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2025-2026 / MECA0041-2

Internal combustion engine, Part 1 Fundamental aspects

Duration

15h Th, 15h Pr, 1d FW, 15h Proj.

Number of credits

 Master MSc. in Electromechanical Engineering, professional focus in energetics (Réinscription uniquement, pas de nouvelle inscription)3 crédits 

Lecturer

Marc Nélis

Language(s) of instruction

English language

Organisation and examination

Teaching in the second semester

Schedule

Schedule online

Units courses prerequisite and corequisite

Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program

Learning unit contents

CH1: Introduction, engine applications, design of engine parts

CH2: How does it work ? fundamentals

CH3: How to characterize engine performance ?

CH4: Engine internal flows, optimisation

CH5: Introduction to combustion in ICE for some fuels

CH6: Combustion phenomena (flame propagation, knock, CI)

CH7: Engine depollution, exhaust after treatment systems

Learning outcomes of the learning unit

Study and modelling of the phenomena leading to the conversion of the chemical energy contained in the fuel into the mechanical energy at the crankshaft outlet of different types of internal combustion engines, in order to get a better understanding for the design (sizing) and/or for an optimal utilization (energy conservation and emissions reduction). Description of the main components of an internal combustion engine.

Prerequisite knowledge and skills

Fundamentals in thermodynamics

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

2 guided exercise sessions are organised.

Plus two laboratory sessions:

-  Dismantling and reassembly of an engine
-  Description of workshops, engine test bench and chassis dyno (or company)

Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)

Face-to-face course


Further information:

The course consists of an oral presentation illustrated by diagrams, graphics and videos.

Course delivered during the 2nd semester.

Course materials and recommended or required readings

Platform(s) used for course materials:
- MyULiège


Further information:

- 7 chapters available on MyULIEGE (MECA0041)

- Note: 3 additional chapters for transport only

- Heywood J.B., Internal Combustion Engine Fundamentals. McGraw-Hill Book Company, New-York (USA), 1988

- Ferguson C.R. and Kirkpatrick A.T., Internal Combustion Engines, 2nd edition. John Wiley & Sons, New-York (USA), 2001

Exam(s) in session

Any session

- In-person

written exam ( open-ended questions )

Written work / report


Further information:

General understanding is required, which will be assessed during an oral exam if fewer than 11 people are enrolled, or a written exam if more than 10 are enrolled.

If oral exam: (< 11 students)

Discussions will be held on the main aspects of operation and emissions.

If written exam: (> 10 students)

This will consist of three illustrated questions requiring short answers on the most important aspects: combustion, emissions, operating principles and mechanical aspects.

Some questions may also involve basic concepts explained in the form of mathematical formulas.

The questionnaire is written in English. Answers are expected in English or French.

Work placement(s)

Visit of a training center is possible (optional)

Organisational remarks and main changes to the course

The course is given during the 2nd quadrimester on Wednesday afternoon.

It begins with the presentation of the general schedule which includes the dates of the 7 lessons, the 2 calculations works and the 2 laboratory sessions.

The first laboratory session will consist of dismantling and reassembling an internal combustion engine available in the laboratory (B49)

A second session will be dedicated to measuring performance and emissions using the engine test bench.

During the visit, optional, the issue of engine emissions will be raised again.

Contacts

Marc NELIS

ULiege / Technifutur Francorchamps

marc.nelis@uliege.be / marc.nelis@technifutur.be

Association of one or more MOOCs