Advanced Thermodynamics

This subject is not offered in 2014.

200 hours

MCEN40010 Thermofluids 4

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry. The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit
website:http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

AIMS

This subject is an introduction to combustion theory and applications. It discusses combustion fundamentals in the first part, including thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, conservation equations, and application of these principles to solve simple flames and reacting flows. In the second part it discusses combustion engines and the combustion phenomena in spark-ignition and compression-ignition engines.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

• Chemical thermodynamics and kinetics - flame temperatures, Gibbs free energy and equilibrium, chemical kinetics, combustion mechanisms of common fuels.
• Governing equations - mass, momentum, species and energy conservation for idealized reactors and simplified reacting flows.
• Flames - theoretical analyses of laminar flames, premixed flame (flame speed, quenching, flame stabilization), diffusion jet flame (flame geometry, conserved scalar, soot formation).
• Reciprocating engines - engine cycle analysis, turbulent combustion in spark ignition and diesel engines, cylinder-pressure analysis, pollutant formation and emission control, alternative power-trains and fuels.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILO)

Having completed this subject the student is expected to be able to -

1 - Analyse the equilibrium and kinetics of combustion of different fuels

2 - Use computer software to solve combustion kinetics and flame structures with detailed reaction mechanisms

3 - Apply the fundamental principles of thermodynamics to numerous engineering devices

4 - Use a systems approach to simplify a complex problem

Two assignments or laboratory reports of equal weight and not exceeding 2500 words each, requiring approximately 25-30 hours of work each. Due week 8 and week 12 of semester (20% each, 40% total). Associated with Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) 1, 2, 3 and 4.

One 3 hour end of semester written examination (60%). Associated with ILOs 1, 3 and 4.

Turns S, An Introduction to Combustion - Concepts and Applications, 3rd Ed. McGraw-Hill, 2010.

Pulkrabek W, Engineering Fundamentals of the Internal Combustion Engine, 2nd Ed. Prentice-Hall 2006.
Heywood J, Internal Combustion Engine Fundamentals, McGraw-Hill, 1988.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

• Ability to apply knowledge of science and engineering fundamentals
• Ability to undertake problem identification, formulation, and solution
• Understanding of social, cultural, global, and environmental responsibilities and the need to employ principles of sustainable development
• Ability to utilise a systems approach to complex problems and to design and operational performance
• Capacity for creativity and innovation

LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS

The subject will be delivered through a combination of lectures and tutorials. Students will also complete one experiment which will reinforce the material covered in lectures.

INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES

Students will have access to the following textbooks, lecture notes, and a combustion simulation software Chemkin.

Stephen R. Turns, An Introduction to Combustion: Concepts and Applications, McGraw-Hill (2011).

John Heywood, Internal Combustion Engine Fundamentals, McGraw-Hill (1986).

CAREERS / INDUSTRY LINKS

This subject is linked to power generation and automotive industries.