MEC2405 - Thermodynamics - 2019

This unit introduces concepts of heat, work, energy, temperature and pressure. The properties of pure substances, steam tables and phase diagrams and their use in thermodynamics problems, First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics and their use in steady and unsteady state problems, Carnot cycle, Gas power cycles, vapour and combined power cycles are introduced. Use of T-s diagrams for power cycle analysis, P-h diagrams in refrigeration cycle analysis and simple combustion processes are covered. Renewable energy such as solar, hydro, wind and biomass, and their use in heating and electricity generation and the environmental benefits of renewable energy conclude study in this unit.

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

1. Identify concepts of thermodynamic equilibrium and energy transfer.
2. Determine the transfer of energy in ideal engineering devices using the First Law of Thermodynamics.
3. Determine the performance and efficiency of ideal and practical engineering devices using the Second Law of Thermodynamics.
4. Apply thermodynamics concepts to evaluate the performance of heat engines and refrigeration systems.
5. Discern measurements required to evaluate the thermodynamic performance of real engineering systems.

NOTE: From 1 July 2019, the duration of all exams is changing to combine reading and writing time. The new exam duration for this unit is 3 hours and 10 minutes.

Continuous assessment: 40%

Final Examination (3 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 hours lectures, 3 hours practical classes or laboratories and 6 hours of private study per week.

See also Unit timetable information

Mechanical Engineering