Thermodynamics (J. Blondeau):
In this part of the course, the basics of technical thermodynamics are used to describe simple thermodynamic cycles and their components.
The following concepts are covered:
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First law of thermodynamics for closed and open systems: energy conservation, enthalpy balance;
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Second law of thermodynamics: entropy, isentropic processes;
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Components of thermodynamic cycles: heat exchangers, pumps, fans, compressors, turbines, valves;
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Isentropic efficiency, polytropic efficiency;
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Joule-Thomson effect;
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Heat engines, Carnot cycle;
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Gas cycle: gas turbines;
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Steam cycle: steam power plant;
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Reversed cycle: cooling machines and heat pumps.
Heat and mass transfer (K. Broeckhoven)
After a short practice -oriented introduction on stationary conduction, stationary and transient heat conduction is described, both using analytical and numerical methods. Then follows a detailed discussion of the heat transfer mechanisms in forced and natural convection, including both flow and heat transfer. A number of correlations for estimation of heat transfer are discussed. Finally, heat transfer by radiation is briefly described. Heat transfer equipment (e.g. heat exchangers) are described and discussed in terms of materials and mechanical aspects. Two design methods (LMTD and NTU) are then derived and their use discussed. Largely by analogy, mass transfer is then introduced for diffusive and convective transport.
Fluid Mechanics (M. Runacres)
- Kinematics of fluids
- Viscosity: Couette flow, measurement of viscositty
- Hydrostatics
- Incompressible frictionless flow: Bernoulli's law, applications and extensions
- Internal flow in pipes: Poiseuille's law, friction factor, Moody diagram, minor losses
- External flow around objects: drag, lift, Kutta-Joukowski's theorem and Kutta condition
General competencies
The objective of the course is to learn about the basics of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer in an integrated approach.
In the thermodynamics module, the aim is to gain understanding and obtain skill in the use of the 1st and 2nd law and to be able to apply these laws on components as well as on cycles for the production of power and cold. Recognition and demonstration of the scope and validity of the applied laws and models is of utmost importance.
The module on heat transfer describes fundamental aspects of heat and mass transport. The description of the more fundamental processes is illustrated with many practical examples and special attention is given to material properties, practical correlations and design methodology.
This course forms the base for a number of other courses dealing with the more technical aspects. During the exercise sessions, the basic knowledge is put to practice and at the end of this course, the student will already be able to calculate practical problems.
For the fluid mechanics module:
- Understanding of fluid kinematics: streamline, streakline, pathline, timeline
- Understanding and applying the principles of hydrostatics: hydrostatic pressure, Pascal's principle, buoyancy, surface tension, capillary effect
- Understanding and applying the basic principles of fluid mechanics and simplified laws such as Bernoulli
- Flow in pipes: understanding the importance of viscosity, viscosity measurement, friction losses, local losses, Moody diagrams, dimensioning turbines and pumps (power, head, flow rate)
- Knowing how to calculate forces on submerged objects, including static problems
- Understanding the applicability and limitations of the equations and models used