Overview of Status of Analysis, Design, Fabrication, Tests, etc.
More data was taken using our ramrod method and leaving the sensor in the compost pile for 10-15 minutes for the plastic probe to heat up let the compost settle, leading to more accurate measurements.
Our sponsor would like for us to collect more data using the same method to verify accuracy.
Accomplishments from Previous Week
Armando bought the piece of stock steel that we are using as a ram rod.
We all went down to the compost facility and collected data using our ram rod. The new procedure yielded surprisingly accurate data after comparing with the gravimetric method. To obtain more reliable measurements, we need to allow the probe to sit in the compost pile for at least 10 minutes.
Used much more accurate and repeatable way to find bulk density of compost
We tested the new Field scout TDR probe that ReoTemp bought for us and our data was drastically affected by the high temperature of the compost.
Goals for Next Week (list names after each item). Use specific and measurable objectives.
(Armando) Get another bucket of biosolids from the wastewater plant and calculate the bulk density for the conversion from percent mass to percent volume.
(Tim, Evan, Paulie) Take another 8 data points at the compost facility to verify the accuracy of the new "ram rod and wait" procedure with 8" and if it arrives in time the 4' probe.
Sponsor Comments from Last Meeting and Actions Taken to Address these Comments (indicate date of comments and if via email or in person)
Had conference call with Field Scout.
Due to the high temperature of compost, the field scout probe will not yield reliable data. We are expecting a call back from one of their engineers later this week.
Initial feedback is their probe won't work for this application
Updated the experimental method; will be obtaining further data on Friday at the on-site facility.
Instructor Comments from Last Meeting and Actions Taken to Address these Comments (indicate date of comments and if via email or in person)
None from last meeting on 06 January 2016.
Comments from Other Students in the Class (indicate date of comments and if via email or in person)
more of the student comments pertain to the formatting of our presentation (change background so it is easier to read).
A spearfishing/elastic band for inserting ramrod
more complicated than needed, can insert ramrod manually
Risks and Areas of Concern
There are concerns about the time that is needed for the probe to properly "warm up" and give accurate data (either to temp or soil settling).
Precision of probe, some readings were outside the ±5% threshold
Resources or Information Required but not Available
Ability to increase sampling radius. ESI would not give contact info from their contractor.
Schedule
Upcoming Milestone: Begin the calibration process, decide on semi permanent or portable probe
Budget (list amount spent and amount remaining)
Need to Update budget form:
Add buckets
Soon to purchase: Gloves and extra materials to handle biosolids.
Items purchased over the weekend
Additional plastic storage containers
Saws (Home Depot)
Metal Items (e.g. ram rod, materials for soil sampler) (Competitive Metals, Inc.)
$1479.93 spent, $4520.07 remaining
Progress on Report and Webpage
Background, Existing Solutions, Requirements rough draft completed
Testing Data added to Reports>doc section
Final Report rough draft added to Reports section