MECH 160 - Introduction to Fluid & Mechanical Power Systems

Credit Hours: 3
Lecture Hours: 2
Laboratory (or Other) Hours: 3

Other Course Attribute(s): APOA, APLE

Restriction(s): Mechatronics Design - AAS or Mechatronics Design - AOS or Mechatronics Technology - BT

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of mechanical power transfer in industrial applications, with a primary focus on pneumatic power transfer and usage (compressed gasses as a power transfer medium) and direct mechanical power transfer (gears, belts, clutches, etc.). Course topics include: pneumatic circuits and symbols, compressors and their maintenance, regulators, conditioners, valves, reservoirs, gearing and gear ratios, belt drives, chain drives, pulley systems, linkages, and other relevant applications. Students will be instructed in the safe design, implementation, operation, and troubleshooting of these power transmission systems.

Student Learning Outcomes of the Course:

Develop an awareness of the importance of fluid power systems in our current industrial society.
Develop an understanding of basic fluid mechanics principles and how they apply to fluid power equipment.
Develop skills in recognizing and applying fluid power symbols to fluid power equipment.
Develop an understanding of the design and operation of basic hydraulic and pneumatic applications.
Develop an understanding of the design and operation of basic circuits used in fluid power operations.
Develop an understanding of fundamental mechanical energy transmission methods and components
Be able to calculate mechanical energy throughput through a system, power to torque ratios, and drive system losses.

Repeatable: No
CIP Code: 150612