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Overview:

This module provides an introduction to Mechanical Engineering, covering fundamental concepts of Thermofluids and Applied Mechanics (Statics).

The Thermofluids part of the module aims to teach fundamentals of thermofluid sciences. Building on the mathematical skills and physics learning from the A-levels and the concurrent first year Mathematics module, the basic concepts of control volume and control mass are introduced – this teaches students how to analyse systems with and without flows. These fundamental features are then used to perform massand energy balance – both in isothermal and non-isothermal systems – with various levels of assumptions. The energy balance is introduced via the first law of Thermodynamics and solution of several analytical problems drawn from practical engineering applications.

The Statics part will aim to teach the basic analytical methods, that is, the fundamental concepts and techniques of engineering mechanics (Statics). Building on mathematical skills from A-levels Mathematics (including, for some students, Mechanics modules) and the concurrent first year Mathematics module, basic concepts of Statics are introduced, practiced and applied to simple engineering problems. Students will obtain modelling knowledge, tools and experience appropriate for a first year engineering module, providing the foundation for higher level modules.

Topics covered:

Introduction to Thermofluids

• Introduction to thermodynamics and related concepts of fluid mechanics
• Analysing systems and devices Pressure and hydrostatic head
• Mass balance and energy in isothermal conditions Flow analysis
• Principle of energy conservation
• First Law of Thermodynamics with flow Application of First Law

Applied Mechanics – Statics

• Forces and moments
• Rigid body equilibrium
• Friction
• Analysis of structures
• Distributed forces and centre of gravity
• Internal forces and moments in structures

Learning outcomes:

Upon completion of this module students will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the essential facts, concepts, theories and principles underlying fundamental thermofluids and statics.
• Apply basic scientific principles of thermofluid sciences to solve simple engineering problems involving modelling and analysis of basic engineering systems involving: simple flow systems, using appropriate conservation principles, and applying the principles of dimensional analysis and physical similarity to engineering model testing.
• Apply basic principles of statics and equilibrium to solve problems of structures, bridges and components under simple loading conditions and with/without friction.
• Use principles of equilibrium and control volume analysis to understand practical working of an engine and bridge-like structure; analyse experimental results and draw conclusions, given specific guidance to the appropriate background material answer basic questions on the operations of similar engineering systems.
• Apply a range of techniques to analyse available evidence and solve simple engineering problems pertaining to thermofluid and equilibrium solid mechanics.

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