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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2023 - 2024

Module Title
Module Code
School

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 9 Credit Rating 7.5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

The objective of this module is to introduce students to the theory and practice of hydraulic and turbomachine design. The theory is used to explain design methods and principles and is applied to solve a range of practical and simplified problems. The practical part of the course involves a design challenge. The students will work in teams to develop and assess a micro-wind turbine, where the design will be based off a numerical optimization using a Blade Element Momentum technique. The performance of the design will then be assessed by means of experiments in a wind tunnel.

Learning Outcomes

1. Interpret the theoretical foundations of fluid mechanics in turbomachine design
2. Report on the aerodynamic characteristics of a 2D airfoil profile
3. Carry out a theoretical assessment of turbomachine performance from idealised flow velocity diagrams
4. Predict the performance of an airfoil or hydrofoil using a potential flow simulation tool
5. Carry out aerodynamic design of a wind turbine using a BEM solution
6. Understand the selection criteria for pumps including scaling laws
7. Implement a numerical optimisation solution for wind turbine design
8. Work in teams to model and design a pumping or mixing solution
9. Design a turbomachine from specifications defined to meet an industry need
10. Integrate CFD and CAD tools to a practical and industry relevant engineering design challenge
11. Analyse a hydraulic network



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24Formal Lectures
Tutorial12Problem solving exercises
Assignment Completion48No Description
Independent Study103.5No Description
Total Workload: 187.5

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Fluid mechanics fundamentals
A review of fundamentals of fluid dynamics relevant to external flow past airfoils to include aerodynamic forces, Bernoulli's equation, potential flow theory and application for airfoils

Turbomachines
Elementary theory for turbomachines including angular momentum conservation, velocity diagrammes, performance curves, scaling laws and cavitation considering both axial and centrifugal devices.

The aerodynamic design of wind turbine rotors
Theory and methods for the study and simulation of wind turbine rotor aerodynamics including linear and angular momentum conservation, the actuator disc theory, the rotor disc theory and the Blade Element Moentum theory.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment% Examination Weight%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Merle Potter: 0, Mechanics of fluids, 978-049566773
  • Gülich, Johann F: 0, Centrifugal pumps,
  • Burton: 0, Wind Energy Handbook, 3,
Other Resources

None
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