The aim of this module is to provide the learner with a fundamental comprehension of fluid mechanics, the branch of mechanics associated with the static and dynamics of fluid flow. Fluid mechanics is fundamental to many industrial processes and device design. Starting from the definition of a fluid, learners build up their knowledge to describe, characterise and analyse the behaviour of steady fluids flows. Learners are introduced to the theoretical formulation of concepts of mass, momentum and energy conservation, as well as the application of such. The course is designed such that learners emerge with the tools and knowledge to solve real life problems relating to fluid flow.

1. Define, derive and manipulate the concepts of pressure, hydrostatic pressure and buoyancy. Apply principles to problem-solving involving same.

2. Describe the concept which underpins Reynolds Transport Theorem (Total and Convective derivative) and to be able to use both the flow continuity (i.e. law of mass conservation) and Bernoulli’s equation (i.e. law of energy conservation) to calculate (pressure, velocity and height) heads in a 1D flow.
3. Compile and report in a clear concise manner the findings of laboratory experiments concerning theoperation of flow measuring devices.

4. Describe the concept of inviscid flows and thereafter be able to use inviscid flow momentum theory to calculate forces exerted on both stationary and moving bodies by fluid flows.
5. Demonstrate an awareness of the Reynolds number, Laminar, Turbulent Flow, Hagen-Poiseuille Flow, Coutte Flow, Friction Factors, Darcy Equation and the entry length requirements for pipeline flow
6. Approximate pressure losses associated with friction and fittings in pipelines for both laminar and turbulent flows and be able to read Moody Diagrams to account for the relative roughness of a pipeline. Additionally the learner should be able to distinguish between minor and major losses

This module is designed to extend students knowledge of differential and integral calculus and its applications to engineering problems.

1. Applydifferentiation techniques to solve a range of problems modelled bysingle and multivariable functions.

2. Formulate and evaluate integrals to find average values, areas, and volumes.

3. Solve first order separabledifferential equations arising from applied engineering problems.

4. Critique a peer’s work objectively and communicate constructive feedback orally and in writing.

5. Communicate their mathematical knowledge and reasoning both orally and in writing.

This module presents the theory of machines and mechanisms such as cams and gears. It also introduces the student to free and forced vibrating single degree of freedom systems.

1. Recognise standard machine components, recall their associated nomenclature and explain their function.
2. Design cam, gear, and spring-mass damper systems.

3. Apply equations of motion to problems in undamped and damped single degree of freedom systems.

4. Calculate the gear speeds, power transmitted, and geometric characteristics of simple and compound gear trains.

This module covers the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) authoring software to produce a building information model to a professional standard. Emphasis will be placed on the accurate construction of the model to enable accurate information to be extracted from it.

1. Explain the basic theoretical principles of BIM and its process.

2. Apply BIM principles to the design, construction, and use of a building.

3. Create detailed virtual models using BIM authoring software.

4. Prepare mixed media such as documentation and video to communicate the design, construction, and sustainability of a building.

5. Demonstrate the ability to work in a team on a BIM project.

The student will analyse basic pneumatic/hydraulic manufacturing applications and develop automated solutions using Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) technology. PLC ladder logic programmes will be designed, developed and tested.

1. Specify suitable components/sequences for industrial automated applications
2. Construct basic ladder logic programs using Boolean logic, I/O, timers, counters, relays, sequencing, etc.

3. Demonstate competence in wiring, programming and testing PLCs
4. Implement safety best practices in the design of automated systems, including specific Safety PLC hardware and devices/assemblies safety.

This module provides the student with the basics of stress and strain calculations for mechanical components subjected to point, distributed and thermal loading. Axial, bending and torsional loads are analysed. The module also includes an introduction to material properties and testing

1. Specify the fundamental and derived SI units employed in mechanic of solids.
2. Define and compute the mechanical stresses and strains on loaded components, rods, and pressure vessels
3. Complete and analyse the results of tensile, hardness, and other material tests
4. Compute the stresses and strains enduced by torsional loading and thermal expansion.
5. Determine the stresses and deflections of loaded flexural members

An introduction to the principles of thermodynamics

1. Describe in detail the state of a thermodynamic system as well as the properties and characteristics of thermodynamic processes (Isobaric, Isochoric, Isothermal, Polytropic, Adibatic)

2. State the Zeroth and First Law of thermodynamics and demonstrate its application to both closed and open thermodynamic systems by been able to solve thermodynamic problems involving an ideal gas, phase change fluids, and incompressible substances by using the steady flow energy equation

3. Calculate using steady flow energy equation, enthalpy temperature diagrams and steam tables the work and power generated in a steam power plant

4. Apply the First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics to work processes in thermodynamics componentsand to allcycles for energy efficient and sustainable power production, for the listed thermodynamic systems:
o Carnot Heat Engine and Heat Pump
o Stirling Heat Engine
o Otto Heat Engine
o Diesel Heat Engine
o Simple Brayton Heat Engine

5. Analyse and Evaluate the actual and ideal vapour compression refrigeration cycle and hense analyse the operation of heat pumps and refrigeration systems, with a view to increasing energy efficiency, and the delivery of sustainable energy solutions to support the SDGs 12 and 13.

This module introduces students to techniques for solving second order differential equations. In addition, students are introduced to probabilistic and statistical analysis for engineering.

1. Recognise and solve second order differential equations and appreciate their role in the modelling of oscillations and vibrations.

2. Implement suitable analytic procedures in problems involving discrete and continuous random variables and probability distributions.

3. Performstatistical analysis with appropriate software and interpret the results.

4. Critique a peer’s work objectively and communicate constructive feedback orally and in writing.

5. Communicate their mathematical knowledge and reasoning both orally and in writing.

The purpose of this module is to introduce the participants to Building Information Modelling (BIM) as it applies to Mechanical, Electrical, Heating, Ventilation and Plumbing of buildings.

1. Have detailed knowledge and understanding on MEP BIM models

2. Have a good understanding of the design criteria required for MEP models

3. Design and Build MEP models for basic installations

4. Prepare and produce information and data from MEP BIM Models

Learners will develop an understanding of the consumption patterns and availability of fossil fuels in a national and global setting. Learners will be introduced to the nature and availability of solar radiation and develop a thorough knowledge of some solar technologies used to maximise the potential of this resource, including solar thermal and solar photovoltaic. Learners will develop an understanding of the fundamentals of wind energy generation and installation, as well as the fundamentals of heat pump design, operation, and installation.

1. Appreciate the drivers causing environmental change and associated environmental policy
2. Identify conventionalenergy resource availability and consumption trends.

3. Explain the fundamentals of solar radiation and the operation, installation and economics of associated energy transfer systems
4. Understand the fundamentals of wind energy and microscale wind turbine operation and installation
5. Critically evaluate the operation, installation and economics of heat pump and air conditioning systems
6. Apply building information modellingsoftware toassess the performance and operation of solar, wind and heat pump systems.

This module introduces the fundamentals of engineering mechanics to the learner (i.e. Newton's Laws of Motion, Energy, Work, Linear and Angular Momentum), and aims to build the learners engineering confidence by showing the learner analytical methods which can be used to solve everyday engineering problems. Students are expected to attend lectures and to participate in problem-solving in tutorials. The tutorials are designed to engage the learner and to show them how to implement, the universally accepted methods described in the lectures.

1. Construct Free Body Diagrams of real world problems, and thereafter apply Newton’s Law of Motion and vector operations to evaluate equilibrium of particles andbodies.

2. Applying the principles of equilibrium to analyse the internal forces acting on planar trusses, frames and machines.

3. Discuss the concepts of centroids of lines, area and volume, and compute their location for bodies of arbitrary shape. Thereafter,the learners should be able to apply this learning to handle distributed loads.

4. Analyse basic engineering problems relating to the kinematics of particles using different coordinate systems (i.e. Cartesian, n-t and cylindrical), and solve engineering problems which are time dependent (i.e. Relative Position, Velocity and Acceleration).

5. Represent and analyse practical engineering problems (i.e. Force, Energy, and Momentum) related to the kinetics of particles by drawing FBD’s and using:

Newton’s Laws of Motion,
Principle of Work and Energy
The Conservation of Linear Momentum.
The Conservation of Angular Momentum

The study of electrical technologies is an essential part of the learning outcome for an Energy Engineer. It is critical that the student understands the safe operation of modern electrical systems to allow for effective and economic use of plant. In this module students will learn about the electrical technologies associated with various industrial and power transmission systems, which assists in reducing electrical energy consumption. The course begins with a review of basic DC and AC theory and goes on to look at power factor and its correction. Transformers which form a critical [part of the electrical transmission network are then introduced. The distribution of power in three-phase networks is introduced next along with the requirements for measuring the real power consumed, is considerer next. Interconnection of AC grids by HVDC transmission is examined along with how to rectify and invert AC and DC power sources. Transmission of power by superconducting cables is introduced along with the storage of energy by super-capacitors. The course concludes by studying the operation of power electronics and PV cells.

1. Explain the operation of single and three-phase AC and DCelectrical distribution networks.

2. Calculate power consumption in three-phase AC circuits, determinethe power factor and specify how this can becorrected.

3. Identify and calculatethe sources of inefficiencyin power transmissionequipment especially transformers and AC/DC converters.

4. Analyse electrical safety in the workplace, and how it can be improved using RCD and isolation transformers.

5. Develop simple spreadsheet models of electrical systems such as inverters and PV devices.

This module is designed to introduce the learner to the fundamentals of programming for embedded controllers. This module has no pre-requisites and therefore the first stage of the learning is to introduce the student to a programming language and thereafter to applications targeted towards one of the processor based microcontrollers. All learning will be computer laboratory based and it is envisaged that the learner will have to build basic electrical laboratory circuits outside the computer laboratory as assignments in their own time.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the core concepts of computer programming.
2. Develop programs using a specific editor or IDE, such as Code::Blocks, Arduino IDE, Eclipse, etc.

3. Write programs that use core programming structures such as conditional and iterative control structures.
4. Demonstrate familiarity with wellknown algorithms, data structures and user-defined libraries in a software solution.

5. Identify and select the appropriate microcontroller for a particular task. Develop programs to read, process and display information from various I/O devices connected to a controller.

This module introduces the learner to the three modes of heat transfer: conduction, convection and radiation. Attention is focused on the physical mechanisms and empirical laws used to define and quantify conductive (one- and two-dimensional steady state conduction, transient conduction), convective (free, forced and phase change) and radiative (radiation properties and shape factors) heat transfers.

Learning is assisted by analysing practical, discipline specific applications such as plane walls, radiators and underfloor heating; domestic and industrial products such as ovens and heat exchangers; and laboratory practicals involving temperature, heat transfer and thermal property measurement.

Further context is provided by highlighting how heat transfers (thermal energy and efficiency) underpin ethical considerations such as 'health and safety' and 'sustainable development', emphasised in both Engineers Ireland's Code of Ethics and relevant UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

1. Describe the empirical laws and physical mechanisms that define the three modes of heat transfer: conduction, convection and radiation.

2. Select the appropriate empirical law(s) or problem-solving technique requiredin different contexts orapplications.

3. Apply the appropriate conductive, convective and/or radiative heat transfer analysis in different contexts orapplications.

4. Devise a finite difference numerical model to assist the analysis of a two-dimensional conductive heat transfer problem.

5. Explain the significance of the outcome(s) obtained from eithertheoretical calculation and/ornumerical modelling.

6. Critique the method of analysis, outcome(s) and conclusion(s)from the ethical perspectives outlined in Engineer Ireland’s Code of Ethics and relevantSDGs.

7. Recognise the limitations of either the theoreticalcalculation ornumerical modelling analysis conducted.

8. Plan and execute an experimental program capable of validating the accuracy of thetheoreticalcalculation ornumerical modelling analysis.

Machine Design is the branch of engineering mechanics relating to the study of engineering stresses and strains in mechanical systems. A part or component of a machine fail when the stress induced by either the static and dynamic loading exceed its allowable stiffness or strength. This module presents the engineering fundamentals necessary to analyse static and/or fatigue stresses.

1. Construct Shear Force Distribution (SFD) and Bending Moment Distribution (BMD) diagrams to calculate maximum flexure stresses present in bending beams under a variety of loading conditions

2. Calculate the principal and shear stresses and their directions on a stress element subjected to a bi-axial stress system.

3. Construct Mohr’s circle of stressfor bi-axial load systems.

4. Design mechanical components subjected to static loading and predict failure based on different failure theories for ductile materials (such as Maximum Normal Stress Theory, Maximum Shear Stress Theory and Distortion Energy Theory) and brittle materials (such asRankine Theory and Mohr Hypothesis).

5. Apply the laws of Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM) topredict failure.

6. Calculate the fatigue life of a structural element subjected to sinusoidally varying loads (e.g. bending, torsional, axial)

7. Analyse the effect of different types of stress concentrations on a component’s (1) ability to withstand static loads and (2) service life under fatigue loading

8. Design mechanical and machine components (e.g. screws, bolts, gaskets, fasteners, springs, bearings and shafts) which are to be subjected to static and fatigue loading

An introduction to compressible and incompressible flow in Pipe Networks and Fluid Machines

1. Demonstrate understanding of basic fluid mechanics through the analysis of series and parallel pipe flows with major and minor losses including flows between reservoirs.

2. Understand the analysis of large-scale pipe networks using the Hardy Cross Method and demonstrate its application on a given simple pipe network.

3. Choose appropriate centrifugal pumps, fans and turbines for given applications based on the manufacturers performance curves while avoiding cavitation and assess their performance.

4. Analyse compressible flow with an understanding of the importance of the flow velocity Mach number and evaluate friction factors for such flows.

5. Use ventilation and airborne contamination as a criterion for fan or pump selection and approximate losses for non-circular ducts using the equivalent hydraulic diameter.

Application of thermodynamic principles to engineering applications.

1. Apply the First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics to work processes in thermodynamics components and to cycles for power production for the listed systems:

Steam power cycles
Air Standard cycles
Combined cycle power systems
Combustion Theory

2. Draw (Pv, Tv, and Ts) diagrams for the above systems and discuss details relating to the diagrams
3. Calculate the thermal efficiencies for the various classes of engineering devices and cycles and be able to list strategies for improvement
4. Perform detailed Combustion calculations to evaluate Air Fuel Ratio, Condensation temperature for flue gases, Enthalpy of formation.

The student will configure and program 2 controllers commonly used in industrial to control processes: An All-in-One Controller which features PLC ladder logic, a graphical used interface and digital & analog I/O interfaces A PID Temperature Controller

The characteristics and principles of operation of electrical, electronic and mechanical sensors/actuators are investigated. Concepts such as feedback, steady state error, disturbances, ON/OFF controllers, proportional, integral and derivative controllers will be examined to show that proper control system design leads to systems that are efficiently and adequately controlled.

1. Identify the operation andcharacteristicsof sensors and actuators, including their required signal conditioning and digital interfacing.

2. Configure and program Operator Control Systems to read sensors, display information on a HMI, and control output devices.

3. Analyse various control concepts including open loop, closed loop, relays, motor control, sequential control, process control, PID control.
4. Program PID Temperature Controllers for applications which require ON/OFF control, continuous modulated control etc.

The aim of this module is to provide students with methodologies to estimate and measure energy performance of new and existing dwellings.

1. Describe the environmental and legislative background and their influence on building energy performance.

2. Calculate the Building Energy Rating of a dwelling using the official Irish method.

3. Determine the energy performance of a dwelling based on energy bills data.

4. Generate an energy audit of a dwelling, which identifies the significant energy consumers of the building.

5. Recommend changes to a dwelling that improves its energy performance in line with Nearly Zero Energy Building standards.

The "Professional Practice for Mechanical Engineers" module relies somewhat on the ideology of Collaborative learning where learning is a naturally social act and learners benefit when exposed to diverse viewpoints from people with varied backgrounds.This module is designed to deliver a practical experience of work as a professional engineer, building on knowledge and experience gained from modules in the Energy Engineering Programmes. As such, the module consists of three elements, namely: Group Project using BIM software to design Energy generating and consuming services for a non-domestic building, focusing on Heating, Cooling, ventilation, filtration, lighting and power systems. Students will simulate the energy consumption of the building and optimise the design for minimum energy consumption and maximum comfort / performance. Project Management, planning and managing the design and execution of the group project. Work experience. Students will obtain work placement in a relevant industry partner, and will gain valuable experience in a real-world engineering setting. Work experience will commence at the end of term and will be assessed on a pass/fail basis based on the demonstration of the learners' ability within the working environment.

1. Usethe tools and techniques used for standardized team based project planning and management.

2. Apply Project Planning and Management tools to plan, manage and control the operation of the project.

3. Analyse personal skills and characteristics to develop a CV related to Work Placement career strategy

4. Present and articulate their skills and experience professionally (e.g. in an interview situation)

5. Apply the engineering knowledge, tools and theory, learned on their chosen programme to the solution of broadly defined engineering problem

6. Use the technical literature and other resources to find and evaluate information relevant to the project.

7. Implement appropriate engineering solutions through the design, build, and testing of a device or system

8. Analyse project outcomes and effectively communicate project details and results to both specialist and non-specialist audiences through written technical reports, posters, videos, and oral presentations