Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives The student will acquire an understanding of the behaviour of rotodynamic machines and be able to investigate and solve vibration and performance problems in a range of machines common in industry. The student is expected to understand the principles of condition monitoring and balancing as applied to rotodynamic machines.
Synopsis Pumps and fans: performance characteristics, industry applications in systems, selection, investigation and solution of operating problems, modifications to improve performance or operating economy, testing. Similarity and dimensional analysis. compressors, gas turbines, steam turbines, water turbines: performance characteristics, testing. Hydrodynamic bearings and alignment. condition monitoring to detect internal deterioration and predict maintenance requirements. Measurement of pressure, flow, temperature for performance monitoring. Measurement of shaft and casing vibration, severity assessment and analysis. Wear debris and visual inspection methods. Flexible rotors and field balancing. Balding vibration.
Assessment Examinations: 40% + Laboratories, problem and research assignments: 60%