Overview

This course offers a comprehensive study of fluid mechanics, focusing on its fundamental principles, flow measurement techniques, and kinematic analysis of fluid motion. Designed for undergraduate engineering students, it builds the foundation required for advanced applications in mechanical, civil, environmental, and aerospace engineering.Module 1: Fundamentals of Fluid MechanicsThe course begins with an introduction to fluid mechanics , Newtonian & Non-Newtonian Fluids , Newton Law of viscosity and the essential properties of fluids, such as density, viscosity, surface tension, and compressibility. It proceeds with Pascal's Law and the Hydrostatic Law, which govern pressure variation in static fluids. Using practical examples, students explore the calculation of hydrostatic forces on horizontal, vertical, inclined, and curved surfaces submerged in liquids. The concepts of buoyancy and center of buoyancy are introduced to analyze floating bodies. The module culminates with the study of metacentric height and stability conditions (stable, unstable, neutral) for floating structures, which are vital in ship design and marine engineering.Module 2: Fluid Flow MeasurementThis module covers the principles and applications of flow measuring devices. Students study Venturimeters, Orifice meters, and Pitot tubes, including the derivation of mathematical expressions for discharge and velocity. Each device is analyzed with practical examples to help students understand energy losses and accuracy. The module also includes flow measurement in open channels using notches and weirs such as rectangular, triangular, trapezoidal, and stepped notches. A comparison of various devices provides insight into their selection based on application needs.Module 3: Fluid KinematicsThis module focuses on the motion of fluids without considering forces. It introduces types of fluid flows (steady/unsteady, uniform/non-uniform), and develops the continuity equation in both one-dimensional and three-dimensional forms. Students learn about stream functions and velocity potential functions, including their properties, mathematical formulation, and physical interpretation. The relationship between these two functions is explored in irrotational flows. Further, students analyze the velocity and acceleration of fluid particles and understand the graphical interpretation of flow using equipotential lines and flow nets, which are essential tools for analyzing seepage and fluid-structure interaction problems.Throughout the course, each topic is supported with numerical examples and problem-solving sessions to strengthen conceptual understanding and practical skills. This course lays a solid groundwork for advanced studies in fluid dynamics, hydraulics, and computational fluid mechanics (CFD).

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