Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics unit (ENG220)

Hobart

Introduction

Thermal and Fluid Engineering builds upon foundational principles introduced in Mechanical Engineering Foundations, deepening students’ understanding of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics through both theoretical analysis and practical applications. This unit focuses on the behaviour of fluids in motion, energy transfer, and thermal power systems, equipping students with the knowledge to model, analyse, and solve complex engineering problems related to power generation systems, hydraulic systems, and industrial energy systems. 

Students will explore key topics, including the Bernoulli equation, pipe flow, conservation of mass and momentum, thermal properties of substances, the first and second laws of thermodynamics, entropy, and power cycles. Through dimensional analysis and experimental techniques, students will learn to measure and evaluate key variables in fluid and thermal systems. The unit also introduces climate-safe engineering practices, encouraging students to assess energy efficiency, optimize power cycles, and develop low-carbon solutions in mechanical and energy systems. 

This unit prepares students for advanced studies in Heat Transfer, Advanced Fluid Dynamics, and Energy Systems Engineering, ensuring they develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills applicable to both industry and research.

Summary

Unit name	Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics
Unit code	ENG220
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Engineering
Discipline	Engineering
Coordinator	Professor Xiaolin Wang
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Intermediate

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 1

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 1	22/2/2026	16/3/2026	19/4/2026	13/6/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Explain thermodynamic laws and fundamental principles in fluid mechanics.
• Solve fluid dynamics problems by applying conservation of mass, momentum and energy using a control-volume approach.
• Analyse the performance of thermal systems using the first and second laws of thermodynamics as well as entropy principles.
• Assess thermal and fluid systems to consider their performance and environmental impact.

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
030701	$1,192.00	$1,192.00	not applicable	$3,401.00

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

ENG107 Mechanical Engineering Foundations|KMA154

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	1 x 2 hour Lecture per week 1 x 1 hour Lecture per week (combining it with tutorial to form a 2hr teaching block) 1 x 1 hour Tutorial per week (combining it with the one hour lecture to form a 2 hr teaching block). 3 x 2 hour Labs per semester
Assessment	Final examination (30%)|In Class Test (30%)|Thermal and Fluids Labs (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.