Impact of the installation of magnetic devices at the Antonio Maceo Thermoelectric Power Plant and its contribution to academic training in the Mechanical Engineering career
Keywords:
magnetic devices, energy efficiency, training, university-industryAbstract
Introduction: The pursuit of greater efficiency in electricity generation at Cuban thermoelectric power plants is a top priority in development. The Antonio Maceo Thermoelectric Power Plant, as one of the pillars of the national electricity system, faces significant challenges that require innovative and sustainable solutions. The development of the territorial project PT223SC002-007, "Increasing Energy Efficiency at the Antonio Maceo Thermoelectric Power Plant through the Use of Magnetic Technology," has focused on implementing magnetic technology in the plant's production systems. This has led to increased technical and economic efficiency for the industry and a positive impact from a technical, economic, and environmental perspective. The objective of this work was to present the results of the installation of magnetic devices at the Antonio Maceo Thermoelectric Power Plant, highlighting the improvement in the academic training of mechanical engineering students. Materials and methods: Thirty-two magnetic devices were installed in January 2024 in the water line at the inlet of the heat exchangers (oil cooler and hydrogen cooler). The parameters of effectiveness (ε), thermal units transferred (NTU), and overall heat transfer coefficient (U) were evaluated, comparing measurements before (2018-2023) and after installation. Results: The effectiveness of the heat exchangers increased between 13% and 27.1% after the use of magnetic devices, allowing for the recovery of more than a quarter of the effectiveness lost due to fouling. Maintenance of the oil coolers was eliminated, resulting in cost savings of CUP $24,359.7 and USD $52,022.25. The University-Industry collaboration generated student scientific outputs: 4 undergraduate theses, 2 master's theses, 1 doctoral dissertation in progress, and participation in 8 national and international scientific events, with awards at the Science and Technology Forum and the Student Scientific Forum. Discussion: The results demonstrate that the magnetic system not only prevents fouling but also actively reverses a pre-existing fouling condition, improving heat transfer. The students' experience allowed them to develop skills in technical analysis, problem-solving, teamwork, project management, and presentation and defense, aligning with the core competencies of a mechanical engineer. Conclusions: The results strengthen the students' academic training and contribute to the technological and scientific development of the energy sector. The improved operational performance of the Antonio Maceo Thermoelectric Power Plant and the resulting cost savings demonstrate the effectiveness of applying science in the industrial sector. This collaborative model is a clear example of how synergy between academia and industry can generate positive and sustainable results for both parties, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7).
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Copyright (c) 2026 Josué Imbert González , Melek Campos Sofía, Geolbis Zamora Martínez , Alain Daniel Garzón Rodríguez
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