Module manager: Dr Junfeng Yang
Email: J.Yang@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
| MECH1215 | Thermofluids 1 |
| MECH2670 | Thermofluids 2 |
| MECH3425 | Automotive Propulsion Systems |
| MECH3790 | Aerodynamics and Aerospace Propulsion |
This module is not approved as a discovery module
The module builds on the foundations in thermodynamics and fluid mechanics learned in previous years, covering more advanced concepts and applications. You’ll investigate the effects of the major operating parameters controlling the performances of various energy-converting engines that include all the principal, combustion-powered, gas and steam power plants. You'll also analyse refrigeration and vapour compression systems. Fluid mechanics will be extended to include high speed fluid mechanics and compressible flow. This will be illustrated through examples of aeronautical applications.
The module seeks to:
1. Develop advanced understanding of thermodynamic and fluid‑mechanic principles, including advanced thermodynamic cycles, compressible flow, and high‑speed aerodynamics, so that students can interpret and evaluate the performance of energy‑conversion systems.
2. Apply analytical and problem‑solving techniques to real engineering systems, allowing students to model and evaluate complex engineering problems using appropriate analytical methods.
3. Integrate theory with engineering practice through exposure to real-world applications via lectures, practical sessions, and case‑study‑based learning to connect theoretical principles with applications in aerospace propulsion, internal combustion engines, gas turbines, ramjet/scramjet systems, and refrigeration technologies.
4. Support the development of transferable skills through structured activities such as problem‑solving tasks, lab work, quizzes, and report writing, enabling students to communicate technical information effectively and work independently as reflective learners.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Explain thermodynamic concepts and interpret ideal and practical thermodynamic cycles and working principles of engines.
2. Analyse a significant number of practical and ideal cycles power and cooling cycles involving air, steam and refrigerants.
3. Demonstrate understanding of all aspects of aerospace propulsion including supersonic aerodynamics, aero piston engines, gas turbine engines, ramjet, scramjet and rocket engines.
These module learning outcomes contribute to the following AHEP4 learning outcomes:
- Apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Some of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the particular subject of study. [C1]
- Analyse complex problems to reach substantiated conclusions using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles. [C2]
- Select and apply appropriate computational and analytical techniques to model complex problems, recognising the limitations of the techniques employed. [C3]
Skills learning outcomes:
On successful completion of the module students will be able to demonstrate skills in: a. Information technology
b. Personal management
c. Critical thinking
d. Active learning
e. Systems thinking
f. Integrated problem solving
g. Communication of information, arguments and analysis in a variety of forms, whilst demonstrating understanding of levels of ambiguity and uncertainty
Semester 1
- Analysis of cyclic processes. Carnot cycle.
- Air-standard cycles: Otto, Diesel and Joule cycle. Indicated and brake mean effective parameters.
- Steam power cycles: Rankine cycle and its practical implementations. Combined gas-vapour cycles.
- Practical engines: reciprocal spark ignition and diesel engines and gas turbines.
- Steam turbines.
- Refrigeration: vapour compression cycle, practical implementations and effects of refrigerant, psychrometry.
Semester 2
- Advanced thermodynamic applications.
- Review of basic gas dynamic theories: adiabatic and isentropic flows, stagnation and static properties, international standard atmosphere, conservation laws (mass momentum, energy) steady flow processes and frames of reference.
- Introduction to steady two-dimensional supersonic flow: planar and oblique shock waves, expansion waves.
- Practical applications relating to aerospace propulsion systems including design considerations and fundamental performance analyses.
- Gas Turbine Engines: Ideal and real cycle analysis of pure turbojets, turbofans, turboshafts including sub and supersonic intakes and nozzles, principles of turbomachinery, bleed air flows, afterburners and component design considerations.
- Aero piston Engines: IC engine cycle analysis, momentum theory for propeller analysis.
- Ramjets and scramjets.
- Rocket Engines
- Propulsion integration: Intake distortion, Interference drag.
Methods of assessment
The assessment details for this module will be provided at the start of the academic year
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 44 | 1 | 44 |
| Practical | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| Private study hours | 152 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 48 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
The time comprises the preparation of the assessed coursework, approximately 15-20 hours; preparation for the final examination and independent learning.
An online discussion board will be monitored during specified times each week.
Minerva/TopHat quiz after each topic.
Use of Vevox during lectures.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team