Tirenioluwa SIWES Report
Tirenioluwa SIWES Report
TECHNICAL REPORT
ON STUDENT INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE
SCHEME(SIWES)
UNDERTAKEN AT
POWERCELL LIMITED, LAGOS STATE
BY
ANIFOWOSE TIRENIOLUWA
BU21MCT1032
SUBMITTED TO
THE DEPARTMENT OF MECHATRONICS
ENGINEERING
BOWEN UNIVERSITY, IWO OF NIGERIA
IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT
FOR THE AWARD OF
BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING (B.Eng) DEGREE IN
MECHATRONIC
ENGINEERING
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DECLARATION
I affirm that this Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) report,
submitted to the Department of Mechatronics Engineering, college of
Agriculture, Engineering and Science (COAES), is my original work, completed
under the guidance of Engr. Abeeb Jabaru, my industry based supervisor.
The information and data in this report are accurate to the best of my
knowledge. It is not a reproduction of any other work, and I have respected all
intellectual property rights. Proper citations and references have been
included following academic standards and ethical guidelines.
This report has not been submitted elsewhere, and I am fully aware of the
consequences of plagiarism and academic dishonesty.
_______________________________
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LETTER OF CERTIFICATION
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DEDICATION
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Firstly, I want to express my gratitude to God Almighty for granting me
the opportunity to undertake my SIWES program at this esteemed
company and for safeguarding me throughout my tenure there.
I am deeply thankful to my Dad, Brothers, and Sister for their
unwavering support, both financially and in various other ways,
including their spiritual support and continuous demonstration of love.
I would also like to extend my appreciation to Mr. Ogun Afeez and Engr.
Taiwo for providing me with the chance to secure this internship
position, despite my application being submitted on short notice.
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ABSTRACT
This internship report provides a comprehensive overview of the hands-on
experience and knowledge gained during the tenure as a Maintenance
Mechatronics Technician at the Powercell limited, specifically within the
installation hall. The report delves into the essential aspects of maintenance,
troubleshooting, and process optimization in a dynamic manufacturing
environment, in partial fulfilment to the requirements for a bachelor’s degree
in Mechatronics Engineering, Bowen University, Iwo State.
This report started with the introduction to Students Industrial Work
Experience Scheme (SIWES) and explained briefly about the company and its
organogram.
Throughout the internship, practical insights were acquired into the intricacies
of maintaining and repairing machinery critical to the installation process.
Challenges faced in machinery breakdowns and downtime were addressed
through effective problem-solving techniques, highlighting the significance of
preventative and corrective maintenance strategies.
The report also underscores the importance of teamwork and communication
within the maintenance department and across various operational units of
the plant. Collaboration with experienced engineers and technicians
facilitated the transfer of valuable skills and knowledge, contributing to a
more proficient understanding of mechanical and electrical systems.
In addition, the report discusses the role of safety protocols and adherence to
industry regulations in ensuring a secure working environment. The internship
experience heightened awareness of the critical role that safety plays in the
installation industry.
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Lastly, this report offers reflections on the personal and professional growth
achieved during the internship, emphasizing the practical application of
theoretical knowledge and the development of a strong work ethic.
In summary, the internship at Powercell limited provided an invaluable
opportunity to gain practical insights into maintenance operations within a
manufacturing setting, fostering a deeper understanding of electrical systems
and their role in production efficiency.
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TABLE OF CONTENT
Front page……………………………………I
Declaration…………………………………ii
Certification………………………………….iii
Dedication………………………………….iv
Acknowledgement………………………….v
Abstract……………………………………..vi
Table of content …………………………. vi-vii
CHAPTER ONE (INTRODUCTION)
1.1 History Of SIWES (Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme).
1.2 Objectives OF SIWES
1.3 Duration And Structure OF The Program
1.4 Impact OF SIWES On Students And Industries
1.5 Bodies Involved In The Management Of SIWES Programme And Their Roles
1.6 Training Program
1.7 Tasks Performed
CHAPTER TWO (BACKGROUND OF COMPANY/ORGANIZATION)
2.1 Introduction Of The Organization
2.2 Service Offered
2.3 Structure of the Organization
2.4 Infrastructural And Facilities
2.5 Projects
2.6 Vision And Our Objectives
2.7 Mission
2.8 Our Core Values
2.9 Conclusion
CHAPTER THREE (INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE)
3.1 Offices Experiences/Sites Experiences
3.2. Installation Processes Of Solar
3.3 Mounting System Installation
3.4 Solar Panel Installation
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3.5 Wiring And Connection
3.6 Electrical Grid Connection
3.7 Testing And Commissioning
3.8 Safety Measures On Site
3.9 Solar System Operation For Justrite Superstore, Isolo
3.10 Problem Encountered
CHAPTER 5 (SUMMARY, RECOMMENDATION AND CONCLUSION)
4.1 Conclusion
4.2 Limitation
4.3 Recommendation
4.4 Appendices
REFERENCES
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CHAPTER 1
STUDENTS INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE
INTRODUCTION
The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) was established by the Federal Government of
Nigeria in 1971 as part of the government's efforts to address the shortage of skilled
manpower in various industries. The organization’s primary mission is to ensure that
Nigeria's workforce is equipped with the technical and vocational skills needed to
drive industrial and economic development. Over the years, ITF has implemented
numerous programs aimed at enhancing the practical competencies of Nigerian
students, graduates, and employees to meet the evolving demands of the labour
market.
The Students' Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) is one of the flagship
programs under ITF, created in collaboration with universities, polytechnics, and
other tertiary institutions across the country. SIWES was introduced to complement
theoretical knowledge by providing students with the opportunity to gain real-world
experience in their chosen fields. The program is targeted at students in disciplines
such as science, engineering, technology, and applied sciences, where practical,
hands-on experience is essential for career success.
The overarching goal of SIWES is to prepare students for the challenges and
demands of the workplace by exposing them to the work environment before
graduation. The specific objectives include:
- Bridging the skills gap: SIWES provides students with the opportunity to apply the
theoretical knowledge gained in classrooms to real-life situations, ensuring they
develop relevant skills that align with industry requirements.
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- Fostering industry-academia collaboration: The program creates a platform for
collaboration between academic institutions and industries, encouraging knowledge
exchange and ensuring that educational curricula remain aligned with industry
trends.
During the program, students are assigned supervisors from both the industry and
their academic institutions to guide and evaluate their progress. At the end of the
training, students are required to submit detailed reports (SIWES logbooks) that
document the tasks they performed, the skills they acquired, and the challenges they
encountered.
SIWES has had a profound impact on the Nigerian educational system and industries
alike. For students, the program provides an invaluable learning experience that
equips them with practical skills, boosts their confidence, and increases their
employability. It allows them to develop problem-solving skills, improve their
teamwork and communication abilities, and gain a deeper understanding of
industry-specific technologies and processes.
1.5 Bodies Involved In The Management Of SIWES Programme And Their Roles
1. The Federal Government of Nigeria;
2. The Industrial Training Fund (ITF);
3. National Universities Commission (NUC);
4. National Board for Technical Education (NBTE);
5. National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE);
6. Institutions of Higher Learning; and
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7. The Employers of Labour The bodies have specific roles
Theoretical Training
● Electrical Systems:
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○ Understanding of electrical wiring diagrams and schematics.
Practical Training
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● Inverter Installation and Configuration:
○ Laying cables for connecting solar panels, inverters, and other system
components.
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○ Analyzing data to assess system efficiency, identify trends, and
evaluate the impact of the solar system on electricity consumption.
● Week 1-2:
● Week 3-4:
● Week 5-6:
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○ Configuration of the central monitoring system (CMS) to track system
performance, energy production, and consumption.
● Week 7-8:
● Week 9:
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enhanced my technical skills and deepened my understanding of solar system design
and installation.
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ensure our team is equipped to meet the challenges of an evolving energy
landscape.
Their commitment to outstanding customer service has been central to our growth.
We recognize that reliable power infrastructure is as crucial to businesses as the
spinal cord is to the human body. This understanding drives our dedication to
providing responsive, high-quality service to all our clients. While we celebrate our
achievements, we maintain a high standard of performance and continue to push
forward with determination and faith.
3. Power Inverters and Batteries: The company provides storage solutions that
enable customers to store energy for use during outages.
4. Voltage Stabilizers: Through its partnership with Ashley Edison, Powercell provides
advanced voltage stabilizers to protect sensitive equipment.
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- Sales and Customer Support: Identifies client needs, markets energy solutions, and
provides after-sales services.
- Maintenance and After-Sales: Offers routine checks and repairs to ensure optimal
system performance, especially in mission-critical sectors like healthcare and data
centers.
2.5 Projects
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2.6 Vision and Our Objectives
To become the leading renewable energy provider in West Africa.To achieve this
mission, the Company strives to continuously: Understand, anticipate and respond
effectively to customer’s changing requirements by promoting the culture of a “ User
friendly organization” where the customer is king; Improve the quality of products to
users through knowledge transfer from foreign technical partners. Develop an
energy project that will not only be a major supplier of electricity to the Nigerian
populace but will also complement the vision 2020 of the federal Government green
Power project. Promote safe working standards that will ensure the safety of
personnel and output
2.7 Mission
Powercell limited seeks to combine good solar technology with nature’s most
abundant resource to deliver the cleanest, most affordable and energy efficient
solutions for a green future. Powercell limited is also passionately committed to
delivering alternative energy choices through lasting partnerships in order to build a
brighter, sustainable future.
The Company’s core values, which guide the conduct of its operations as well as its
interactions with stakeholders, are as follows: Intergrity, Professionalism, Excellence
Mindset,Capacity Building, Customer Service, Compliance and Community
Empowerment
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2.9 CONCLUSION
The Industrial training program at Powercell limited was a valuable experience that
enhanced my knowledge and skills in automobile engineering. I am confident that
the skills and knowledge gained during this training will be beneficial in my future
career. I express my gratitude to Bowen University, iwo of Nigeria and Powercell
limited for providing me this opportunity.
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CHAPTER THREE: INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE
Project Overview
During my SIWES placement at Powercell Limited, I worked on a solar system
installation at Justrite Superstore Isolo. The project aimed to reduce the store's
electricity costs by 40% through solar energy. This experience allowed me to gain
hands-on knowledge in solar system design, installation, and maintenance.
Solar Systems
Solar systems convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) technology.
Solar energy is a sustainable and abundant resource that helps reduce reliance on
traditional power sources and mitigate environmental impacts.
1. Grid-Tied Systems: Connected to the grid, with excess energy fed back for
credits.
2. Off-Grid Systems: Operate independently, with battery storage for
continuous power supply.
3. Hybrid Systems: Combine grid and battery storage for more flexibility.
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Benefits of Solar Systems
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solar energy in Nigeria. I learned how solar systems are installed and maintained,
gaining valuable practical knowledge in renewable energy solutions.
Site Assessment
● Roof Orientation and Tilt: The direction and angle of the roof significantly
impact the solar panel’s ability to capture sunlight. South-facing roofs
generally receive the most sunlight in regions like Nigeria.
● Shading: Trees, nearby buildings, or other obstacles that cause shading can
significantly reduce the efficiency of the solar panels. It's essential to ensure
that the panels will receive direct sunlight for most of the day.
Permit Acquisition
Before installation, it’s necessary to obtain the appropriate permits and approvals
from local authorities. This process ensures compliance with zoning regulations,
safety codes, and any other applicable laws. The permits typically cover the electrical
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work involved and the modifications to the building or structure. Working with
professionals who are familiar with local regulations can help expedite this process.
Roof Preparation
Before any solar panels are installed, the roof must be thoroughly prepared:
● Cleaning and Inspection: The roof is cleaned and inspected for damage or
weaknesses that could compromise the system's integrity over time.
II. Rising: These are stairs to connect two levels of two roofs to each other
III. Walkways: These provide safe paths for installers to walk across the roof
without damaging the surface or the panels.
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IV. Life Line: A safety line attached to a fixed point on the roof, allowing installers to
clip in and prevent falls during work.
V. Cable trays: They are structural support systems used to hold and organize
cables and electrical wires in buildings, industrial facilities, and other settings
where complex wiring systems are required. They provide a safe, organized
pathway for electrical cables, communication cables, and data cables, helping to
protect them from physical damage and ensuring efficient, clean installation.
Cable trays are particularly useful in environments where wiring needs to be
adjusted or maintained, as they offer an accessible and flexible solution.
The mounting system forms the foundation for the solar panels, securing them to
the roof or ground. For roof installations, the mounts are attached directly to the
rafters for maximum stability. This stage requires precise measurements to ensure
the mounts are correctly aligned and spaced. For ground-mounted systems, the
racking is installed on pre-set concrete footings or other support structures. Proper
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mounting is critical to prevent damage from wind, heavy rain, or other
environmental factors.
After the mounting system is in place, the solar panels are attached. Each panel must
be securely mounted onto the racking system, ensuring proper alignment and
orientation. This step involves connecting the panels in series or parallel, depending
on the system's configuration. The orientation and tilt of the panels are adjusted to
maximize sunlight capture throughout the day.
The next step is to connect the solar panels to the inverter and other system
components. This involves running appropriate wiring from the panels to the
inverter, which converts the direct current (DC) generated by the panels into
alternating current (AC) for use in the home or business. Careful attention is paid to
the type of wiring used, as well as grounding and overcurrent protection to ensure
the system operates safely.
Once the system is fully installed and connected, a series of thorough tests are
conducted to ensure it is functioning as expected. The installer will check for
electrical continuity, proper grounding, and system performance metrics such as
voltage and current output. Additionally, they will ensure that the inverter is
operating correctly and that the system is communicating effectively with the grid, if
applicable. After testing, the system is commissioned and officially activated.
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and ensuring the roof’s structural integrity, are essential to protecting both the
installation team and the long-term integrity of the system.
In the next section, we will explore the safety protocols that must be followed during
the installation of solar systems. These protocols not only ensure the protection of
installers but also guarantee that the system operates safely and efficiently.
Site work poses significant risks, especially when dealing with electrical installations.
Adherence to strict safety measures is paramount to prevent accidents and injuries.
Here are some that had to be taken safety protocols:
1. Risk Assessment:
● Hard hats protect against falling objects and provide a crucial layer of defense
for workers on elevated surfaces.
●Safety Harnesses: Safety harnesses are essential pieces of equipment that prevent
workers from falling from heights. They are typically worn around the waist and
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chest, and are secured to an anchor point on the roof. Safety harnesses should be
inspected regularly for any damage or wear and tear. A perfect example is the body
harness.
●All Arrest Systems: Fall arrest systems provide additional protection in case of a fall.
They typically consist of a lifeline, a lanyard, and a personal fall arrest device (PFAD).
The lifeline is anchored to a secure point on the roof, while the lanyard connects the
PFAD to the harness. If a worker falls, the PFAD will arrest their descent, preventing
them from falling to the ground.It's important to note that safety harnesses and fall
arrest systems should be used in conjunction with other safety measures, such as
proper training and supervision, to ensure maximum protection.
●Gloves: are essential for protecting hands from cuts, burns, and electrical hazards.
Choose gloves with appropriate materials and thickness based on the specific tasks
involved.
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Safety boots offer sturdy support, traction, and protection against slips, trips,
and falling objects. Look for boots with non-slip soles and steel-toed
construction
●Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles are essential for protecting your eyes from
flying debris, harmful substances, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Choose the right
type of eye protection based on the specific hazards present in your work
environment. Ensure that your safety glasses or goggles fit comfortably and securely
to provide adequate protection. Regularly inspect them for damage or scratches and
replace them if necessary.
●Ear Protection: Hearing protection is crucial to reduce noise exposure and prevent
hearing damage. Choose ear plugs or earmuffs based on the noise level and duration
of exposure. Ensure that your ear protection fits snugly and comfortably to provide
effective noise reduction. Keep your ear protection clean and free from debris to
prevent infections.
●Respiratory Protection: If you work in dusty or hazardous environments, it's
essential to wear appropriate respiratory protection, such as dust masks, respirators,
or full-face masks. Select the right type of respiratory protection based on the
specific hazards present and the required level of protection. Ensure that your
respiratory protection fits properly to prevent contaminants from entering your
respiratory system. Clean and maintain your respiratory protection according to
manufacturer's instructions.
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● Reflective Jackets: Reflective jackets are essential for increasing visibility in low-
light conditions, reducing the risk of accidents. Choose bright colors or high-
visibility materials for maximum visibility. Ensure that your reflective jacket fits
snugly and is worn correctly. Keep your jacket clean and free from dirt or stains
to maintain its reflectivity.
● Secure ladders: Ensure ladders are stable, secured, and on level ground. Use
safety hooks to prevent slipping.
● Safe pathways: Keep pathways on the roof clear of debris and obstructions to
avoid tripping hazards.
● Emergency exits: Keep escape routes like stairways and fire exits clear and
accessible.
4. Electrical Safety
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● Ground equipment: Properly ground all electrical devices to prevent hazards.
5. Environmental Factors
1. Solar Panels
The foundation of the solar system at Justrite Superstore, Isolo begins with the solar
panels, which are the key components that capture and convert sunlight into usable
electricity. These panels are the primary source of renewable energy for the store,
providing a clean and sustainable alternative to traditional power sources.
Each solar panel is rated at 555 watts, which means it can produce a maximum
output of 555 watts under ideal sunlight conditions (full sun exposure, optimal tilt,
and orientation). With a total of 672 solar panels installed on the roof, the system
has a theoretical capacity of approximately 373,560 watts (373.56 kW) of power
generation. This significant amount of energy is designed to meet a substantial
portion of the store’s electricity needs, reducing dependence on the grid and
lowering overall energy costs.
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2. Stringing Process
The stringing process is a crucial step in the design and installation of solar systems,
where individual solar panels are grouped together to form strings. In the case of
Justrite Superstore, Isolo, the 672 solar panels are organized into 42 strings, with
each string comprising 16 solar panels. This process involves connecting the panels in
series to create a single circuit with one positive and one negative output, which
significantly increases the overall system's voltage and current.
3. Cable Tray
The cable tray organizes and protects the 42 strings of cables as they run from the
roof to the various system components, including the inverters, Comap, BESS,
combiner, ATS, transformer, and SACU. A communication cable from the weather
station also runs through the tray to provide real-time weather data for system
optimization.
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4. Inverter
The power generated by the solar panels is DC electricity, which must be converted
into AC electricity (used by the store) through inverters. There are 7 inverters, and
each one is connected to 6 strings of solar panels. The communication cable from
the weather station is linked to the last inverter to help adjust performance based on
weather conditions.
The inverters are also connected to each other via communication cables, allowing
them to communicate and synchronize their activities.
5. Combiner Box
The combiner box aggregates the output from the inverters, streamlining the power
for further distribution. It also connects the Comap, ATS, and inverters to ensure
they work together efficiently. They serve as a centralized point where wirings from
multiple panels are combined. This allows for a more organized and safer electrical
setup. The combiner box then channels the collective output into a single connection
that leads to an inverter or charge controller, depending on the system's design.
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6. Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
The Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a critical component in the solar power
system at Justrite Superstore, Isolo, designed to store excess energy generated by
the solar panels for use during periods when solar power is insufficient or
unavailable. The integration of BESS into the system ensures that Justrite has a
reliable source of energy even when the sun isn’t shining, providing greater energy
independence and resilience. BESS systems can help reduce carbon emissions by
stabilizing power grids and integrating renewable energies.BESS systems can help
promote a stronger grid by preventing brownouts and providing back-up power
during blackouts.
The Comap is the brain of the system, controlling how energy is distributed based on
real-time conditions. It manages power sources such as solar energy, the BESS, the
electrical grid, and the generator. The Comap makes dynamic switching decisions
based on the following logic:
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Power Switching Logic
These power switching choices are all controlled by the Comap, which monitors the
available energy sources and automatically selects the most efficient and reliable
option based on the current conditions.
The Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) previously controlled the switching between
grid electricity and the generator. Although the Comap now oversees most of the
energy management tasks, the ATS still performs its original function, switching
between grid and generator power. The Comap communicates with the ATS,
ensuring seamless transitions between power sources.
9. Transformer
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The transformer adjusts the voltage level of electricity to ensure safe and efficient
power distribution throughout the store. In Justrite Superstore’s solar system, it
regulates the voltage from the solar panels, BESS, and Comap for the store's use.
Isolation Transformer
At Justrite, the transformer primarily provides isolation, separating the input and
output electrical systems to:
The SACU serves as a central hub, connecting all the components of the system,
including the BESS, inverters, Comap, and ATS. The SACU ensures that all
components operate harmoniously and that power is distributed effectively based
on the available energy sources.
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11. Weather Station
The weather station provides real-time data such as sunlight intensity and
temperature, helping the system adjust its performance based on current
conditions. This data is routed to the inverters and the SACU through communication
cables, ensuring that the system operates optimally under various weather
conditions. A weather station is a facility, either on land or sea, with instruments and
equipment for measuring atmospheric conditions to provide information for
weather forecasts and to study the weather and climate.
After the installation of all components, the final step is commissioning. This includes
upgrading the software and firmware for the BESS, Comap, and inverters to the
latest versions, followed by thorough testing of the entire system. Once the system is
tested and verified, it enters the operational phase, where it provides clean and
efficient energy to Justrite Superstore.
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Time Constraint: One of the main issues I faced during SIWES is the limited duration
of the program. Due to it lasting for only 6 months, this was unfortunately not
enough to gain the in-depth insights into my chosen field.
Lack of Engagement: In some cases, students are not able to interact with their
colleagues and receive some information on how to got on their activities.
Power Outage: Due to power outage as well as a lack of backup generators which
some machines in the workshop required, I wasn’t able to perform some tasks that
required such machines
Limited Networking Opportunities: While SIWES may help in building future career
prospects, I faced some problems interacting with my colleagues during SIWES.
Health and Safety Concerns: Due to feeling sick in some days, I ended missing some
specific days where I was supposed to work.
Attitude towards IT students: The attitude of some staffs is often hostile, thus
creating a toxic working environment, for IT students rather than teaching and
inculcating their professional experience on the students.
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For instance, instead of the students to be properly taught and shown the major
activities, they’re now being instructed to carry out irrelevant jobs such as mopping
doors, washing toilets etc
Lack Of Support
Majority of internship students aren’t being paid. Some terms, despite being
financially stable and it very difficult to pay their interns.
Some even go as far as charging the internship students certain fees. Certain
internship students usually spend more than #1,000 daily on transport and at
the end of the week, month or training are not even given
a token by their rms as means of support. This is one of the common challenges new
interns face in
Nigeria.
Pleasure: Most Nigerian internship students sees the training period as a time
to carry out irrelevant and unnecessary activities such as: travelling, partying etc due
to lack of interest and motivation.
They eventually miss out on essential knowledge and information which will guide
them in their various future occupations, goals and aspirations.
Most projects were time consuming and required a lot of working involved but due
to their work schedule, it ended taking more time than expected.
Trainiees are made to do menial job: Due to there being limited jobs in the
respective IT placement, interns are instead given uninspiring jobs so as to avoid
being idle.
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CHAPTER FOUR: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
4.1 Conclusion
In conclusion, my internship experience at Powercell limited as an assistance solar
engineer has been an invaluable journey of growth and learning. Over the course of
my internship, I had the privilege of working alongside experienced professionals in a
dynamic and challenging electrical environment.
During my time at the company, I encountered real-world electrical challenges,
gained hands-on experience with a wide range of equipment, and developed a
deeper understanding of maintenance practices and procedures. I learned the
importance of safety, precision, and teamwork in ensuring the smooth operation.
One of the most significant takeaways from my internship was the importance of
adaptability and problem-solving. In an electrical setting where downtime can be
costly, I learned to think on my feet, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate effectively
with my colleagues to find solutions. This experience has not only enhanced my
technical skills but has also strengthened my ability to work under pressure and
meet deadlines.
My SIWES placement at Powercell Limited provided me with a valuable opportunity
to gain hands-on experience in the field of solar energy systems. I was fortunate to
be assigned to the solar system installation project at Justrite Superstore Isolo,
where I played a significant role in the successful implementation of the project.
Throughout my training period, I acquired a comprehensive understanding of solar
system design, installation, and maintenance. I was able to apply my theoretical
knowledge to real-world scenarios and develop practical skills that will be invaluable
in my future career.
I am particularly grateful for the opportunity to work on a project that contributes to
sustainable energy and environmental protection. The experience has significantly
enhanced my technical expertise and deepened my appreciation for the role of
renewable energy in addressing climate change.
As I move forward in my career in mechatronics engineering, I carry with me the
knowledge, skills, and experiences gained during this internship. I am grateful for the
trust and support extended to me by the team at Powercell limited, and I look
forward to applying what I've learned to contribute effectively to future endeavors in
the field of mechatronics engineering.
In closing, I express my sincere gratitude to Powercell limited for providing me with
this enriching internship opportunity. It has been a transformative experience that
has equipped me with the tools and confidence to pursue a successful career in
mechatronics engineering.
4.2 LIMITATION
The SIWES Experience was a nice experience for me as it offered me the opportunity
to connect with professionals and learn more on the practical aspect of most of my
courses, however there were some challenges faced during the course of this
program. The challenges includes;
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Certainly, here's a personalized and rewritten version of the limitations you
provided:
Initial Learning Curve: During my internship, I encountered the typical
challenges associated with being in a learning phase. This meant that while I
had a strong foundation in mechatronics engineering, I needed time to adapt
to the unique complexities of maintaining specialized equipment and
addressing intricate issues.
Guidance and Mentorship: Recognizing the importance of mentorship and
collaborative learning, I actively sought guidance from experienced
technicians. Their insights and willingness to provide support greatly
contributed to my growth, even though there were times when I required
more direct supervision to ensure the highest standards of maintenance.
Time Management: The fast-paced production environment often meant
working under tight schedules and balancing multiple maintenance tasks.
These time constraints pushed me to refine my time management skills and
find efficient ways to meet deadlines without compromising quality.
Safety Awareness: Adhering to stringent safety regulations was paramount.
While this sometimes limited my involvement in high-risk maintenance
activities, it instilled in me a deep respect for safety protocols and the
importance of ensuring a secure work environment.
Resource Optimization: The occasional constraints on spare parts, materials,
and budgets required creative problem-solving. I learned to optimize
resource utilization and explore cost-effective solutions to maintain
equipment integrity.
Equipment Complexity: The diverse range of machinery in the bottling plant
often came with varying levels of complexity. Some advanced equipment
demanded a steep learning curve, which allowed me to build expertise while
also emphasizing teamwork and collaboration with experienced technicians.
Effective Communication: Overcoming language and communication barriers
within the team was an essential skill I developed. It highlighted the
significance of clear and concise communication for productive collaboration
and information exchange.
Production Alignment: Recognizing that production priorities take
precedence, I learned to align maintenance activities to minimize disruptions.
This required effective planning and flexibility to reschedule tasks when
necessary.
Regulatory Adherence: Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements,
including environmental and safety standards, added complexity to my work.
It reinforced the critical role of adherence to regulations in maintaining
operational integrity.
Resource Allocation: Occasionally, resource constraints, such as limited
manpower and support staff, posed challenges. These situations emphasized
the importance of efficient resource allocation and prioritization to meet
maintenance objectives.
Throughout my internship, I viewed these limitations not as barriers but as
opportunities for growth, problem-solving, and skill development. They contributed
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significantly to my overall learning experience and prepared me for future challenges
in the field of mechatronics engineering.
4.3 Recommendations
4.4 Appendices
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Appendix B : Project Timeline
WEEKS TASK
9 System Testing
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Appendix C: Safety Procedures and Guidelines
● Hard hats
● Safety harnesses
● Gloves
● Safety boots
● Eye protection
● Respiratory protection
Electrical Safety:
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Specific Safety Guidelines for Solar Installations:
● Use proper tools and techniques for securing solar panels to the roof.
● Installed the solar panels onto the mounting system, ensuring proper
alignment and orientation.
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● Connected the inverters to the combiner and other system components.
● Conducted testing of the inverters and their communication with the central
monitoring system (COMAP).
4.5 References
2. The Solar Guys. (2023). How to Install Solar Panels at Home: A Step-by-
Step Guide. Retrieved from https://thesolarpanelguy.net/
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4. EnergySage. (2023). Solar Power: A Beginner's Guide. Retrieved from
https://www.energysage.com/
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