EN-4112

Thermodynamics/Fluids Lab

Course Description

Practical lab experience demonstrating the fundamental principles of fluid mechanics and thermodynamics. Topics include conservation of energy, efficiency, Bernoulli’s principle, frictional losses, pump analysis. Formal engineering reports are required with emphasis on writing and spreadsheet skills.

This course consists of twelve 2-hour labs, and weekly quizzes.

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the following STCW elements:

Topics

  1. Density and measurement uncertainty
  2. Calorimetery -- first law of thermodynamics
  3. Ideal gas law
  4. Refrigeration -- coefficient of performance
  5. Air conditioning and psychrometric chart
  6. Flow rate measurement
  7. Reynold's number -- laminar, transitional, and turbulent flow
  8. Friction losses in piping systems
  9. Minor loss coefficient for valves and fittings
  10. Centrifugal pump performance curves
  11. Pump cavitation and minimum NPSH
  12. PID controller tuning

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