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Heat Engines

Code 15271
Year 1
Semester S2
ECTS Credits 6
Workload PL(15H)/T(30H)/TP(15H)
Scientific area Mechanics and Thermodynamics
Entry requirements .
Mode of delivery The classes of this curricular unit are theoretical, practical and laboratory. The theoretical foundations are presented first, then the practical applications, with examples of calculation and finally the visualization and laboratory test. Presentations are made using a computer and video projector. Calculations of the practical component are done in the table. All documentation is provided to students on an e-learning platform.
Work placements --Not Aplicable
Learning outcomes Students should understand engine operating cycles, determine the performance of their components, analyze real cycles, identify the main fuels, evaluate combustion processes, and recognize pollutants and the methods for their reduction.

The teaching methodology integrates knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat and mass transfer in the analysis of internal combustion engines. Students study ideal and real cycles, fuel mixtures, spark-ignition and compression-ignition engines, emission control, and environmental impact, developing skills to apply principles, equations, and calculation techniques.
Syllabus 1. Introduction to Thermal Engines

Classification, applications, and technological evolution.

2. Operation of Internal Combustion Engines

Spark-ignition and compression-ignition engines.

Two-stroke and four-stroke engines.

3. Thermodynamic Cycles

Principles and thermodynamic properties.

Otto, Diesel, Dual, Miller, and Atkinson cycles.

Performance comparison.

4. Air–Fuel Mixtures and Combustion

Characterization of reactive air–fuel mixtures.

Energy efficiency analysis.

Differences between spark-ignition and compression-ignition engines.

5. Design and Performance Parameters

Power, efficiency, and specific fuel consumption.

Geometric parameters and air/fuel ratios.

Engine characteristic curves.

6. Environmental Impact and Emission Control

Pollutant formation and reduction.

Mitigation systems: catalysts, thermal reactors, additives, and EGR.

Main Bibliography Heywood, J.B., “Internal Combustion Engine Fundamentals”, McGraw-Hill Bo. Co., New York, 1988.
Martins, J., “Motores de Combustão Interna”, 2ª Edição, Publindústria, Edições Técnicas, 2006
Ferguson, C.; Kirkpatrick, C., “Internal Combustion Engines – Applied Thermosciences” 3nd Edition, John Willey and Sons
Teaching Methodologies and Assessment Criteria The classes in this course include theoretical, theoretical-practical, and laboratory components. Initially, theoretical fundamentals are covered, followed by practical applications with calculation examples performed on the board. In the laboratory, students observe engine components and participate in a thermal engine test, where operating parameters are determined. All supporting documentation is provided through an e-learning platform.
Language Portuguese. Tutorial support is available in English.
Last updated on: 2025-03-17

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