This integrated course covers the fundamental principles of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer as applied to engineering practice that a technical entrepreneur would need. Students are exposed to the language and application of these sciences to engineering systems, particularly energy conversion devices such as power plants, refrigerators and engines. Emphasis is placed on the conservation laws (Mass, Momentum, and Energy), properties of materials/substances and applications of the first and second laws of thermodynamics. The overall goal is to teach the students how to recognize categories of thermal-fluid problems and use engineering principles to approach and solve problems.
Student Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to
- Explain the terminology and principles of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer and the role they play in heat moving equipment like refrigerators and air-conditioners
- Understand the process of conversion of thermal energy to mechanical work, commonly called as heat engines and their applications in automobiles, aircraft propulsion and power conversion
- Identify, formulate and solve problems involving external and internal convection heat transfer for various surface geometries
- Able to apply the laws of thermodynamics in calculating efficiencies of heating and cooling equipment
- Evaluate forces and pressures for static fluid problems, and understand the significance of pressure vessel design in applications such as reactors, petrochemical plants and storage of liquefied gases like LPG, Propane and Ammonia
- Analyze the fluid velocity profile and pressure drop for laminar and turbulent internal pipe flow and apply this in design of water treatment plants and air-flow systems
- Calculate drag and lift forces created by air/fluid flow around an object and understand their application in industries such as aviation.