MEC3451 · Fluid mechanics 2

Overview

The foundations of continuum analysis of fluids will be presented. Using control volume analysis the fundamental conservation laws for mass, momentum and energy are developed leading to the derivation of the Navier-Stokes equations. Techniques employed to solving these equations for specific problems are explored. Methods of exact and approximate solutions of these equations, and the use of conceptual and analytical tools such as flow similitude, vorticity, circulation, stream function and velocity potential are described. The concept of boundary layers and its use in the calculation of drag and lift forces is elucidated. The origins and physical consequences of the phenomenon of fluid turbulence are discussed, along with their implications for computation of turbulent flows. The analysis of compressible flows and its applications are discussed. The unit introduces the concepts underpinning the broad areas of fluid acoustics, computational fluid dynamics, environmental fluid mechanics and wind energy.

Areas of study: E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Mechanical engineering E6011 Master of Professional Engineering - Specialisation: Mechanical engineering

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 40% Final assessment: 60% Assessment in this unit includes competency hurdle assessment tasks. The consequence of not achieving a competency hurdle is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Integrate and synthesise inclusive ways of working to function effectively as an individual and as a member or leader of diverse teams, and to improve the team’s collective understanding of fluid mechanics.
2. Analyse engineering problems in fluid mechanics, and clearly discuss the assumptions and limitations of the analyses and models used.
3. Integrate and synthesise knowledge of fluid mechanics, mathematics and engineering fundamentals to derive and solve mathematical models of laminar or turbulent internal and external flows, thereby providing the theoretical foundations for critical use of AI and CFD tools in fluid engineering.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.