ME 401

Theory of operation and design of equipment for production of low temperatures, from below ambient to near absolute zero; industrial, consumer, aerospace, medical, and research applications. Course Information: 3 undergraduate hours. 3 or 4 graduate hours. Prerequisite: Credit or concurrent registration in ME 320.

The theory of operation and the design of equipment for the production of low temperatures from below ambient down to near absolute zero; applications to industrial, consumer, aerospace, medical, and research applications. Prerequisite: ME 300, ME 310, and ME 320 or consent of instructor. 3 undergraduate hours or 3 or 4 graduate hours.

TOPICS:

1. Low-temperature properties of materials

2. Psychrometrics and evaporative cooling processes

3. Thermodynamic cooling processes

4. Single-and multistage vapor compression systems

5. Absorption refrigeration

6. Miscellaneous cooling devices: air cycles, thermoelectrics, etc.

7. Components: compressors, expansion devices, heat exchangers, etc.

8. Cryogenic refrigeration and liquefaction systems

9. Low temperature gas separation

10. Systems for near absolute zero

11. Other topics

12. Special projects: for extra credit, taken mostly by graduate students

ME: MechSE or technical elective.

EM: Possible secondary field, with approval.

9/25/2018