University of Technology Sydney

43015 Thermofluids B

Warning: The information on this page is indicative. The subject outline for a particular session, location and mode of offering is the authoritative source of all information about the subject for that offering. Required texts, recommended texts and references in particular are likely to change. Students will be provided with a subject outline once they enrol in the subject.

Subject handbook information prior to 2024 is available in the Archives.

UTS: Engineering: Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering
Credit points: 6 cp

Subject level:

Undergraduate and Postgraduate

Result type: Grade, no marks

Requisite(s): 41057 Thermofluids A OR 48641 Fluid Mechanics
Anti-requisite(s): 48651 Thermodynamics

Description

Thermal power systems underpin modern techniques in energy conversion for energy generation, mass production, and heating and cooling systems. Energy efficiency is achieved through the optimal design of these systems. The objectives of this subject are to develop fundamental skills and knowledge of applied Thermofluids from an engineering perspective, to thrive in rapidly evolving industry sectors, like energy and transport, which demand a high-level of Thermofluids related skills. Students work on a project, and design and analyse Thermofluids related engineering systems and devices.

Subject learning objectives (SLOs)

Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:

1. Assess the impact of efficiency and energy conservation in the engineering design process, including lifecycle costing. (B.1)
2. Apply the laws of thermodynamics to analyse engineering applications. (D.1)
3. Design practical engineering systems based on thermodynamic principles, according to Australian Standards. (C.1)

Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)

This subject also contributes specifically to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs):

  • Socially Responsible: FEIT graduates identify, engage, interpret and analyse stakeholder needs and cultural perspectives, establish priorities and goals, and identify constraints, uncertainties and risks (social, ethical, cultural, legislative, environmental, economics etc.) to define the system requirements. (B.1)
  • Design Oriented: FEIT graduates apply problem solving, design and decision-making methodologies to develop components, systems and processes to meet specified requirements. (C.1)
  • Technically Proficient: FEIT graduates apply abstraction, mathematics and discipline fundamentals, software, tools and techniques to evaluate, implement and operate systems. (D.1)

Contribution to the development of graduate attributes

Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies

This subject contributes to the development of the following Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies:

  • 1.3. In-depth understanding of specialist bodies of knowledge within the engineering discipline.
  • 1.5. Knowledge of engineering design practice and contextual factors impacting the engineering discipline.
  • 2.1. Application of established engineering methods to complex engineering problem solving.
  • 2.2. Fluent application of engineering techniques, tools and resources.
  • 2.3. Application of systematic engineering synthesis and design processes.

Teaching and learning strategies

This subject consists of teaching modules and a single project. Each module will comprise of (1) online learning materials, (2) weekly face-to-face tutorials, (3) weekly forums, and (4) possible lab classes. Formative Quizzes will be used throughout learning modules to help student monitor their performance and receive feedback on progress and understanding of content. Tutorials are opportunities for students to seek clarification on any problems encountered during labs. End of week discussions are offered online and face-to-face for feedback and feedforward purposes.

The structure of the program is delivered in view of students having agency in learning threshold concepts and to utilise support and feedback opportunities in preparation to pass Mastery Quiz in Week 7 at a high level.

The subject offers a project following the Mastery Quiz. This project is custom-designed to apply threshold concepts and additional discipline concepts to a project. The project is also aimed to provide opportunities to develop professional capabilities. The project will be undertaken from week 8 in teams (typically 2-3 students per team) where the students' team will actively contribute to the theoretical, computations and experimental investigation of technical problems. Engaging in this project is highly recommended.

A weekly breakdown of the expected learning engagement is found in the program.

Content (topics)

Thermodynamic properties of pure substances;

The first law of thermodynamics and its applications;

The second law of thermodynamics and its applications;

Thermodynamic power cycles for engines and refrigerators.

Assessment

Assessment task 1: Mastery Exam

Intent:

The Mastery Exam is the primary assessment for this subject. Students will take this exam to demonstrate their knowledge of the content.

Objective(s):

This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs):

2 and 3

This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs):

C.1 and D.1

Type: Quiz/test
Groupwork: Individual
Length:

2 hours

Assessment task 2: Project

Intent:

Complete a project to apply technical knowledge, validate findings and to continue develop professional capabilities.

Objective(s):

This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs):

1, 2 and 3

This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs):

B.1, C.1 and D.1

Type: Project
Groupwork: Group, group and individually assessed
Length:

2000 words (equivalent)

Minimum requirements

In order to pass the subject, a student must achieve a passing grade of 80% in the mastery exam.

Recommended texts

Cengel, Y.A. & Boles, M.A., Thermodynamics, 9th Ed., McGraw-Hill, Inc., 2020.