The module introduces the thermodynamics laws and the principles of energy conversion systems. This includes discussions on heat engines and steam and gas turbine power cycles burning different types of fuels including fossil fuels Hydrogen and biofuels. The essential components of these cycles including the boiler, compressor, combustors, turbine, and heat exchangers will be evaluated. To better understand the thermodynamics of cycles a thermodynamics analysis software (e.g., Aspen Plus) will be used and students will learn about the theoretical knowledge to understand how a modern power plant is designed and operated. The module also includes an overview of renewable energy power plants including solar, wind and geothermal energy systems.



An indicative list of topics included in the module is given below:

1. Thermodynamic laws and conservation of energy

2. Combustion and carbon capture

3. Power cycles’ thermodynamic analysis and process modelling

4. The use of Steam tables and thermodynamics charts

5. Steam turbine power cycles

6. Gas turbine power cycles

7. Combined heat and power (CHP) systems

8. Combined gas and steam turbine power cycles (CC)

9. Carbon neutral biofuel/H2 electricity and heat generation

10. Renewable energy power generation (Hydroelectric, Geothermal, Solar and Wind)

A 1500 words assignment weighted at 30% assessing learning outcomes 3 and 4. Meeting AHEP 4 Outcomes: C2, C3, C7.

A 2-hour examination weighted at 70% assessing learning outcomes 1,2 and 5. Meeting AHEP 4 Outcomes C1, C2, and C4.



Practice formative class tests will be undertaken during the module and formative guidance and feedback will be provided in tutorial sessions within the class.



Professional Body requirements mean that a minimum overall score of 40% is required to pass a module, with each element of assessment requiring a minimum mark of 30% unless otherwise stated.

This module will enable students to gain understanding, apply knowledge, analyse, and evaluate problems and create solutions through a variety of activities, including lectures, tutorials, computer modelling sessions and independent study.¿

1. Predict and evaluate the performance of Thermal Power Plants and assess their components' characteristics. (AHEP 4: C1, C2)

Knowledge & Understanding

Learning

2. Assess application of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technologies in the energy industry. (AHEP 4: C4)

Application

Problem Solving

3. Apply thermodynamic analyses and process modelling of modern gas/steam power cycles. (AHEP 4: C2, C3)

Analysis

Problem Solving

4. Demonstrate knowledge of efficiency improvement technologies in steam and gas turbine and combined cycles and evaluate the environmental and societal impact of solutions to complex problems and minimise adverse impacts. (AHEP 4: C7)

Application

Reflection

Enquiry

5. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of modern renewable power generation systems. (AHEP 4: C1, C4)

Knowledge & Understanding

Application

Lefebvre, A.H. and Ballal, D.R., (2019) Gas Turbine Combustion: Alternative fuels and emissions, Fourth ed. Florida: CRC Press.



Borgnakke, C. and Sonntag, R.E., (2020) Fundamentals of Thermodynamics. John Wiley & Sons.



Darabkhani, H.G., Varasteh, H. and Bazooyar, B., (2022) Carbon Capture Technologies for Gas-turbine-based Power Plants. Elsevier.



Gülen, S., (2019) Gas Turbine Combined Cycle Power Plants. CRC Press.



Nelson, V., and Starcher, K., (2016) Introduction to Renewable Energy, 2nd Edition, CRC Publications



Cengel, Y. A., and Boles, M. A., (2014) Thermodynamics: An engineering approach, McGraw- Hill

Engineering Laboratories including PC Labs and the Fluids, Thermodynamics and Renewable Energy labs.

The module introduces the thermodynamics laws and the principles of energy conversion systems. This includes discussions on heat engines and steam and gas turbine power cycles burning different types of fuels including fossil fuels Hydrogen and biofuels. The essential components of these cycles including the boiler, compressor, combustors, turbine, and heat exchangers will be evaluated. To better understand the thermodynamics of cycles a thermodynamics analysis software (e.g., Aspen Plus) will be used and students will learn about the theoretical knowledge to understand how a modern power plant is designed and operated. The module also includes an overview of renewable energy power plants including solar, wind and geothermal energy systems.