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Fluid Mechanics & Hydraulic Machines
Fluid Mechanics & Hydraulic Machines is a foundational course in mechanical engineering that focuses on the behavior of fluids (liquids and gases) at rest and in motion, and the practical applications of fluid dynamics in engineering systems. The subject introduces the fundamental principles governing fluid flow, including concepts such as pressure, viscosity, flow rate, conservation of mass and momentum, and energy equations. The course covers analytical methods to study incompressible and compressible flows, laminar and turbulent regimes, and flow through pipes and channels. Emphasis is placed on understanding and applying Bernoulli’s equation, the continuity and momentum equations, and dimensional analysis. In the hydraulic machines portion, students explore the working principles, design, and performance analysis of devices such as pumps, turbines, and hydraulic systems. Topics include impact of jets, Pelton, Francis and Kaplan turbines, centrifugal and reciprocating pumps, and model testing using similarity laws. By the end of this course, students gain the theoretical background and practical insight necessary to analyze fluid systems and hydraulic machinery, which are critical in industries ranging from power generation and water supply to aerospace and process engineering.
Course Chapters
Properties of Fluids and Basic Equations
The chapter delves into the properties of fluids and essential equations that govern fluid mechanics. It distinguishes between different types of fluids, explains key concepts such as viscosity and control volume, and discusses the continuity and momentum equations. The chapter also introduces Bernoulli's equation and its applications in various fluid dynamics scenarios.
Dimensional Analysis & Boundary Layer Theory
The chapter discusses foundational concepts of dimensional analysis and boundary layer theory. Key methods such as the Buckingham Pi Theorem and the importance of dimensionless parameters like the Reynolds Number are highlighted. The chapter also explains similitude and model testing, including different types of similarity, and introduces basic boundary layer concepts proposed by Ludwig Prandtl, detailing the characteristics and significance of laminar and turbulent boundary layers.
Fluid Kinematics
The chapter discusses fluid kinematics, focusing on fundamental approaches and principles governing fluid motion. It outlines the Lagrangian and Eulerian approaches, explores key concepts such as the Reynolds Transport Theorem and various flow visualization techniques, and examines types of flow and fluid deformation. Additionally, the chapter presents mathematical formulations including the continuity equation and discusses velocity potentials and stream functions.
Momentum Equation and Flow Measurement
The chapter focuses on the momentum equation and various methods of flow measurement in fluid dynamics. It covers fundamental equations including the Navier-Stokes equations and Bernoulli's equation, detailing their applications and implications in analyzing fluid behavior. Various instruments, such as orifices, Venturimeters, and Pitot tubes, are introduced for measuring flow rates and velocities in different flow conditions.
Laminar and Turbulent Flow
This chapter delves into the principles of fluid flow, distinguishing between laminar and turbulent flow, and discussing the implications of head loss in pipe systems. Key equations governing these flows, such as the Hagen–Poiseuille equation and Darcy-Weisbach equation, are explored alongside practical considerations like energy dissipation and fluid dynamics in various scenarios including branching pipes and siphons.
Rotodynamic Machines
The chapter focuses on the momentum equation and various methods of flow measurement in fluid dynamics. It covers fundamental equations including the Navier-Stokes equations and Bernoulli's equation, detailing their applications and implications in analyzing fluid behavior. Various instruments, such as orifices, Venturimeters, and Pitot tubes, are introduced for measuring flow rates and velocities in different flow conditions.
Hydraulic Turbines
Hydraulic turbines are essential machines that convert the kinetic and potential energy of water into mechanical energy, playing a significant role in hydroelectric power generation. They are classified based on head operation, flow direction, and action type. Understanding hydraulics, efficiencies, and the unique characteristics of various turbine types, including Pelton, Francis, and Kaplan turbines, is crucial for optimizing energy conversion in hydro systems.