FEBE hosts world renowned scientists at research seminar

by Mosima Rafapa


20 September 2023

The Tshwane University of Technology’s Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE) hosted two world-renowned and prominent scientists, Prof Ranganayakulu Chennu from India’s Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) and Prof Baoming Chen from China’s Shandong Jianzhu University, during a research seminar for postgraduate students, academics and researchers specialising in Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering in August 2023. 

Prof Ranganayakulu Chennu from India’s Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) and Prof Baoming Chen from the Shandong Jianzhu University, in China during a research seminar discussion.

BITS is currently carrying out a three-year project called "Nanofluids Thermal Energy Systems", funded by the National Research Foundation and the Indian Department of Science and Technology, as part of a South Africa-India bilateral collaboration agreement.

During his presentation, Prof Chennu shared insight on his research about the advancements in Environmental Control Systems and Compact Heat Exchangers for Aerospace Applications. He provided a detailed overview of the “energy demands, heating and air conditioning systems used in aerospace applications”. He also discussed the latest technologies and developments, highlighting their impact on reducing emissions.

Prof Chen presented his research titled "Progress on Solid-Liquid Phase Change Heat Transfer" that focuses on the latest details of solid-liquid phase change materials used for thermal energy storage, specifically concerning the efficiencies of the charging and discharging processes. 

"Both presentations are closely related to the research activities currently being carried out in our thermal energy and refrigeration research group. The advancements presented by the two reputable professors in these application areas serve to broaden the minds of both TUT staff and research students," said Professor Huan.

Prof Huan emphasized the significance of research exchange and collaboration, highlighting their crucial role in establishing a conducive research and academic environment at TUT. He also discussed the creation of a platform to facilitate discussions on technological topics and enable staff members and students to exchange ideas and learn from each other.

Prof Huan led discussions during the seminar on the Advancement of Thermal Fluid Technologies for Mitigation of Emissions.

Prof Ranganayakulu Chennu and Prof Baoming Chen with FEBE’s postgraduate students and staff members after a successful research seminar.
In conversation with FEBE’s Executive Dean Dr Grace Kanakana-Katumba, Assistant Dean for Postgraduate, Research and Innovation Prof Mxolisi Shongwe, Research Project Leader Prof Zhongjie Huan are world renowned scientists, Prof Ranganayakulu Chennu and Prof Baoming Chen.

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