Professors: prof.dr.ing. K.R.G. Hein, prof.ir. J.P. van Buijtenen

Energy ... the so often invisible driving force of our society. Whether it concerns a classic large power station, a modern total energy plant, a windmill or a fuel cell, the Mechanical Engineer has something to do with it! This main subject has as its scope the whole area of the conversions of so-called primary energy into its ready-to-use form, such as electricity or heat. Of course there are accents. Roughtly, these accents are correspondig with the activities covered by our four supervising professors, the GT, BC, ES and GE options for specialization.

In the order mentioned above, prof. Van Buijtenen takes care of the Gas Turbine (GT). Due to technical developments, this thermal machine, in which the energy in the hot gas flow is directly converted into work, is finding ever increasing use. Through combination with a circuit, highly efficient installations can be realized. Besides, the gas turbine is the outstanding engine for aircraft propulsion. In the Netherlands, both the use of gas turbines and the industrial activities in systems design, manufacture, maintenance and repairs, is increasing rapidly.

Prof. Hein's option for specialization, "Brandstof Conversie (BC)" (Fuel Conversion), encompasses the conversion processes of chemically bound energy in fuel into heat or a more ecologically sound fuel gas: combustion and gasification. In this, one can depart from fossil fuels or biomass. Concern for the environment is gaining ground rapidly and in this lies the motivation for the current combustion and gasification research. From the point of view of limiting CO2 emissions, the application of biomass attracts a great deal of attention. This is the reason for the extensive experimental research in the laboratory's sophisticated carburettor.

Handling our sources of energy in a sensible way, but even more so, aiming for optimum results when conversions into complex processes take place, are the main activities in the Energy Systems (ES) option for specialization of prof. Kouffeld. On the basis of thermodynamic analyses by means of the developed computer programmes, the conceived systems can be tested for their potential performance. Not only the production of electricity and heat is considered, but also the application thereof for the benefit of industrial or other purposes. In doing so, the significance of durable and alternative sources of energy is constantly taken into account.

There is also the possibility to choose for the "Grootschalige Energievoorzieningssystemen (GE)" (Large-Scale Energy Supply Systems) option for specialization of prof. Verkooijen. This specialization primarily considers the applicability of concepts in the large-scale generation of electricity. Efficiency improvements, environmental consequences, cost price reduction and operational safety are the themes here. The suitability of coal, natural gas or other primary sources of energy in relation to the conversion process is examined. Nuclear power is receiving due attention as well; new concepts in this field are taken into consideration.

The compulsory subjects for these options for specialization have a great deal in common. This makes it possible to postpone the eventual option for specialization until after an orientating introduction period. An important aspect in this is that this study is always aimed at the gaining of a more in-depth understanding of thermodynamics and the skill to apply knowledge thereof. Furthermore, the standard course programme includes hydrodynamic, materials and/or strength technology courses and subjects concerning modelling, organization and society. By way of supplement, a list of optional subjects in line with the Mechanical Engineering course programme's form requirements must be drawn up in consultation with one's supervisor. As a rule, the final assignments relate to one of the chosen fields; we aim to base these projects either on topics from industry or on topics from the section's research programme.

In principle, it is also possible to complete one's study in the field of Diesel Engines, especially the application thereof as power engine in energy supply. For this variant one is referred to prof.ir. D. Staperma of the Marine Diesel Engines section.