Module manager: Dr Andrew Shires
Email: A.Shires@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
| MECH3496 | Thermofluids 3 |
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module will provide students with a good understanding of experimental and theoretical aerodynamic analysis methods and their integration in the design process. It emphasises the importance of aerodynamics in engineering product design, particularly for aerospace vehicles. Students should be able to apply these basic aerodynamic principles to other application areas such as the design of racing cars, wind turbines, fans, buildings, sailing boats, etc. The module also extends students’ thermo-fluid dynamic knowledge to the analysis of aerospace propulsion systems.
The module aims to provide a solid understanding of practical aerodynamic flows relevant to aeronautical engineering and of aerospace propulsion systems.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Explain how experimental and theoretical analyses can be applied to aerodynamic design
2. Review the governing equations for aerodynamics and methodologies for solving them computationally
3. Solve problems in the area of aerodynamic design
4. Understand flow structures and describe the behaviour of flows around basic shapes such as streamlined or bluff bodies
5. Appreciate the importance of boundary layers and compressibility for aerodynamic flows.
6. Understand all aspects of aerospace propulsion including supersonic aerodynamics, gas turbine and rocket engines.
7. Perform engine cycle analysis to determine engine performance.
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
- Introduction to aerodynamics
- Theoretical Aerodynamics
- Low speed aerodynamics
- High speed aerodynamics
- Introduction to Aerospace Propulsion systems
- Gas turbine engines
- Rockets
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 | 1 | 2 |
| Private study hours | 154 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 46 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
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