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We all learn thermodynamics from Junior College. It is very vast subject and it shows its presence in the Physics, Chemistry and Engineering. Moreover, when we think of Mechanical Engineering, its like thermodynamics is nondetachable part of field.
Laws of Thermodynamics:
This is most basic part of thermodynamics. Actually, thermodynamics starts with these laws. It includes First law, its limitations, second law, Kelvin Plank Statement, Perpetual Motion Machine, Carnot cycle and theorem, refrigerator and heat pump. It also covers another important topic named Entropy. This is quite confusing topic.
Properties of Ideal Gas and Processes Related:
Thermodynamics means many many processes. There are many ideal gas cycles and related processes like, constant pressure process, constant volume process, Isothermal process, Adiabatic Process and many more. Using these processes we study Air Standard cycles like Otto Cycle, Diesel Cycle, Sterling Cycle, Dual Cycle.
Properties of Steam and Processes:
Up till now topics were related to standard conditions. But its practical applications starts when steam comes in action. Very important steam tables are studied here. They include T-S diagrams, P-V diagrams and H-S Diagrams. Vapor processes include two most important concepts of mechanical engineering, Carnot Cycle and Rankine Cycle.
Fuel and Combustion:
This is relatively easy part of the subject. It starts from basic i.e. states of fuel, solid, liquid and gaseous. It teaches us about Conventional and Non conventional energy sources. Fuel calculations like Proximate analysis, ultimate analysis, products of combustion, heating values, flue gas composition are various aspects learn here.
Reciprocating Air Compressor:
This is big and most interesting topic. This seems quite practical application of thermodynamics. It covers many types of compressors. And concentrates on single acting and double acting reciprocating compressors. This is very important and some concepts are really helpful in I.C. Engine subject.
Steam Generator:
Steam generator is replica of thermodynamics. It almost uses all things in thermodynamics. Being really practical topic becomes really easy.
That’s all about thermodynamics.
Thanks for Reading.
