Fluid Mechanics

The aim of this module is to provide the learner with a fundamental comprehension of fluid mechanics, the branch of mechanics associated with the static and dynamics of fluid flow. Starting from the definition of a fluid, the learners will build up their knowledge to describe, characterise and analyse the behaviour of fluids flows for steady 1D dimensional pipe flow. This in itself has many useful engineering applications. As fluid mechanics depending on a lot of semi-empirical data, dimensional analysis using inspectional analysis is also introduced to the learner.

1. Describe the basic concepts used in fluid mechanics (i.e. continuum mechanics) and various engineering fluid properties.

2. Calculate buoyancy forces and gauge pressures acting on submerged surfaces using the hydrostatic equation and thereafter be able to evaluate the forces on submerged bodies in a static fluid.

3. Describe the concept which underpins Reynolds Transport Theorem (Total and Convective derivative) and to be able to use both the flow continuity (i.e. law of mass conservation) and Bernoulli's equation (i.e. law of energy conservation) to calculate (pressure, velocity and height) heads in a 1D flow.

4. Critically assess and demonstrate the principles of operation of various flow measuring devices.

5. Describe the concept of inviscid flows and thereafter be able to use inviscid flow momentum theory to calculate forces exerted on both stationary and moving bodies by fluid flows.

6. Demonstrate an awareness of the Reynolds number, Laminar, Turbulent Flow, Hagen-Poiseuille Flow, Coutte Flow, Friction Factors, Darcy Equation and the entry length requirements for pipeline flow

7. Approximate pressure losses associated with friction and fittings in pipelines for both laminar and turbulent flows and be able to read Moody Diagrams to account for the relative roughness of a pipeline. Additionally the learner should be able to distinguish between minor and major losses

8. Calculate the pressure head in a simple pipeline and thereafter the motor power required to maintain the flow

9. Use non dimensional analysis (i.e. physical similarity methods) to postulate and formulate the governing groups for various flow systems and thereafter interpret and appreciate data presented non-dimensionally.