Renewable energy dictionary/M-R

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MAGNESITE BRICK

(constr) (sol). A masonry brick to which magnesium or similar material has been added to darken the color of the brick and increase its THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY and ABSORPTANCE.

F - brique a la magnesite

S - ladrillo de magnesita

MAGNETO

(elec). A small, permanent-magnet, electric GENERATOR capable of producing periodic high voltage impulses.

F - magneto

S - magneto

MAGNOUS EFFECT

(wind). An effect whereby a spinning CYLINDER exposed to the wind produces a horizontal force. This effect has been used to enable experimental WIND MACHINES to POWER small boats.

F - effet magnus

S - efecto de fuerza horizontal

MALT

(alc). Sprouted grain that contains ENZYMES to convert STARCH to sugar. Special varieties of barley are frequently used to produce malt.

F - malt

S - malta

MANOMETER

(biocon) (meas). A device used to measure gas pressure. It may be used to monitor gas pressure in a BIOGAS DIGESTER.

F - manometre

S - manometro

MANTLE

(biocon) (impl). A cloth MEMBRANE in which gases are collected and burned to create light through incandescence.

F - manchon a incandescence

S - manteleta

MARSH GAS

(biocon). METHANE. Decaying ORGANIC MATTER at the bottom of a marsh or pond will produce bubbles of methane gas when stirred.

F - gaz des marais

S - gas de los pantanos

MASH

(alc). A mixture of water and crushed grains or other FEEDSTOCKS that can be FERMENTED to produce ETHANOL.

F - mout

S - mezcla

MASH COMPOSITION

(alc). The materials making up the MASH in an ALCOHOL STILL.

F - composition du mout

S - malta empastada

MASONITE

(constr). Trademark name for a thin board made of compressed wood fibers. It is useful as a backing for SOLAR REFLECTORS.

F - masonite

S - masonite

MAXIMUM FLOW RATE

(hydr) (meas). The maximum amount of water that can FLOW past a point during a given period of time. This measurement is used to evaluate the HYDROPOWER potential of a site.

F - debit maximum

S - velocidad maxima de flujo

MEADOW MILL

(hydr). A small, untended WATERMILL used for drainage.

F - moulinet de campagne

S - molino de pradera

MECHANICAL ADVANTAGE

(gen) (meas). The factor by which a machine multiplies any applied force.

F - effet mecanique

S - rendimiento mecanico

MECHANICAL TURBULENCE

(wind). Erratic air movement caused by such obstructions as trees or buildings.

F - turbulence mecanique

S - turbulencia mecanica

MEGAWATT

(elec) (meas). One million WATTS.

F - megawatt

S - megavatio

MEMBRANE

(alc). A sheet polymer or thin biological tissue capable of separating liquid solutions. Membranes are sometimes used in the ALCOHOL DISTILLATION process.

F - membrane

S - membrana

MERIDIONAL WIND

(wind). The wind or wind component along the local meridian.

F - vent meridien

S - viento meridional

MESOPHYLLIC BACTERIA

(biocon). BACTERIA that thrive best at temperatures of 70-104 [degrees] F (21-40 [degrees] C) and are useful in producing BIOGAS.

F - bacteries mesophyliennes

S - bacteria mesofilica

METHANATION

(biocon). A process of converting to METHANE the carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide present in synthetic gas.

F - methanisation

S - metanacion

METHANE

(biocon) (chem). An odorless, colorless gas (C[H.sub.4]), nearly insoluble in water, which burns with a pale, faintly luminous flame to produce water and carbon dioxide (or carbon monoxide if oxygen is deficient). (See also: MARSH GAS) (Syn: BIOGAS)

F - methane

S - metano

METHANE CONVERSION

(biocon). The production of METHANE through BIOCONVERSION.

F - conversion du methane

S - conversion de metano

METHANE DIGESTER

(biocon). A device that converts BIOMASS into METHANE and Fertilizer through biological activity. (See also: BIOGAS DIGESTER)

F - digesteur au methane

S - digestor de metano

METHANE GAS

(biocon) (chem). (See: METHANE)

F - gaz de methane

S - gas de metano

METHANE GENERATION

(biocon). (See: BIOGAS DIGESTER)

F - production du methane

S - produccion de metano

METHANE PLANT

(biocon). (See: BIOGAS DIGESTER; METHANE)

F - generateur a methane

S - instalacion de metano

METHANOGENIC BACTERIA

(bio) (biocon). BACTERIA that generate METHANE (i.e., those that are responsible for the "second step" of DIGESTION). (See also: ANAEROBIC DIGESTION)

F - bacteries methanogenes

S - bacteria metanogenica

METHANOL

(alc). A light, VOLATILE, flammable, poisonous liquid ALCOHOL (C[H.sub.3]OH) formed in the DESTRUCTIVE DISTILLATION of wood or made synthetically. METHANOL is used especially as a solvent, antifreeze, or DENATURANT for ETHANOL, and in the synthesis of other chemicals. It is also used increasingly as a fuel. (Syn: methyl alcohol or wood alcohol)

F - methanol

S - metanol

METHYL ALCOHOL

(alc). (See: METHANOL)

F - alcool methylique

S - alcohol metilico

MICROFLORA MICRO-ORGANISMS

(bio) (biocon). The microscopic organisms, chiefly BACTERIA in this context, that are responsible for ANAEROBIC DIGESTION.

F - micro-organismes de la flore microbienne

S - microorganismos de microflora

MICROHYDRO

(hydr). Small-scale, water-powered systems that may be used to produce mechanical POWER or less than 100 KILOWATTS of electricity. They commonly are used for homes, farms, or small industries.

F - microcentrales hydrauliques

S - microhidro

MILL

(gen) (hydr) (wind). A device to grind grain and cereals. Also used colloquially to describe a WINDMILL, WATER WHEEL, or WATER MILL.

F - moulin

S - molino

MILL RACE

(hydr). A CHANNEL that carries water to a WATER WHEEL.

F - bief de moulin

S - caz

MINIHYDRO

(hydr). HYDROPOWER units that produce 100-1000 KILOWATTS.

F - minicentrales hydrauliques

S - minihidro

MINIMUM FLOW RATE

(hydr) (meas). The least amount of water that will FLOW past a given point at any time. This measurement is used to help evaluate the HYDROPOWER potential of a site.

F - debit minimum

S - velocidad minime de flujo

MISCIBLE

(chem). Capable of being mixed in any proportion.

F - miscible

S - miscible

MIXING TANK

(biocon) (impl). A chamber in which BIOMASS is mixed with water to form SLURRY for a BIOGAS DIGESTER.

F - reservoir de melange

S - cuba de mezcla

MOLECULAR SIEVE

(alc). A STILL COLUMN that separates molecules by selectively ADSORPING them on the basis of size.

F - tamis moleculaire

S - criba por accion molecular

MONOSACCHARIDE

(alc). SUGAR derived from STARCH and CELLULOSE that can be converted to ETHANOL.

F - monosaccharide

S - monosacarido

MOUNTAIN AND VALLEY WINDS

(wind). A system of daily winds prevailing in calm, clear weather along the width of a valley. The winds blow uphill and upvalley by day and downhill and downvalley by night.

F - vents des monts et des vallees

S - vientos de las montanas y aldeas

MULTIBLADE WINDMILL

(wind). A WINDMILL that has a large number of BLADES. It generally is used to pump water.

F - eolienne a ailes multiples

S - molino de multiaspas

MULTIVANE WINDMILL

(wind). A WINDMILL having more than one TAIL.

F - eolienne a empennages multiples

S - molino de multiples puntas

MAGNESITE BRICK

(constr) (sol). A masonry brick to which magnesium or similar material has been added to darken the color of the brick and increase its THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY and ABSORPTANCE.

F - brique a la magnesite

S - ladrillo de magnesita

MAGNETO

(elec). A small, permanent-magnet, electric GENERATOR capable of producing periodic high voltage impulses.

F - magneto

S - magneto

MAGNOUS EFFECT

(wind). An effect whereby a spinning CYLINDER exposed to the wind produces a horizontal force. This effect has been used to enable experimental WIND MACHINES to POWER small boats.

F - effet magnus

S - efecto de fuerza horizontal

MALT

(alc). Sprouted grain that contains ENZYMES to convert STARCH to sugar. Special varieties of barley are frequently used to produce malt.

F - malt

S - malta

MANOMETER

(biocon) (meas). A device used to measure gas pressure. It may be used to monitor gas pressure in a BIOGAS DIGESTER.

F - manometre

S - manometro

MANTLE

(biocon) (impl). A cloth MEMBRANE in which gases are collected and burned to create light through incandescence.

F - manchon a incandescence

S - manteleta

MARSH GAS

(biocon). METHANE. Decaying ORGANIC MATTER at the bottom of a marsh or pond will produce bubbles of methane gas when stirred.

F - gaz des marais

S - gas de los pantanos

MASH

(alc). A mixture of water and crushed grains or other FEEDSTOCKS that can be FERMENTED to produce ETHANOL.

F - mout

S - mezcla

MASH COMPOSITION

(alc). The materials making up the MASH in an ALCOHOL STILL.

F - composition du mout

S - malta empastada

MASONITE

(constr). Trademark name for a thin board made of compressed wood fibers. It is useful as a backing for SOLAR REFLECTORS.

F - masonite

S - masonite

MAXIMUM FLOW RATE

(hydr) (meas). The maximum amount of water that can FLOW past a point during a given period of time. This measurement is used to evaluate the HYDROPOWER potential of a site.

F - debit maximum

S - velocidad maxima de flujo

MEADOW MILL

(hydr). A small, untended WATERMILL used for drainage.

F - moulinet de campagne

S - molino de pradera

MECHANICAL ADVANTAGE

(gen) (meas). The factor by which a machine multiplies any applied force.

F - effet mecanique

S - rendimiento mecanico

MECHANICAL TURBULENCE

(wind). Erratic air movement caused by such obstructions as trees or buildings.

F - turbulence mecanique

S - turbulencia mecanica

MEGAWATT

(elec) (meas). One million WATTS.

F - megawatt

S - megavatio

MEMBRANE

(alc). A sheet polymer or thin biological tissue capable of separating liquid solutions. Membranes are sometimes used in the ALCOHOL DISTILLATION process.

F - membrane

S - membrana

MERIDIONAL WIND

(wind). The wind or wind component along the local meridian.

F - vent meridien

S - viento meridional

MESOPHYLLIC BACTERIA

(biocon). BACTERIA that thrive best at temperatures of 70-104 [degrees] F (21-40 [degrees] C) and are useful in producing BIOGAS.

F - bacteries mesophyliennes

S - bacteria mesofilica

METHANATION

(biocon). A process of converting to METHANE the carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide present in synthetic gas.

F - methanisation

S - metanacion

METHANE

(biocon) (chem). An odorless, colorless gas (C[H.sub.4]), nearly insoluble in water, which burns with a pale, faintly luminous flame to produce water and carbon dioxide (or carbon monoxide if oxygen is deficient). (See also: MARSH GAS) (Syn: BIOGAS)

F - methane

S - metano

METHANE CONVERSION

(biocon). The production of METHANE through BIOCONVERSION.

F - conversion du methane

S - conversion de metano

METHANE DIGESTER

(biocon). A device that converts BIOMASS into METHANE and Fertilizer through biological activity. (See also: BIOGAS DIGESTER)

F - digesteur au methane

S - digestor de metano

METHANE GAS

(biocon) (chem). (See: METHANE)

F - gaz de methane

S - gas de metano

METHANE GENERATION

(biocon). (See: BIOGAS DIGESTER)

F - production du methane

S - produccion de metano

METHANE PLANT

(biocon). (See: BIOGAS DIGESTER; METHANE)

F - generateur a methane

S - instalacion de metano

METHANOGENIC BACTERIA

(bio) (biocon). BACTERIA that generate METHANE (i.e., those that are responsible for the "second step" of DIGESTION). (See also: ANAEROBIC DIGESTION)

F - bacteries methanogenes

S - bacteria metanogenica

METHANOL

(alc). A light, VOLATILE, flammable, poisonous liquid ALCOHOL (C[H.sub.3]OH) formed in the DESTRUCTIVE DISTILLATION of wood or made synthetically. METHANOL is used especially as a solvent, antifreeze, or DENATURANT for ETHANOL, and in the synthesis of other chemicals. It is also used increasingly as a fuel. (Syn: methyl alcohol or wood alcohol)

F - methanol

S - metanol

METHYL ALCOHOL

(alc). (See: METHANOL)

F - alcool methylique

S - alcohol metilico

MICROFLORA MICRO-ORGANISMS

(bio) (biocon). The microscopic organisms, chiefly BACTERIA in this context, that are responsible for ANAEROBIC DIGESTION.

F - micro-organismes de la flore microbienne

S - microorganismos de microflora

MICROHYDRO

(hydr). Small-scale, water-powered systems that may be used to produce mechanical POWER or less than 100 KILOWATTS of electricity. They commonly are used for homes, farms, or small industries.

F - microcentrales hydrauliques

S - microhidro

MILL

(gen) (hydr) (wind). A device to grind grain and cereals. Also used colloquially to describe a WINDMILL, WATER WHEEL, or WATER MILL.

F - moulin

S - molino

MILL RACE

(hydr). A CHANNEL that carries water to a WATER WHEEL.

F - bief de moulin

S - caz

MINIHYDRO

(hydr). HYDROPOWER units that produce 100-1000 KILOWATTS.

F - minicentrales hydrauliques

S - minihidro

MINIMUM FLOW RATE

(hydr) (meas). The least amount of water that will FLOW past a given point at any time. This measurement is used to help evaluate the HYDROPOWER potential of a site.

F - debit minimum

S - velocidad minime de flujo

MISCIBLE

(chem). Capable of being mixed in any proportion.

F - miscible

S - miscible

MIXING TANK

(biocon) (impl). A chamber in which BIOMASS is mixed with water to form SLURRY for a BIOGAS DIGESTER.

F - reservoir de melange

S - cuba de mezcla

MOLECULAR SIEVE

(alc). A STILL COLUMN that separates molecules by selectively ADSORPING them on the basis of size.

F - tamis moleculaire

S - criba por accion molecular

MONOSACCHARIDE

(alc). SUGAR derived from STARCH and CELLULOSE that can be converted to ETHANOL.

F - monosaccharide

S - monosacarido

MOUNTAIN AND VALLEY WINDS

(wind). A system of daily winds prevailing in calm, clear weather along the width of a valley. The winds blow uphill and upvalley by day and downhill and downvalley by night.

F - vents des monts et des vallees

S - vientos de las montanas y aldeas

MULTIBLADE WINDMILL

(wind). A WINDMILL that has a large number of BLADES. It generally is used to pump water.

F - eolienne a ailes multiples

S - molino de multiaspas

MULTIVANE WINDMILL

(wind). A WINDMILL having more than one TAIL.

F - eolienne a empennages multiples

S - molino de multiples puntas

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NACELLE

(wind). The portion of a wind electric conversion machine that houses the electricity generating equipment.

F - carter

S - barquilla

NATURAL CONVECTION

(heat). The natural CONVECTION of heat through the FLUID in a body that occurs when warm, less dense fluid rises and cold, dense fluid sinks under the influence of gravity. (Syn: gravity convection)

F - convection naturelle

S - conveccion natural

NET AREA

(sol) (meas). The area of the opening of a SOLAR COLLECTOR, through which SOLAR RADIATION may pass.

F - fenetre d'entree

S - superficie neta

NET ENERGY CONSUMPTION

(gen) (meas). (See: ENERGY CONSUMPTION)

F - consommation nette d'energie

S - consumo neto de energia

NIGHT SKY RADIATION

(sol). A method of cooling through RADIANT ENERGY exchange. Relatively warm surfaces are exposed directly to the colder night sky to which they radiate the heat they collected during the day.

F - rayonnement diffus nocturne

S - radiacion del cielo nocturno

NIGHT SOIL

(bio). Human excreta with or without flush water, which may be used as FEEDSTOCK for a BIOGAS DIGESTER.

F - vidanges

S - defecaciones humanas

NOCTURNAL RADIATION

(sol). (See: NIGHT SKY RADIATION)

F - rayonnement nocturne

S - radiaciones nocturnas

NORIA

(hydr) (arc). A vertical WATER WHEEL that is turned by water current. Containers attached to its rim LIFT water for irrigation.

F - noria

S - noria

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OCEAN THERMAL GRADIENTS

(oceans). The temperature difference between deep and surface water in the ocean. These temperature variations may be used as an ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCE.

F - gradients de temperature oceaniques

S - termogradientes oceanicos

OCEAN THERMAL POWER

(ocean). ENERGY acquired from differences in temperatures at different depths in the ocean.

F - energie thermique des mers

S - termopotencia oceanica

OCEAN TIDAL POWER

(ocean). The production of electricity by harnessing ocean tidal movements through the use of adjustable-BLADE WATER TURBINES or other devices.

F - energie maremotrice

S - energia oceanica

OFFSHORE WINDS

(wind). Winds blowing seaward from the coast.

F - vents de terre

S - vientos terrales

S LAW

(elec). The law stating that for any circuit the electric current is proportional to the voltage and inversely proportional to the resistance.

F - loi d'ohm

S - ley de ohmio

ONSHORE WINDS

(wind). Winds blowing shoreward from the sea.

F - vents du large

S - vientos del mar

OPERATING FLOW

(hydr) (meas). The FLOW rate needed by a HYDROPOWER device to operate at its rated LOAD level.

F - debit nominal

S - flujo de operacion

ORGANIC MATTER

(gen). Materials of animal or vegetable origin.

F - matieres organiques

S - materia organica

ORGANIC WASTE

(bio). Residues derived from living organisms. Organic wastes may be used as FEEDSTOCK for BIOGAS DIGESTERS. (See also: BIOMASS)

F - dechets organiques

S - desperdicios organicos

ORIENTATION

(sol). The arrangement of windows on a building or solar device along a given AXIS to face in a direction best suited to absorb SOLAR RADIATION. This is an essential element in planning PASSIVE SOLAR HEATING systems for homes and other buildings.

F - exposition

S - orientacion

OSMOSIS

(gen). The process by which a solvent is DIFFUSED through a semipermeable MEMBRANE into a more CONCENTRATED solution.

F - osmose

S - osmosis

OVERFLOW WEIR

(hydr). (See: WEIR)

F - deversoir de trop-plein

S - vertedero de superficie

OVERSHOT WATER WHEEL

(hydr). A WATER WHEEL powered by a HEADRACE that discharges over the outer circumference of the wheel. (Syn: overshot gravity wheel)

F - roue en dessus

S - rueda hidraulica de admision superior

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PACKED COLUMN

(alc). A type of STILL COLUMN or pipe that is used in ALCOHOL DISTILLATION. It is filled with such material as metal filings, plastic, or glass beads. Packed columns increase ALCOHOL yields by providing continuous redistillation of the ALCOHOL VAPOR as it moves up the still column.

F - colonne garnie

S - columna compacta

PANEMONE

(wind). A VERTICAL-AXIS WIND MACHINE, generally a DRAG-TYPE WIND MACHINE, that can react to winds from any direction.

F - panemone

S - molino de eje vertical

PARABOLA

(sol). The geometrically-curved shape used in the design of SOLAR COOKERS to focus sunlight on a single point. A parabola is based on a family of quadratic curves.

F - parabole

S - parabola

PARABOLIC CONCENTRATING COOKER

(sol). A SOLAR COOKER that uses a PARABOLIC DISH to focus sunlight.

F - cuiseur solaire a miroir concave

S - cocina parabolica concentrante

PARABOLIC DISH

(sol). A SOLAR ENERGY device shaped like a dish or bowl, with the characteristics of a PARABOLA. It focuses sunlight on a point or a very small area.

F - parabolique solaire

S - plato parabolico

PARABOLIC MIRROR

(sol). A device with a large, shiny, curved surface that focuses SOLAR RADIATION on a specific point, such as a cooking vessel, for heating or boiling.

F - miroir parabolique

S - espejo parabolico

S LAW

(gen). The law stating that pressure applied to a confined FLUID at any point is transmitted throughout the fluid in all directions. The pressure acts upon every part of the confining vessel at right angles to its interior surfaces, acting equally upon equal areas.

F - loi de Pascal

S - ley de Pascal

PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN

(sol). An architectural design that makes use of the structural elements of a building to heat or cool spaces in the building.

F - systeme solaire passif

S - diseno solar pasivo

PASSIVE SOLAR HEATING

(sol). The SOLAR HEATING of a building by use of architectural design, without the aid of mechanical equipment.

F - chauffage solaire passif

S - calefaccion solar pasiva

PATENT SAIL

(wind) (arc). A SAIL fitted with SHUTTERS that are controlled automatically.

F - aile a volets

S - aspa patente

PATHOGENIC ORGANISM

(bio). (See: PATHOGENS)

F - organisme pathogene

S - organismos patogenicos

PATHOGENS

(bio). Harmful micro-organisms, such as BACTERIA and viruses. Pathogens may be found in human, animal, and other wastes, and help spread disease.

F - microbes pathogenes

S - patogenos

PEAK WATT

(sol) (meas) (elec). Unit used for the performance rating of PHOTOVOLTAIC CONVERTERS. A system rated at one peak watt will deliver one WATT at the specified working voltage under peak SOLAR IRRADIATION.

F - watt-crete

S - vatio maximo

PEAT

(bio) (biocon). Partially decomposed ORGANIC MATTER formed in marshes and swamps. Dried peat is useful as a fuel.

F - tourbe

S - turba

PEBBLE BED

(sol). A large bin of uniformly-sized pebbles that is used to store heat in SOLAR HEATING or SOLAR COOLING systems. A pebble bed is one type of HEAT SINK.

F - lit de galets

S - lecho de gravilla

PEDAL POWER

(gen). Mechanical or electrical POWER generated by the use of a bicycle-gearing apparatus. Pedal power may be used for buffing, lathing, grinding grain or meat, operating a potter's wheel, driving a small GENERATOR, turning a sharpening stone, operating a corn sheller, and other applications.

F - energie par pedalier

S - potencia generada por pedal

PEDAL-POWER UNIT

(impl). (See: PEDAL POWER; DYNAPOD)

F - appareil a entrainement par pedales

S - unidad de potencia-pedal

PELTON WHEEL

(hydr). An IMPULSE WATER TURBINE in which the pressure of the water supply is concentrated through a few stationary nozzles. The JETS of water strike the BUCKETS, which are mounted on the RUNNER. Pelton wheels usually are limited to installations with HEADS that exceed 500 feet, or about 160 meters. (Syn: Pelton turbine)

F - roue Pelton

S - rueda Pelton

PENSTOCK

(hydr). A water conduit from a DAM to a TURBINE or WATER WHEEL. (See also: CHANNEL)

F - conduite forcee

S - paradera de caz

pH

(chem) (meas). Potential hydrogen. The symbol that denotes a measurement of the effective hydrogen ion CONCENTRATION. On a scale of 0 to 14, 7 represents neutrality. Numbers less then 7 indicate increasing ACIDITY. Numbers greater than 7 indicate increasing ALKALINITY of a solution.

F - pH

S - pH

PHOTOMETER

(sol) (meas). A device that measures the intensity of light.

F - photometre

S - fotometro

PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAY

(sol). A number of PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES that are electrically connected in a series and/or in parallel so as to provide the desired POWER and voltage. The modules are mounted on a sturdy framework that generally faces the equator. The array may be tailored to the requirements of a particular application and location. Such an array is valuable because it can generate electricity from sunlight without the use of moving mechanical parts.

F - chapelet de photopiles

S - conjunto fotovoltaico

PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL

(sol). A SOLAR ENERGY device that changes light into electrical ENERGY. The cell is a small square or circular wafer made of treated SILICON or other semiconductor material.

F - cellule photovoltaique

S - celula fotovoltaica

PHOTOVOLTAIC CONVERTER

(sol). (See: PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL)

F - convertisseur photovoltaique

S - convertidor fotovoltaico

PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE

(sol). The basic building block of a PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAY, which consists of a number of interconnected SOLAR CELLS.

F - module photovoltaique

S - modulo fotovoltaico

PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL

(sol). (Syn: PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE)

F - panneau photovoltaique

S - panel fotovoltaico

PHOTOVOLTAIC PROCESS

(sol). A process by which light rays are converted directly into electrical ENERGY.

F - conversion photovoltaique

S - proceso fotovoltaico

PITCH

(wind) (meas). The angle between the BLADE surface and the ANGLE OF ATTACK in a WINDMILL.

F - pas

S - paso

PITCH-BACK WATER WHEEL

(hydr). An OVERSHOT WATER WHEEL in which the trough carrying water to the wheel is modified to discharge onto the near side of the wheel, thus reversing the normal direction of rotation.

F - roue hydraulique a jet inverse

S - rueda hidraulica de engranaje

PIT KILN

(heat). A KILN made from a hole that is dug in the ground.

F - four en terre

S - horno de foso

PLUG FLOW GENERATOR

(biocon) (impl). A BIOGAS DIGESTER with no mechanical agitation through which the SLURRY passes along in more or less discrete "plugs," creating a cycle of "first in-first out." The EFFLUENT is then theoretically composed only of older slurry. The plug flow design differs from traditional designs, in which all slurry is purposely mixed together in a single pit or tank.

F - generateur a effet bouchon

S - generador de flujo

POLL ENDS

(arc) (wind). (See: CANISTER)

F - bouts de mats

S - puntas

POLYSACCHARIDE

(chem). (See: STARCH)

F - polysaccharide

S - polisacarido

POLYURETHANE FOAM

(constr). A very lightweight plastic or other synthetic insulating material.

F - mousse de polyurethanne

S - espuma de poliuretano

POLYVINYL ACETATE

(chem) (sol). A clear plastic made of CELLULOSE ACETATE and used as GLAZING on SOLAR COLLECTORS.

F - acetate de polyvinyle

S - acetato de polivinilo

PONCELET WHEEL

(hydr). An UNDERSHOT WATER WHEEL made with curved metal BLADES.

F - roue Poncelet

S - rueda hidraulica Poncelet

POST MILL

(wind) (arc). This is the earliest type of European WINDMILL. The body of the windmill is balanced on a large post and trestle. The entire body revolves to turn the BLADES into the wind.

F - moulin pivot

S - molino de poste

POTENTIAL HYDROGEN

(chem) (meas). (See: pH)

F - potentiel d'hydrogene

S - potencial de hidrogeno

POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH

(meas). A measurement of gas pressure. Commonly abbreviated as psi.

F - livres par pouce carre

S - libras/[pulgada.sup.2]

POWER

(gen). The rate at which ENERGY is consumed or produced.

F - puissance

S - potencia

POWER COEFFICIENT

(wind) (meas). The ratio of the POWER extracted by a WIND MACHINE ROTOR to the power available in a wind stream.

F - coefficient de puissance

S - coeficiente de potencia

POWER DENSITY

(wind) (meas). The amount of POWER per unit of a cross-sectional area of a wind stream.

F - puissance volumique

S - densidad de potencia

PRECULTURE

(alc). A method for reducing the time and increasing the EFFICIENCY of FERMENTATION. The preculture process involves CONCENTRATING the ALCOHOL-producing YEAST before introducing it into the FERMENTATION TANK.

F - preculture

S - precultivo

PREPARED ORGANIC WASTE

(biocon). BIOMASS mixed with water for use in a BIOGAS DIGESTER. (Syn: SLURRY)

F - dechets organiques prepares

S - desperdicio organico preparado

PREVAILING WIND

(wind). The direction from which the wind blows most often. This is an important consideration in selecting a site for a WINDMILL.

F - vent dominant

S - viento dominante

PRODUCER GAS

(prod). A combination of COMBUSTIBLE GASES created through the combustion of wood or coal in a controlled-air environment. Producer gas may be used to drive gasoline or diesel engines.

F - gaz de gazogene

S - gas pobre

PRODUCER GAS GENERATOR

(gen). A furnace in which COMBUSTIBLE GASES are produced for use as a fuel.

F - gazogene

S - generador de gas pobre

PROOF

(alc) (meas). A unit measurement of the strength of ALCOHOL. The proof is twice the percentage of the alcohol in the liquid. Alcohol that is 90 proof contains 45 percent alcohol. (See also: PROOF-GALLON)

F - degre en alcool

S - graduacion normal

PROOF-GALLON

(alc) (meas). A standard U.S. gallon of a mixture that is 50 percent ALCOHOL and 50 percent water (i.e., that is 100 proof). An alcohol/water mixture that contains a different ratio of each may be translated into proof-gallons by moving the decimal point of the proof two places to the left and multiplying by the total number of gallons of the mixture.

F - proof-gallon

S - proof-gallon

PSI

(meas). Abbreviation for POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH.

F - psi

S - lb/[pulg.sup.2]

PYRANOMETER

(meas) (sol). A device that measures total GLOBAL RADIATION.

F - pyranometre

S - piranometro

PYROHELIOMETER

(meas) (sol). An instrument that measures SOLAR RADIATION from the sun, or from a small portion of the sky that surrounds the sun.

F - pyroheliometre

S - piroheliometro

PYROLYSIS

(chem). The DECOMPOSITION of a substance subjected to very high heat.

F - pyrolyse

S - pirolisis

Q[edit | edit source]

QUAD

(meas). One quadrillion BTUs. It is expressed as either [10.sup.15] or 1,000,000,000,000,000 BTus. A quad is used to measure any large unit of energy such as wood, gasoline, coal, etc. For example, a quad can be used to describe the amount of THERMAL ENERGY that is potentially available from burning a certain acreage of trees in WOODSTOVES.

F - quad

S - cuad

QUARTERING

(wind). The action of turning a WINDMILL broadside to the WIND.

F - larguage

S - venteo

R[edit | edit source]

RACE

(hydr). An AQUEDUCT or CHANNEL that carries water to and from the place where it is used to drive a HYDROPOWER device.

F - chenal

S - canal de trabajo

RADIAL FLOW

(hydr). A type of HYDROPOWER device in which the water flows out radially from the power shaft. (See also: FRANCIS TURBINE)

F - ecoulement radial

S - flujo radial

RADIANT ENERGY

(sol). ENERGY in the form of electromagnetic waves that travels outward in all directions from its source.

F - energie rayonnante

S - energia radiante

RADIANT PANELS

(sol). SOLAR COLLECTORS with integral passages for the FLOW of HEAT TRANSFER FLUID. Heat from the fluid is conducted into a room or building by THERMAL RADIATION.

F - panneaux rayonnants

S - paneles radiantes

RADIATION

(sol). Electromagnetic waves that directly transport ENERGY through space. Sunlight is a form of radiation.

F - rayonnement

S - radiacion

RATED POWER CAPACITY

(wind) (meas). The expected POWER output of a WIND MACHINE. It is equal to either the maximum power of the machine or to an output at some WIND SPEED less than the maximum speed, but at which GOVERNING controls start to reduce the power.

F - puissance nominale

S - capacidad de potencia tasada

RATED WIND SPEED

(meas) (wind). The WIND SPEED at which a WIND MACHINE delivers its RATED POWER CAPACITY.

F - vitesse nominale du vent

S - velocidad eolica tasada

RATE LIMITING STEP

(biocon). Whichever stage in the ANAERIOBIC process that is slowest. Since each step in the digestion process requires the preceeding one to be completed before it can begin, the overall gas production rate is limited by the slowest step.

F - stage limitant la cadence

S - etapa de velocidad limitadora

RAW SLUDGE

(biocon). Fresh, undried, uncomposted EFFLUENT from a DIGESTER. Also residue in the same condition from the bottom of a digester.

F - boues brutes

S - cienos sin tratar

RAYLEIGH DISTRIBUTION

(wind). Standard WIND SPEED DISTRIBUTION that is useful in wind site analysis. It is a probability density function that allows one to model the wind speed distribution based on a single input parameter. (See also: WEIBULL DISTRIBUTION)

F - distribution de Rayleigh

S - distribucion de Rayleigh

REACTION TURBINE

(hydr). A WATER TURBINE that uses the mass or weight of water hitting the RUNNER as opposed to being driven by the velocity of the water.

F - turbine a reaction

S - turbina a reaccion

REACTION WATER WHEEL

(hydr). A WATER WHEEL that uses the mass or weight of water falling onto it rather than the FLOW.

F - roue hydraulique a reaction

S - rueda hidraulica reactiva

RECIPROCATING ENGINE

(hydr). A device that converts the potential ENERGY in a FLUID to mechanical energy by expanding the FLUID against a piston.

F - moteur a pistons

S - maquina alternativa

RECIPROCATING PUMP

(wind). A type of water pump commonly used with WINDMILLS. Motion and pressure are applied to the water by a piston moving up and down in a CYLINDER. The piston is powered by the WINDMILL.

F - pompe alternative

S - bomba aspirante e impelente

RECLAIMED OIL

(heat). (See: USED OIL)

F - huile de recuperation

S - aceite recuperado

RECOVERED ENERGY

(gen). Heat or other ENERGY that normally would be lost during a process, but instead is captured and reused. For example, FLUE gases may be used for drying purposes.

F - energie recuperee

S - energia recobrada

RECTIFIER]] [1][edit | edit source]

(alc) (impl). A second column on an ALCOHOL STILL that is used to further remove water from the ALCOHOL VAPOR, thus increasing the PROOF of the alcohol. This increase in CONCENTRATION is achieved by the repeated interaction of the rising vapor with the liquid DISTILLATE. [2] (elec). A device that converts ALTERNATING CURRENT (ac) into DIRECT CURRENT (dc).

F - [1] colonne de rectification; [2] redresseur

S - [1] rectificadora; [2] rectificador

RECTIFYING COLUMN

(alc) (impl). [See: RECTIFIER (alc)]

F - colonne de rectification

S - columna de rectificar

REDUCING SUGAR

(alc). (See: MONOSACCHARIDE)

F - sucre reducteur

S - azucar reductora

REEFING

(wind). Rolling and tying down a portion of a WINDMILL SAIL to reduce the area exposed to the wind.

F - prendre les ris

S - recoger las velas

REFLECTANCE

(sol). The ratio of RADIATION reflected from a surface to that incident on the surface. [See also: REFLECTIVITY (2)].

F - facteur de reflexion

S - reflectancia

REFLECTED RADIATION

(sol). SOLAR RADIATION that has been reflected from such surfaces as the ground or buildings, and which ultimately becomes INCIDENT RADIATION.

F - rayonnement reflechi

S - radiacion reflejada

REFLECTIVITY

(sol) (meas). [1] The ability to reflect SOLAR RADIATION, which is possessed to some degree by all materials. It is called the ALBEDO in atmospheric references. [2] The ratio of RADIANT ENERGY reflected by a body to that falling upon it.

F - pouvoir reflecteur

S - reflectividad

REFLECTOMETER

(sol) (meas). A PHOTOMETER or other electronic device that measures REFLECTANCE or RADIANT ENERGY.

F - reflectometre

S - reflectometro

REFLECTOR

(sol). A device that can be used to reflect and focus SOLAR RADIATION.

F - reflecteur

S - reflector

REFLECTOR BACKING

(sol). The material used on the rear part of a SOLAR REFLECTOR. (See also: MASONITE)

F - renfort de reflecteur

S - revestimiento reflector

REFLECTOR COOKER

(sol). (See: REFLECTOR-TYPE SOLAR COOKER)

F - cuiseur a reflecteur

S - hornillo reflector

REFLECTOR-TYPE SOLAR COOKER

(sol). A SOLAR COOKER in which a REFLECTOR concentrates the sun's rays on a cooking device.

F - cuiseur solaire a reflecteur

S - hornillo solar reflector

REFLUX

(alc). Liquid ALCOHOL that is condensed in a DISTILLATION COLUMN, and then reintroduced into the column to increase its CONCENTRATION.

F - reflux

S - reflujo

REFRIGERANT

(refrig). A VOLATILE substance that can be used as a working FLUID in a cooling system.

F - refrigerant

S - refrigerante

REFRIGERATION

(refrig). The act or process of making or keeping something cool or cold. It especially applies to the use of artificial means for cooling.

F - refrigeration

S - refrigeracion

RENEWABLE ENERGY

(gen). ENERGY produced from regenerative or virtually inexhaustible resources such as BIOMASS, SOLAR RADIATION, the wind, water, or heat from the Earth's interior.

F - energie renouvelable

S - energia renovable

RENEWABLE RESOURCES

(gen). (See: RENEWABLE ENERGY)

F - ressources renouvelables

S - recursos renovables

RESISTANCE VALUE

(constr) (meas). A rating of a substance's thermal resistance to summer HEAT GAIN or winter heat loss. It is used as a measure of insulation efficiency. (Syn: R-VALUE) (See also: U-VALUE)

F - resistance thermique

S - valor de resistencia

RETORT

(alc) (gen). [1] A vessel in which substances are subjected to heat for the purpose of DISTILLATION or DECOMPOSITION. A retort is distinguished from a STILL in that it is more often used for the treatment of solid or semisolid substances. [2] A closed container used in CHARCOAL production in which COMBUSTIBLE GASES are captured and made into liquids, generally through CONDENSATION.

F - cornue

S - retorta

RETROFITTING

(sol). The installation of SOLAR HEATING or SOLAR COOLING systems in existing structures.

F - readaptation

S - modificacion retroactiva

RETURN TIME

(wind) (meas). The length of time during which low winds prevent a WINDMILL from reaching its CUT-IN SPEED or START-UP SPEED. The "down time" or time period when the wind is too low to enable a WINDMILL to reach its cut-in speed or start-up speed.

F - temps mort

S - tiempo de restablecimiento

NUMBER

(meas) (sol) (wind). The ratio of material forces to VISCOUS forces in any FLUID FLOW. The Reynolds' number is determined through the following equation: (PVD)/U where:

P (rho) = density

V = velocity

D = length of flow distance

U (mu) = viscosity.

F - nombre de Reynolds

S - numero de Reynolds

RICE HUSK STOVE

(biocon). A stove designed to use rice husks as its primary fuel.

F - poele a paille de riz

S - estufa de cascaras de arroz

RIGGING

(wind) (impl). Collectively, all the ropes and cords used to support the mast of the WINDMILL, and to FURL or unfurl the SAILS.

F - haubanage

S - cordaje

RIPARIAN RIGHTS

(hydr). The right of a landowner to the water on or bordering his or her property, including the right to prevent diversion or misuse of upstream water.

F - droits de riverainete

S - derechos riberenos

RISER

(alc). A tube that penetrates a plate in a STILL COLUMN, allowing ALCOHOL VAPORS to move up the column. A perforated cap or cup is placed on top of each riser to distribute the vapor into the column section and to prevent water from dripping into the riser.

F - colonne montante

S - tubo de subida

RIVER GENERATOR

(elec) (hydr). A HYDROELECTRIC GENERATOR that gets its power from a river or other FLOWING water.

F - generateur riverain

S - generador fluvial

ROCKBED

(sol). A heat storage container filled with rocks or pebbles that is used in SOLAR HEATING and SOLAR COOLING systems.

F - lit de pierres

S - fondo de roca

ROCKBED COOLING SYSTEM

(sol). A passive air-conditioning system that circulates a building's air through a bed of rocks that has cooled during the night or early morning.

F - refroidissement par lit de pierres, systeme de

S - sistema de enfriamiento con lecho de roca

ROCKER ARM

(wind) (impl). A support mechanism that rotates on a shaft at one end while moving up and down at the other. It is used to convert the rotating motion of a WINDMILL to an up-and-down motion, usually for pumping.

F - culbuteur

S - balancin

ROLLER REEFING SAIL

(wind) (arc). A ROTOR BLADE that is fitted with canvas strips (SAILS) wound on ROLLERS. The rollers are used for REEFING the sails.

F - aile a rouleaux de prise de ris

S - aspa con rodillos

ROLLERS

(wind) (arc). BEARINGS between the CURB and the CAP of a TOWER MILL or SMOCK MILL. The rollers allow the top of the MILL to turn into the wind.

F - rouleaux

S - rodillos

ROTOR

(wind). The assembly of SAILS or BLADES that rotate about an AXIS created by the WIND SHAFT of a WINDMILL.

F - rotor

S - rotor

ROTOR SHAFT

(wind). (See: WIND SHAFT)

F - arbre de rotor

S - eje del rotor

RUNG

(hydr) (wind). [1] The BLADES of a WATER WHEEL. [2] The transverse iron rods that hold the SAIL CLOTHS in a WINDMILL.

F - [1] palette; [2] barreau

S - paleta

RUNNER

(hydr). The TURBINE wheel.

F - roue de turbine

S - rueda movil

R-VALUE

(meas). (See: RESISTANCE VALUE)

F - resistance thermique

S - valor R