Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Advanced Thermodynamic Systems
SCQF level: 10:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: MEC10121
Module leader: Zuansi Cai
School School of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment
Subject area group: Engineering and Mathematics
Prerequisites

Requisites: AND Pre-requisite: Energy systems design knowledge equivalent to SCQF level 9, or foundational understanding of thermodynamics AND AND Pre-requisite: [Module MEC09722] Energy Systems Design AND Pre-requisite: [Module MEC09122] Energy Systems Design
Description of module content:

In this module, you will conduct a deep-dive analysis of the core technologies that underpin power generation and transport. You will contrast the thermodynamic principles and performance of mature, well-established systems with a critical look at the emerging technologies shaping our energy future.The topics covered will allow you to:- Analyse the operational principles of conventional thermal power systems and the fundamental processes of thermochemical energy release. - Evaluate the thermodynamic performance and design principles of established heat engines and prime moversused in power and transport applications.- Explore the science and application of emerging low-carbon technologies, with a focus on electrochemical energy conversion and storage systems. A key practical outcome of this module is the development of advanced skills in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Through a series of hands-on case studies, you will learn to build, run, and interpret CFD simulations to analyse the performance of complex energy systems, a skill highly valued in industry.Throughout the module, a strong emphasis will be placed on critically assessing the energy efficiency and environmental impacts of these diverse technologies.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Evaluate and diagnose the thermodynamic performance of advanced energy systems using first- and second-law thermodynamics laws.

LO2: Analyse combustion processes, applications, and their environmental impacts.

LO3: Critically reflect on the energy use, environmental impacts and security risk of advanced thermodynamic systems.

LO4: Appraise the operational principles and performance of a diverse range of energy conversion systems.

LO5: Synthesise modelling results and relevant literature to communicate evidence-based recommendations on advanced thermodynamic technologies.
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2025/6, Trimester 2, In Person, Edinburgh Napier University
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner: Edinburgh Napier University
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Zuansi Cai
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 5 1 hours lecture class in the second 5 weeks, students learn theories and examples for independent study.
Face To Face Lecture 10 2 hours lecture class in the first 5 weeks. Students learn theories and examples for independent study. Lectures also explains the specifics of the case study that will be worked during the tutorial.
Face To Face Tutorial 10 2 hour class. Students use this time to work on some engineering problems including calculations by using the theories learned from lecture classes.
Online Guided independent study 157 Students use this time to work through the teaching materials provided, and prepare exam. Students also use this time to work through the practical cases provided in the lecture and prepare engineering portfolio which focuses on the critical analysis and interpretation of each modelling results.
Face To Face Supervised time in studio/workshop 18 Supervise students in modelling practical case applications.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Portfolio 50 1~2~3~4~5 Exam Period , WORDS= 2500 words For this assessment, the learner will compile an Engineering Portfolio, comprising a series of analytical entries derived from the module's core case studies. The portfolio will be submitted in the form of a structured technical document and will document the learner's comprehensive analysis of advanced energy systems using industry-standard Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques.Each entry will showcase the complete engineering analysis process, from the initial definition of the technical problem through to the presentation and critical evaluation of the simulation outcomes. The portfolio must synthesise these findings with fundamental thermodynamic principles to demonstrate a holistic understanding of the technology under investigation.Synthesised as a whole, the complete portfolio must demonstrate the learner's ability to:1. Appraise the operational performance, energy efficiency, and environmental impact of the system, based on a rigorous analysis of the simulation data.2. Identify design limitations and propose evidence-based recommendations for improvement.3. Communicate a complete technical analysis and its conclusions in a professional engineering format.
Class Test 50 1~2~4 Week 8 HOURS= 2.5 Hours Evaluate efficiency of various energy systems using a comprehensive knowledge of first and second law thermodynamic analysis.
Component 1 subtotal: 50
Component 2 subtotal: 50
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
Advanced Thermodynamic Systems
 

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