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2013/14 Undergraduate Module Catalogue
MECH3740 Elements of Propulsion
10 creditsClass Size: 100
Module manager: Dr Andrew Shires
Email: A.Shires@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2013/14
Pre-requisite qualifications
A level Mathematics and 2 other A levels or equivalent.Pre-requisites
| MECH1210 | Mechanical Engineering Thermodynamics |
| MECH2600 | Fluid Mechanics |
This module is mutually exclusive with
| MECH3495 | Thermofluids |
This module is not approved as an Elective
Objectives
The module aims to provide a solid understanding of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics of high speed compressible flows and basic principles of operation of turbomachines relevant to aeronautical engineering.The module provides students with the necessary basic knowledge of propulsion devices and forms the basis for subsequent in-depth study of engines for air-borne vehicles for MEng students undertaken in a Level 4 specialised module.
Learning outcomes
- Thermodynamics and fluid mechanics of high-speed compressible flows
- Principles of operation of turbomachines
- Understanding of turbomachinery types for auxiliary and main thrust-generation purposes.
Skills outcomes
In addition to providing a subject-specific knowledge, the module develops analytical and problem solving skills.
Syllabus
- Basic gas dynamics: isentropic flows, stagnation and static properties. Propelling nozzles, steady one-dimensional flow including friction and heat transfer.
- Non-isentropic flows: planar and oblique shock waves. Rarefaction waves. Introduction to steady two-dimensional supersonic flow - lift and drag on a winglet
- Sub- and supersonic intake nozzles, ram effect and pressure recovery
- Principles of turbo-machinery. Velocity triangles, Euler equation. Head-flow characteristic, stability of operation: choking and stall. Dimensionless criteria.
- Types of rotodynamic machines: axial and centrifugal. Degree of reaction. Isentropic efficiency. Elementary introduction to aeroplane engines: axial gas turbines and compressors, engine matching.
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Class tests, exams and assessment | 1 | 2.00 | 2.00 |
| Lecture | 17 | 1.00 | 17.00 |
| Seminar | 5 | 1.00 | 5.00 |
| Private study hours | 76.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 24.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100.00 | ||
Private study
In addition to providing a subject-specific knowledge, the module develops analytical and problem solving skills.Opportunities for Formative Feedback
- Short improvised quizzes during lecture and example classes- Assessed coursework
- Final written closed-book examination.
Methods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| Practical | Laboratory work on jet engines | 20.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 20.00 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Exams
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) | 2 hr | 80.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 80.00 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 24/03/2014
Browse Other Catalogues
- Undergraduate module catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate module catalogue
- Undergraduate programme catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate programme catalogue
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