Turbomachinery

This course educates aerospace students to apply theoretical knowledge of fluid mechanics and thermodynamics and basic principles of fluid machines for aero-thermal design of turbomachinery used in the aerospace and power industry. Examples covered in the course are: axial and radial compressors of gas turbine engines and fuel-cell systems, rocket engine turbines, steam turbines, radial turbines of automotive turbochargers, centrifugal compressors for aircraft thermal management and heat pumps, micro-turbines for power generation.

Given the inherently interdisciplinary nature of turbomachinery, it is assumed that students enrolling in this course already possess a foundational knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid-mechanics, applied mathematics, propulsion systems, internal flows, acquired in previous courses. Prerequisites for this course therefore include both bachelor- and master-level courses that cover the fundamental (e.g., Thermodynamics, Internal Flows) and applied (e.g., Aero-Engines) aspects of air-breathing engines.

Starting from fundamental concepts in gas dynamics and fluid machinery, the course guides students to a level where they are able to select appropriate turbomachinery for specific applications, carry out the conceptual design of the stages, and ultimately predict flow characteristics within blade passages using both conceptual physical models and advanced simulation tools.