MODULE DESCRIPTOR
MECH103P - Introduction to Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics
Code: MECH103P
Alt Codes: None
Title: Introduction to Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics
Level: 1
UCL Credits/ECTS: 0.5/7.5
Start: January
End: April
Taught by: Dr Rama Balachandran
Prerequisites:
MECH101P Introduction to Mechanical Engineering. Where students have not taken
this module they must have an understanding of the basic concepts of
Thermodynamics and Fluids covered by this module. A level physics will not be a
substitute.
Course Aims:
To provide the link between the broad concepts of thermodynamics and fluid
mechanics with the practical context that they will experience in industry. This is part
of the educational sweep that will deliver the engineers of the future. The particular
aims of the modules are i) to reinforce basic thermodynamic and fluid mechanics
principle ii) to help learn development of models representing simplified practical
systems and iii) demonstrate and articulate their understanding.
Method of Instruction:
Lectures, example/problem sessions, Tutor-lead e-learning and student lead elearning.
Assessment:
Final Exam (70%)
Essays (20%)
E-learning (10%)
To pass this course, students must:
Obtain an overall pass mark of 40% for all sections combined
Content:
The course consists of two thematic and overlapping areas – thermodynamics and
fluid mechanics and will build on the basics and introductory material covered in
MECH101P Introduction to Mechanical Engineering.
The topics that will be taught include:
Thermodynamics:
1) Application of first law of thermodynamics
2) Pure substance, real and perfect gases
3) Second law of thermodynamics
4) Reversibility
5) Entropy
6) Introduce: air standard gas power cycles, refrigeration and steam cycles.
Fluid Mechanics:
1) Importance of Fluid mechanics
2) Methodologies of studying fluid mechanics
3) Characterisation of fluid
4) Dimensional analysis: examples and power behind the methodology
5) Statics
6) Kinematics
7) Dynamics
8) Integral vs Differential form of momentum equation.
General Learning Outcomes:
Knowledge and Understanding
Upon completion of this module students should be able to:
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the essential facts, concepts, theories
and principles underlying Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary context of the underlying theory,
including its applications to engineering design and application to real world
problems.
Skills and attributes
Upon completion of this module students should be able to:
Ability to apply appropriate quantitative science, engineering and mathematical tools
to the analysis of problems arising in Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics