreneurship - New Frontiers for the Economic Empowerment of Arab Youth", which indicated that social media is playing a key role in promoting social advancement, job creation and business growth in the region, particularly in terms of supporting SMEs and facilitating start-ups.

"It is critical that companies use social media to engage both existing and aspiring employees.

Harnessing value from the flow of big data generated from social media is critical for driving greater operational efficiency, cutting costs, boosting profits and unlocking new routes to innovation," said Sam Alkharrat, Managing Director of SAP Mena, who was a partner in the study.

Nearly 80% of those surveyed agreed that social media, and associated technology, helps provide access to important job market data, allowing users to both advertise and locate job opportunities, with 75% agreeing that a new 'virtual job market' has emerged as a result of engagement with social platforms.

While perhaps being weaker in terms of case studies and quantitative research on how social media engagement is leading to successful entrepreneurship, the study did cover the range of uses for social media.

"Of course this is just based on peoples' perception and it doesn't necessarily translate onto the ground yet," Racha Mourtada, Research Associate with Dubai School of Government told AMEinfo. "But we do know that people are willing to utilise social media to create enterprises and promote job creation, so the willingness is there as well as the realisation of the benefits of social media."

"It's mostly been a qualitative approach, but we did have a few questions about peoples' actual experience with social media. We specifically asked entrepreneurs what they use social media for - mostly promotion and outreach. We're not quite at the stage where [social media] is used as more of a collaborative tool for crowd sourcing and crowd funding."

Report shows enthusiasm toward social media in business:

Close to 5,000 respondents from around the region contributed to the Dubai School of Government (DSG) report titled "Social Media, Employment and Entrepreneurship - New Frontiers for the Economic Empowerment of Arab Youth", which indicated that social media is playing a key role in promoting social advancement, job creation and business growth in the region, particularly in terms of supporting SMEs and facilitating start-ups.

"It is critical that companies use social media to engage both existing and aspiring employees.

Harnessing value from the flow of big data generated from social media is critical for driving greater operational efficiency, cutting costs, boosting profits and unlocking new routes to innovation," said Sam Alkharrat, Managing Director of SAP Mena, who was a partner in the study.

Nearly 80% of those surveyed agreed that social media, and associated technology, helps provide access to important job market data, allowing users to both advertise and locate job opportunities, with 75% agreeing that a new 'virtual job market' has emerged as a result of engagement with social platforms.

While perhaps being weaker in terms of case studies and quantitative research on how social media engagement is leading to successful entrepreneurship, the study did cover the range of uses for social media.

"Of course this is just based on peoples' perception and it doesn't necessarily translate onto the ground yet," Racha Mourtada, Research Associate with Dubai School of Government told AMEinfo. "But we do know that people are willing to utilise social media to create enterprises and promote job creation, so the willingness is there as well as the realisation of the benefits of social media."

"It's mostly been a qualitative approach, but we did have a few questions about peoples' actual experience with social media. We specifically asked entrepreneurs what they use social media for - mostly promotion and outreach. We're not quite at the stage where [social media] is used as more of a collaborative tool for crowd sourcing and crowd funding."

Report shows enthusiasm toward social media in business

The landmark report excels in providing vital clues to the mood of young professionals - the majority of those surveyed were in their twenties. The research team from DSG had a specific profile in mind to reflect the demographics and gender breakdowns on which the study was focussed, which was about a 60% male and 40% female, leaning more towards younger people under 30. Respondents were mostly within the private sector, but generally all were social media savvy.

"We were pleasantly surprised about the overwhelmingly positive view that social media can impact entrepreneurship and employment," explained Mourtada.

The big surprise is due to the fact that, for young Arabs, the job market outside of the public sectors of wealthy GCCmember states is not at all bright. A UN survey released earlier this year referred to Arab youth unemployment as 'disturbingly high', while noting that Middle East and North African countries had the highest unemployment youth rates in in the world in 2011 - at 26.2% and 27.1%, respectively.

However, DSG's report tells a sunnier tale, hailing social media as a vital component for start-ups in the Arab world, with 86% of respondents agreeing it contributed to success. Among the reasons cited were the multifaceted marketing potential (90%), a capacity to tap into wider markets (86%), substantial customer engagement options (85%) and its overall potential to raise awareness and instill entrepreneurial mindsets (84%).

Social media is significantly impacting entrepreneurship and helping create employment opportunities in the Arab world

Fadi Salem, Director of the Governance and Innovation Program, DSG, and co-author of the report, said in a statement: "Despite having few stable economies in the region today, the most active part of the Arab population; the youth, is increasingly feeling empowered. Our on-going research over the past two years has shown that close to 50 million Arabs are actively connected to social media and primarily use the platforms to change social and political realities in their countries.

Finding the balance between the UAE public, private sector

Salem chaired an expert panel at the launch of the report in order to facilitate discussion around where the responsibility lies in facilitating employment and business growth, in the context of an increasingly digital environment.

Speaking after the discussion, Mourtada admitted there was 'a bit of a way to go': "The panellists have been very candid about what needs to be done, their weaknesses and what issues need to be addressed - it seems from what's been discussed that the public sector is carrying a lot of the burden for job creation and the private sector needs to step up. So, I think just recognising this is an important step," she said.

It may be true that the government route may be a safety net for many, particularly in the UAE, though there is no shortage of incentives. The emirates are peppered with Free Zones, where businesses can be established at very limited cost, though Mourtada pointed to a shift in attitude being the real key.

"In the UAE there hasn't been that much of a hunger or need to succeed, because things are provided on so many levels, which is another contributing factor. It's about creating public-private partnerships. I think both have a lot to shoulder, but both need each other in order to create any sustainable initiatives."

"I think the government has been a bit of a safety net for a lot of people. A lot of youth expect to finish school and go into a stable government job, but now a lot of young people are changing and a lot of people want to create their own jobs and be their own boss. That's a big step forward," she continued.

Hi Point of Interest : 11 Cool Names & Concepts That Tie The Knot In Air conditioning To Watch Out For in The Near Future!

Hi Point of Interest : 11 Cool Names & Concepts That Tie The Knot In Air conditioning To Watch Out For in The Near Future!

Our Hi Clientele Point of Interest For The Month Turns Our Attention To An Interesting Article by the infamous green guru columnist MICHAEL KANELLOS An Article published on MARCH 31, 2009 Introducing Interesting Air Conditioning Concepts to look out for.

There will be no doubt after reading this article the concept of Air conditioning. That You only think it's boring will dissipate. It's one of the big issues in global warming. And Here are some companies and concepts to keep a watchfull eye on.

When Considering, Air conditioning management:

In most circumstances, it's not the kind of job that attracts groupies. Nonetheless, the subject will begin to occupy a greater portion of the energy debate as energy efficiency and green buildings expand. Building operations consume 39 percent of the energy in the U.S. and HVAC gobbles up a big part of that.  Air con and ventilation account for 15 percent of the energy used in commercial buildings, while heating accounts for 36 percent. Air conditioning represents about 16 percent of the electricity consumed in homes. The percentage of homes with air conditioning rose from 27 percent in 1980 to 55 percent in 2001.

Worse, the air conditioners come on during the hottest days in the year en masse, when power is at its peak price and brown-danger looms. Secretary of Energy Steve Chu, in his previous assignment at Lawrence Berkeley Labs, oversaw one of the premier research centers for building management.

Although companies such as Johnson Controls and Honeywell have continually improved the efficiency of their products, the design and operation of buildings, the aged install base and other factors leave a lot of room for improvement.

The following is a guide to startups and others trying to crank down the high cost of cooling. So how do they do IT?

1. AC Research: Formerly known as Viridis Earth, AC Research has effectively devised a computer-controlled misting system for residential air conditioners. The product essentially sprays water vapor into the air around an air conditioner, the same way misters at outdoor cafes keep patrons cool. The goal of the system is to keep the air around the air conditioner around 80 degrees, which in turns leaves less for the air conditioner to chill. The trick is getting the sensors and control systems to work together, says founder Tuyen Vo. Vo came up with the idea after the 2001 blackout. He learned about cooling when working with cryogenic pumps at a semiconductor maker.

Pre-cooling can save a home in a hot region around $500. AC will conduct trials with two utilities later this year.

2. Octus Energy: The company is trying to commercialize a technology out of UC Davis called WicKool that collects the condensate (i.e., water drops) extracted from the cool air flows created by an air conditioner and uses that to pre-cool incoming air. Octus Energy's design also lets building managers get rid of a condensation ejection system. It's a passive system but can improve air conditioner efficiency by 3 percent to 5 percent. It's been tested at a Walmart and Target in the Sacramento, Calif. area. WicKool may license to other companies.

3. Smart Cool Systems: Smart Cool Systems has algorithms that optimize the compressor in commercial or residential air conditioners, the component that can account for up to 70 percent of the power consumed by some systems. More than 26,000 of its energy saving modules have been installed. Smart Cool Systems has been around for nearly 20 years and is still small.

4. Chromasun: Chromasun has developed a solar air conditioner from Ausra co-founder Peter Le Lievre (see Ausra Co-Founder Returns With Solar Air Conditioner). Solar air conditioner? Heat is captured with a rooftop device similar to a solar thermal power plant. The heat is then used, instead of natural gas, to boil a refrigerant in a solution in a sealed chamber. Through heat exchangers and manipulating the pressure inside the sealed chambers, the refrigerant is re-condensed into a low-temperature liquid and employed create cold air. The evaporation-condensation cycle goes as long as the sun provides enough heat.

Fifty percent of the demand for power during peak periods in California and 70 percent of the power in Dubai can be attributed to air conditioners, according to Le Lievre. Peak power typically comes when air conditioners are cranking their hardest.

"Ninety-five percent of that can be tackled by a solar thermal air conditioner on the roof," he said. "The biggest market is for peak AC."

5. Ice Energy: This one is best understood without technical talk. Ice Energy's Ice Bear makes ice at night, when power is cheap. The stored energy (i.e., chilly vapor) then runs the air conditioner at night. Remember sticking your head in the fridge on sunny days and breathing? Similar principle. The company says its systems collectively have performed for two million hours in the field and that it is currently bidding on twenty utility projects.

6. Ground Source Geothermal: Sandblasting with steel. Ground Source Geothermal has devised a way to drill holes for geothermal cooling systems with steel sand, rather than a drill bit. The drilling unit, which relies in part by ideas from some of the same people who brought you the hot rock geothermal technology at Los Alamos National Labs, can also take advance acoustic readings of soil to improve drilling efficiency. The technology is also being improved so you can drill through the foundation of your house. it can also be used for heating and cooling.

While Lord Kelvin first studied ground temperatures, Robert Webber invented the first shallow geo heat pumps. Throughout most of the U.S., the temperature of the ground about five feet below the surface remains roughly constant throughout the year: 45 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit in the northern parts of the country and 50 degrees to 70 degrees in the south.

7. PhotoSolar, Sage Electrochromics: Technically, PhotoSolar and Sage Electrochromics are not air conditioner companies, but they keep heat from entering buildings, which reduces the strain on the air conditioner. Denmark's PhotoSolar has a film that keeps out 50 percent of solar radiation. Sage has windows that dynamically change tint with daylight: after several years of development Sage is moving toward a wider commercial release.

In this same vein, more things you can add to the list are LED and energy efficient lighting companies like Bridgelux (less waste heat – less air conditioner work), contractors selling white roofs (heat reflectors), data center efficiency experts, and industrial waste heat specialists like Recycled Energy Development.

8. Maglev compressors: This isn't a company name, we're just listing the concept. The same technology that allows high-speed trains to float in Japan is now being used to run compressors. "They are really incredible compressors," said David Leathers, a VP at Limbach, one of the country's larger engineering contractual firms. (Limbach has done work for the both the Detroit Lions and the NRDC, which will not be playing each other in the playoffs.)

9. Optimum Energy: The company thinks in tons. It has created software that dynamically adjusts the activity of water chillers in large buildings. Optimum Energy says it can cut the energy required for a ton of water in a large building's chiller system down to 0.5 kilowatts (see Better Cold Water Through Software). Older buildings can consume 1.4 kilowatts. Even LEED platinum buildings can consume 0.7 kilowatts, said founder Nathan Rothman, CEO. The software adjusts the activity of the chiller by looking at occupancy data, temperature, etc.

10. Cimetrics: Instead of controlling the water, Cimetrics controls what goes on inside your building. It monitors thermostats, carbon monoxide sensors and other systems. It then matches the performance of the HVAC system against a simulation that determines how it should be performing.

"It is like data mining for buildings," says CEO James Lee, who says the way Americans heat and cool buildings is "absolutely ridiculous."

11. Comverge, EnerNoc and other demand response companies: Although you've heard about the smart home, those smart meters and other wireless devices right now are primarily connected to the heating and air conditioning system.

And bonus number zero. Nothing. This is perhaps the ultimate system for reducing air con power. In some areas such as Seattle and Northern California, architects like Perkins + Will are just leaving out the air conditioners. It cuts power and gives developers a nice bonus of LEED points. This can be supplemented with air side economizers that draw in scrubbed ambient air. (These devices can also be used to cool data centers in cold climates like Ireland.)