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.

The final course grade results from the weighted average of:

• the assessment of the final project, counting for 40% of the final grade (individual score 1-10, no threshold, 1 bonus point for best project);

• the assessment of the written exam, counting for 60% of the final grade (individual score 1-10, minimum threshold: 6);

The written exam takes place at the end of course. The exam consists of concept exercises covering the material discussed during classes.

The final project is meant to challenge students with the real engineering problem of designing a turbomachine for propulsion or power generation application.

The concept exercises are numerical exercises that are formulated to stimulate critical thinking on turbomachinery problems of practical application. They also serve as diagnostic tool to help students self-assessing their level of knowledge and understanding.