Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3A5: Thermodynamics & Power Generation, 2022-23
Module Leader
Lecturers
Dr A J White, Prof A Wheeler
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. Thermodynamics 2 lectures/week, weeks 1-4 (Dr A J White); Power Generation: 2 lectures/week, weeks 5-8 (Prof R S Cant). 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Focus on electricity power generation and the underlying thermodynamic theory.
- Introduce some concepts in thermo-mechanical energy storage to support intermittent generation technologies.
- Cover topics including power generation by direct electrochemical conversion by fuel cells, gas turbines, steam and combined cycles.
- Introduce some advanced cycle concepts and discuss the possibility of carbon dioxide capture and storage.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the principles of exergy analysis, be able to calculate the lost work terms of power cycle components.
- Know the importance of the Helmholtz and Gibbs functions, the uses of standard property changes in chemical reactions, and the idea of rational efficiency..
- Understand the principles of electrochemical energy conversion, be aware of different types of fuel cell technology, be able to calculate the Gibbs and Nernst potentials, and have a basic knowledge of fuel cell losses.
- Understand the principles of phase equilibrium for single and multi-component systems, the role of the chemical potential, and the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.
- Understand equation of state theory including characteristic form, Maxwell’s relations, ideal gases, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals form, and law of corresponding states.
- Understand chemical equilibrium theory and the use of the equilbrium constant, be able to perform calculations for gas mixtures with one or two independent reactions, and be able to apply van’t Hoff’s equation.
- Appreciate the need for energy storage and apply exergetic analysis to some thermo-mechanical storage concepts.
- Understand the rôle of steam and gas turbine cycles in electricity power generation and be conversant with likely future developments.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of gas turbine plants including reheat, intercooling and recuperation.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of steam power plants including reheat and feedheating.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of combined cycles.
- Understand the issues involved in the capture and storage of carbon dioxide from fossil-fuelled power plants.
Content
Introduction, Thermodynamics and Energy Storage (9L)
- Overview of current and future electricity power generation, and the associated carbon emissions.
- Thermodynamic availability, lost work and entropy production, exergy analysis, application to power cycles.
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, standard property changes in chemical reactions, overall and rational efficiencies, electrochemical conversion, fuel cells (theory and practice).
- Equilibrium criteria, phase equilibrium, chemical potential, Clapeyron equation, equations of state, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals equation.
- Gibbs equation, chemical equilibrium, chemical potential of ideal gas, equilibrium constant, gas phase reactions, van’t Hoff equation.
- Role of energy storage, description and anaysis of some storage tehnologies.
Power Generation (7L)
- Gas turbines with intercooling, reheat and recuperation. Turbine blade cooling.
- Steam cycles with feed heating and reheat. The combustion process and boiler efficiency. Steam cycles for nuclear power.
- Combined gas-steam cycles.
- Advanced cycles and carbon dioxide sequestration.
Examples papers
- 1B revision, exergetic analysis, chemical exergy and fuel cells
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, phase and chemical equilibrium, equations of state, energy storage.
- Gas turbine plant, turbine cooling, intercooling and recuperation.
- Steam plant, reheat, feed heat, combined cycles.
Coursework
Computer based cycle simulation
Learning objectives:
- To consolidate the concept of exergy covered in lectures, and to apply this to the analysis of power-generating gas turbine cycles.
- To study the methods by which the efficiency and specific work output of a simple gas turbine plant may be improved.
- To investigate trends in cycle performance with various design parameters.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the DPO, during weeks 1-6.
- This activity doesn't involve preliminary work.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S3
Understanding of the requirement for engineering activities to promote sustainable development.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 23/11/2022 08:33
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3A5: Thermodynamics & Power Generation, 2021-22
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof R S Cant, Dr A J White
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. Thermodynamics 2 lectures/week, weeks 1-4 (Dr A J White); Power Generation: 2 lectures/week, weeks 5-8 (Prof R S Cant). 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Focus on electricity power generation and the underlying thermodynamic theory.
- Introduce some concepts in thermo-mechanical energy storage to support intermittent generation technologies.
- Cover topics including power generation by direct electrochemical conversion by fuel cells, gas turbines, steam and combined cycles.
- Introduce some advanced cycle concepts and discuss the possibility of carbon dioxide capture and storage.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the principles of exergy analysis, be able to calculate the lost work terms of power cycle components.
- Know the importance of the Helmholtz and Gibbs functions, the uses of standard property changes in chemical reactions, and the idea of rational efficiency..
- Understand the principles of electrochemical energy conversion, be aware of different types of fuel cell technology, be able to calculate the Gibbs and Nernst potentials, and have a basic knowledge of fuel cell losses.
- Understand the principles of phase equilibrium for single and multi-component systems, the role of the chemical potential, and the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.
- Understand equation of state theory including characteristic form, Maxwell’s relations, ideal gases, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals form, and law of corresponding states.
- Understand chemical equilibrium theory and the use of the equilbrium constant, be able to perform calculations for gas mixtures with one or two independent reactions, and be able to apply van’t Hoff’s equation.
- Appreciate the need for energy storage and apply exergetic analysis to some thermo-mechanical storage concepts.
- Understand the rôle of steam and gas turbine cycles in electricity power generation and be conversant with likely future developments.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of gas turbine plants including reheat, intercooling and recuperation.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of steam power plants including reheat and feedheating.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of combined cycles.
- Understand the issues involved in the capture and storage of carbon dioxide from fossil-fuelled power plants.
Content
Introduction, Thermodynamics and Energy Storage (9L)
- Overview of current and future electricity power generation, and the associated carbon emissions.
- Thermodynamic availability, lost work and entropy production, exergy analysis, application to power cycles.
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, standard property changes in chemical reactions, overall and rational efficiencies, electrochemical conversion, fuel cells (theory and practice).
- Equilibrium criteria, phase equilibrium, chemical potential, Clapeyron equation, equations of state, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals equation.
- Gibbs equation, chemical equilibrium, chemical potential of ideal gas, equilibrium constant, gas phase reactions, van’t Hoff equation.
- Role of energy storage, description and anaysis of some storage tehnologies.
Power Generation (7L)
- Gas turbines with intercooling, reheat and recuperation. Turbine blade cooling.
- Steam cycles with feed heating and reheat. The combustion process and boiler efficiency. Steam cycles for nuclear power.
- Combined gas-steam cycles.
- Advanced cycles and carbon dioxide sequestration.
Examples papers
- 1B revision, exergetic analysis, chemical exergy and fuel cells
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, phase and chemical equilibrium, equations of state, energy storage.
- Gas turbine plant, turbine cooling, intercooling and recuperation.
- Steam plant, reheat, feed heat, combined cycles.
Coursework
Computer based cycle simulation
Learning objectives:
- To consolidate the concept of exergy covered in lectures, and to apply this to the analysis of power-generating gas turbine cycles.
- To study the methods by which the efficiency and specific work output of a simple gas turbine plant may be improved.
- To investigate trends in cycle performance with various design parameters.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the DPO, during weeks 1-6.
- This activity doesn't involve preliminary work.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S3
Understanding of the requirement for engineering activities to promote sustainable development.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 13/09/2021 09:16
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3A5: Thermodynamics & Power Generation, 2019-20
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof R S Cant, Dr A J White
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. Thermodynamics 2 lectures/week, weeks 1-4 (Dr A J White); Power Generation: 2 lectures/week, weeks 5-8 (Dr G Pullan). 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Focus on electricity power generation and the underlying thermodynamic theory.
- Cover topics including power generation by gas, steam and combined cycles, and direct electrochemical conversion by fuel cells.
- Introduce some advanced cycle concepts and discuss the possibility of carbon dioxide capture and storage.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the principles of exergy analysis, be able to calculate the lost work terms of power cycle components.
- Know the importance of the Helmholtz and Gibbs functions, the uses of standard property changes in chemical reactions, and the idea of rational efficiency..
- Understand the principles of electrochemical energy conversion, be aware of different types of fuel cell technology, be able to calculate the Gibbs and Nernst potentials, and have a basic knowledge of fuel cell losses.
- Understand the principles of phase equilibrium for single and multi-component systems, the role of the chemical potential, and the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.
- Be able to undertake phase equilibrium analysis for ideal mixtures (Raoult's Law).
- Understand equation of state theory including characteristic form, Maxwell’s relations, ideal gases, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals form, and law of corresponding states.
- Understand chemical equilibrium theory and the use of the equilbrium constant, be able to perform calculations for gas mixtures with one or two independent reactions, and be able to apply van’t Hoff’s equation.
- Understand the rôle of steam and gas turbine cycles in electricity power generation and be conversant with likely future developments.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of gas turbine plants including reheat, intercooling and recuperation.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of steam power plants including reheat and feedheating.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of combined cycles.
- Understand the issues involved in the capture and storage of carbon dioxide from fossil-fuelled power plants.
Content
Thermodynamics (8L)
- Thermodynamic availability, lost work and entropy production, exergy analysis, application to power cycles.
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, standard property changes in chemical reactions, overall and rational efficiencies, electrochemical conversion, fuel cells (theory and practice).
- Equilibrium criteria, phase equilibrium, chemical potential, Clapeyron equation, equations of state, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals equation.
- Gibbs equation, chemical equilibrium, chemical potential of ideal gas, equilibrium constant, gas phase reactions, van’t Hoff equation.
Power Generation (8L)
- Overview of current and future electricity power generation, and the associated carbon emissions.
- Gas turbines with intercooling, reheat and recuperation. Turbine blade cooling.
- Steam cycles with feed heating and reheat. The combustion process and boiler efficiency.Steam cycles for nuclear power.
- Combined gas-steam cycles.
- Advanced cycles and carbon dioxide sequestration.
Coursework
Computer based cycle simulation
Learning objectives:
- To consolidate the concept of exergy covered in lectures, and to apply this to the analysis of power-generating gas turbine cycles.
- To study the methods by which the efficiency and specific work output of a simple gas turbine plant may be improved.
- To investigate trends in cycle performance with various design parameters.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the DPO, during weeks 1-6.
- This activity doesn't involve preliminary work.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references for this module.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S3
Understanding of the requirement for engineering activities to promote sustainable development.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 06/09/2019 12:08
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3A5: Thermodynamics & Power Generation, 2025-26
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof A Wheeler and Dr A White
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. Thermodynamics 2 lectures/week, weeks 1-4 (Dr Alex White); Power Generation: 2 lectures/week, weeks 5-8 (Prof Andy Wheeler). 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Introduce some new concepts in thermodynamics, especially relating to chemical thermodynamics
- Focus on electricity power generation and the underlying thermodynamic theory.
- Introduce some concepts in thermo-mechanical energy storage to support intermittent generation technologies.
- Cover topics including power generation by direct electrochemical conversion by fuel cells, gas turbines, Rankine and combined cycles.
- Introduce some advanced cycle concepts, hydrogen-fuelled power plant and discuss the possibility of carbon dioxide capture and storage.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the principles of exergy analysis, be able to calculate the lost work terms of power cycle components.
- Know the importance of the Helmholtz and Gibbs functions, the uses of standard property changes in chemical reactions, and the idea of rational efficiency..
- Understand the principles of electrochemical energy conversion, be aware of different types of fuel cell technology, be able to calculate the Gibbs and Nernst potentials, and have a basic knowledge of fuel cell losses.
- Understand the principles of phase equilibrium, the role of the chemical potential, and the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.
- Understand equation of state theory including characteristic form, Maxwell’s relations, ideal gases, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals form, and law of corresponding states.
- Understand chemical equilibrium theory and the use of the equilbrium constant, be able to perform calculations for gas mixtures with one or two independent reactions, and be able to apply van’t Hoff’s equation.
- Appreciate the need for energy storage and apply exergetic analysis to some thermo-mechanical storage concepts.
- Understand the rôle of a range of thermodynamic cycles in electricity power generation and be conversant with likely future developments.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of gas turbine plants including reheat, intercooling and recuperation.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of Rankine power plants including reheat and feedheating.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of combined cycles.
- Understand the issues involved in the capture and storage of carbon dioxide.
Content
Introduction, Thermodynamics and Energy Storage (9L)
- Overview of current and future electricity power generation, and the associated carbon emissions.
- Thermodynamic availability, lost work and entropy production, exergy analysis, application to power cycles.
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, standard property changes in chemical reactions, overall and rational efficiencies, electrochemical conversion, fuel cells (theory and practice).
- Equilibrium criteria, phase equilibrium, chemical potential, Clapeyron equation, equations of state, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals equation.
- Gibbs equation, chemical equilibrium, chemical potential of ideal gas, equilibrium constant, gas phase reactions, van’t Hoff equation.
- Role of energy storage, description and anaysis of some storage tehnologies.
Power Generation (7L)
- Gas turbines (GTs) with intercooling, reheat and recuperation.
- Hydrogen-fired GTs and hydrogen production.
- Rankine cycles with feed heating and reheat. Thermodynamic cycles for nuclear, biomass, solar and geothermal power and low-grade heat recovery.
- Combined cycles (CCs): gas-steam CCGTs and and other CCs, including those employing Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs).
- Advanced cycles and carbon dioxide sequestration.
Examples papers
- 1B revision, exergetic analysis, chemical exergy and fuel cells
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, phase and chemical equilibrium, equations of state, energy storage.
- Gas turbine plant, intercooling and recuperation.
- Steam plant, reheat, feed heat, combined cycles and ORCs.
Coursework
Computer based cycle simulation
Learning objectives:
- To consolidate the concept of exergy covered in lectures, and to apply this to the analysis of power-generating gas turbine cycles.
- To study the methods by which the efficiency and specific work output of a simple gas turbine plant may be improved.
- To investigate trends in cycle performance with various design parameters.
Practical information:
- Sessions will be able to complete the coursework online starting from week 2.
- This activity doesn't involve preliminary work.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S3
Understanding of the requirement for engineering activities to promote sustainable development.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 04/06/2025 13:06
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3A5: Thermodynamics & Power Generation, 2023-24
Module Leader
Lecturers
Dr A J White, Prof A Wheeler
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. Thermodynamics 2 lectures/week, weeks 1-4 (Dr Alex White); Power Generation: 2 lectures/week, weeks 5-8 (Prof Andy Wheeler). 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Introduce some new concepts in thermodynamics, especially relating to chemical thermodynamics
- Focus on electricity power generation and the underlying thermodynamic theory.
- Introduce some concepts in thermo-mechanical energy storage to support intermittent generation technologies.
- Cover topics including power generation by direct electrochemical conversion by fuel cells, gas turbines, Rankine and combined cycles.
- Introduce some advanced cycle concepts, hydrogen-fuelled power plant and discuss the possibility of carbon dioxide capture and storage.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the principles of exergy analysis, be able to calculate the lost work terms of power cycle components.
- Know the importance of the Helmholtz and Gibbs functions, the uses of standard property changes in chemical reactions, and the idea of rational efficiency..
- Understand the principles of electrochemical energy conversion, be aware of different types of fuel cell technology, be able to calculate the Gibbs and Nernst potentials, and have a basic knowledge of fuel cell losses.
- Understand the principles of phase equilibrium, the role of the chemical potential, and the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.
- Understand equation of state theory including characteristic form, Maxwell’s relations, ideal gases, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals form, and law of corresponding states.
- Understand chemical equilibrium theory and the use of the equilbrium constant, be able to perform calculations for gas mixtures with one or two independent reactions, and be able to apply van’t Hoff’s equation.
- Appreciate the need for energy storage and apply exergetic analysis to some thermo-mechanical storage concepts.
- Understand the rôle of a range of thermodynamic cycles in electricity power generation and be conversant with likely future developments.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of gas turbine plants including reheat, intercooling and recuperation.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of Rankine power plants including reheat and feedheating.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of combined cycles.
- Understand the issues involved in the capture and storage of carbon dioxide.
Content
Introduction, Thermodynamics and Energy Storage (9L)
- Overview of current and future electricity power generation, and the associated carbon emissions.
- Thermodynamic availability, lost work and entropy production, exergy analysis, application to power cycles.
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, standard property changes in chemical reactions, overall and rational efficiencies, electrochemical conversion, fuel cells (theory and practice).
- Equilibrium criteria, phase equilibrium, chemical potential, Clapeyron equation, equations of state, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals equation.
- Gibbs equation, chemical equilibrium, chemical potential of ideal gas, equilibrium constant, gas phase reactions, van’t Hoff equation.
- Role of energy storage, description and anaysis of some storage tehnologies.
Power Generation (7L)
- Gas turbines (GTs) with intercooling, reheat and recuperation.
- Hydrogen-fired GTs and hydrogen production.
- Rankine cycles with feed heating and reheat. Thermodynamic cycles for nuclear, biomass, solar and geothermal power and low-grade heat recovery.
- Combined cycles (CCs): gas-steam CCGTs and and other CCs, including those employing Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs).
- Advanced cycles and carbon dioxide sequestration.
Examples papers
- 1B revision, exergetic analysis, chemical exergy and fuel cells
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, phase and chemical equilibrium, equations of state, energy storage.
- Gas turbine plant, intercooling and recuperation.
- Steam plant, reheat, feed heat, combined cycles and ORCs.
Coursework
Computer based cycle simulation
Learning objectives:
- To consolidate the concept of exergy covered in lectures, and to apply this to the analysis of power-generating gas turbine cycles.
- To study the methods by which the efficiency and specific work output of a simple gas turbine plant may be improved.
- To investigate trends in cycle performance with various design parameters.
Practical information:
- Sessions will be able to complete the coursework online starting from week 2.
- This activity doesn't involve preliminary work.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S3
Understanding of the requirement for engineering activities to promote sustainable development.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 28/09/2023 09:20
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3A5: Thermodynamics & Power Generation, 2018-19
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof E Mastorakos and Dr A J White
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. Thermodynamics 2 lectures/week, weeks 1-4 (Dr A J White); Power Generation: 2 lectures/week, weeks 5-8 (Dr G Pullan). 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Focus on electricity power generation and the underlying thermodynamic theory.
- Cover topics including power generation by gas, steam and combined cycles, and direct electrochemical conversion by fuel cells.
- Introduce some advanced cycle concepts and discuss the possibility of carbon dioxide capture and storage.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the principles of exergy analysis, be able to calculate the lost work terms of power cycle components.
- Know the importance of the Helmholtz and Gibbs functions, the uses of standard property changes in chemical reactions, and the idea of rational efficiency..
- Understand the principles of electrochemical energy conversion, be aware of different types of fuel cell technology, be able to calculate the Gibbs and Nernst potentials, and have a basic knowledge of fuel cell losses.
- Understand the principles of phase equilibrium, the role of the chemical potential, and the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.
- Understand equation of state theory including characteristic form, Maxwell’s relations, ideal gases, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals form, and law of corresponding states.
- Understand chemical equilibrium theory and the use of the equilbrium constant, be able to perform calculations for gas mixtures with one or two independent reactions, and be able to apply van’t Hoff’s equation.
- Understand the rôle of steam and gas turbine cycles in electricity power generation and be conversant with likely future developments.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of gas turbine plants including reheat, intercooling and recuperation.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of steam power plants including reheat and feedheating.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of combined cycles.
- Understand the issues involved in the capture and storage of carbon dioxide from fossil-fuelled power plants.
Content
Thermodynamics (8L)
- Thermodynamic availability, lost work and entropy production, exergy analysis, application to power cycles.
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, standard property changes in chemical reactions, overall and rational efficiencies, electrochemical conversion, fuel cells (theory and practice).
- Equilibrium criteria, phase equilibrium, chemical potential, Clapeyron equation, equations of state, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals equation.
- Gibbs equation, chemical equilibrium, chemical potential of ideal gas, equilibrium constant, gas phase reactions, van’t Hoff equation.
Power Generation (8L)
- Overview of current and future electricity power generation, and the associated carbon emissions.
- Gas turbines with intercooling, reheat and recuperation. Turbine blade cooling.
- Steam cycles with feed heating and reheat. The combustion process and boiler efficiency.Steam cycles for nuclear power.
- Combined gas-steam cycles.
- Advanced cycles and carbon dioxide sequestration.
Coursework
Computer based cycle simulation
Learning objectives:
- To consolidate the concept of exergy covered in lectures, and to apply this to the analysis of power-generating gas turbine cycles.
- To study the methods by which the efficiency and specific work output of a simple gas turbine plant may be improved.
- To investigate trends in cycle performance with various design parameters.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the DPO, during weeks 1-6.
- This activity doesn't involve preliminary work.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references for this module.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S3
Understanding of the requirement for engineering activities to promote sustainable development.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 15/05/2018 14:12
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3A5: Thermodynamics & Power Generation, 2024-25
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof A Wheeler and Prof N Swaminathan
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. Thermodynamics 2 lectures/week, weeks 1-4 (Dr Alex White); Power Generation: 2 lectures/week, weeks 5-8 (Prof Andy Wheeler). 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Introduce some new concepts in thermodynamics, especially relating to chemical thermodynamics
- Focus on electricity power generation and the underlying thermodynamic theory.
- Introduce some concepts in thermo-mechanical energy storage to support intermittent generation technologies.
- Cover topics including power generation by direct electrochemical conversion by fuel cells, gas turbines, Rankine and combined cycles.
- Introduce some advanced cycle concepts, hydrogen-fuelled power plant and discuss the possibility of carbon dioxide capture and storage.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the principles of exergy analysis, be able to calculate the lost work terms of power cycle components.
- Know the importance of the Helmholtz and Gibbs functions, the uses of standard property changes in chemical reactions, and the idea of rational efficiency..
- Understand the principles of electrochemical energy conversion, be aware of different types of fuel cell technology, be able to calculate the Gibbs and Nernst potentials, and have a basic knowledge of fuel cell losses.
- Understand the principles of phase equilibrium, the role of the chemical potential, and the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.
- Understand equation of state theory including characteristic form, Maxwell’s relations, ideal gases, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals form, and law of corresponding states.
- Understand chemical equilibrium theory and the use of the equilbrium constant, be able to perform calculations for gas mixtures with one or two independent reactions, and be able to apply van’t Hoff’s equation.
- Appreciate the need for energy storage and apply exergetic analysis to some thermo-mechanical storage concepts.
- Understand the rôle of a range of thermodynamic cycles in electricity power generation and be conversant with likely future developments.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of gas turbine plants including reheat, intercooling and recuperation.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of Rankine power plants including reheat and feedheating.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of combined cycles.
- Understand the issues involved in the capture and storage of carbon dioxide.
Content
Introduction, Thermodynamics and Energy Storage (9L)
- Overview of current and future electricity power generation, and the associated carbon emissions.
- Thermodynamic availability, lost work and entropy production, exergy analysis, application to power cycles.
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, standard property changes in chemical reactions, overall and rational efficiencies, electrochemical conversion, fuel cells (theory and practice).
- Equilibrium criteria, phase equilibrium, chemical potential, Clapeyron equation, equations of state, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals equation.
- Gibbs equation, chemical equilibrium, chemical potential of ideal gas, equilibrium constant, gas phase reactions, van’t Hoff equation.
- Role of energy storage, description and anaysis of some storage tehnologies.
Power Generation (7L)
- Gas turbines (GTs) with intercooling, reheat and recuperation.
- Hydrogen-fired GTs and hydrogen production.
- Rankine cycles with feed heating and reheat. Thermodynamic cycles for nuclear, biomass, solar and geothermal power and low-grade heat recovery.
- Combined cycles (CCs): gas-steam CCGTs and and other CCs, including those employing Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs).
- Advanced cycles and carbon dioxide sequestration.
Examples papers
- 1B revision, exergetic analysis, chemical exergy and fuel cells
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, phase and chemical equilibrium, equations of state, energy storage.
- Gas turbine plant, intercooling and recuperation.
- Steam plant, reheat, feed heat, combined cycles and ORCs.
Coursework
Computer based cycle simulation
Learning objectives:
- To consolidate the concept of exergy covered in lectures, and to apply this to the analysis of power-generating gas turbine cycles.
- To study the methods by which the efficiency and specific work output of a simple gas turbine plant may be improved.
- To investigate trends in cycle performance with various design parameters.
Practical information:
- Sessions will be able to complete the coursework online starting from week 2.
- This activity doesn't involve preliminary work.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S3
Understanding of the requirement for engineering activities to promote sustainable development.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 31/05/2024 07:26
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3A5: Thermodynamics & Power Generation, 2017-18
Module Leader
Lecturers
Dr A J White and Dr G Pullan
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. Thermodynamics 2 lectures/week, weeks 1-4 (Dr A J White); Power Generation: 2 lectures/week, weeks 5-8 (Dr G Pullan). 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Focus on electricity power generation and the underlying thermodynamic theory.
- Cover topics including power generation by gas, steam and combined cycles, and direct electrochemical conversion by fuel cells.
- Introduce some advanced cycle concepts and discuss the possibility of carbon dioxide capture and storage.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the principles of exergy analysis, be able to calculate the lost work terms of power cycle components.
- Know the importance of the Helmholtz and Gibbs functions, the uses of standard property changes in chemical reactions, and the idea of rational efficiency..
- Understand the principles of electrochemical energy conversion, be aware of different types of fuel cell technology, be able to calculate the Gibbs and Nernst potentials, and have a basic knowledge of fuel cell losses.
- Understand the principles of phase equilibrium, the role of the chemical potential, and the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.
- Understand equation of state theory including characteristic form, Maxwell’s relations, ideal gases, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals form, and law of corresponding states.
- Understand chemical equilibrium theory and the use of the equilbrium constant, be able to perform calculations for gas mixtures with one or two independent reactions, and be able to apply van’t Hoff’s equation.
- Understand the rôle of steam and gas turbine cycles in electricity power generation and be conversant with likely future developments.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of gas turbine plants including reheat, intercooling and recuperation.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of steam power plants including reheat and feedheating.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of combined cycles.
- Understand the issues involved in the capture and storage of carbon dioxide from fossil-fuelled power plants.
Content
Thermodynamics (8L)
- Thermodynamic availability, lost work and entropy production, exergy analysis, application to power cycles.
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, standard property changes in chemical reactions, overall and rational efficiencies, electrochemical conversion, fuel cells (theory and practice).
- Equilibrium criteria, phase equilibrium, chemical potential, Clapeyron equation, equations of state, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals equation.
- Gibbs equation, chemical equilibrium, chemical potential of ideal gas, equilibrium constant, gas phase reactions, van’t Hoff equation.
Power Generation (8L)
- Overview of current and future electricity power generation, and the associated carbon emissions.
- Gas turbines with intercooling, reheat and recuperation. Turbine blade cooling.
- Steam cycles with feed heating and reheat. The combustion process and boiler efficiency.Steam cycles for nuclear power.
- Combined gas-steam cycles.
- Advanced cycles and carbon dioxide sequestration.
Coursework
Computer based cycle simulation
Learning objectives:
- To consolidate the concept of exergy covered in lectures, and to apply this to the analysis of power-generating gas turbine cycles.
- To study the methods by which the efficiency and specific work output of a simple gas turbine plant may be improved.
- To investigate trends in cycle performance with various design parameters.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the DPO, during weeks 1-6.
- This activity doesn't involve preliminary work.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references for this module.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S3
Understanding of the requirement for engineering activities to promote sustainable development.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 15/09/2017 12:45
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3A5: Thermodynamics & Power Generation, 2020-21
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof R S Cant, Dr A J White
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. Thermodynamics 2 lectures/week, weeks 1-4 (Dr A J White); Power Generation: 2 lectures/week, weeks 5-8 (Prof R S Cant). 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Focus on electricity power generation and the underlying thermodynamic theory.
- Cover topics including power generation by gas, steam and combined cycles, and direct electrochemical conversion by fuel cells.
- Introduce some advanced cycle concepts and discuss the possibility of carbon dioxide capture and storage.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the principles of exergy analysis, be able to calculate the lost work terms of power cycle components.
- Know the importance of the Helmholtz and Gibbs functions, the uses of standard property changes in chemical reactions, and the idea of rational efficiency..
- Understand the principles of electrochemical energy conversion, be aware of different types of fuel cell technology, be able to calculate the Gibbs and Nernst potentials, and have a basic knowledge of fuel cell losses.
- Understand the principles of phase equilibrium for single and multi-component systems, the role of the chemical potential, and the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.
- Be able to undertake phase equilibrium analysis for ideal mixtures (Raoult's Law).
- Understand equation of state theory including characteristic form, Maxwell’s relations, ideal gases, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals form, and law of corresponding states.
- Understand chemical equilibrium theory and the use of the equilbrium constant, be able to perform calculations for gas mixtures with one or two independent reactions, and be able to apply van’t Hoff’s equation.
- Understand the rôle of steam and gas turbine cycles in electricity power generation and be conversant with likely future developments.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of gas turbine plants including reheat, intercooling and recuperation.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of steam power plants including reheat and feedheating.
- Be able to evaluate the performance of combined cycles.
- Understand the issues involved in the capture and storage of carbon dioxide from fossil-fuelled power plants.
Content
Thermodynamics (8L)
- Thermodynamic availability, lost work and entropy production, exergy analysis, application to power cycles.
- Gibbs and Helmholtz functions, standard property changes in chemical reactions, overall and rational efficiencies, electrochemical conversion, fuel cells (theory and practice).
- Equilibrium criteria, phase equilibrium, chemical potential, Clapeyron equation, equations of state, ideal gas mixtures, imperfect gases, van der Waals equation.
- Gibbs equation, chemical equilibrium, chemical potential of ideal gas, equilibrium constant, gas phase reactions, van’t Hoff equation.
Power Generation (8L)
- Overview of current and future electricity power generation, and the associated carbon emissions.
- Gas turbines with intercooling, reheat and recuperation. Turbine blade cooling.
- Steam cycles with feed heating and reheat. The combustion process and boiler efficiency.Steam cycles for nuclear power.
- Combined gas-steam cycles.
- Advanced cycles and carbon dioxide sequestration.
Coursework
Computer based cycle simulation
Learning objectives:
- To consolidate the concept of exergy covered in lectures, and to apply this to the analysis of power-generating gas turbine cycles.
- To study the methods by which the efficiency and specific work output of a simple gas turbine plant may be improved.
- To investigate trends in cycle performance with various design parameters.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the DPO, during weeks 1-6.
- This activity doesn't involve preliminary work.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S3
Understanding of the requirement for engineering activities to promote sustainable development.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 03/05/2021 10:45
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3A3: Fluid Mechanics II (double module), 2024-25
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof S.A. Scott, Prof S Cant, Dr J.P. Jarrett, Dr C Clark
Lab Leaders
Prof H Babinsky and Dr C Clark
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas and Lent. 32 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- To understand fluid flows to a level such that the pressures and resultant forces acting can be estimated in situations involving complex geometries of industrial interest at both subsonic and supersonic speed.
- To understand the effects of viscosity and heat transfer, where relevant
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Know the concepts of stagnation temperature and stagnation pressure and be able to determine their values from a knowledge of static temperature, static pressure and Mach number.
- Know how conservation principles determine the behaviour of normal shock waves and be able to use tables to quantify that behaviour.
- Evaluate Mach number of a flow from measurements of Pitot and static pressures.
- Determine flow patterns in nozzles under the assumption of one dimensionality, using tables.
- Know how Mach number and other flow properties change under the influence of friction or heat exchange, and be able to quantify this using tables.
- Know how to construct and interpret x-t diagrams for unsteady ID flow.
- Quantify the behaviour of hydraulic jumps and infinitesimal waves in shallow water.
- Understand the influence of the speed of sound on two-dimensional compressible flow behaviour.
- Apply the two-dimensional method of characteristics for simple flows and flows involving reflection/cancellation.
- Understand the origin of oblique shock waves and their reflection.
- Apply the preceding ideas to practical flows via shock-expansion theory, linearised method of characteristics and linearised potential theory.
- Know how to construct and use numerical solution methods for the equations of fluid flow using finite difference and finite volume approximations
- Know how to estimate the accuracy and analyse the stability of numerical schemes
- Identify and understand the operation of different types of turbomachinery.
- Analyse turbomachinery performance.
- Understand the causes of irreversibilities within the blade passages and their affects on the overall efficiency.
- Analyse compressible flow through turbomachines.
Content
One-dimensional Compressible Flow (12L): 2 lectures/week, weeks 1-6 Michaelmas term (Dr A Agarwal)
- Steady, adiabatic and inviscid flow; speed of sound; reversibility; the stagnation state; the effect of area variation on subsonic/supersonic flow, choking; normal shock waves; flow patterns in nozzles; use of table for isentropic flow and for shock waves.
- Fanno and Rayleigh line processes for the effects of friction and heat exchange.
- Introduction to unsteady flow. Hydraulic analogy for steady compressible flow; speed of waves in shallow water; the hydraulic jump; the venturi flume; weirs.
Two-dimensional Compressible Flow (8L): 2 lectures/week, weeks 7-8 Michaelmas term and weeks 1-2 Lent term (Dr J Jarrett)
- Method of characteristics, expansion fan and compression ramp.
- Oblique shock waves, strong and weak solutions.
- Shock-expansion theory
- Potential equation and linearisation.
Equations of Fluid Flow and their Numerical Solution (6L): 2 lectures/week, weeks 3-5 Lent term (Prof S Scott)
- Numerical solution techniques; finite difference approximations; finite volume approximations; order of accuracy, diffusion and dispersion errors; stability considerations for time iterative techniques
- Classification of equations; numerical solution of the Euler equations, nonlinearity and shock waves
Turbomachinery (6L): 2 lectures/week, weeks 6-8 Lent term (Dr J Taylor)
- Identify and understand the operation of different types of turbomachinery.
- Analyse turbomachinery performance.
- Understand the causes of irreversibilities within the blade passages and their affects on the overall efficiency.
- Analyse compressible flow through turbomachines.
Coursework
There are 2 parts of coursework, one in Michaelmas and one in Lent (and in these terms only).
The Michaelmas lab will be done live in the lab. Instructions and preparatory material will be on moodle.
You need to book the slots on Moodle early in term.
___________________
If future COVID-19-related policies affect the way that labs are being delivered, the updates will be communicated through Moodle.
Turbomachinery
Learning objectives:
- to study the characteristics of a typical centrifugal pump;
- to study the role of the velocity triangles play in the pump characteristics;
- to understand the key non-dimensional groups used to represent the pump characteristics;
- to study the effect of Reynolds number on the pump performance by varying the pump speeds and the viscosity of the working fluids;
- to observe the phenomenon of cavitation in a pump;
- to appreciate the validity and limitations of the simple dimensional analysis for the pump performance;
- to learn different ways of measuring mass flow rate;
- to appreciate the advantage and limitation of using a venturi nozzle to measure mass flow rate.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the Hopkinson Laboratory in the Lent Term;
- This activity does not involve preliminary work, but a preview of the relevant lecture notes as well as the labsheets before the lab would be helpful.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report based on the lab and research on further reading.
Nozzle and supersonic tunnel
Learning objectives:
- to study the pressure distribution in convergent-divergent nozzles for various pressure ratios;
- to observe the phenomenon of choking;
- to become familiar with the essential features of a supersonic wind tunnel;
- to understand the basic principles of a schlieren system for flow visualisation;
- to observe fundamental flow changes through a normal shock-wave;
- to appreciate the validity and limitations of one-dimensional, adiabatic, inviscid theory.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the Aerolab;
- This activity doesn't involve preliminary work.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P4
Understanding use of technical literature and other information sources.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
Last modified: 12/09/2024 15:20
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