Unit information: Power Generation for the 22nd Century in 2019/20

Unit name	Power Generation for the 22nd Century
Unit code	MENGM0002
Credit points	10
Level of study	M/7
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director	Professor. Joe Quarini
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	H level in either Fluids, Thermo or Heat Transfer disciplines, or equivalent
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School of Engineering Mathematics and Technology
Faculty	Faculty of Engineering

Description including Unit Aims

The structure of this course is designed to cover a matrix of power generation methods including conventional fossil based systems, nuclear as well as emphasising the renewable options. Specifically it will focus on generic power generation processes (thermal via heat engines to mechanical and then electrical, renewable technologies, including wind, wave, tide, geothermal and direct solar conversion). The course will also put the power generation industry into a modern context (social-political as well as environmental pressures).

Intended Learning Outcomes

AtAt the end of the course the student will be able to: 1. Compare the different and established forms of power generation and rank these in terms of efficiency, cost, and environmental impact. 2. Use engineering principles when faced with a new form of power generation to quantify its merits. 3. Identify the multi-faceted problems and challenges faced by the power generation industry, list possible solutions and calculate their cost saving and energy efficiency

Teaching Information

24 lectures

Assessment Information

2 hour examination (3 questions out of 4)

Reading and References

• Boeker, E., Environmental Physics. (2011), 3rd ed., Wiley & Sons. ISBN-10: 0470666765. ISBN-13: 9780470666760. - Good underlying Physics but not essential.
• Boyle, G., Energy' Systems & Sustainability: Power for a Sustainable Future. (2012), 2nd ed., Oxford University Press. ISBN-10: 0199593744. ISBN-13: 9780199593743. – Classic; covers all course content.
• Ristinen, R.A. & Kraushaar, J.P., Energy & the Environment. (2006), 2nd ed., Wiley & Sons. ISBN-10: 0471739898. ISBN-13: 9780471739890. – More details, good but not essential.
• Andrews, J. & Jelly, N., Energy Science: Principle, Technologies & Impacts. (2013), 2nd ed., Oxford University Press. ISBN-10: 0199592373. ISBN-13: 9780199592371. – Nice modern book.