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ENGI4437: Turbomachinery and Propulsion 4

Please ensure you check the module availability box for each module outline, as not all modules will run in each academic year. Each module description relates to the year indicated in the module availability box, and this may change from year to year, due to, for example: changing staff expertise, disciplinary developments, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.

Type Tied
Level 4
Credits 10
Availability Available in 2025/2026
Module Cap None.
Location Durham
Department Engineering

Prerequisites

  • ENGI3291

Corequisites

  • As specified in programme regulations.

Excluded Combinations of Modules

  • As specified in programme regulations.

Aims

  • This module is designed solely for students studying Department of Engineering degree programmes.
  • To provide an advanced understanding of propulsion cycles and their applications.
  • To provide an advanced understanding of turbomachinery operation and design.

Content

  • Non-dimensional parameters for turbomachinery and their meaning.
  • Axial compressor and turbine analysis and design.
  • The operation of modern turbomachinery design system.
  • Theory of propulsion and the definition of performance parameters.
  • Principles of operation of ramjets.
  • Turbojets, turboprops and turbofans and analysis of those engine types.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:

  • An understanding of the principles and controlling parameters of aircraft propulsion.
  • An understanding of fluid flow behaviour and analysis in the specialised application of flow over turbine and compressor blading and an appreciation of the parameters affecting turbomachinery aero-thermal performance.
  • AHEP4 Learning Outcomes: In order to satisfy Professional Engineering Institution (PEI) accreditation requirements the following Accreditation of Higher Education Programmes (AHEP4) Learning Outcomes are assessed within this module:
  • M1. Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems (coursework assessed).

Subject-specific Skills:

  • An awareness of current technology, analysis methods and industrial practises along with the ability to apply those methods in novel situations.
  • An in-depth knowledge and understanding of specialised and advanced technical and professional skills, an ability to perform critical assessment and review and an ability to communicate the results of their own work effectively.
  • To use effectively specialised, advanced models for the analysis of fluid flows.
  • The ability to carry out the design and analysis of axial flow compressors and turbines.

Key Skills:

  • Capacity for independent self-learning within the bounds of professional practice.
  • Specialised numerical skills appropriate to an engineer.
  • Mathematics relevant to the application of advanced engineering concepts.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • The module content is delivered in lectures and is reinforced by problem sheets and exercises, equipping students with the required problem solving capability.
  • Students are encouraged to make use of staff 'Surgeries' (otherwise "Office Hours") to discuss any aspect of the module with teaching staff on a one-to-one basis. These are sign-up sessions available for up to one hour per week.
  • Coursework is appropriate because it allows students to work on realistic engineering problems.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotalMonitored
Lectures20Twice weekly (over one term)1 hour20 
Surgeries10As required, weekly sign-ups available throughout the teaching termOptional attendance as required5 
Preparation and Reading75 
Total100 

Summative Assessment

Component: CourseworkComponent Weighting: 100%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Assignment100No

Formative Assessment

N/A

More information

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