Class Energy Conversion Systems

Energy Conversion Systems examines the principles and technologies used to convert thermal, mechanical and electrical energy into useful forms of energy. It covers thermodynamic cycles, electricity generation, heating and refrigeration systems, and rotating electrical machines. Within the MSc in Intelligent and Sustainable Energy Systems, the unit enables students to compare conversion technologies, assess their performance and identify their applications in conventional and renewable energy systems. Fundamental concepts are developed through problem solving and the analysis of practical cases.

Not applicable

Energy conversion fundamentals: thermodynamic systems, boundaries and control volumes; conservation of mass and energy; the first and second laws of thermodynamics; entropy, the Carnot cycle and efficiency. Conversion of thermal energy into work and electricity Heating and cooling: vapour-compression and absorption refrigeration cycles; heat pumps; coefficient of performance and applications. Electromechanical conversion: physical principles, rotating magnetic field, poles, torque, three-phase windings and losses. Three-phase and single-phase induction machines: construction, equivalent circuits, motor and generator operation, and applications. Synchronous machines: construction, operating principles, equivalent circuits, motor and generator operation, and applications. Integrated analysis of conversion systems: energy balances, efficiency and comparison of technological alternatives.

Teaching combines interactive explanations, guided problem solving and the analysis of energy conversion systems. Students work with worksheets, compare technical alternatives and discuss the interpretation of their results. Where appropriate, simple computational tools may be used to explore the effect of operating conditions on system performance. The research assignment requires students to select reliable sources, critically synthesise evidence and present their conclusions orally.

Moran, M. J., Shapiro, H. N., Boettner, D. D., & Bailey, M. B. (2018). Fundamentals of engineering thermodynamics (9th ed.). Wiley. Çengel, Y. A., Boles, M. A., & Kano¿lu, M. (2019). Thermodynamics: An engineering approach (9th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education. Sen, P. C. (2013). Principles of electric machines and power electronics (3rd ed.). Wiley.