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Article
Publication date: 22 October 2019

Kanwar Pal Singh, Arvind Kumar and Deo Raj Kaushal

This paper aims to the transportation of high concentration slurry through pipelines that will require thorough understanding of physical and rheological properties of slurry, as…

174

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to the transportation of high concentration slurry through pipelines that will require thorough understanding of physical and rheological properties of slurry, as well as its hydraulic flow behavior. In spite of several contributions by the previous researchers, there is still a need to enrich the current understanding of hydraulic conveying through pipeline at various flow parameters. The pilot plant loop tests, particularly at high concentrations, are tedious, time-consuming and complex in nature. Therefore, in the current research the prediction methodology for slurry pipeline design based on rheological model of the slurry is used for calculation of pressure drop and other design parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

It has been established that slurry rheology plays important role in the prediction of pressure drop for laminar and turbulent flow of commercial slurries through pipeline. In the current research fly ash slurry at high concentration is chosen for rheological analysis. The effect of particle size and solid concentration is experimentally tested over the rheological behavior of slurry and based on the rheological data a correlation is developed for calculation of pressure drop in slurry pipeline.

Findings

The present study strongly supports the analytical approach of pressure drop prediction based on the rheological parameters obtained from the bench scale tests. The rheological properties are strongly influenced by particle size distribution (PSD), shear rate and solid mass concentration of the slurry samples. Pressure drop along the pipeline is highly influenced by flow velocity and solid concentration. The presence of coarser particles in the slurry samples also leads to high pressure drop along the pipeline. As the concentration of solid increase the shear stress and shear viscosity increase cause higher pressure drop.

Research limitations/implications

The transportation of slurry in the pipeline is very complex as there are lot of factors that affect the flow behavior of slurry in pipelines. From the vast study of literature it is found that flow behavior of slurry changes with the change in parameters such as solids concentration, flow velocity, PSD, chemical additives and so on. Therefore, the accurate prediction of hydraulic parameter is very difficult. Different slurry samples behave differently depending upon their physical and rheological characteristics. So it is required to study each slurry samples individually that is time-consuming and costly.

Practical implications

Nowadays in the world, long distance slurry pipelines are used for the transportation of highly concentration slurries. Many researchers have carried out an experiment in the design aspects of hydraulic transportation system. Rheological characteristics of slurry also play crucial role in determining important parameters of hydraulic conveying such as head loss in commercial slurry pipeline. The current research is useful for the prediction of pressure drop based on rheological behavior of fly ash slurry at various solid concentrations. The current research is helpful for finding the effect of solid concentration and flow velocity on the flow behavior of slurry.

Social implications

Slurry pipeline transportation has advantages over rail and road transportation because of low energy consumption, economical, less maintenance and eco-friendly nature. Presently majority of the thermal power plants in India and other parts of the world dispose of coal ash at low concentration (20 per cent by weight) to ash ponds using the slurry pipeline. Transporting solids in slurry pipelines at higher concentrations will require a thorough knowledge of pressure drop. In the current research a rheological model is proposed for prediction of pressure drop in the slurry pipeline, which is useful for optimization of flow parameters.

Originality/value

All the experimental work is done on fly ash slurry samples collect from the Jharli thermal power plant from Haryana State of India. Bench scale tests are performed in the water resource laboratory of IIT Delhi for physical and rheological analysis of slurry. It has been shown in the results that up to solid concentration of 50 per cent by mass all the samples behave as non-Newtonian and follows a Herschel–Bulkley model with shear thickening behavior. In the present research all the result outcomes are unique and original and does not copied from anywhere.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. 16 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

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Article
Publication date: 1 October 2018

Nitin Arora, Nidhi Grover Arora and Kritika Kanwar

The issue of mounting non-performing assets (NPAs) in Indian banking industry is serious and attracting attention of academia and policy planners. Thus, the purpose of this paper…

606

Abstract

Purpose

The issue of mounting non-performing assets (NPAs) in Indian banking industry is serious and attracting attention of academia and policy planners. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to test the hypothesis whether NPAs in Indian commercial banking have reached at alarming state where they start affecting the technical efficiency levels adversely or not.

Design/methodology/approach

The efficiency score have been computed using case model (model with NPAs as bad/undesirable output) vs control model (model without NPAs as bad/undesirable output) methodology under meta-frontier data envelopment analysis framework.

Findings

It has been noticed that the effect of NPAs on overall technical efficiency and its various components is insignificant. The comparison of the case models (i.e. model with NPAs as bad output) with the control models (i.e. model without NPAs) reveals insignificant difference in average efficiency scores and rank distribution of commercial banks. The major source of inefficiency is technology gap (i.e. structure, setup and objectives of banking) among public, domestic private and foreign private categories of banks.

Practical implications

Though NPAs are increasing in Indian banking industry and specifically in Indian public sector banks because of their compulsory lending to priority sector yet the banks have huge scope to extend credit to priority sector as the NPAs have not reached at alarming stage where they start affecting adversely the efficiency performance.

Originality/value

Given the fact that the banking penetrations, structure and objectives differ significantly across ownership, separate frontiers for each ownership (public, private and foreign banks) category has been used to evaluate the technical efficiency levels of 81 commercial banks operating in India over the period 2005 to 2013.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 25 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 12 March 2018

Kanupriya Misra Bakhru, Manas Behera and Alka Sharma

This paper aims to examine the traditional business communities and family businesses of India, their emergence and sustained growth.

715

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the traditional business communities and family businesses of India, their emergence and sustained growth.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors analyze the role of business communities in family businesses of India and identify business communities that have still sustained and marked a global presence.

Findings

Business communities such as Marwaris have the knack for business activities and are leaders of family businesses in India today, who have sustained their past success and continue to create new histories. Other traditional business communities such as Parsis, Sindhis, Chettiars and Gujarati banias have not been able to sustain much. Possible reasons were switching to white-collar jobs, taking up diplomacy and other professions, inter caste marriages, international migration in search of business and Indian government policies.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides a useful source of information for academics, policy-makers and economists.

Practical implications

Traditional business communities populate the list of family businesses that have marked their global presence. This paper identifies various factors that are responsible for the growth and sustainability of these business communities.

Social implications

The study clarifies the role of business communities in domestic economic development.

Originality/value

The paper explored traditional business communities of India and assessed their role in family businesses of India that currently mark a global presence.

Details

Journal of Enterprising Communities: People and Places in the Global Economy, vol. 12 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6204

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Article
Publication date: 3 November 2020

Sai Mohini M and Lavanya Vilvanathan

The study aims to focus on data envelopment analysis for assessing the microfinance institutions (MFIs) efficiency over the footings of its undesirable output, i.e. non-performing…

351

Abstract

Purpose

The study aims to focus on data envelopment analysis for assessing the microfinance institutions (MFIs) efficiency over the footings of its undesirable output, i.e. non-performing loans (NPLs). The attention is not only to evaluate the efficiency but also to identify the variable wise inefficiencies incorporating the quality of the portfolio.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper assessed MFI efficiency using three different methods of treatment of undesirable output to portray the significant difference. It also has used an advanced methodological model, i.e. weighted Russell directional distance model (WRDDM), under the non-radial assumption that allowed us to find the variable-wise inefficiency contribution. The study also investigated the efficiency differences concerning ownership, including all sizes of MFIs.

Findings

The study findings evidence the fall in efficiency score as NPL integrated, and it is found to be statistically significant. In the context of inefficiency assessment, among all input and output variables, total employees and operating expenses, portfolio quality inefficiencies are the leading causes of MFI inefficiencies. Undesirable output inefficiency accounts for almost one-third part of the total inefficiencies and remaining due to input inefficiencies. It is significant to draw attention that there is no improvement in undesirable output inefficiency. By contrast, input inefficiencies retained gains for two years and gradually showed a decreasing trend throughout 2015–2017.

Research limitations/implications

The authors have used balanced panel data of 72 Indian MFIs for five years' period from 2013–2017 whose complete data were available in the Microfinance Information Exchange.

Practical implications

The paper has focused on identifying the inefficiencies that are needed to be focused on to attain efficiency. It could provide vital information to the managers, policymakers in identifying the causes of inefficiencies, which is crucial to improve for long-term sustainability. It will be a roadmap for benchmarking, strategy building and policy-making processes.

Social implications

The findings of the study help in finding the benchmarking information for the inefficient decision-making units to identify the target units that need particular attention to focus. These practices could give a positive outcome, not only for institutions but also for the MFI clients.

Originality/value

The study provides an insight in to variable-wise inefficiency measurement using advanced model WRDDM in Indian context MFIs.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 28 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 24 October 2022

Lami Amanuel Erana

The purpose of this research is to develop an environmentally friendly antimicrobial dyeing of cotton fabric from the root of Euclea racemosa. Textile phytochemical finishing is…

57

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to develop an environmentally friendly antimicrobial dyeing of cotton fabric from the root of Euclea racemosa. Textile phytochemical finishing is in high demand worldwide because of its low toxicity, low pollution, ease of availability, renewability, pharmacological effects and non-carcinogenic properties, as well as its multifunctionality, rapid process stages and potential health benefit.

Design/methodology/approach

The cotton fabric was dyed with aqueous extracts of Euclea racemosa root dyes. Dyes were extracted for 20 min at pH 7.43 at room and boiling temperatures with material-to-liquor ratios (MLRs) of 1:5, 1:10, 1:15 and 1:20, altering one variable at a time, and the cotton fabric was colored using a post-mordanting procedure at 50°C with an MLR of 1:20. Using a properly cleaned Petri plate, the colored samples were tested in vitro for antibacterial activity. A spectrophotometer was used to assess color strength and shade depth, as well as wash fastness and annual rubbing fastness tests for both wet and dry.

Findings

L* = 36.29, a* = 58.56, b* = 32.46 and K/S = 0.51 were the CIELAB values for dye extracted at boiling temperature. L* = 47.14, a* = 42.23, b* = 49.61 and K/S = 0.38 were the CIELAB values for dye extracted at room temperature. The wash and rubbing fastness of the dyed samples were outstanding and the dyed cotton fabrics were found antibacterial against Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli.

Originality/value

Dyes derived from the E. racemosa root could be used to develop a new antibacterial cotton fabric dye.

Details

Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, vol. 28 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1560-6074

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Article
Publication date: 11 March 2022

Md Aslam Mia, Gary John Rangel, Mohammad Nourani and Rajesh Kumar

Measuring the success of microfinance institutions (MFIs) using a single efficiency value and then exploring its determining factors might be misleading. Hence, this study…

417

Abstract

Purpose

Measuring the success of microfinance institutions (MFIs) using a single efficiency value and then exploring its determining factors might be misleading. Hence, this study decomposed the efficiency measure into three divisions, namely operational, financial sustainability and social outreach. Subsequently, the authors identified factors affecting these efficiencies in the second stage regression analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed the network data envelopment analysis approach to evaluate each division of efficiency of 90 MFIs from 2013 to 2018 and used second-stage regression techniques (Tobit and Truncated) to examine the effect of institutional factors.

Findings

The authors’ efficiency analysis revealed that financial sustainability and social outreach were responsible for the low overall efficiency. The second stage analysis revealed the negative influence of institutional factors such as efficiency wage (particularly among small MFIs) on financial sustainability, social outreach and overall efficiencies. Staff turnover reduced operational, financial and overall efficiencies, particularly for large MFIs. The presence of female board members and staff improved the efficiency of MFIs, thus highlighting the pivotal role of women in the success of MFIs. Besides, the effects of regional location of MFIs, regulation and legal status on efficiencies were further discussed.

Originality/value

The study has uniquely evaluated three different types of efficiency in MFIs and employed conventional techniques for the second-stage regression to identify the determinants of efficiency. The findings will enable managers to make appropriate decisions to enhance their organisational efficiency.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 30 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 28 November 2022

Prateek Kumar Tripathi, Chandra Kant Singh, Rakesh Singh and Arun Kumar Deshmukh

In a volatile agricultural postharvest market, producers require more personalized information about market dynamics for informed decisions on the marketed surplus. However, this…

487

Abstract

Purpose

In a volatile agricultural postharvest market, producers require more personalized information about market dynamics for informed decisions on the marketed surplus. However, this adaptive strategy fails to benefit them if the selection of a computational price predictive model to disseminate information on the market outlook is not efficient, and the associated risk of perishability, and storage cost factor are not assumed against the seemingly favourable market behaviour. Consequently, the decision of whether to store or sell at the time of crop harvest is a perennial dilemma to solve. With the intent of addressing this challenge for agricultural producers, the study is focused on designing an agricultural decision support system (ADSS) to suggest a favourable marketing strategy to crop producers.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study is guided by an eclectic theoretical perspective from supply chain literature that included agency theory, transaction cost theory, organizational information processing theory and opportunity cost theory in revenue risk management. The paper models a structured iterative algorithmic framework that leverages the forecasting capacity of different time series and machine learning models, considering the effect of influencing factors on agricultural price movement for better forecasting predictability against market variability or dynamics. It also attempts to formulate an integrated risk management framework for effective sales planning decisions that factors in the associated costs of storage, rental and physical loss until the surplus is held for expected returns.

Findings

Empirical demonstration of the model was simulated on the dynamic markets of tomatoes, onions and potatoes in a north Indian region. The study results endorse that farmer-centric post-harvest information intelligence assists crop producers in the strategic sales planning of their produce, and also vigorously promotes that the effectiveness of decision making is contingent upon the selection of the best predictive model for every future market event.

Practical implications

As a policy implication, the proposed ADSS addresses the pressing need for a robust marketing support system for the socio-economic welfare of farming communities grappling with distress sales, and low remunerative returns.

Originality/value

Based on the extant literature studied, there is no such study that pays personalized attention to agricultural producers, enabling them to make a profitable sales decision against the volatile post-harvest market scenario. The present research is an attempt to fill that gap with the scope of addressing crop producer's ubiquitous dilemma of whether to sell or store at the time of harvesting. Besides, an eclectic and iterative style of predictive modelling has also a limited implication in the agricultural supply chain based on the literature; however, it is found to be a more efficient practice to function in a dynamic market outlook.

Available. Open Access. Open Access
Article
Publication date: 21 May 2021

Dandub Palzor Negi and E.P. Abdul Azeez

This paper critically examines the state of tribal health in India by analyzing the accessibility and availability of traditional medicine and modern healthcare.

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper critically examines the state of tribal health in India by analyzing the accessibility and availability of traditional medicine and modern healthcare.

Design/methodology/approach

This essay is the product of an extensive review of the literature and authors' personal experience in working with the tribal communities.

Findings

The traditional medicinal practices once very prevalent among the tribal communities are diminishing due to various socio-economic, environmental and political factors. Modern healthcare in India's tribal region is characterized by a lack of availability, accessibility and affordability. As a result of the diminishing traditional practices and inaccessible modern healthcare provisions, tribal communities depend on quacks and magico-religious practices.

Originality/value

This essay advocates for urgent policy interventions to integrate traditional medicine and modern healthcare practices to address critical tribal health issues. Preservation of traditional medicinal knowledge-base and improving research in the field have the potential to address the health of tribal communities and of others. The accessibility and availability of modern healthcare facilities in tribal regions should be improved to ensure better health outcomes.

Details

Journal of Health Research, vol. 36 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0857-4421

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Article
Publication date: 23 August 2021

Iván La Fé-Perdomo, Jorge Andres Ramos-Grez, Gerardo Beruvides and Rafael Alberto Mujica

The purpose of this paper is to outline some key aspects such as material systems used, phenomenological and statistical process modeling, techniques applied to monitor the…

718

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline some key aspects such as material systems used, phenomenological and statistical process modeling, techniques applied to monitor the process and optimization approaches reported. All these need to be taken into account for the ongoing development of the SLM technique, particularly in health care applications. The outcomes from this review allow not only to summarize the main features of the process but also to collect a considerable amount of investigation effort so far achieved by the researcher community.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews four significant areas of the selective laser melting (SLM) process of metallic systems within the scope of medical devices as follows: established and novel materials used, process modeling, process tracking and quality evaluation, and finally, the attempts for optimizing some process features such as surface roughness, porosity and mechanical properties. All the consulted literature has been highly detailed and discussed to understand the current and existing research gaps.

Findings

With this review, there is a prevailing need for further investigation on copper alloys, particularly when conformal cooling, antibacterial and antiviral properties are sought after. Moreover, artificial intelligence techniques for modeling and optimizing the SLM process parameters are still at a poor application level in this field. Furthermore, plenty of research work needs to be done to improve the existent online monitoring techniques.

Research limitations/implications

This review is limited only to the materials, models, monitoring methods, and optimization approaches reported on the SLM process for metallic systems, particularly those found in the health care arena.

Practical implications

SLM is a widely used metal additive manufacturing process due to the possibility of elaborating complex and customized tridimensional parts or components. It is corroborated that SLM produces minimal amounts of waste and enables optimal designs that allow considerable environmental advantages and promotes sustainability.

Social implications

The key perspectives about the applications of novel materials in the field of medicine are proposed.

Originality/value

The investigations about SLM contain an increasing amount of knowledge, motivated by the growing interest of the scientific community in this relatively young manufacturing process. This study can be seen as a compilation of relevant researches and findings in the field of the metal printing process.

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Case study
Publication date: 1 May 2008

Herbert Sherman and Daniel James Rowley

Derived from field and telephone interviews, e-mail communications, and secondary sources, this two part case describes how Gerald Mahoney, a shoes salesman in a Foley's…

Abstract

Derived from field and telephone interviews, e-mail communications, and secondary sources, this two part case describes how Gerald Mahoney, a shoes salesman in a Foley's Department store, is faced with a problem - Macy's has bought out the Foley's chain and, in doing so, has upscale the product line of shoes and altered his commission-based compensation system. These changes have resulted in less sales for Mr. Mahoney and therein lower commission - a difficult situation since he, his wife, and his daughter were barely getting by on his currently salary. Part A of the case describes an opportunity that presents itself to Mr. Mahoney; to leave his current job with a guaranteed low salary with possible additional income from commissions for a job selling residential homes which becomes purely commission-based to start with after three months of a salary plus commission pay that includes job training. In Part B Mr. Mahoney has decided to take the sales job with ABC Home Builders and receives his assignment. He finds that the working conditions of the sales office are not conducive to selling. His office is located in the rear of a trailer that is extremely run down and is paired with a competitive, noncommunicative saleswoman. The case ends with Mr. Mahoney feeling hopeless and alienated.

This two part case has been written primarily for an undergraduate junior level course in career planning or sales management and deals with the issues of recruitment, placement, training, and compensation. The case may also be employed in a course dealing with human resource management (from an individual's perspective), salesmanship, and organizational behavior.

Details

The CASE Journal, vol. 4 no. 2
Type: Case Study
ISSN: 1544-9106

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