The course aims at providing the students with the basic theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to face important problems related to the performance analysis and the proper choice of a thermal or hydraulic machine. Particular attention is devoted to the design and off-design performance of either the machine or the power plant.

The first part of the course focuses on a quick review of the Thermodynamic and Fluid Mechanic principles, with specific reference to aspects that are particularly important for the analysis of fluid machines and energetic systems. By systematically applying the thermodynamic principles to the energy conversion systems or to the single component, the course will provide the students with the capability to develop a preliminary design of a fluid machine or a power plant.

In order to fruitfully attend the course, the student should have basic knowledge of Fluid Machines theory, Thermodynamics, Thermo kinetic, Applied Mechanics and Fluid Mechanics.

The main course subjects of the theoretical and applied lectures are:
1) Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics Review
2) Nozzles and Diffusers
3) Air-foils, Hydro-foils and blade cascade
4) Performance coefficients and Efficiencies
5) Similitude
6) Dynamic compressors and pumps (axial and centrifugal)
7) Hydraulic and Gas/Steam Turbines
8) Power Plant (Steam, Gas, Steam and Gas, Heat and Electric Energy Combined Production)
9) Mentions about positive displacement machines

Applied lectures are focused on the analysis of the performances of machines and power plants under design and off-design operative conditions.

Didactic material is provided during the course

The student must attend a written and an oral exam.
The written exam deals with the topics developed during the applied lectures.
The oral exam deals with the theoretical topics analyzed during the lectures.
The student can attend the oral exam if the written exam is positively passed.