MEC3454 - Thermodynamics and heat transfer - 2018

This unit aims to develop a fundamental understanding of the processes by which heat and energy are inter-related and converted and by which heat is transferred. The unit will review major principles of energy conversion and the modes of heat transfer. The basic laws of thermodynamics and the governing equations for heat transfer and thermodynamics will be introduced and subsequently used to solve practical engineering problems involving thermodynamics and heat transfer. The unit will also cover fundamental design principles of power generation systems and heat exchangers.

At the successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Apply fundamental equations to establish mathematical relationships amongst commonly encountered thermodynamic properties.
2. Use psychrometric charts to analyse and quantify air conditioning processes.
3. Analyse the performance of combustion processes utilised to generate energy and recognise the importance of greenhouse effects.
4. Evaluate the performance of internal combustion engines.
5. Identify modes of heat transfer in energy-related processes.
6. Appraise engineering problems involving heat conduction, convection and radiation by selecting and applying appropriate tools to model the problem.

Continuous assessment: 40%

Final Examination (2 hours): 60%

Students are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final examination component and an overall mark of 50% to achieve a pass grade in the unit. Students failing to achieve this requirement will be given a maximum of 45% in the unit.

3 hour lectures and 3 hours practice sessions/laboratories (this may alternate with 2 hours lectures and 4 hours practice sessions/laboratories) and 6 hours of private study per week

See also Unit timetable information

Mechanical Engineering