Browsing Faculty of Engineering and Technology by Issue Date
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Mwewa, W.L. (University of Botswana, www.ub.bw, NaN, 1999)[more][less]
Abstract: The demand for adequate training of artisans and apprentices in the construction industry cannot be over emphasized in view of the rapid changes the industry is undergoing. Many of of these changes are continously taking place especially in the areas of utilization and maintainability of construction materials. The local vocational institutions should vigorously embark on reviewing the vocational education and training. This will result in the supply of cadres with acceptible quality of training in order to meet the challenges of the building industry. In spite of the ten years of involvement by the local vocational institutions in the training of artisans and apprentices there is still shortage of skilled manpower. The aim of the paper, therefore, is to assess the relevance of the vocational training programs and the trends of output of artisans and apprentices trained before and after the second construction boom from boom from 1986 to 1990 and 1992 to 1996. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/882 Files in this item: 1
Mwewa_BJT_1999.pdf (1.091Mb) -
Ssegawa, J.K. (University of Botswana, http://www.ub.bw, NaN, 1999)[more][less]
Abstract: By the turn of the century, Botswana will be 34 years old as an independent nation. Reflecting on the past, is a background of tremendous achievements from a socio-economic development perspective. The achievements could not have been possible if it was not for the contribution. The construction industry’s (CI) contribution to socio-economic development may be viewed from many areas, among them, creating employment, wealth and demand for manufactured goods, infrastructure and producing factors of production (e.g. office space, factory shells, roads, etc) for other sectors. However, the relationship between the general economy and the CI has not been established explicitly despite numerous studies. Using Botswana’s CI and the economy, some of the paradigms proposed in previous studies revisited. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/843 Files in this item: 1
Ssegawa_BJT_1999.pdf (1.185Mb) -
Kanyeto, O.J. (University of Botswana, NaN, 1999)[more][less]
Abstract: Advantages of using Finite Element Method (FEM)in structural engineering practice are presented in this paper.A brief description of the method is given with the aim to illustrate the rich solid mathematical basis that makes its foundation.The paper then presents some guidelines on how to build a good model for Finite Element Analysis (FEA) purposes. The guideline emphasises the need for the analyst to have a clear understanding of the physical problem and of the behaviour of the elements he employs to carry out the analysis.A practical example presented in order to illustrate the type of analysis and results that can be obtained from a commercial FE software package. This example forms part of the research work that was carried out by the author.And finally, it is recommended that all practicing structural engineers must learn the basics of finite element method, and be equiped with some FE software packagess. Since it is the most commonly used and trusted method in the world of engineering today. In order to keep up with the rest of the world in engineering advancements, the author finds it vital to equip all engineers with the latest engineering software packages and to elevate continuing engineering education. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/681 Files in this item: 1
kanyeto_BJT_1999.pdf (1.860Mb) -
Ssegawa, J.K. (University of Botswana http://www.ub.bw, NaN, 1999)[more][less]
Abstract: By the turn of the century,Botswana will be 34 years old as an independent nation. Reflecting on the past, is a background of tremedous achievements from a socio-economic development perspective.The achievement could not have been possible if it was not for the contribution from the various sectors of the economy, such as mining, agriculture, manufacturing and of course, construction. The construction industry's (CI) contribution to socio-economic development may be viewed from many areas, among them, creating employment, wealth and demand for manufactured goods, infrastructure and producing factors of production(e.g. office space, factory shells, roads, etc.) for other sectors. However, the relationship between the general economy and the CI has not been established explicitly despite the numerous studies. Using Botswana's CI and the economy, some of the paradigms proposed in previous studies revisited. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/706 Files in this item: 1
Ssegawa_BJT_1999.pdf (1.950Mb) -
Khartchenko, N.V.; Oladiran, M.T.; Douglass, G.W. (University of Botswana, http://www.ub.bw, NaN, 1999)[more][less]
Abstract: Coal is plentiful in many parts of the world but its combustion can create severe environmental and aesthetic problems.In the past three decades, the cost of crude oil and natural gas has been unstable and the reserves of these fuels are exhaustible. Other non-conventional energy resources, for example, solar, wind and tidal energy are only making a small contribution to the energy mix in few countries. Consequently, coal still has an important role to play to satisfy the energy demand, especially when it can be converted before combustion to other less environmentally objectionable forms, e.g. coal gas/producer gas. This paper describes the basic principles of coal gasification process and compares the performance of different gasifiers. The fundamentals of the raw gas cleaning methods are presented and experience to date of coal gasification in Botswana is discussed.It seems certain that coal gasification in tanderm with combined cycle power plant will be a principal technique for electricity generation in the next century. The paper recommends that Botswana takes necessary actions to gain maximum advantage from these developments. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/710 Files in this item: 1
Khartchenko_BJT_1999.pdf (1.810Mb) -
Litchev, A.I.; Yanev, K.M. (University of Botswana, NaN, 1999)[more][less]
Abstract: Electromagnets are essentials for the operation of relays, contactors and other electromagnetic apparatus and take part in driving control and protective circuits of industrial processes and power systems. Performance of each electromagnet affects the driving time and the stability of operation of such circuits. This paper examines the improvement of the performance of AC electromagnets by using two diodes. The theoritical analysis lead to expressions for calculating the maximum, average and minimum values of coil-currents. Due to the electromagnetic processes in the coil, the current becomes pulsating but unidirectional and better force-gap characteristics are achieved. Consideration are made for reduction of the mass ferromagnetic and copper materials in the electromagnets and for decreasing teh responding time. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/683 Files in this item: 1
Litchev_BJT_1999.pdf (924.8Kb) -
Rekha, A.; Raju, V.C.C. (University of Botswana, NaN, 1999)[more][less]
Abstract: The stress-attention in cascade reliability has been studied when both stess and strength follow Rayleigh distribution. The expression for the relaibility R(n), for a system survive with the first (n-1) components failed and the n component active, is obtained R(n) is calculated numerically, for n=1,2,3 and 4, for different values of the parameter p and the attention factor k. It has been found that with lower attention factors in high degree of reliability can be attained. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/677 Files in this item: 1
Rekha_BJT_1999.pdf (887.1Kb) -
Ganesan, C.T. (University of Botswana, NaN, 1999)[more][less]
Abstract: Water scarcity in arid and semi-arid countries such as Botswana; call for judicious planning and economic use. In this connection many water saving components and appliances have been devised. One such system for example is the partial flushing unit fitted to water closets, which cause the volume and flow of water in the drainage system decrease, compared with the ordinary systems. To maintain a sufficient transportation in drainage pipes connected to low flush water closets (water closets with a flow less than 6 litres per flush)it is necessary to follow a set of rules used in conventional systems. Author suggests that in countries like Botswana where availability of water is unpredictable only 4 litres per flush can be allowed for successful operations. In this paper certain rules for design and dimensioning drainage pipes for water saving systems are proposed. Besides the paper presents a complete general survey of the influence of branches and bends illustrated by means of drawings and descriptions. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/618 Files in this item: 1
Ganesan_BJT_1999.pdf (1.079Mb) -
Rwelamila, P. D.; Talukhaba, A .A.; Ngowi, A.B. (Emerald http://www.emeraldinsight.com, NaN, 1999)[more][less]
Abstract: The lack of 'ubuntu'(African group solidarity) between project stakeholders in the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) public building sector has been surrounded by controversy and strongly held opinions. The work reported in this paper attempts to indicate some salient issues affecting the relationshps between project stakeholders. The Botswana public building sector is used as a main case study and follwo-up studies are carried out involving another eight SADC countries. The paper addresses two propositions.First, that the lack of 'ubuntu' between project stakeholders is primarily due to an inappropriate project organizational structure.Second, that a default traditional construction procurement system (TCPS) provides a poor relationship management system. Information is obtained on the research areas through questionnaires to confirm executives, contract managers, site managers, trade foremen and skilled tradeperson on the dominant procurement system used in Botswana. Furthermore, senior technical officers of Public Works Ministries of another eight SADC countries are interviewed as a follow-up to the Botswana study. The primary conclusion to be drawn is that the building procurement system purported to be in use in the SADC public building sector differs significantly from that recommended in the theory, resulting in poor relationships between project stakeholders. This is primarily due to the use of inappropriate building procurement systems. In general, the TCPS in the SADC public buiding sector is used as a 'default system.' This has led to a situation where project management is a 'firefighting' activity, where group solidarity between project stakeholders is out of reach. Salient steps are proposed with proviso that the SADC public building sector should establish appropriate methods of selecting building procurement systems as a prerequisite in formulating appropriate project organizational structures which will bring the spirit of real co-operation between project stakeholders towards project success. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/612 Files in this item: 1
Rwelamila_ECAM_1999.pdf (1.580Mb) -
Oladiran, M. T. (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/RecentIssue.jsp?punumber=13, August NaN, 1999)[more][less]
Abstract: This paper presents the results of an investigation to determine the level of continuing professional development (CPD) for engineers in developing countries. Questionnaires were administered randomly to engineers of different specialties. It was found that CPD for engineers in developing countries seems neglected. Experience and state of the art in the profession are, thus, not usually acquired in an organized fashion. Nevertheless, many of these engineers would support the introduction of continuing professional development at all levels of their careers. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/666 Files in this item: 1
Oladiran_IEEETE_1999.pdf (763.3Kb) -
Ngowi, A.B. (MCB University Press; Emerald Publishing Group Ltd; http://www.mcbup.com/research_registers/quality.asp, NaN, 2000)[more][less]
Abstract: Total quality management (TQM) as an integrated approach to management that represents a holistic management philosophy, rather than a series of techniques, is embedded with cultural values and assumptions that are consistent with its culture of origin. This study aims to determine the outcome of implementing TQM in a place that does not share its cultural base. A survey of 100 construction firms in Botswana found that, although the values embedded in TQM could be adopted within the organisations into which it is implemented, the cultural context of the greater society resisted some of the values. It was concluded that, for TQM to be successful in a particular cultural setting, it has to take on some of the host cultural values. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/170 Files in this item: 2
license.txt (1.998Kb)ngowi1.pdf (97.37Kb) -
Ngowi, A.B. (MCB University Press, http://www.emerald-library.com, NaN, 2000)[more][less]
Abstract: Total quality management (TQM) as an integrated approach to management that represents a holistic management philosophy, rather than a series of techniques, is embedded with cultural values and assumptions that are consistent with its culture of origin. This study aims to determine the outcome of implementing TQM in a place that does not share its cultural base. A survey of 100 construction firms in Botswana found that, although the values embedded in TQM could be adopted within the organisations into which it is implemented, the cultural context of the greater society resisted some of the values. It was concluded that, for TQM to be successful in a particular cultural setting, it has to take on some of the host cultural values URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/350 Files in this item: 1
Ngowi_2000_JEIM.pdf (915.4Kb) -
Rao, M.V.C. (University of Botswana, http://www.ub.bw, NaN, 2000)[more][less]
Abstract: This paper describes a new method of determining the feedback coefficients in a state variable feedback system, given the closed loop transfer function, making use of the transfer function between different and relevant points in the feedback configuration used to realize the desired closed loop transfer function, formulas that can be repetitively used to determine the feedback coefficients are desired. The usefulness and simplicity of these methods are demostrated by illustrative examples where the plant has complex poles, coincident poles and zeros and even when the plant is unstable. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/756 Files in this item: 1
Rao_BJT_2000.pdf (976.8Kb) -
Anderson, G.O.; Mokgwathi, T.S. (University of Botswana, NaN, 2000)[more][less]
Abstract: Engineering and training play an important role in the technical, economic and social progress of society.A number of factors influence the education and training of engineers, from the nature and form of curricular to needs of employers and the changing patterns of professional employment. Key issues are being raised by changes in technology, in society and by the impact of developments in information technology on industry and commercial development, on the engineer profession, on the educational institutions and on education and training of engineers. The paper considers the education and training of engineers using data and information from the Faculty of Engineering and Technology(FET), University of Botswana as a case study. Historical background is introduced.Student enrolment in terms of gender and foreign students are presented.Also presented are the academic programs and staff structures.The goals of the Faculty have been highlighted and strategies to be applied to achieve these goals have been recommended. The paper could be of interest to staff of FET and UB, Engineering Institutions in Africa and also to the Botswana Ministry of Finance and Manpower Development. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/674 Files in this item: 1
Anderson_BJT_2000.pdf (1.982Mb) -
Nair, S.; Vokolkova, V.; Abadjieva, T. (University of Botswana, NaN, 2000)[more][less]
Abstract: The percentage of students, especially women in engineering, is very low in Botswana and the country is still heavily dependent upon foreign human resources. The objective of this research has been to study the gender differences in education, which might have caused the current poor representation of women in engineering.The secondary school results of 749 students were statistically analyzed per gender. Three main factors were identified by factor analysis: the science ability, the general aptitude and the memory ability factor.As to the general-aptitude and memory ability factor, it was found that no statistically significant difference between boys and girls exists. However, there is a difference in the science-ability factor. To strengthen this factor for girls, it requires to make the studies of Mathematics and Science courses attractive to girls at early stage so that they are not limited in their options at the level of secondary education and thus in their career choice. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/624 Files in this item: 1
Nair_BJT_2000.pdf (1.543Mb) -
Nair, S.; Vokolkova, V.; Abadjieva, T.; Michalek, J. (University of Botswana, NaN, 2000)[more][less]
Abstract: The percentage of students, especially women in engineering, is very low in Botswana and the country is still heavily dependent upon foreign human resources.The objective of this research has been to study the gender differences in education,which might have caused the current poor representation of women in engineering.The secondary school results of 749 students were statistically analyzed per gender.Three main factors were identified by factor analysis:The science-ability, the general aptitude and the memory ability factor.As to the general aptitude and the memory ability,it was found that no statistically significant difference between boys and girls exists.However, there is a difference in the science-ability factor. To strengthen this factor for girls,it requires to make the study of mathematics and science courses attractive to girls at early stage so that they are not limited in their options at the level of secondary education and thus in their career choice. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/647 Files in this item: 1
Nair_BJT_2000.pdf (1.021Mb) -
Kiravu, C.S.A.M. (University of Botswana, NaN, 2000)[more][less]
Abstract: Computer models are used to replicate the essential performance features of a physical element using convenient modeling and simulation programs. Within SPICE, an acronym for the Simulation Program with Integrated-Circuit Emphasis, a model for the twin-depencence of the machine's open circuit generated e.m.f. on the time-independent flux and machine speed has not been investigated. This paper describes a steady state model of an open circuit DC shunt machine using PSPICE, the PC version of SPICE packaged within the OrCAD programming environment. The model is based on characterization of the generated e.m.f.as field current dependent polymial voltage source whose coeffecients are generated within MATHCAD by applying a linear regression fit on a set of experimental laboratory data points. The simulation results are displayed using the inbuilt graphic postprocessor within PSPICE called PROBE. This results show good replicative model validity within the laboratory range of exciting currents used in the simulative. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/621 Files in this item: 1
Kiravu_BJT_2000.pdf (849.3Kb) -
Sahu, B.K.; Jayaram, S. (University of Botswana, NaN, 2000)[more][less]
Abstract: Alarmingly high accumulation of fly ash has led geochemical engineers into finding a solution for the use of flyash as a construction material in the recent past. As of now, although the material has been used in a limited way in the construction of roads, embarkments,dykes and by cement industries, most of it is still dumped as a waste material. There is a general opinion mongst teh Geochemical engineers that fly ash is a non-hazardous material. However, the authors felt that it may not be entirely true due to the fact that fly ash does contain quite a significant proportion of soluble salts. These salts would leak into water if fly ash comes into contact with water or if the ground water leaked through a bed of fly ash. The investigation revealed that Dissolved Oxygen of fly ash polluted tap and clean water is reduced to a level far below the permissible limit for aquatic life. The author would like to emphasise that the findings of the present investigation are being submitted to open an agenda on the issue of water pollution by the fly ash leachate, may it be ground water, water in the vicinity of the ash being used in the construction of dykes,dams, river training structures or for reclamation on sea shores. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/601 Files in this item: 1
Sahu_BJT_2000.pdf (863.8Kb) -
Uziak, J.; Foster, J.D.G. (University of Botswana, NaN, 2001)[more][less]
Abstract: In this paper a method is presented which enables the solution of the equation of motion of the slider-crank mechanism. Expansion of functions into Fourier series is used in this method, whereby the solution of the equation is also Fourier series. This method enables also the determination of the coefficient of speed fluctuation of the slider-crank mechanism. The methods create the basis for an analysis of the influence of various factors, e.g. the working conditions or the construction parameters of the system, on the coefficient of speed fluctuation. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/702 Files in this item: 1
Uziak_BJT_2001.pdf (999.6Kb) -
Ngowi, A.B. (MCB University Press. http//:www.emerald.library.com/ft, NaN, 2001)[more][less]
Abstract: The primary purpose of forming alliance in the construction industry is to pool together the resources of the participating partners in order to form a team that has a competitive advantage. Each partner in an alliance has its own competence and market share that do not necessarily fall under the alliance as common resources. Therefore, although the competitive advantage aimed at when forming an alliance is for common profits, each partner has a possibility of using it (the competitive advantage) for private profits (i.e. activities that do not fall under the alliance). Using a case study from Botswana, this paper argues that a construction alliances strives as long as the profits created by common activities are substantially higher that the ones that can be created by private activities. Once one of the partners in the alliance can create the competitive advantage in question on its own, it will opt out of the alliance through such mechanisms as withdrawing some of its key contributions to the alliance. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/344 Files in this item: 1
Ngowi_2001_JEIMngt.pdf (1.186Mb)