University of Technology Sydney

49328 Turbomachines

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:

Postgraduate

Result type: Grade and marks

Requisite(s): 120 credit points of completed study in spk(s): C10061 Bachelor of Engineering Diploma Engineering Practice OR 120 credit points of completed study in spk(s): C10066 Bachelor of Engineering Science OR 120 credit points of completed study in spk(s): C10067 Bachelor of Engineering OR 120 credit points of completed study in spk(s): C09067 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Diploma Professional Engineering Practice OR 120 credit points of completed study in spk(s): C09066 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
These requisites may not apply to students in certain courses. See access conditions.

Recommended studies:

a good background in fluid mechanics; fundamental knowledge of thermodynamics

Description

Turbomachines like pumps, fans, turbines and compressors constitute a large class of fluid-moving and energy-transfer machines which are found virtually everywhere in modern societies. This subject aims to develop competence in the analysis and design of these machines and the systems of which they are parts. Key concepts and fundamental principles underlying their operation and design are covered. Factors pertaining to their selection and performance prediction are treated.

Subject learning objectives (SLOs)

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

1. Specify principles and parameters pertaining to the operation and performance of turbomachines and the systems of which they are parts. (D.1)
2. Analyse and design turbomachines and their corresponding systems. (C.1)
3. Work effectively in teams; document and communicate effectively ideas, justifications, calculations, decisions and outcomes. (E.1)

Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)

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

  • Design Oriented: FEIT graduates apply problem solving, design thinking and decision-making methodologies in new contexts or to novel problems, to explore, test, analyse and synthesise complex ideas, theories or concepts. (C.1)
  • Technically Proficient: FEIT graduates apply theoretical, conceptual, software and physical tools and advanced discipline knowledge to research, evaluate and predict future performance of systems characterised by complexity. (D.1)
  • Collaborative and Communicative: FEIT graduates work as an effective member or leader of diverse teams, communicating effectively and operating autonomously within cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural contexts in the workplace. (E.1)

Contribution to the development of graduate attributes

Engineers Australia Stage 1 competencies

Students enrolled in the Master of Professional Engineering should note that 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.
  • 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.
  • 3.2. Effective oral and written communication in professional and lay domains.
  • 3.6. Effective team membership and team leadership.

Teaching and learning strategies

Class time will be used for problem-solving collaborative activities, class discussions, and hands-on laboratories. Prior to each classroom activity, students are required to study the Notes and associated sections of the textbook. In the classroom activities, the aim is to engage students in the topic at hand, to develop key ideas with illustrated examples, and to point out the practical applications of the theory. Students will be required to work on simple problems in relation to the presented material, and will have the opportunity to seek clarification of key concepts. Group discussion will take place and be facilitated by academic staff. Practical laboratories will be undertaken on specialised equipment which will require significant pre-lab work. The pre-lab work consists of analysis of the experimental apparatus, its working principles and performance. During the lab, students can seek assistance from a lab tutor in relation to the experimental procedure, the expected results, and the use of the equipment. At the end of each lab session, a lab tutor will review the lab work and provide immediate feedback.

Content (topics)

Topics covered in this subject include:

  • Fundamental principles of turbomachines
  • Similitude
  • Pumps
  • Fans
  • Compressors and turbines

Assessment

Assessment task 1: Assignments

Intent:

To gain experience in the analysis and design of a variety of turbomachines.

Objective(s):

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

1 and 2

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

C.1 and D.1

Type: Exercises
Groupwork: Individual
Weight: 32%

Assessment task 2: Projects

Intent:

To gain experience researching important Turbomachines, and working in a team.

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):

C.1, D.1 and E.1

Type: Report
Groupwork: Group, group assessed
Weight: 18%

Assessment task 3: Final Exam (open-book, 2 hours plus 10 minutes reading time)

Intent:

To demonstrate knowledge and competence with the subject.

Objective(s):

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

1 and 2

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

C.1 and D.1

Type: Examination
Groupwork: Individual
Weight: 50%
Length:

2 hours plus 10 minutes reading time

Minimum requirements

In order to pass the subject, a student must achieve an overall mark of 50% or more.

Required texts

Logan, E ,Jr, “Turbomachinery: Basic Theory and Applications”, M Dekker, 1993

References

Huynh, BP, “Hand-out notes on Turbomachines", UTS Engineering & IT, 2014.