Thermofluids and Energy Conversion - 2019 entry

Thermofluids comprises thermodynamics - the flow and conversion of heat energy into other forms. Meanwhile, fluid dynamics is the study of how fluids move and the forces on them.

Prerequisite module: ECM2113 or equivalent.

The aim of the module is to extend your understanding of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics started in ECM2113. You will learn about the types of flow generated by external flow around various shaped bodies, and complement this with an understanding of boundary layer structure and modelling.  You will learn about the mathematical modelling of fluid flow, and the application of this modelling to important engineering systems such as turbines and airfoils. You will study and learn to solve the Navier-Stokes equations and apply the von Karman integral method.

In thermodynamics you will develop cycle analysis for the design of refrigerators, compressors, gas turbines, compression and spark ignition engines. Furthermore, you will study the properties of fuels, their combustion, exhaust composition, atmospheric pollution, exhaust emissions and reduction. The module also introduces you to the scientific and engineering aspects of energy conversion from renewable and non-renewable sources.

Furthermore, taking this module will help you to develop a number of abilities that will stand you in good stead in the world of work, including independent learning, problem solving and presentation skills.

This is a constituent module of one or more degree programmes which are accredited by a professional engineering institution under licence from the Engineering Council. The learning outcomes for this module have been mapped to the output standards required for an accredited programme, as listed in the current version of the Engineering Council’s ‘Accreditation of Higher Education Programmes’ document (AHEP-V3).

This module contributes to learning outcomes: SM1p-SM3p, SM2m-SM5m, EA2p, EA2m, EA3p, EA3m, EA6m, D6p, D6m, G3p, G3m

A full list of the referenced outcomes is provided online: http://intranet.exeter.ac.uk/emps/subjects/engineering/accreditation/

The AHEP document can be viewed in full on the Engineering Council’s website, at http://www.engc.org.uk/

On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:


Module Specific Skills and Knowledge: (SM1p-SM3p, SM2m-SM5m, EA2p, EA2m, EA3p, EA3m)

1 apply the Navier-Stokes equations to derive solutions for simple cases of fluid flow (2d, Cartesian coordinates) and understand the extension of such techniques to more complex cases;

2 recognise the types of flow generated by external flow around various shaped bodies across the range of Reynolds numbers;

3 estimate forces on these types of flow, and power/energy requirements to overcome these forces and losses;

4 comprehend the von Karman integral method and be able to apply it to calculating forces on bluff bodies;

5 understand, in detail, boundary layer structure and modelling; solution of the Blasius equations using numerical techniques and MatLab

6 perform calculations on a number of standard engineering fluid devices, principally aerofoils and centrifugal and axial turbines;

7 carry out calculations on a standard range of energy conversion and conservation processes;

8 analyse thermodynamic cycles for energy conversion;

9 fathom alternative energy conversion systems and carry out basic calculations on them;

10 appreciate the environmental effects of energy conversion;

11 grasp the basic concepts of electrochemical energy conversion.

 

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge: (EA6m, D6p, D6m, G3p, G3m)

9 demonstrate increased ability to analyse information from a variety of sources;

10 synthesise conclusions and opinions on energy related topics such as future pathways and patterns of energy conversion;

11 conduct formal calculations on engineering systems with accuracy.

 

Personal and Key Transferable/ Employment Skills and  Knowledge:

12 show improved independent learning skills, analyse problems logically and mathematically, and present your results in an appropriate way.

- application of the Navier-Stokes Equations to analysis of simple flows (2d, Cartesian coordinates), general form of NSE;

- Von Karman analysis for flow around bluff bodies;

- structure of laminar and turbulent boundary layers, empirical and analytical relations for boundary layer drag, mathematical modelling through Blasius and integral methods;

- external flows in different flow regimes;

- lift and Drag on airfoils; theoretical analysis;

- wind turbines;

- turbomachinery; types of turbine, efficiency issues;

- fluid dynamical analysis of centrifugal, axial turbines;

- world energy resources, supply and demand;

- survey of conventional and alternative energy sources and conversion methods, fossil fuels, solar, hydroelectric, wind, wave and tidal;

- refrigeration and heat pump cycles;

- internal combustion engines, petrol and Diesel cycles;

- engine testing, cycle analysis, effect of irreversibilities;

- gas turbines, practical details, cycle analysis;

- fuels; types of fuel, properties, combustion calculations, exhaust analysis, pollutant formation mechanisms, remediation technology;

- electrochemical energy conversion (fuel cells and batteries).

If a module is normally assessed entirely by coursework, all referred/deferred assessments will normally be by assignment.


If a module is normally assessed by examination or examination plus coursework, referred and deferred assessment will normally be by examination. For referrals, only the examination will count, a mark of 40% being awarded if the examination is passed. For deferrals, candidates will be awarded the higher of the deferred examination mark or the deferred examination mark combined with the original coursework mark.

ELE – http://vle.exeter.ac.uk

Reading list for this module: