AER3014 : Computational Fluid Dynamics and Propulsion
- Inactive for Year: 2026/27
- Module Leader(s): Dr Mohsen Lahooti
- Lecturer: Professor Nilanjan Chakraborty
- Owning School: Engineering
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 20 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Aims
This module develops students’ ability to apply computational fluid dynamics and propulsion principles to aerospace engineering problems.
Students will learn how fluid-flow problems are represented mathematically, how numerical methods are used to approximate and solve governing equations, and how CFD tools can be applied to investigate aerospace flows. The module also introduces key aerospace propulsion systems, including gas turbine and rocket propulsion, with consideration of engine performance, combustors, nozzles, rotor dynamics, vibration, noise and emissions.
Through theory, practical CFD activity, propulsion system study and an integrated coursework investigation, students will develop the ability to formulate aerospace flow and propulsion problems, justify modelling choices, evaluate uncertainty and limitations, and make evidence-based engineering conclusions.
Outline Of Syllabus
The module will typically cover:
1. Principles and applications of computational fluid dynamics in aerospace engineering.
2. Governing equations of fluid flow, including diffusion, advection, advection-diffusion and Navier-Stokes formulations.
3. Numerical discretisation methods, including finite-volume and finite-difference approaches.
4. Numerical methods for steady and unsteady flow problems.
5. Practical CFD model setup, including geometry creation, mesh generation, boundary conditions and solver settings.
6. CFD solution assessment, including convergence, mesh sensitivity, numerical error and modelling assumptions.
7. CFD post-processing, including plots, contours, quantitative data extraction and interpretation of flow features.
8. Aerospace propulsion systems, including rockets, nozzles, turbojets, turbofans, compressors, combustors, afterburners and turbines.
9. Propulsion system behaviour, including engine structure, stresses, critical speeds, vibration, rotor dynamics, pollutants and noise.
10. Practical exploration and analysis of jet engine assembly and propulsion system operation.
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 30 | 1:00 | 30:00 | Pre-recorded CFD lecture material. To be viewed prior to lectures. |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 3:00 | 3:00 | CFD and practical propulsion Coursework (Practical report 30%) maximum of 1000 words. |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 40 | 1:00 | 40:00 | Structured presentation of syllabus may inc skills demo, formative feedback etc |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 2:00 | 2:00 | Examination Paper |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 30 | 1:00 | 30:00 | Target non-timetable hours for self-study and complete coursework assignment submission |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 27 | 1:00 | 27:00 | Preparation for the end-of-semester exam papers |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Practical | 7 | 2:00 | 14:00 | Comp cluster to apply taught materials and develop practical skills. |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Practical | 1 | 4:00 | 4:00 | Off-site Working Jet engine demonstration and experimental data gathering |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Practical | 1 | 1:00 | 1:00 | Aerospace Lab inspection of RR Olympus Engine |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Practical | 1 | 2:00 | 2:00 | MFL Disassembly and Reassembly of Wren Jet Engine |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 11 | 1:00 | 11:00 | Weekly Tutorial |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 36 | 1:00 | 36:00 | Lecture follow up - Recommended revision of taught material and attempting tutorial problems |
| Total | 200:00 |
Jointly Taught With
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| MEC3028 | Computational Heat and Fluid Flow |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
The module uses lectures, tutorials, CFD practical activities and propulsion system study to connect numerical theory with aerospace engineering application. Lectures introduce governing equations, numerical methods and propulsion principles. Tutorials develop analytical problem-solving and interpretation. CFD activities support modelling, meshing, solver setup and post-processing skills. Propulsion practical work links thermofluid theory to engine behaviour, system constraints and engineering judgement.
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Exams
| Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Examination | 120 | 1 | A | 60 | N/A |
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Practical/lab report | 1 | M | 40 | CFD and practical propulsion Coursework (Practical report 30%) - max 2000 words |
Formative Assessments
Formative Assessment is an assessment which develops your skills in being assessed, allows for you to receive feedback, and prepares you for being assessed. However, it does not count to your final mark.
| Description | Semester | When Set | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Examination | 1 | M | Two online practice examinations. 30 minutes each |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The written examination assesses theoretical understanding, analytical problem-solving and application of CFD and propulsion principles. The integrated coursework assesses students’ ability to formulate a realistic aerospace problem, apply CFD tools, justify modelling choices, evaluate uncertainty and limitations, interpret propulsion evidence and communicate justified engineering conclusions. Together, the assessments support both technical knowledge and applied engineering judgement.
Reading Lists
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- AER3014's Timetable