Kamal Harb Email and Phone Number

The Medelia research chair, a collaborative initiative led by SPRETEC | Artelia group, Grenoble INP foundation, and two mechanical engineering laboratories at Grenoble Alpes University (UGA), is dedicated to advancing the understanding of fatigue, fracture, and the durability of aging hydraulic structures, particularly in industries such as nuclear, hydraulic, materials handling, and civil engineering. As industrial equipment reaches 50-60 years of service, the chair aims to develop a comprehensive methodology for assessing the vulnerability of mechanically-welded joints and determining the remaining useful life (RUL) of hydromechanical structures, initially focusing on lock gates but with the broader goal of applying these methods to other equipment types. This research program is vital for operators like Compagnie Nationale du Rhône (CNR) and Electricité de France (EDF), who face increasing challenges related to the aging of their equipment, climate change effects, and unpredictable load variations, aiming to minimize financial losses associated with shutdowns and ensure the long-term reliability of critical hydraulic infrastructure.

As the General Manager of Simple-A Tutoring and head of the engineering department, I am responsible for the overall leadership and management of the organization. My multifaceted role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities aimed at ensuring the company's success and the delivery of high-quality tutoring services. In my capacity as the head of the engineering department, I also oversee engineering-related activities, contributing to the efficiency and innovation within the company.

The internship is a part of the FLOW (Frame Less on Wire) project. Its main purpose is to create amethodology allowing studying the state of stress in the modules according to a new attachment system and in different configurations of boundary conditions. It has an experimental part (80%) and a numerical part (20%).The experimental part aims at setting up and implementing a test installation and experimental setup tomeasure 3D deformations in-plane and out-of-plane displacements overall surface of a photovoltaic module. This will be achieved employing the Digital Image Correlation (DIC) technique, while subjecting the module to pressure loads similar to those generated by wind and snow conditions by performing tests on PV modules using dynamic mechanical load test bench (DML). DML simulates static and dynamic loads and is suitable for load testing according to international standards for modules of typical size (NF EN EIC 61215-2 standard).The numerical part aims to validate a numerical model through numerical analysis based on the FiniteElement Method (FEM) compared to the experimental measurements (displacement and strain). A numerical model representing half of a mini-module photovoltaic will be employed initially to evaluate the stress distribution resulting from the imposed load on the module. It will then be used to investigate the influence of characteristics such as boundary conditions, clamp types, and clamp sizes. This technique can be useful in optimising the design or identifying areas where improvements could be made to reduce stress concentrations, increase strength, and improve durability for a variety of applications.

As an Academic Tutor, my primary objective is to facilitate students' academic success by offering personalized guidance and support. Drawing on my expertise in the subject matter, I work closely with students to address their specific learning needs, whether it involves clarifying concepts, assisting with assignments, or providing exam preparation strategies. I create a positive and encouraging learning environment that fosters confidence and motivation. Additionally, I emphasize the development of effective study skills and time management techniques to empower students in their overall academic journey.

I specialize in analyzing intricate technical issues and applying engineering principles to formulate effective solutions. My expertise extends to the comprehensive oversight, adjustment, maintenance, and repair of central plant equipment, including boilers, condensers, turbines, and associated support systems. In the daily operations, I am responsible for tasks such as monitoring and adjusting running clearances on the main turbine, as well as performing routine maintenance activities like packing valves, replacing gauge glasses, and reseating valves. My role involves ensuring the seamless functionality of the Zahrani Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plant and its components through proactive monitoring and hands-on maintenance practices.