Thermodynamics Laboratory

By using the following scientific equipment, the faculty and students in UD's College of Engineering are able to assess and make a variety of observations, including:  conducting  phase change (e.g. boiling, evaporation and condensation) experiments, identifying modes of heat transfer, along with analyzing different solar systems and the physical behavior of solar modules under various conditions.  

• Boiling and evaporation apparatus

• Condensation process machine

• Heat conduction experimental apparatus

• Radiation and natural convection 

• Forced convection

• Photovoltaic solar module 

• Solar collector system and water heating unit

Specific engineering principles and types of internal combustion engines can be identified by conducting a variety of experiments using the equipment listed below.   Analysis of the air/fuel ratio and exhaust can be carried out with this equipment, along withdetermining specific fuel consumption and volumetric efficiency.  

The Basic Engineering Department uses the following equipment to conduct these tests:

• Test Stand for Internal Combustion Engines

• Regenerative Engine Test Set

• Exhaust Gas Analyzer

Flow visualization and aerodynamic experiments can be demonstrated with the assistance of these thermo-fluid devices.  They are also instrumental in studying the pressure distribution around a cylinder and will help the students understand the concept of heat exchange by forced convection in a cross flow heat exchanger. 

• Cross Flow Heat Exchanger in a Wind Tunnel

• Flow Visualization Wind Tunnel

• Open-Circuit Subsonic Wind Tunnel

This equipment is used primarily to teach the fundamental principles of refrigeration and air conditioning systems.  The basic layout of the refrigeration system is presented in this lab where the cooling load calculation is carried out as well as the layout and maintenance of ventilation and air conditioning systems are also identified.   The experiments conducted in this laboratory demonstrate all of the operating states that characterize a complete air conditioning system such as:  heating, cooling, humidification, dehumidification and mixing. 

• Refrigeration Training apparatus

• Cooling Tower 

• A Complete Air Conditioning System with a Climate Chamber

• Full-Scale Air Conditioning Trainer