151-1633-00L  Energy Conversion

Courses

Catalogue data

Abstract	This course provides the students with an introduction to thermodynamics and energy conversion. Students shall gain basic understanding of energy and energy interactions as well as their link to energy conversion technologies.
Learning objective	Thermodynamics is key to understanding and use of energy conversion processes in Nature and technology. Main objective of this course is to give a compact introduction into basics of Thermodynamics: Thermodynamic states and thermodynamic processes; Work and Heat; First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics. Students shall learn how to use energy balance equation in the analysis of power cycles and shall be able to evaluate efficiency of internal combustion engines, gas turbines and steam power plants. The course shall extensively use thermodynamic charts to building up students’ intuition about opportunities and restrictions to increase useful work output of energy conversion. Thermodynamic functions such as entropy, enthalpy and free enthalpy shall be used to understand chemical and phase equilibrium. The course also gives introduction to refrigeration cycles, combustion and refrigeration. The course compactly covers the standard course of thermodynamics for engineers, with additional topics of a general physics interest (nonideal gas equation of state and Joule-Thomson effect) also included.
Content	1. Thermodynamic systems, states and state variables 2. Properties of substances: Water, air and ideal gas 3. Energy conservation in closed and open systems: work, internal energy, heat and enthalpy 4. Second law of thermodynamics and entropy 5. Energy analysis of steam power cycles 6. Energy analysis of gas power cycles 7. Refrigeration and heat pump cycles 8. Nonideal gas equation of state and Joule-Thomson effect 9. Maximal work and exergy 10. Mixtures 11. Chemical reactions and combustion systems; chemical and phase equilibrium
Lecture notes	Lecture slides and supplementary documentation will be available online.
Literature	Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach, by Cengel, Y. A. and Boles, M. A., McGraw Hill
Prerequisites / Notice	This course is intended for students outside of D-MAVT. Students are assumed to have an adequate background in calculus, physics, and engineering mechanics.
Competencies	Subject-specific Competencies Concepts and Theories assessed Techniques and Technologies assessed Method-specific Competencies Analytical Competencies assessed Decision-making assessed Media and Digital Technologies fostered Problem-solving assessed Project Management fostered Social Competencies Communication fostered Cooperation and Teamwork fostered Customer Orientation fostered Leadership and Responsibility assessed Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered Sensitivity to Diversity fostered Negotiation fostered Personal Competencies Adaptability and Flexibility fostered Creative Thinking assessed Critical Thinking assessed Integrity and Work Ethics assessed Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered Self-direction and Self-management assessed

Performance assessment

Performance assessment information (valid until the course unit is held again)
Performance assessment as a semester course
ECTS credits	4 credits
Examiners	I. Karlin, G. Sansavini
Type	end-of-semester examination
Language of examination	English
Repetition	A repetition date will be offered in the first two weeks of the semester immediately consecutive.
Mode of examination	written 150 minutes
Additional information on mode of examination	- One interim examination; 60 minutes; optional; 30% of the final grade if it improves the final grade; in early November. - Final session examination; 120 minutes
Written aids	Midterm exam: One A4 sheet both sides of own summary. Final exam: Two A4 sheets both sides of own summary.

Learning materials

Groups

Restrictions

Offered in

Programme	Section	Type
Energy Science and Technology Master	Energy Flows and Processes	W
Integrated Building Systems Master	Fundamental Courses	W
Science, Technology, and Policy Master	Energy and Mobility	W
Environmental Engineering Bachelor	Elective Block: Energy	W