Aero-Hydrodynamics

Unit code: NEM3001 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEF1005 - Applied and Quantitative Methods in Engineering; or
NEF1201 - Engineering Mathematics 2; and
NEF1007 - Thermodynamics for Engineers; or
NEF1202 - Engineering Physics 2
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

In this unit, you will examine how fluids interact with mechanical systems and how these interactions influence performance, efficiency, and design. You will analyse aerodynamic and hydrodynamic flow behaviour using theoretical, experimental, and computational methods to understand key phenomena such as lift, drag, flow separation, and cavitation. Through laboratory investigations and simulation activities, you will connect fluid dynamics theory to real-world applications in energy systems, transportation, and environmental engineering.

Emphasis is placed on designing and evaluating energy-efficient, safe, and sustainable fluid flow systems that reflect contemporary engineering challenges. By integrating experimental accuracy, computational analysis, and professional communication, you will develop the technical capability and critical judgement required for innovative practice in aerodynamic and hydrodynamic engineering.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Apply core fluid mechanics principles to analyse aerodynamic and hydrodynamic flows across inviscid, viscous, and free-surface regimes;
  2. Analyse and interpret fluid flow systems using theoretical, experimental, and computational approaches to assess performance and design implications;
  3. Predict and interpret flow phenomena such as separation, cavitation, and vortex dynamics to inform sustainable and safe engineering design;
  4. Exemplify skills in working collaboratively to integrate analytical, computational, and experimental tools for analysing and improving aerodynamic and hydrodynamic performance; and
  5. Present technical findings effectively through professional reports, incorporating ethical and sustainability considerations.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Exercise
|
Grade: 15%
In-class flow-analysis challenge applying core fluid-mechanics principles to aerodynamic and hydrodynamic problems (Individual) (45 mins)
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 35%
Design mini project applying aerodynamic and hydrodynamic principles to a practical system, integrating theory, computation, and experimentation (Group) (Report 3000 words)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 50%
Invigilated problem-solving test assessing analytical understanding of fluid flow regimes, lift, drag, and energy-efficient design (Individual) (120 mins)

Exercise: This secure in-class assessment ensures authenticity by requiring students to analyse and solve unseen aerodynamic and hydrodynamic problems under supervised conditions. Real-time application of theory and unpredictable flow scenarios verify individual understanding and reasoning.

Project: Group design mini-project integrating analytical, experimental, and computational approaches to develop an efficient aerodynamic or hydrodynamic system. Each student’s contribution will be systematically evaluated through milestone reviews and collaborative documentation.

Test: This secure invigilated test ensures authenticity by requiring students to apply theoretical and analytical fluid-mechanics principles to unfamiliar problems. Unpredictable problem sets confirm each student’s independent capability and comprehension of aerodynamic and hydrodynamic behaviour. This progression of assessment mirrors the workflow of professional engineers in analysis, design, and validation.

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) (Mechanical Engineering)
NHEM | 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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