Introduction to Thermal and Fluid Engineering

Introduction to Thermal and Fluid Engineering combines coverage of basic thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer for a one- or two-term course for a variety of engineering majors. The book covers fundamental concepts, definitions, and models in the context of engineering examples and case studies. It carefully explains the methods used to evaluate changes in equilibrium, mass, energy, and other measurable properties, most notably temperature. It then also discusses techniques used to assess the effects of those changes on large, multi-component systems in areas ranging from mechanical, civil, and environmental engineering to electrical and computer technologies.

Includes a motivational student study guide on CD to promote successful evaluation of energy systems

This material helps readers optimize problem solving using practices to determine equilibrium limits and entropy, as well as track energy forms and rates of progress for processes in both closed and open thermodynamic systems. Presenting a variety of system examples, tables, and charts to reinforce understanding, the book includes coverage of:

• How automobile and aircraft engines work
• Construction of steam power plants and refrigeration systems
• Gas and vapor power processes and systems
• Application of fluid statics, buoyancy, and stability, and the flow of fluids in pipes and machinery
• Heat transfer and thermal control of electronic components

Keeping sight of the difference between system synthesis and analysis, this book contains numerous design problems. It would be useful for an intensive course geared toward readers who know basic physics and mathematics through ordinary differential equations but might not concentrate on thermal/fluids science much further. Written by experts in diverse fields ranging from mechanical, chemical, and electrical engineering to applied mathematics, this book is based on the assertion that engineers from all walks absolutely must understand energy processes and be able to quantify them.

Introduction to Thermal and Fluid Engineering presents an integrated overview of heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics specifically designed for engineering students not specializing in mechanical engineering.
The text shows how all three components of thermal and fluid sciences—thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics—relate to each other. It offers intensely practical, design-oriented examples that relate to electrical, civil, aerospace, computer, and chemical engineering. Students will learn about thermal science applications that pertain to the challenges awaiting them in the real world, as opposed to studying theory that is irrelevant to their future careers.
Introduction to Thermal and Fluid Engineering is ideal for undergraduate survey courses and can be used as a professional reference. It assumes knowledge of basic physics and mathematics through ordinary differential equations.

Allan Kraus is Professor Emeritus at the University of Akron in Ohio.

J.R. Welty is Professor at Oregon State University.

A. Aziz is Professor at Gonzaga University in Washington.