Energy problems in the logistics of Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition from 1956 to 1984

Abstract

This paper gives a review on the development of logistics for the Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition (JARE) from 1956 (JARE-1) to 1984 (JARE-25), especially on the energy problems of Syowa and Mizuho Stations. Diesel-electric generators as the energy source of Syowa Station were developed from two sets of 20kVA in 1956 to three sets of 200kVA after 1984 (one of which will be set in 1985), and the number of wintering members increased from 11 (1956) to 35 (1984). A total energy system for a diesel engine, i.e. the recovering of coolant energy and exhaust-gas energy, has been fully developed saving much fuel at Syowa Station. The waste heat thus recovered has been used to melt ice or snow for producing water in winter and to produce hot water for bath and room heating throughout the year. In the new power house built in 1984 (JARE-25), a total energy system was also adopted; cold and hot water was produced through the coolant energy, and the exhaust-gas energy was used to warm the cold fresh air taken from outdoors, by employing a heat-pipe type heat-exchanger. At Mizuho Station, the coolant energy of a 16-kVA or 12-kVA diesel-electric generator has been used to produce cold and hot water for bath and room heating. Some notes on the experiences in utilizing wind energy in Antarctica are added.