Hydraulics I

Knowledge of mathematics and physics obtained in the curricular units of the previous semesters.

Teaching consists of an initial theoretical presentation, followed by practical exercises. The exercises portray real situations, making the pupils familiar with the way fluid mechanics can be applied to the resolution of engineering problems. In the theoretical presentation the expository and inquisitive method is used. In the practical applications a demonstration of the methodologies is first introduced. Then new problems are proposed and students are encouraged to find out the solution. In the laboratorial lessons several assays are carried through, with didactic value, allowing the pupil to relate the theory with the obtained practical results.

The main objective of this course is to provide the basic training in hydraulics (to be complemented in the course unit of General Hydraulics 2) required for the activity of an engineer in planning, design and management of hydraulic systems.

On successful completion of this module, students will have:

– the ability to solve problems in the domain of hydrostatics;

– the ability to analyze design and sizing simple installations with pressure flow, with or without turbomachinery;

– the ability to evaluate the stresses generated by flow in its solid boundaries and their supporting structures or mooring.

1. FLUID PROPERTIES: External forces; Properties involving the mass and weight of fluids; Elasticity; Viscosity; Surface tension; Vapor pressure.

2. FLUID STATICS: Hydrostatic pressure; Pressure variation with elevation; Pressure measurements; Hydrostatic forces on plane and curved surfaces; Buoyancy.

3. FLUID KINEMATICS: Velocity and flow visualization; Flow rate; Types of low; Continuity equation.

4. FLUID DYNAMICS: Bernoulli’s equation; Concept of the hydraulic and energy grade lines; Application of Bernoulli’s equation; Rotation and vorticity; Boundary layer; Separation.

5. MOMENTUN PRINCIPLE: Generalization of the Bernoulli’s equation; Hydraulic power – Pumps and turbines; Applications of the momentum equation – Euler’s equation.

6. FLOW IN PIPES: Shear-stress distribution at the solid boundary; Uniform laminar flows; Resistance laws for turbulent flows; Empirical resistance laws for the turbulent regime.

The student is evaluated by questions answered in classes throughout the semester (on the subjects already taught) and by a final written exam (to be held at the end of the semester). The questions answered in classes will have a total score of 5 points, and the final exam will be rated for 15 points, consisting of 2 parts:

• Theoretical part - 3 points
• Practical part - 12 points

Students in special regimes who, for reasons of schedule incompatibility, demonstrate that they are unable to attend classes, will be evaluated only by a final exam quoted for 20 points:

• Theoretical part - 8 points
• Practical part - 12 points

Minimum grades: The student will have to obtain a minimum grade of 3 points in the sum of the questions answered in classes with the theoretical part of the final exam (3 points out of 8). The student who does not reach this minimum will be considered to have failed.

Elements of consultation: In the practical part of the final exam students can consult the form provided by the teacher at the time of the evaluation.

NAO