Hydraulic Engineering

Unit code: NEC3003 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEC3001 - Fluid Mechanics; or
NEF2101 - Fluid Mechanics 1
NEC3002 - Hydrology and Water Resources; or
NEC3103 - Hydrology and Water Resources
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

This unit focuses on hydraulic systems and their applications. It explores the fundamental and advanced principles of hydraulic engineering, equipping you with the knowledge to design and analyse water distribution and control systems in civil engineering contexts.



Key topics include open channel flow, hydraulic jumps, pipe flow, groundwater supply, well hydraulics, water quality, and treatment. The unit also covers the design and analysis of hydraulic systems, such as water supply networks, open channels, and pump and turbine systems, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of fluid behaviour and its impact on infrastructure.




By the end of this unit, you will have developed key skills to tackle hydraulic engineering challenges, including the design of water distribution networks, open channels, groundwater system, and water treatment systems, contributing to sustainable and efficient water management solutions in civil engineering.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Analyse water distribution system performance using hydraulic principles, and evaluate system design options for efficiency, sustainability and system resilience;
  2. Design hydraulic systems, including pumps, channels, groundwater wells, and distribution networks, using appropriate engineering methods and technical judgment;
  3. Determine key components of water treatment systems based on source water quality and relevant water supply standards; and
  4. Collaborate effectively within a team setting to formulate engineering solutions for complex hydraulic challenges, including hydraulic jumps and dam planning, by integrating technical, environmental and regulatory considerations.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 20%
Problem-solving scenario test applying fundamentals of water distribution system design and analysis. (Individual) (60mins)
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 40%
Design project on water distribution systems and open channel flow. (Group) (3000 words)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 40%
Problem-solving scenario test on groundwater supply, water quality management, and water treatment design. (Individual) (120mins)

Tests: These invigilated in-class secure assessments have an unpredictable problem-solving scenario format that tests deep understanding, require explanation of reasoning and process, and involve applying knowledge to new contexts.

Project: This secure assessment ensures accountability through structured reflection, documented collaboration, and detailed explanation of techniques, with in-class progressive milestone checks linked to individual students also being used to enhance security. These milestones are recorded and incorporated into the overall marking process. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further support the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil Engineering)
NHEC | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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