Department of Mechanical Engineering

ME 4953 Gas Dynamics

Special Studies/Topics in Mechanical Engineering
Syllabus

Part A Course Outline

Technical Elective in Mechanical Engineering
Course description:
(3-0) 3 hours credit. Prerequisites: ME 3293 and ME 3663. Introduction to compressible flow,
integral and differential forms of the conservation equations, one-dimensional isentropic flow,
normal shocks, oblique shocks and expansion waves, Fanno and Rayleigh flows, compressible flow
through nozzles, diffusers and wind tunnels (quasi-one-dimensional flow), 2-D linearized subsonic
and supersonic flows over thin aerodynamic shapes and small disturbances, and special topics.
Prerequisites:
ME 3293 Thermodynamics I, ME 3663 Fluid Mechanics
Textbook:
Introduction to Compressible Flow, 2nd edition, Patrick H. Oosthuizen and William E. Carscallen,
CRC Press, 2013
Additional References:
Modern Compressible Flow, 3rd edition, John D. Anderson, McGraw Hill, 2003
Fundamentals of Aerodynamics, 5th edition, John D. Anderson, McGraw-Hill, 2011
The Dynamics and Thermodynamics of Compressible Fluid Flow, Vol I, Ascher H. Shapiro, 1953
Elements of Gasdynamics, H. W. Liepmann and A. Roshko, (republished) Dover, 2001
Major Prerequisites by topics:
1. Differential & integral calculus
2. Principles of fluid mechanics
3. Control volume analysis
4. Principles of thermodynamics
Topics covered:
1. Introduction to compressible flow (gas dynamics)
2. Integral and differential forms of the conservation equations
3. One-dimensional flow and normal shocks
4. Oblique shocks and expansion waves
5. Fanno and Rayleigh flows
6. Compressible flow through ducts, nozzles, diffusers and wind tunnels (quasi-one-dimensional)
7. 2-D linearized subsonic and supersonic flows over aerodynamic shapes and small disturbances
8. Special topics (time permitting)

Revision B, 1/18/15, Clarified homework answer required digits

Page 1 of 7

ME 4953 Gas Dynamics Spring 2015

Part A Course Outline (continued)

Contribution of course to meet the professional component:
This course prepares students to work professionally with a theoretical and applied understanding of
gas flows where variations in density are significant.
Relationship of course to program outcomes (ABET):
This course primarily contributes to the Mechanical Engineering program outcomes:
(a) An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering
(e) An ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems
(k) An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for
engineering practice
Evaluation Methods:
1. Homework
2. Two mid-term exams
3. Design/Analysis Project
4. Final exam
Course objectives [ABET contribution to Student Outcomes]:
The student will:
1. understand basic principles of compressible flow of gases [a, e, k]
2. recognize and know how to analyze one-dimensional (e.g. duct) gas dynamics problems [a, e, k]
3. be able to analyze Rayleigh and Fanno flows [a, e, k]
4. be able to analyze flow with shocks and expansion fans [a, e, k]
5. be able to analyze quasi-one dimensional nozzle, diffuser and wind tunnel flow [a, e, k]
6. understand forces produced on wings by shocks and expansions [a, e, k]
7. apply principles of compressible flows to aerodynamics [a, e, k]
Performance Criteria (ABET):
1. Objectives 1 through 7 will be evaluated using evaluation methods 1-4
Course Content:
Engineering Science 85%, Design/Analysis 15%
Course Coordinator: Victor Maldonado
Persons who prepared this description and date:
Clark M. Butler, January 18, 2015

Revision B, 1/18/15, Clarified homework answer required digits

Page 2 of 7

ME 4953.009 Gas Dynamics Spring 2015

Part B General Course Information and Policies

Semester:
Instructor:
Office:
Phone (Cell):
Office Hours:
Class Meetings:

Spring 2015
Clark M. Butler, PE
EB 3.04.30A
(210) 275-7486
M/F 10:00-11:30 am and by appointment
MWF 9:00-9:50 am, EB 3.04.30

Grading:
The following are the grade weights and tentative dates for Exams and Assignments. Please check
the Blackboard during the semester for updates.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Midterm Exam 1 (Chapters 1-6)

Midterm Exam 2 (Chapters 7-9)
Homework
Design/Analysis Project
Final (Comp. with emphasis on Chapters 10, 14)

30% February 23, 2015

30% April 6, 2015
See Homework Policy
15% April 20, 2015
25% May 5, 2015

Final letter grades will be assigned as follows (scores rounded to nearest whole percentage):
A = 90-95, A+ = 96-100 % B = 80-85 %, B+ = 86-89 % C = 70-75 %, C+ = 76-79 %
D = 60-69 % F = 59 % and below
Grade Curving: Grades for an individual exam may be curved at the Instructors discretion when
the class average falls below an acceptable level. Students will be advised when exam grade
curving has been implemented and the formula used to compute the numeric value of the curved
grade.
Grade Disputes: If a student feels an exam, paper, or homework set was graded unfairly, or if there
is an error in the grading, it should be brought to the attention of the Instructor within one week
after the graded material is handed back (except for Final). Scores will not be reconsidered beyond
one week after they are handed back.
Reading Assignments: All reading assignments are listed in the Lecture Schedule and should be
completed in advance of class to optimize the benefit of the lecture. No grade will be assigned for
completion of the reading assignments. However, to do well in this course, it is highly
recommended that you keep up with the reading assignments. One of the most effective ways to
gain expertise in this subject is to complete your reading assignment before each lecture and then
ask questions during the lecture to clarify your understanding as required. You are also encouraged
to read the reference material to enhance your understanding of the concepts.

Revision B, 1/18/15, Clarified homework answer required digits

Page 3 of 7

ME 4953.009 Gas Dynamics Spring 2015

Part B General Course Information and Policies (continued)

Homework Policy: Beginning with the 1/14/2015 and ending with the 4/24/2015 lectures
homework problems are assigned according to the homework assignment schedule included in the
Lecture Schedule. Solutions should be ready for grading one week following the assignment. All
problem set solutions should be kept in a notebook and brought to each class. Problem sets shall be
randomly selected for grading from the 26 sets assigned during the semester. If you are absent
without prior notification or for other unexcused reasons on the day a homework set is collected
for grading, you will receive a zero. Homework solutions will be posted on Blackboard following
the due date. Your homework is a Bonus Credit and will be graded and expressed as a
percentage. At the end of the semester your homework percentage will be divided by 10 and
added to your overall weighted exam average only if your weighted exam average is 70% or
better. If your weighted exam average is below 70%, your homework will not count.
Homework Rules:
Perform all work on one side of the "Engineer's Computation Pad" paper. Do not write on
the back of the page. Place your name, the date, the assignment number, and the page
number in the right-hand corner of each page.
Use one (1) staple in the upper left-hand corner.
Exercise care when treating units. Answers without appropriate units are meaningless.
Be neat. If your work is sloppy, it will not be graded.
Final answers should be clearly identified and given to the number of digits that is consistent
with the most significant problem parameter. That is, for example, if velocity is the desired
solution parameter and the smallest number of digits of given velocity data is three, the
velocity answer should be provided to three digits.
Design/Analysis Project: The course project is designed to demonstrate your ability to develop
and/or analyze a compressible flow d e s i g n problem in more depth than time allows for our
normal homework problems using both the accumulated knowledge obtained in this course and
o u t s i d e r e s e a r c h . Y o u a r e r e q u i r e d t o document your project activity in written report
format. In general, teams of 2 or 3 students will work together and select one of the three
topics listed below on or before March 6, 2015. Your instructor will provide the design constraints.
Airplane Internal Bulkhead Pressure Loads During a Sudden Decompression Event
Turbine Engine Bleed Air Wing Anti-Icing System Sizing
Supersonic Airplane Engine Inlet Preliminary Design
The final report will clearly define in a table the name of each student responsible for the
design/analysis and presentation contained in each section/subsection of the report. Class periods
on April 15 and April 17 will be dedicated to brief project presentations by each team. The final
report must be submitted by April 20, 2015.
Final: The Final Exam will be comprehensive with an emphasis on the material covered after
the second mid-term exam and will be comprised of both computational problems
demonstrating the depth of your knowledge and True/False and Multiple Choice questions
demonstrating the breath of your general gas dynamics knowledge.

Revision B, 1/18/15, Clarified homework answer required digits

Page 4 of 7

ME 4953.009 Gas Dynamics Spring 2015

Part B General Course Information and Policies (continued)

Classroom Policy:
1. Cell phones must be turned off (that means absolutely no text messaging during class).
2. Excessive private conversation with classmates during the lectures is to be avoided.
Make-up exams: Exams can only be made up because of illnesses or other serious emergencies.
Emergencies other than medical require notice prior to class for consideration. Medical
emergencies require valid written documentation (e.g. letter from doctor) explaining the situation.
Keep records: Please retain your homework Notebook including graded homework sets and exams at
least until you receive your final grade. You will be asked to produce these if there are any
questions or complications regarding records during the semester.
Attendance policy: Attendance at all class meetings is expected. Failure to attend lectures can only
diminish your performance and potentially result in a zero if you are not present when a homework
set is collected for grading.
Academic honesty: There is no tolerance for academic misconduct. All homework assignments are
expected to be completed independently. It is acceptable to discuss the homework problems with
each other but it is unacceptable to copy the solutions from each other. See
http://www.utsa.edu/infoguide/appendices/b.html
University Codes: The Student must be acquainted and comply with the university's code, policies,
and procedures involving academic misconduct, grievances, sexual and ethnic harassment, and
discrimination based on physical handicap.
Office Hours: My office is in room 3.04.30A in the Engineering Building and my office hours are
M/F 10:00-11:30 AM. If you need to see me outside these hours, please email me in advance. I also
encourage you to contact me by email at aerodesigncert@satx.rr.com for questions not requiring a
personal meeting.
Disability: Students with disabilities are encouraged to consult with the UTSA
Disability
Services (http://www.utsa.edu/disability/students.htm ) for arrangements to
accommodate special needs.

Revision B, 1/18/15, Clarified homework answer required digits

Page 5 of 7

ME 4953.009 Gas Dynamics Spring 2015

Lecture Schedule

Lecture
Topic

Date

Chapter
Lecture

Reading
Intro to
Homework Assignment
Compressible
(Due 1 wk from assignment)
Flow
Chap:Pages

Mon 12-Jan Class administrative details, general introduction

Wed 14-Jan Introduction

1: pp 1-7

#1

1.6

Fri 16-Jan Introduction

1: pp 8-18, (1)

#2

1.5, 1.8, 1.13

Wed 21-Jan Equations for Steady One-Dimensional Fluid Flow

2: pp 21-29

#3

2.4

Fri 23-Jan Equations for Steady One-Dimensional Fluid Flow

2: pp 29-36

#4

2.7, 2.8

Mon 26-Jan Some Fundamental Aspects of Compressible Flow

3: pp 39-44

Wed 28-Jan Some Fundamental Aspects of Compressible Flow

3: pp 44-56

#5

3.9, 3.11, 3.14, 3.17

Fri 30-Jan One-Dimensional Isentropic Flow

4: pp 59-70

#6

4.3, 4.5

Mon 2-Feb One-Dimensional Isentropic Flow

4: pp 71-82

#7

4.18, 4.32

Wed 4-Feb Normal Shock Waves

5: pp 87-99

Normal Shock Waves

5: pp 100-112

#8

5.3, 5.11, 5.16

Mon 9-Feb Normal Shock Waves

5: pp 112-117

#9

5.20, 5.21

Wed 11-Feb Normal Shock Waves

5: pp 117-129

#10

5.26, 5.35

Fri 13-Feb Oblique Shock Waves

6: pp 135-146

#11

6.2, 6.6

Mon 19-Jan Holiday

Fri 6-Feb

Mon 16-Feb Oblique Shock Waves

6: pp 146-156

#12

6.10, 6.14

Wed 18-Feb Oblique Shock Waves

6: pp 156-165

#13

6.21

7: pp 169-180

#14

7.2

Fri 20-Feb Expansion Waves Prandtl-Meyer Flow

Mon 23-Feb Mid-term Exam #1 Part 1 (Chapters 1-6)
Wed 25-Feb Mid-term Exam #1 Part 2 (Chapters 1-6)
Fri 27-Feb Expansion Waves Prandtl-Meyer Flow

7: pp 180-191

#15

7.12

Mon 2-Mar Expansion Waves Prandtl-Meyer Flow

7: pp 191-198

#16

7.18

Wed 4-Mar Expansion Waves Prandtl-Meyer Flow

7: pp 198-204

#17

7.22

8: pp 209-229

Mon 16-Mar Variable Area Flow (including discussion of choked flow)

8: pp 229-241

Wed 18-Mar Variable Area Flow

8: pp 229-241

#18

8.5, 8.8, 8.15, 8.23

Fri 20-Mar Variable Area Flow

8: pp 241-248

#19

8.30, 8.34

Mon 23-Mar Variable Area Flow

8: pp 248-255

#20

8.37, Modified Ex. 10

Wed 25-Mar Adiabatic Flow in a Duct with Friction

9: pp 263-283

Fri 27-Mar Adiabatic Flow in a Duct with Friction

9: pp 284-287

#21

9.5, 9.10, 9.17

Mon 30-Mar Adiabatic Flow in a Duct with Friction

9: pp 287-294

#22

9.23, 9.27, 9.37

Wed 1-Apr Flow with Heat Transfer

10: pp 318-325

Flow with Heat Transfer

10: pp 325-338

#23

10.8, 10.10

Fri 10-Apr Flow with Heat Transfer

10: pp 338-343

#24

10.13, 10.14, 10.24,

10.35

Mon 13-Apr Flow with Heat Transfer

10: pp 343-353

#25

10.42, 10.43

Fri 6-Mar Variable Area Flow

9-14 Mar

Fri 3-Apr

Spring Break

Mon 6-Apr Mid-term Exam #2 Part 1 (Chapters 7-9)

Wed 8-Apr Mid-term Exam #2 Part 2 (Chapters 7-9)

Wed 15-Apr Project Presentations - 1

Revision B, 1/18/15, Clarified homework answer required digits

Page 6 of 7

ME 4953.009 Gas Dynamics Spring 2015

Lecture Schedule

Date

Lecture
Topic

Reading
Intro to
Chapter
Homework Assignment
Compressible
Lecture
(Due 1 wk from assignment)
Flow
Chap:Pages

Fri 17-Apr Project Presentations - 2

Mon 20-Apr An Introduction to 2-D Gas Dynamics

Wed 22-Apr An Introduction to 2-D Gas Dynamics

14: pp 441-453,
(2)
14: pp 453-463

14: pp 464-473

MCF 14.7.4*

Fri 24-Apr An Introduction to 2-D Gas Dynamics

Mon 27-Apr Transonic area rule and supercritical airfoils - history

#26

Wed 29-Apr Review for Final exam

Tue 5-May Final Exam (Comprehensive with emphasis on
7:00-9:30 am Chapters 10 and 14)

(1) Required Reading: Modern Compressible Flow, 3rd Edition, Anderson pp 41-54
(2) Required Reading: Modern Compressible Flow, 3rd Edition, Anderson pp 239-260
* Section in Modern Compressible Flow, 3rd Edition, Anderson

Revision B, 1/18/15, Clarified homework answer required digits

Page 7 of 7

14.2