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Curtin University
Courses Handbook 2014

This handbook contains information for courses and units at Curtin in 2014.
Information for the previous year's courses and units is available at Courses Handbook 2013.

313585 v.2 Mechanical Engineering Major


Major/Stream Overview

This major/stream is part of a larger course. Information is specific to the major/stream, please refer to the course for more information.


Mechanical Engineering addresses the analysis and development of technological systems involving motions, and permits humanity to harness the energy and forces that exist in nature, providing for the needs of society. The conception, design, manufacture, control, maintenance and management of such systems come under the purview of mechanical engineering. These mechanical systems may comprise mechanisms or machines made up of moving components or involve fluid flow within or around solid structures to impart forces or energy interactions. These could range from micro-mechanical devices through to massive power generating turbines. Modern air and ground transport systems, and thermal power generation are a few key examples of Mechanical Engineering accomplishments. The work of a mechanical engineer could include the design and specification of components or entire systems, design and planning of manufacturing processes, plant operation and maintenance, consulting, research and development, and management. These tasks are common to a wide range of industries such as power generation, air conditioning, mining, mineral and material processing, transport, water supply and their support industries.



Major/Stream Organisation

Major/Stream Learning Outcomes

A graduate of this course can:

1. a sound working knowledge of the fundamental principles that underpin Mechanical Engineering

2. specialised knowledge and skills in a chosen area of Mechanical Engineering

3. ability to apply knowledge using a realistic and practical approach to problem-solving and design

4. ability to think both creatively and analytically

5. skills to learn both independently and as part of a group through a variety of different methods

6. self-discipline, self-management skills, personal responsibility and the ability to set goals for themselves

7. confidence and possessing the ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of both engineering and non-engineering personnel

8. the ability to work effectively in teams with an international and cross-cultural perspective

9. the platform and width of knowledge from which to continuously develop their potential as a professional engineer contributing positively to the community at large


Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit
Year 2 Semester 1
308802 v.1   Strength of Materials 232 5.0 25.0
308805 v.1   Machine Dynamics 231 6.0 25.0
308807 v.1   Fluid Mechanics 230 4.0 25.0
308808 v.1   Engineering Mathematics 233 3.0 12.5
308809 v.1   Engineering Graphics 232 4.0 12.5
  100.0
Year 2 Semester 2
308800 v.1   Thermodynamics 236 4.0 25.0
308804 v.1   Mechanical Design 238 3.0 25.0
3864 v.5   Electrical Plant 242 4.0 12.5
308806 v.2   Manufacturing Processes 233 3.0 25.0
307660 v.4   Engineering Sustainable Development 201 3.0 12.5
  100.0
Year 3 Semester 1
308801 v.1   Thermal Engineering Processes 331 4.0 25.0
308813 v.1   Materials 337 4.0 25.0
308812 v.1   Industrial Technology 342 4.0 25.0
308814 v.1   Dynamic Systems 334 5.0 25.0
  100.0
Year 3 Semester 2
314518 v.1   Linear Systems and Control 332 4.0 25.0
308803 v.1   Mechanical Design 337 3.0 25.0
308810 v.1   Fluid Flow Modelling 332 3.0 25.0
310683 v.1   Engineering Management 302 4.0 25.0
  100.0
Year 4 Semester 1
5051 v.7   Mechanical Project 491 2.5 25.0
  SELECT OPTIONAL UNITS TO THE TOTAL VALUE OF:   75.0
  100.0
Year 4 Semester 2
307664 v.2   Law for Engineers 202 2.0 12.5
314517 v.1   Mechanical Project 494 1.0 25.0
310544 v.1   Professional Practice 434 3.0 12.5
  SELECT OPTIONAL UNITS TO THE TOTAL VALUE OF:   50.0
  100.0
Optional Units to Select from in Year 4 Semester 1 Hrs/Wk Credit
12926 v.2   Materials 434 4.0 25.0
302863 v.1   Vibration 431 3.5 25.0
302864 v.1   Heat Transfer 431 3.0 25.0
310545 v.1   Design Methodology 431 3.0 25.0
312200 v.1   Sustainable Energy Systems and Technologies 431 4.0 25.0
4282 v.8   Mechanical Measurements 431 3.0 25.0
Optional Units to Select from in Year 4 Semester 2 Hrs/Wk Credit
12907 v.3   Design For Manufacturing 431 4.0 25.0
12911 v.2   Automatic Control 432 4.0 25.0
12925 v.2   Fluid Mechanics 433 5.0 25.0
302862 v.1   Finite Element Analysis 431 4.0 25.0
302866 v.1   Noise 432 5.0 25.0
315051 v.1   Advanced Refrigeration System Design 401 5.0 25.0

*    The year and/or semester that units are offered in may change due to the combination of Engineering and Commerce majors





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