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Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta

Introduction Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta

Jakarta, the bustling capital of Indonesia, faces a myriad of challenges when it comes to transportation. 

As one of the most populous and traffic-congested cities in the world, Jakarta has long been grappling with pollution, traffic jams, and inefficiencies in its transportation systems. 

However, the city is actively working to transition towards sustainable transportation solutions, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint and improve the quality of life for its residents. 

In this article, we will explore the various initiatives and efforts aimed at achieving sustainable transportation in Jakarta.

Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta

What is Sustainable Transportation

Sustainable transportation, often referred to as “green transportation” or “eco-friendly transportation,” encompasses various modes of travel and systems that are designed to have minimal environmental impacts while meeting the mobility needs of individuals and communities. 

It aims to reduce the negative effects of transportation on the environment, promote energy efficiency, and create more liveable and healthy communities. 

Here are some key components and principles of sustainable transportation:

1. Public Transportation: Efficient and well-maintained public transportation systems, such as buses, trams, subways, and commuter trains, play a vital role in sustainable transportation. They reduce the number of private vehicles on the road, leading to lower emissions and less traffic congestion.

2. Cycling and Walking: Promoting cycling and walking as viable modes of transportation can reduce the dependence on motorized vehicles. This involves creating safe and convenient infrastructure like bike lanes, pedestrian-friendly streets, and sidewalks.

3. Electric and Hybrid Vehicles: Transitioning from conventional gasoline and diesel vehicles to electric and hybrid vehicles can significantly reduce emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. Electric cars, buses, and bikes are gaining popularity as cleaner alternatives.

4. Carpooling and Ridesharing: Encouraging carpooling and ridesharing reduces the number of vehicles on the road, saving energy and reducing emissions. Ride-hailing services with shared options also contribute to this concept.

5. Sustainable Urban Planning: Designing cities and communities with a focus on mixed land use, compact development, and transit-oriented development can reduce the need for long commutes and car travel. This approach promotes the use of public transportation, cycling, and walking.

6. Energy Efficiency: Sustainable transportation initiatives prioritize energy-efficient vehicles and infrastructure. This includes fuel-efficient engines, renewable energy sources for public transit, and smart traffic management systems to reduce congestion and fuel consumption.

7. Reduced Emissions: Implementing emission standards and encouraging the use of low-emission and zero-emission vehicles are essential for reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation.

8. Incentives and Policies: Government incentives, subsidies, and policies can play a crucial role in promoting sustainable transportation. Examples include tax incentives for electric vehicle purchases, congestion pricing to reduce traffic, and fuel efficiency standards for automobiles.

9. Accessibility and Inclusivity: Sustainable transportation should be accessible to all members of society, regardless of age, income, or physical abilities. Ensuring inclusivity in public transportation and infrastructure is a key principle.

10. Behavioral Change: Educating and encouraging people to adopt sustainable transportation options is vital. Awareness campaigns, incentives, and programs that promote sustainable travel choices can lead to a shift in behavior.

Sustainable transportation is a critical component of addressing climate change, improving air quality, and creating more livable, healthy communities. It requires a multifaceted approach involving government policies, urban planning, technology, and individual choices to reduce the environmental and social impacts of transportation while meeting the mobility needs of society.

Challenges in Jakarta’s Transportation

1. Traffic Congestion: Jakarta’s infamous traffic jams are a major issue, resulting in lost productivity, air pollution, and stress for its residents.

2. Air Pollution: The high number of motorized vehicles on the road contributes to poor air quality, which has adverse health effects.

3. Lack of Public Transport: Despite improvements in public transportation, Jakarta still faces challenges in providing efficient and widespread options for its residents.

Sustainable Transportation Initiatives in Jakarta

1. Mass Rapid Transit (MRT): The Jakarta MRT has been a game-changer in reducing traffic congestion and air pollution. Since its inception, it has significantly increased the use of public transportation in the city.

2. Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): The TransJakarta BRT system is one of the largest in the world. It offers a cost-effective and efficient means of transport, helping to reduce the reliance on private vehicles.

3. Cycling Infrastructure: Jakarta has been working on developing dedicated cycling lanes and bike-sharing programs to encourage cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation.

4. Electric Vehicles (EVs): The adoption of electric vehicles in Jakarta is gaining traction, with incentives for EV users and the establishment of charging stations throughout the city.

5. Pedestrian-Friendly Streets: Efforts have been made to create pedestrian-friendly streets, encouraging walking and reducing the need for short car trips.

Sustainabile Transportation in Jakarta: Private Sector Contributions

Sustainabile Transportation in Jakarta: Private Sector Contributions

The quest for sustainable transportation in Jakarta is not solely a government-led effort. The private sector has emerged as a key player in driving change towards a greener, more efficient transportation system in the Indonesian capital. 

1. Ride-Hailing Services: Companies like Gojek and Grab have introduced ride-hailing services that offer carpooling and motorbike services. These platforms not only provide convenient transportation options but also encourage shared rides, reducing the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road.

2. Electric Scooters: Electric scooter-sharing services, such as Lime and Bird, have made their presence felt in Jakarta. These companies offer eco-friendly last-mile transportation solutions, reducing the reliance on short car trips and mitigating traffic congestion.

3. Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure: Private companies have been investing in EV charging infrastructure throughout Jakarta. They are making it more convenient for residents to adopt electric vehicles by expanding the charging network.

4. Sustainable Logistics: Delivery companies operating in Jakarta, like GoSend and J&T Express, have been integrating electric bikes and electric vehicles into their fleets. This not only reduces emissions but also improves delivery efficiency in traffic-prone areas.

5. Bike-Sharing Services: Private firms have introduced bike-sharing programs, providing residents with easy access to bicycles for short trips. These programs promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation.

6. Emissions Reduction Technologies: Private vehicle manufacturers and technology companies are working on emissions reduction technologies and innovative solutions, like retrofitting older vehicles with cleaner engines and promoting fuel-efficient driving practices.

7. Sustainable Development: Real estate developers are incorporating sustainable transportation elements into urban development projects. This includes creating pedestrian-friendly areas, bike storage facilities, and integrating public transportation hubs into new communities.

Challenges and Collaborations

While the private sector’s contributions to sustainable transportation in Jakarta are commendable, challenges remain. These include infrastructure limitations, regulatory hurdles, and the need for standardization in services and technologies. Collaboration between the public and private sectors is vital to overcoming these challenges.

The Jakarta city government, in partnership with private enterprises, has initiated several public-private collaborations to address transportation issues. These collaborations involve the development of integrated transportation solutions, the promotion of electric vehicle adoption, and the establishment of smart transportation systems.

The private sector’s contributions to sustainable transportation in Jakarta have been instrumental in shaping a more eco-friendly and efficient mobility landscape. Ride-hailing services, electric scooters, bike-sharing programs, and investments in EV infrastructure are all steps in the right direction. 

However, continued collaboration between public and private entities, along with supportive government policies, will be essential to drive further progress and create a truly sustainable and accessible transportation system for Jakarta’s residents. With these efforts, Jakarta is on a path towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for urban transportation.

The Jakarta MRT (Mass Rapid Transit)

Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta: The Jakarta MRT (Mass Rapid Transit)

The Jakarta MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is a crucial component of the city’s efforts to improve its transportation infrastructure and move towards more sustainable urban mobility solutions. 

Here’s an overview of the Jakarta MRT:

1. Inauguration: The Jakarta MRT officially opened its doors to the public in March 2019. It marked a significant milestone in addressing Jakarta’s notorious traffic congestion and providing a more efficient and eco-friendly mode of transportation.

2. Line and Expansion: The initial line, known as the North-South Line (Lebak Bulus to Bundaran HI), spans approximately 15.7 kilometers with 13 stations. An expansion to the line is planned to further extend its reach and accommodate more commuters.

3. Public Transportation Integration: The Jakarta MRT integrates seamlessly with other public transportation systems, including TransJakarta (the city’s BRT system) and commuter trains, making it easier for commuters to switch between modes of transport.

4. Reducing Congestion: One of the primary objectives of the Jakarta MRT is to alleviate the city’s notorious traffic jams. By offering a faster and more efficient alternative to private vehicles, it helps to reduce congestion and improve overall traffic flow.

5. Environmentally Friendly: The Jakarta MRT uses electric-powered trains, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution compared to traditional gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles. This contributes to improved air quality in the city.

6. Accessibility: The Jakarta MRT is designed to be accessible to all, with features like elevators, ramps, and designated spaces for passengers with disabilities. This promotes inclusivity in public transportation.

7. Safety and Security: The MRT places a strong emphasis on passenger safety and security. Surveillance cameras, dedicated staff, and emergency response systems are in place to ensure a safe commuting experience.

8. Ridership and Impact: Since its inception, the Jakarta MRT has seen a significant increase in ridership, with millions of commuters benefiting from its services. It has had a positive impact on reducing travel times and increasing convenience for residents.

9. Future Expansion: The Jakarta government has plans to expand the MRT system, with additional lines and extensions to serve more areas of the city. This expansion aims to further reduce reliance on private cars and enhance the overall public transportation network.

10. Economic Growth: The Jakarta MRT also contributes to economic growth by connecting various areas of the city and facilitating access to business districts, commercial centers, and cultural hubs.

In summary, the Jakarta MRT is a transformative transportation system that has not only improved the daily commute for residents but also made significant strides in reducing traffic congestion and promoting sustainable transportation. As Jakarta continues to grow and develop, the MRT is expected to play a vital role in shaping the city’s mobility and environmental future.

The Jakarta LRT (Light Rail Transit)

Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta: The Jakarta LRT (Light Rail Transit)

The Jakarta LRT (Light Rail Transit) is another important component of the city’s efforts to enhance its public transportation system and address traffic congestion. 

Here is an overview of the Jakarta LRT:

1. Introduction: The Jakarta LRT is a modern urban rail transit system designed to provide efficient, environmentally friendly, and convenient transportation options to residents and visitors.

2. Two Lines: The Jakarta LRT consists of two lines – the Kelapa Gading Line and the Cibubur Line. These lines connect different areas of the city, improving access to various neighborhoods and business districts.

3. Integration with Other Modes: The LRT is designed to be integrated with other modes of public transportation, such as buses, commuter trains, and the Jakarta MRT. This integration offers passengers seamless connectivity for their entire journey.

4. Light Rail Technology: Unlike the heavy rail used in the Jakarta MRT, the LRT employs light rail technology. Light rail vehicles are smaller and designed for shorter distances within the city, making them suitable for serving various neighborhoods and reducing road traffic.

5. Environmental Benefits: The Jakarta LRT, like the MRT, contributes to environmental sustainability. It uses electric-powered trains, which are more energy-efficient and produce fewer emissions compared to traditional gasoline or diesel vehicles.

6. Congestion Relief: The LRT aims to reduce traffic congestion by offering a faster and more reliable alternative to private vehicles. This not only benefits commuters but also eases the overall traffic situation in the city.

7. Stations and Accessibility: Jakarta LRT stations are equipped with facilities to ensure accessibility for all passengers, including those with disabilities. Elevators, ramps, and other amenities make it a more inclusive mode of transportation.

8. Safety Measures: Safety is a priority, and the Jakarta LRT has safety measures in place, including surveillance systems, station personnel, and emergency response protocols.

9. Economic Impact: The LRT contributes to economic growth by improving access to various commercial, business, and residential areas. It can stimulate development in neighborhoods along its routes.

10. Ridership: Since its introduction, the Jakarta LRT has seen growing ridership as more people recognize the benefits of using this public transportation system. It offers a convenient way to navigate the city.

In summary, the Jakarta LRT plays a pivotal role in improving public transportation in the city. Its two lines connect different parts of Jakarta, making it easier for residents and visitors to get around while reducing traffic congestion and environmental impact. The LRT complements the existing transportation infrastructure, such as the Jakarta MRT and TransJakarta BRT, in creating a more integrated and sustainable public transportation network for the city.

Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta: The Busway

Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta: The Busway

The Busway, officially known as “TransJakarta,” is Jakarta’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. It is a prominent and crucial component of the city’s public transportation network. 

Here’s an overview of the Busway:

1. Inception: TransJakarta, commonly referred to as the Busway, was introduced in 2004 as a solution to Jakarta’s persistent traffic congestion and lack of efficient public transportation. It is one of the earliest BRT systems in Southeast Asia.

2. Dedicated Bus Lane: The Busway features dedicated bus lanes on major thoroughfares throughout Jakarta. These lanes are physically separated from regular traffic, allowing buses to move more swiftly and efficiently.

3. Stations and Corridors: The BRT system comprises multiple corridors with various routes that connect different parts of Jakarta. Each corridor has well-planned stations that offer convenient boarding and alighting points for passengers.

4. High-Capacity Buses: TransJakarta employs high-capacity articulated buses to accommodate a large number of passengers. These buses are air-conditioned and equipped with facilities for people with disabilities.

5. Frequent Service: Buses in the TransJakarta system operate at high frequencies during peak hours and are known for their punctuality. This frequent service is aimed at reducing waiting times for passengers.

6. Ticketing System: The BRT system utilizes a unified ticketing system that allows passengers to use a single card or ticket for multiple modes of public transportation, including buses and the Jakarta MRT.

7. Efficiency and Reliability: TransJakarta is designed to provide a more efficient and reliable means of transportation, thereby reducing the reliance on private vehicles and addressing traffic congestion.

8. Environmental Benefits: By reducing the number of individual cars on the road, the BRT system contributes to environmental sustainability by lowering emissions and improving air quality in the city.

9. Accessibility: TransJakarta stations are designed to be accessible to people with disabilities and those with reduced mobility, with features like ramps, elevators, and designated seating.

10. Integration with Other Modes: The Busway is integrated with other public transportation systems, such as the Jakarta MRT and the soon-to-be-expanded Jakarta LRT, offering passengers a seamless experience when transferring between modes.

In summary, the TransJakarta Busway is a significant part of Jakarta’s public transportation system. It provides a reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly means of commuting for millions of residents and visitors in the city. The BRT system has played a crucial role in addressing traffic congestion and promoting sustainable transportation solutions, aligning with Jakarta’s efforts to become a more liveable and accessible city.

Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta: Commuter rail

Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta: Commuter Rail

Commuter rail, often referred to as suburban or metropolitan rail, is a type of passenger train service designed to transport people between residential areas and urban centers or business districts. These commuter rail systems are common in many major cities worldwide and play a crucial role in providing efficient transportation for daily commuters. 

Here are some key features and characteristics of commuter rail:

1. Urban-Suburban Connectivity: Commuter rail systems are primarily designed to connect urban centers with surrounding suburbs and outlying residential areas. They serve as a vital link for commuters who live farther from the city but work or study there.

2. Frequent Service: Commuter trains typically run on a regular schedule with frequent departures during peak commuting hours. This ensures that commuters have reliable and convenient transportation options.

3. Stations: Commuter rail lines have stations strategically located in both urban and suburban areas. These stations serve as boarding and alighting points for passengers and often provide parking facilities for those who drive to the station.

4. Dedicated Tracks: Commuter trains often operate on dedicated tracks or rights-of-way separate from freight and long-distance passenger trains. This separation ensures that commuter trains can maintain their schedules and avoid delays.

5. Economical: Commuter rail is often more economical than driving or taking a taxi to work daily. It can save commuters money on fuel, parking, and vehicle maintenance while also reducing the environmental impact.

6. Environmentally Friendly: Commuter rail systems generally use electric or diesel-electric locomotives, which are more energy-efficient and produce fewer emissions compared to individual automobiles.

7. Accessibility: Most commuter rail systems are designed to be accessible to passengers with disabilities, with features like ramps, elevators, and level boarding platforms.

8. Integration with Other Modes: Commuter rail often integrates with other public transportation systems, such as buses and subways, to provide passengers with a seamless and connected transit experience.

9. Ridership and Impact: Commuter rail services carry millions of passengers daily, helping to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution in major cities. They also contribute to urban development and revitalization of suburban areas.

10. Economic and Social Benefits: Commuter rail systems stimulate economic growth by facilitating access to job opportunities, education, and cultural activities in urban centers. They enhance the quality of life for residents in suburbs by reducing commute times and providing more leisure time.

In summary, commuter rail is a vital component of urban transportation systems, providing a reliable and sustainable means of commuting for individuals living in suburban areas. These systems offer a host of economic, environmental, and social benefits, making them an integral part of the daily lives of many city residents.

Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta: Grab and Gojek

Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta: Grab and Gojek

Grab and Gojek are two of the most prominent ride-hailing and technology companies in Southeast Asia, both based in Indonesia. They offer a range of services that extend beyond ride-sharing. 

Here’s an overview:

Gojek

1. Origin: Gojek was founded in 2010 in Jakarta, Indonesia. It initially started as a ride-hailing service but has since evolved into a Super App, offering a wide range of services.

2. Services: Gojek’s Super App includes ride-hailing, food delivery, grocery delivery, courier services, and digital payment services. It has a diverse ecosystem, including GoRide (ride-hailing), GoFood (food delivery), GoPay (digital wallet), and many other services.

3. Regional Expansion: While Gojek originated in Indonesia, it expanded to several other Southeast Asian countries, including Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines, offering various services tailored to local markets.

4. Economic and Social Impact: Gojek has made a significant impact on employment, enabling many people to become part-time or full-time drivers and delivery partners. It has also played a role in improving urban mobility and accessibility in the cities it serves.

Grab

1. Origin: Grab, originally known as MyTeksi, was founded in 2012 in Malaysia. It has since transformed into a Southeast Asian Super App.

2. Services: Grab offers services similar to Gojek, including ride-hailing, food delivery, grocery delivery, digital payments (GrabPay), and financial service.

3. Regional Expansion: Grab has expanded its operations across Southeast Asia, becoming one of the dominant ride-hailing and technology companies in the region.

4. Diverse Offerings: Grab provides a wide range of services tailored to the needs of each market it operates in, such as GrabCar (ride-hailing), GrabFood (food delivery), GrabExpress (courier services), and GrabMart (grocery delivery).

Key Similarities:

1. Both Gojek and Grab offer Super Apps with multiple services, creating a one-stop platform for users to access various on-demand services.

2. They have a significant presence in the ride-hailing and food delivery sectors in their respective markets.

3. Both companies have expanded beyond their home countries to become regional players, offering their services in multiple Southeast Asian nations.

4. Gojek and Grab have made substantial contributions to the gig economy by providing income opportunities for drivers and delivery partners.

5. They both have digital payment services integrated into their platforms, allowing users to make cashless transactions.

6. These companies have been involved in mergers and partnerships, such as the merger between Grab and Uber’s Southeast Asian operations and discussions of potential collaboration between Gojek and Grab.

In summary, Gojek and Grab are influential technology companies that have not only transformed the way people move and order food but have also become integral parts of the digital economy in Southeast Asia, offering an array of services that cater to the diverse needs of consumers in the region.

Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta: Electric vehicles (EVs)

Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity in Jakarta as the city works toward more sustainable transportation options. 

Here’s an overview of the electric vehicle landscape in Jakarta:

1. Government Initiatives: The Jakarta city government has been supportive of EV adoption and has introduced incentives and policies to encourage the use of electric vehicles. This includes tax breaks and reduced registration fees for EV owners.

2. Charging Infrastructure: The development of charging infrastructure is crucial for the growth of EVs in Jakarta. Charging stations are being installed at various locations throughout the city, making it more convenient for EV owners to charge their vehicles.

3. Electric Scooters: Electric scooters have become a common sight in Jakarta. Various companies offer electric scooter-sharing services, providing a convenient and eco-friendly last-mile transportation solution.

4. Electric Buses: Jakarta has introduced electric buses into its public transportation fleet. These electric buses contribute to reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

5. Ride-Hailing Electric Vehicles: Companies like Gojek and Grab have started incorporating electric cars into their ride-hailing fleets. This encourages more people to experience electric mobility.

6. Private EV Ownersy: Jakarta is seeing a gradual increase in private EV ownership. Electric cars, such as Tesla and locally manufactured EVs, are becoming more accessible to consumers.

7. Environmental Benefits: Electric vehicles contribute to improved air quality and reduced noise pollution. This is particularly important in a densely populated city like Jakarta, which faces air quality challenges.

8. Long-Term Sustainability: EVs align with Jakarta’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and combat climate change. As the city continues to grow, sustainable transportation options are a priority.

In summary, electric vehicles are gradually becoming a more visible and viable mode of transportation in Jakarta. The government’s support, the presence of electric scooters, buses, and the inclusion of EVs in ride-hailing services are all contributing to the growth of electric mobility in the city. As the charging infrastructure continues to expand and technology advances, it is likely that electric vehicles will play an increasingly significant role in Jakarta’s transportation ecosystem.

Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta: Challenges Ahead

1. Infrastructure Development: Expanding public transportation and cycling infrastructure will require significant investment and ongoing development.

2. Behavior Change: Encouraging residents to shift from private cars to public transportation, cycling, or walking is a significant challenge that requires education and incentives.

3. Air Quality: Addressing air pollution remains a top priority, and it requires the enforcement of stricter emission standards and better urban planning.

Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta

Conclusion for Sustainable Transportation in Jakarta

Jakarta’s journey toward sustainable transportation is an ongoing process, marked by notable progress and ambitious goals. 

While challenges persist, the city is committed to improving the quality of life for its residents and reducing its environmental footprint. Through the implementation of initiatives such as the MRT, BRT, cycling infrastructure, and electric vehicles, Jakarta is taking important steps towards a greener, more sustainable transportation future. 

With continued investment and community involvement, the city is well on its way to achieving these goals and setting an example for other megacities facing similar challenges.

https://www.exaputra.com/2023/11/sustainable-transportation-in-jakarta.html

Renewable Energy

Pride Flags

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To me, a pride flag says, “We accept LGBTQ people, and we bear them no malice.”

That seems just fine.

Pride Flags

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Trump’s “Dumbest” Lie

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The fellow in this video asserts that Donald Trump’s dumbest lie is that the cost of things like gas and groceries have fallen since he took office, since it is so provably false, and is directed the MAGA base.

I’ll grant that the typical Trump supporter doesn’t care if the president is all over the Epstein files, or that the war with Iran was stupid and illegal.  But there is no evidence that there is any more than a trickle of disaffection over consumer prices.

Trump’s “Dumbest” Lie

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MotorDoc Finds Bearing and Gearbox Faults in Minutes

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Weather Guard Lightning Tech

MotorDoc Finds Bearing and Gearbox Faults in Minutes

Howard Penrose of MotorDoc joins to discuss current signature analysis, uptower circulating currents wrecking main bearings, and full drivetrain scans in minutes. Reach out at info@motordoc.com or on LinkedIn.

Sign up now for Uptime Tech News, our weekly email update on all things wind technology. This episode is sponsored by Weather Guard Lightning Tech. Learn more about Weather Guard’s StrikeTape Wind Turbine LPS retrofit. Follow the show on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Linkedin and visit Weather Guard on the web. And subscribe to Rosemary Barnes’ YouTube channel here. Have a question we can answer on the show? Email us!

Howard Penrose: [00:00:00] Welcome to Uptime Spotlight, shining light on wind energy’s brightest innovators. This is the progress powering tomorrow.

Allen Hall: Howard, welcome back to the program.

Howard Penrose: Hey, thanks for having me.

Allen Hall: It’s about time everybody realizes what motorDoc can do. There’s so much technology, and I’ve been watching- Yeah … your Chaos and Caffeine podcast on Saturday morning, which are full of really, really good information about the motorDoc as a company, all the things you’re doing out in the field, and how you’re solving real-world problems, not imaginary ones- Yeah

real-world problems. Oh, yeah. Yeah, and

Howard Penrose: whatever annoys me that week. Exactly. And, and whatever great coffee I’m trying out. Yes. Except for a few. We’ve had the ReliaSquatch down our- Yes … um, a couple of times. Uh, yeah, no, I, I enjoy it, and we gotta get you on there sometime. I don’t do- I, it- … a lot of interviews other than an AI character we put in.

Allen Hall: It’s a very interesting show because you’re [00:01:00] getting a little bit of comedy and humor and s- Yeah … and a, and a coffee review, which is very helpful because I’ve tried some of the coffees that you have reviewed, that you’ve given the thumbs up to. But if you’re operating wind turbines and you’re trying to understand what’s happening on the drivetrain side, on the generator, everything out to the blades even, main bearings, gearboxes- Yeah

all those rotating heavy, expensive parts, there’s a lot of ways to diagnose them-

Howard Penrose: Yes …

Allen Hall: that are sort of like we can look at a gear, we can look at a joint, we can look at roller bearings, whatever, but motorDoc has a way to quickly diagnose all of that chain in about- Yeah … 15 seconds.

Howard Penrose: Well, a little longer than 15 sec- more like a minute.

A minute, okay. It feels like paint drying. But- Uh, in any case, yeah. Uh, uh, and, and what’s kind of funny is, um, back in the ’90s, uh, EPRI actually accidentally steered the technology away from its [00:02:00] core purpose, which was in 1985, um, NAVSEA, the US Navy, had done research on using current signature analysis for looking at pumps, fans, and compressors, the bearings, the belts, the components, all the rotating components using the motor as the sensor.

Not too much different than we are now. I mean, mind you, we got better resolution now, we’ve got, uh, more powerful– I mean, I look at my data from the ’90s, and now it’s completely different. Um, and then Oak Ridge National Lab, same thing, bearings and gears in motor-operated valves. So in 2003, we were the first ones to apply electrical and current signature analysis to some wind turbines in the Mojave Desert.

Wow. Yeah. So, um, nobody had tried it before. Everybody said it couldn’t be done. And, uh, that was a bad thing to say to me because- … it meant I was gonna get it [00:03:00] done. Right. At that time, um, we were looking at bearing issues and some blatant conditions with the, um, with the, uh, generator using a technology called Altest, ’cause I was with Altest at the time.

And, uh, I had taken an EMPath software and blended it with a, a power analyzer, and they still have that tool to this day. I was using that technology all the way through 2015. 2016, I should say. And then- And then switched over to the pure EMPath, which was more of an engineering tool. And then more recently, in 2022, uh, made the decision to ha- to take all the work we’d done on over 6,000 turbines, uh, looking at how we were looking at the data and what we were doing on the industrial side, and took a, uh, created a current signature analyzer that would do one phase of current to analyze the entire powertrain.

Allen Hall: So when you tell [00:04:00] operators you can do this magic, I think a lotta times they gotta go, “

Howard Penrose: What?” Oh, yeah, yeah. They don’t understand it because they’re used to vibration- Right … which is a point analysis system. Right.

Allen Hall: Vibration at this- Yeah … particular location. Yeah. One spot- Even if it’s- … or a couple

Howard Penrose: spots

triax, they’re reading through material, up through a transducer. Hopefully, they put it above the bearing and not in the middle of the machine like everybody is now, because everybody’s trying to sell a sensor. Right. True. They’re not selling a- they’re not selling accuracy. They’re just selling sensors.

Right. So, um- Yeah … you know, uh, I, I’ll, I’ll even talk about one of the companies here. We’ve got Onyx here, and they do it right. I mean, they’ve been doing it right pretty well because we’ve been doing some of the same towers they’re on, and we can match the data they’re getting. Oh, good. Right? Yeah. Uh, so but they get it in multiple spots, and there’s areas they can’t quite reach, so we’ll detect those areas as well.

So it’s a good melding of two technologies.

Allen Hall: Oh, sure. Sure,

Howard Penrose: sure. You know what I mean? Yeah, yeah, yeah. So when you have electrical signature and you have vibration, but in [00:05:00] cases if you don’t have vibration, we’re a direct replacement.

Allen Hall: Because the generator- I

Howard Penrose: dare say that.

Allen Hall: Yeah. Whichever–

Howard Penrose: I dare say that, um, with- Well, the

Allen Hall: generator is acting as the sensor.

Howard Penrose: The air gap. The air gap in the generator s- specifically, yes. Yeah. Generator, motor, transformer. Right.

Allen Hall: Yeah. So any of those- Mm-hmm … you can clamp onto, look at the current that’s on there. Everything that’s happening on the drivetrain, in the gearbox, out on the rotor- Yep … main bearings, all of that creates vibration.

Creates a torque. T- a, a torque. Yeah. Yes, more exactly a torque. Yeah. And that’s seen in the generator, in the current coming out of the generator. Yes. So those signals, although minute, are still there. Yes. So if you clamp onto that current coming out of the generator, you’ll see the typical AC sine wave sitting there.

But on top of that- Is all the information about how that drivetrain is doing

Howard Penrose: Absolutely, and everything else. Anything electrical comes through [00:06:00] that. So what you do is just like vibration, you do a spectral analysis. So every component has a frequency associated with it, just like vibration. It’s, as a matter of fact, I, I keep having to try to explain to people electrical and current signature analysis is no different than vibration analysis.

It’s the same concept. We use the same tools. The signature looks just a little different. It’s a little noisier, um, but you need that noise in order to see everything. But we have a time waveform, and instead of, um, inches per second or millimeters per second, whatever, you know, uh, velocity, acceleration, and displacement, uh, what we end up with is decibels is the optimal method.

You can look at straight voltage signatures at those points or, or current signatures, but the values are so small that you have to look at it from a logarithmic standpoint. Right. There are some benefits to it versus vibration, and there’s some things that aren’t as good as vibration. [00:07:00] So, you know, we, we do…

You have to… Any technology is gonna have their strengths and weaknesses. Sure. So we will see everything all at once. Load doesn’t matter. Right. Speed doesn’t matter. It’s… Only reason speed matters is the location of the frequencies. Uh, so the higher the resolution, meaning the longer you take data, the less chance you have on a lightly lo- loaded machine of blending the peaks together.

Right. Um, on the flip side, if I have two bearings turning at the exact same speed, I couldn’t tell you which one it is. Because they’re the same. Right.

Allen Hall: And the mechanical features of that bearing is w- what creates the signal that you’re measuring. Exactly. So if a bearing has five rollers versus 10, just imaginary thing.

Yeah, yeah. Five rollers versus 10 has a different electrical signature, so you can determine, like, that bearing, that 10 roller bearing- Yes … has the problem, the five is fine. Yes. Yeah. That’s the magic, and I think people don’t translate the mechanical world into the electrical world. That that’s what’s [00:08:00]happening.

They,

Howard Penrose: they don’t because, because what’s happening is they named it wrong.

Allen Hall: Yes.

Howard Penrose: A majority of our users are mechanical folks. Sure. Our vibration analysts and stuff like, ’cause they know how to look at the signatures. Right. Everybody tries to force it on their electrical people, and electrical people go, “We don’t know what this is.”

Yeah. And it’s, it’s, it’s a matter of that training and, and, you know, in the electrical world, you’re not taught to look at that. Right. Yeah. It doesn’t matter. Mechanical world, you’re taught to look at that. So our intern, we were trying to bring in electrical engineering interns and found out that just wasn’t working.

So last year, I brought in my first, uh, intern that’s, you know, he’s been with us now since I brought him in. Okay. Uh, and, uh, Amar, and, uh, you know, he’s helped us develop our vi- uh, vibration software to go along with it. Guess what? It’s the same thing. It’s the exact same sy- system Um, but we just take in a vibration signal instead.

But he picked up on it immediately as a [00:09:00] third-year college student. I can take somebody with a decade as an electrical engineer with a PhD and they can’t figure it out.

Allen Hall: Well, because you’re, you’re taking real- Because it’s different. Yeah. It’s r- well, it’s real-world components-

Howard Penrose: Yeah …

Allen Hall: creating electrical signals.

That’s hard- Well, you have- … to process for a lot of people. Yeah,

Howard Penrose: yeah. It’s

Allen Hall: just not

Howard Penrose: something that we do every day. But that’s… If they, i- if we sa- i- i- if you’re looking at vibration and you start looking at the sensor, it gets complicated too, ’cause guess what? It’s an electrical signal. Right. It’s, it is technically electrical signature now.

It’s converting a

Allen Hall: mechanical signal- Right … into an electrical signal, which is what’s happening in the generator anyway. Yeah.

Howard Penrose: Whether it’s a piezoelectric cell that’s generating a small signal- Yeah … on top of a small waveform that you then take out, you demodulate, uh, or it’s, uh… So you take that carrier frequency out, or it’s a MEMS sensor, which is the same thing.

You know, the, it just sees some slower s- It, it does more of a digital output. So you, you, you know, you have those, or you [00:10:00] have this, which just basically uses a component of the machine to, to, as its own sensor. There is one other difference between them, too, and, uh, I find this very useful when I’m going out troubleshooting something that other people can’t figure out, uh, ’cause we use all the technologies.

So in this case, it would be, uh, the structural movement. Okay? So, so say I have a generator and there’s something wrong with the structure, and the whole machine is vibrating. So y- well, if I put a transducer on it, they might think that’s vibration or something else. We don’t see it. Right. We only see directly exactly what’s happening with the machine.

Sure. So a lot of times when we go in to troubleshoot something that people have done vibration on and everything else, it’s been pro- a, a problem for them for years. We walk in, and all of a sudden we’re identifying whether it’s the machine or it’s something else right off the bat. Then we can take a look at the vibration data and [00:11:00] say, “Okay, it wasn’t the bearing or the bearing, um, structure.

It was, you know, the mounting.” Right. It wasn’t

Allen Hall: fastened

Howard Penrose: down properly. Yeah,

Allen Hall: yeah. Right.

Howard Penrose: Go tighten that bolt. Right, exactly.

Allen Hall: Well, I mean, that’s the cheap answer. Yeah. I’d rather tighten a bolt than rip apart a motor or a generator- And, and- … every day …

Howard Penrose: and that’s the whole point. Now, there are other strengths that go with it.

So for instance, on the powertrain of a wind turbine, I can tell you if you’ve lubricated the bearings correctly. Wow. Because part of what we do is we do take those electrical signatures, and we convert those over to watts. Watts is an energy conversion. Sure. So you see that as heat or some type of loss.

So whatever, whatever’s being lost there is not being sent to the customer. To the outside. Right. Making money. So, um, if I’m taking a look at, say, a main bearing, I might see watts or kilowatts of losses. So you’re gonna have some ’cause you have friction, right? But when we see it increase on, say, a roller, [00:12:00] or the rollers, or, or the cage, that’s usually an indicator that I have a lubrication issue.

Or if we only see it on the outer race, that means that they didn’t clear out all the old grease when they were lubricating it, ’cause the rollers then have to ride across it- Right … ’cause it dries up.

Allen Hall: Sure.

Howard Penrose: Uh, and will carry contaminants. So if you see that, you go up, clean it up, you’ll extend the life of the bearing.

Absolutely you will. Without having to do a lot of work. So, uh, we, we look at our technology as more so early in the, in the stage of a condition. I don’t wanna call it failure, ’cause it’s not a failure. It’s something that’s mitigable. And I made that word up. You can mitigate it. Meaning you can go up and correct it and extend the life of that component.

Sure. Uh, in gearboxes we’ll see problems with, um… Well, the, the one we’re talking about here a fair amount is all the circulating currents going on uptower. We did that research. The current signature analyzer we have is a direct result of doing wind turbine [00:13:00] research just on circulating currents uptower, ’cause we conferred everything over to, to sound at 48 kilohertz.

And so that gives me a 24-kilohertz signal. That high-frequency stuff, which we’re researching in CGRE, and IEEE, and IEC, is called supra harmonics, which I– we talked about that before. Yes, we have. Yeah. And, uh, so when you start seeing that in the, in, in the current that’s circulating uptower because the ground that goes from the top of the tower down is for- DC

lightning protection. And lightning protection, yeah. It’s not meant for, um- Not for

Allen Hall: high frequency- Yeah …

Howard Penrose: currents. Yeah. Uh, we, when we measured it, when we mapped out dozens of towers of all different manufacturers, we found that the impedance about halfway down the tower is where it ends. Sure. The, the resistance.

And then the increased, uh, the high-frequency noise turns any of your shaft brushes into resistors. And at about 15 kilohertz, no current is [00:14:00]passing through them. It’s all passing the bearing, which becomes more conductive the higher the frequency. So with 60% of main bearings failing due to electrical currents, it’s actually currents that are circulating uptower.

It’s not static. There is some static up there, but it’s not static. It’s coming from the controls, the, the generator, and everything else. Inverters,

Allen Hall: converters.

Howard Penrose: And we’ve seen up to 150 amps passing through a, through a bearing.

Allen Hall: So I– We run across a lot of operators who have been replacing main bearings, and they don’t know the reason why.

Yeah. And I always say, “Well, call Howard at MotorDoc because I would almost bet you you have the f- high frequency running around uptower in the nacelle- And the next main bearing you put in there is gonna go the same way as the- Yeah … first one you put in there. Until you cut off that circulating current and then the cell, you’re just gonna continue with the problem.

Then you haven’t eliminated the problem, you’re just fixing the result of that problem. Yes. But it takes- Yeah, you’re, you’re- How, [00:15:00] how, well, how long- You’re replacing

Howard Penrose: a fuse.

Allen Hall: Right, you’re replacing a fuse. Yeah. How long does it take you to s- to determine- An expensive fuse. Yeah. Yeah. Oh, yeah, ’cause you’re taking the rotor down.

Yeah. Well, how, how fast can you determine if you have harmonics uptower that are gonna be causing you problems? 120 seconds.

Howard Penrose: Okay.

Allen Hall: So that’s the thing. I think a lot of- I mean,

Howard Penrose: that’s of the actual data collection time. So you clamp on uptower, uh, and then you can… Well, the way we have it set up now, you just tell it you wanna collect data every five s- uh, five minutes, and then you go downtower, let it collect its data, go back up, grab it.

Um, it’s like…

It’s huge. It’s this size. So, um, and then you connect- It plugs into a laptop. Yeah. Plug it into a laptop or any type of tablet. Um, it, it’s Windows now. I’m trying to get away from Windows. We’re gonna have Linux systems, uh, as well. Uh, and then you use that to, um, just collect that data, and then you press another button.

Now it pops up, and it tells you if you’re in danger or not, [00:16:00] the amount of current passing through the bearing, and the frequencies all the way out.

Allen Hall: So the ideal is you’re gonna have this kit with you in the truck. Yeah. And as you see these problems pop up, you’re gonna clamp on uptower. Yep. You’re gonna measure these circulating currents, and you’re gonna know immediately if you have another mechanical issue, a, a lubrication issue- Oh, yeah.

It’ll look at- … some kind of alignment issue, or- You’ll get all

Howard Penrose: of this information at once. So you- Right … if you go on the power side. So certain turbines, like anything that has the transformer downtower, you don’t have to climb. Right. GE. I mean, I don’t climb. So, uh, uh, you know, th- and that was part of the, the concept behind when we started down this path because I’ve been in the wind industry since 1997.

So one of the things I always saw was, and, and we talked about even, you know, here when it was called AWEA, and we were talking always on the health and safety side about wearing out the technicians. Um, so we discovered that, you know, what was it? Almost 60% of the [00:17:00] turbines you didn’t have to climb. Right.

Oh, yeah. And even the ones you do, you go up, you set it up, and it’ll tell you where you need to focus. The other thing in the powertrain, let alone the generator, when we do a sweep of a site– Now, if we do a straight electrical signature analysis, I’d term that one as a technician’s tool. Sure. That’s more of an engineer’s tool.

Uh, a lot more data, a lot harder to set up. But even though I’m saying harder to set up, it’s still pretty easy. It’s still minutes. Right. Yeah. Most technicians will collect data with, like, a couple hours worth of training. Yeah. You g- You basically gather that data, and if you’re getting a site, so we’ll go out– I love going out in the field.

So we’ll go out in the field, especially if it’s a tower we don’t have to climb I’ll knock out, uh, well, let’s just say I’ll, I’ll, I’ll name one. Say a GE 1.6. I’ll knock out one of those every eight to 11 minutes, depending on how you get to the tower.

Allen Hall: So that’s a full diagnosis of drivetrain- Yeah … plus anything odd happening- Yep

with circulating currents and all that [00:18:00] can- Oh, no, no. Circulating- Or just- … current, that’s a- That’s a separate thing at tower … separate study that- Okay … you have to do that uptower. But anything, anything drivetrain-wise, you can be in and out- Yeah … in a couple of minutes. Yep. Okay. So there’s a lot of operators that have end-of-warranties coming up, right?

Yes. There’s been a lot of developments, so they’re kind of running into the end-of-warranty, and they don’t know the health status of their drivetrain. Same thing for a lot of operators that are in- Yep … full service agreements, and they’re questioning whether they’re getting their money’s worth or not.

Yes. I always say, “Call Howard at Motordoc. You guys can have a whole site survey done maybe in a couple of days, and you will know all the problems that are on site for the lowest price ever”. Yeah. It’s crazy how fast you can do it and how accurate it is. I talk to operators that use your system, so I hear you.

Yeah. Your podcast, listen to your podcast, I’m calling your customers to find out what they say, and they love it. Oh, yeah. They can’t believe how accurate it is. Yeah. Well, the thing about that is we as an industry need to make sure that our turbines are operating at [00:19:00] maximum efficiency. Yep. And if a simple tool like the Motordoc EMPath system exists, we need to get customers, operators in line to start doing it worldwide.

Australia- Oh … Europe-

Howard Penrose: Yeah. We- … Canada. Australia, we’re trying to get into, but right now we even have OEMs using it through North- That’s good … and South America, Asia. Good. Uh, Middle East, um, and, uh, and some of Europe. Good. So it’s, it’s, it’s really taking off. Uh, I’d say probably our biggest market right now is Brazil.

Sure. They’re going crazy. Well, the, the turbines are- They’re having a lot of problems. Yeah.

Allen Hall: Right. And the, well, those turbines have a h- high usage, right? So because- Oh, yeah … the winds are so good, they’re operating at, like, capacity factor is above 50%. Yes. It’s insane. Yeah. So there’s a lot of wear and tear.

There’s no downtime for those turbines.

Howard Penrose: Yeah. Well, and, and people think it’s all the starting and stopping. It’s not. No. It’s a grid-related issue. So we have- Sure … we have a low frequency. And you know some of the stuff I volun- I, I’m, I’ve been volunteered for- [00:20:00] Yeah … uh, including the CIGRE thing. Um, so I get to sit in the grid code committees for IEEE and put my, and our input into that, uh, and kind of watch the back of the IBR industry, right?

Mm-hmm. ‘Cause there’s a definitely bias against our industry. Um, and I also, uh, get to hear what’s going on in the grid side of things from CIGRE worldwide, and it’s all very similar, and it has to do with low-frequency oscillating currents- Yes … called subsynchronous currents- Yes … which are low enough not to damage large synchronous machines.

And they thought, and there’s books written on this, by the way, multiple books written on wind turbine impact- Uh, and they’re seeing now, um… Well, we detected it first, along with Timken. Hank, uh, and, and I went out to a site, and we detected for the first time, because of how they wanna do the testing and where the site was located, we saw the oscillating torque [00:21:00] in the air gap, ’cause that’s one of the things the technology does.

It actually measures the torque, air gap torque. Sure. So we were watching the oscillating torque as a tower started up. And so we did, we went through the rest of that site looking at the same stuff in the same way. It increased our time and data collection, and time on site. But then we started looking for it at other sites, and going to pass data because I don’t have to go back and retake data.

Right. And we’re like, “Oh my God. It’s everywhere.” 16 hertz, 21 hertz, and 50 hertz. And we found a paper that specifically identified that as the sub synchronous frequencies for 60 hertz. So we know what they are also for 50 hertz. Once we identified that and we saw how much the torsi- torque was oscillating, we worked with Shermco, who got us some information on Y-rings that were failing.

Yeah. And they were all failing… When the metallurgy was done, they were all failing from fatigue. And you’re like, fatigue how? What’s fatiguing these connections? [00:22:00] Well, the fatigue is that air gap torque- Exactly … because you’re basically causing the, the, everything to oscillate a little bit, and that causes the windings to move slightly.

It’s a living,

Allen Hall: breathing machine-

Howard Penrose: Exactly … this generator

Allen Hall: is.

Howard Penrose: Yeah.

Allen Hall: It’s not

Howard Penrose: static. It’s definitely not sta- no electric machine is static. No. Even a transformer’s not static. Right.

Allen Hall: So- There’s a little

Howard Penrose: bit of wiggle going on there all the time All the time. And it’s minute, so it takes a long time. Right. And what, uh, uh, everybody…

Well, first people thought it was a particular manufacturer, which it wasn’t. Turned out every defig’s failing the same way. Sure. You’re fatiguing it. Yeah. Every bearing is failing the same way, even in the gearbox, main bearings, and everything else. Right. All of these conditions are happening across all the OEMs, but they’re not allowed to talk.

Well, this is, this is the thing that

Allen Hall: I like watching your podcast.

Howard Penrose: Yeah.

Allen Hall: The Chaos and Caffeine. It comes out Saturday mornings. It’s on YouTube. If you haven’t- Yeah … clicked into it, you should click into it

Howard Penrose: because a lot of these issues are discussed there. It’s definitely, um… [00:23:00] Let’s just say I’ll speak Navy quite a bit.

Allen Hall: It’s a great podcast, and I think what you’re doing with the EMPath system- Yes … at motor dock is really a game changer. Yeah. I’m talking to everybody, all the operators I know. I keep telling them to call you and to try the system out because it’s so inexpensive and it does the work quickly and efficiently, and it’s been proven.

There’s no messing- Oh, yeah … around when you’re talking to MotorDoc. I…

Howard Penrose: Somebody dared tell me that there’s no standard for it. There’s ISO standards for it. Yes. There’s IEEE 1415- Yes … which I chair. Uh, and there’s other standards coming out- This is- … associated with it. And there’s a document that I also chair for Sea Gray- Called A178, which is the practical application of the technology.

So it’s well-documented. There are traceable standards for it. I need more

Allen Hall: operators to call you- Yeah … and to talk to you and get systems in the back of the trucks that they can use to check out the health of their gear boxes and their drive trains and their generators. How [00:24:00] do they do that? Where do they go?

Where, where’s, what’s- Well- … the first place they should look for?

Howard Penrose: Uh, info@motordoc.com. Okay. I get all, I get all of those as well, so do my people. Um, or, uh, LinkedIn. LinkedIn’s really good.

Allen Hall: Look up anything. Yeah.

Howard Penrose: Yeah, yeah. So, so either the company at Motordoc, or, uh, I’m, I sh- I’ll show up either searching for my name or, uh, linkedin.com/in/motordoc.

Come straight to me ’cause I’ve been in, on LinkedIn forever, so- Right, just- … I got to do that … look up

Allen Hall: Howard Penrose, P-E-N-R-O-S-E. Yep. Or go to motordoc.com is- Yep, motordoc.com … the website address.

Howard Penrose: Yep. There’s a lot of great information there. And we have partners, and we have people. We’re growing the company.

You know, talk to me. I, I’ll- Yes … I like answering the phone and talking. It’s, it’s a thing. My people go, “Can we answer the phone one?” No. Um, but, but yeah, we, we, y- when you call us, you’re not just dealing with a single person. Right. The Motordoc is far more expansive. Right now, we [00:25:00] just got our partnership with, uh, Hitachi and, and Juliet- Yeah, that’s great

and stuff like that. Uh, we’re helping them with certain things. Uh, we’re partnered with some of the big OEMs, almost all of them, um, you know, helping identify the issues, you know. And, and when users contact us, often they’ll tell us what’s going on, and we’ll, we can, uh, sometimes say, “Yeah, it’s this, and here’s how we prove it.”

Allen Hall: Yeah. That’s the, that’s the beauty- Yeah … of calling Motordoc. So I need my operators that, that watch the show- Yeah … worldwide, go online, go on LinkedIn, get ahold of Howard, get ahold of Motordoc, and get started. Yep. Howard, thank you- And- … so much for being on the podcast. Yeah. This is fantastic. I love talking to you because-

it’s, it’s like talking to, you know… Uh, no, really, it’s talking like someone who’s a real good industry expert, who’s been there a long time, and understands- Yeah … how this

[00:26:00] works.

MotorDoc Finds Bearing and Gearbox Faults in Minutes

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