Basic Concepts in Engineering Thermodynamics

P M V Subbarao
Professor
Mechanical Engineering Department
I I T Delhi

Construction of Simple Premises for

Valuable Engineering Science..
 Definition of Thermodynamics
• Thermodynamics is defined as the science of energy.
• The name Thermodynamics stems from the Greek words
therme (Heat) and dynamics (Power).
– Clearly depicting the early efforts to convert heat into
power.

Steam power already had many uses - draining

water from mines, excavating ports and rivers,
forging iron, grinding grain, and spinning and
weaving cloth - but it was inefficient.
 The Carnot’s Queries

A Man Who Proved that Proper Blend of Science, Mathematics and

Ingenuity is Good Engineering….
 Definition of Engineering Thermodynamics

• Engineering Thermodynamics is the subject that deals with

the study of the science of thermodynamics and the
usefulness of this science in the design of each & every
process, device or system involving the effective
utilization of energy and matter for the benefit of
mankind.
• The Trio of Thermodynamics : Heat, Work & Energy.
• Matter playing the role of a House.
 Albert Einstein`s Opinion on Best Theory

• A Theory is more impressive or useful

– the greater the simplicity of its premises is,
– the more different kinds of things it relates,
– and the more extended is its area of applicability.
Therefore, the deep impression which Classical
Thermodynamics made upon me.
It is only physical theory of universal content concerning
which I am convinced that ,
within the framework of the applicability of its
basic concepts, it will never be overthrown.
 Inspiring Words : Albert Einstein

• When asked what he wished to become, as a young man,

Nobel Laureate Albert Einstein said,
• "I want to become a useful person, not a successful
person."
• Asked what he meant by it, the eminent physicist replied,
• "A successful person is one who takes from society more
than what he gives it.
• A useful person is one who gives the society more than
what he takes from it."
 Thermodynamics beyond Engineering

•Human Thermodynamics (HT) is the study of heat and work

transformations involved in the processes of human existence.
• Psychodynamics : Originated the application of the First Law
of Thermodynamics to the realm of conserved conscious and
unconscious and mental processes.
•Chemical Thermodynamics. Invented by Gibbs.
“You are a big chemical reaction. Everything you say, all that
you do, all that you see, decide or remember, think or feel is
nothing but the manifestation of the chemical reaction that is
you.” – Jim Eadon

http://www.humanthermodynamics.com
 Thermodynamic Vision of Science & Engineering

Accept
Theory
Test Particular
Theory Relations

Propose Engineering
Theory Relations

Secondary Industrial
concepts Processes

Primitive Impact on
concepts Society
 Application of Thermodynamics
Available Resources (Energy,
matter etc.,)
Thermodynamics
Laws and information
Engineering of Thermal
processes, devices and
systems.
Other Engineering
Sciences
NO
Is Design meeting
Human’s NEED?

Social Sciences and

Humanities YES
(task completed)
List of Aims Which Demand Thermodynamic Study

• Achieving of better fuel economy for any power system.

• Achieving better control of environment with minimum
power consumption.
• Analysis of diseases occurring in biological systems.
• Creation, Identification and Qualification of of New
Resources of Energy.
• Analysis of behaviour of extreme human activities.
Future Expectations from Light Commercial
Vehicles
The first step : Identification of Target
Exhaust gas
energy loss

FUEL Flow

Motive Power
 Parameters of High Concern
Exhaust gas
energy loss

Mass of fuel/km.
 The Precise Target

Exhaust gas
energy loss

ENGINE Brake
Power

FUEL
Consumption
 One Historical Event for Better focus on the Target

• In 1893, the Benz Velo became the world's first

inexpensive, mass-produced car.
• 12000 unites were produced.
• 0.7 hp and 958cc!!!
More Close Look at the Target
 Another Historical Event for Better focus on the
Target

• The Mercedes 35 HP (German: Mercedes 35 PS) was a

radical early car model designed in 1901.
• Engine volume: 5,918CC.
• The racecar was of a disappointing performance by
multiple technical complications and enduring just for few
laps.
Different Look at the Target