Applications of fluid dynamics, May 2024

Fluid dynamics is a discipline of mechanical engineering, and describes the flow of fluids - liquids and gases. The subject has been largely an experimental one, dating back thousands of years when water supply and sailing were two of the main application.  Even today, experiments play a large part but applied mathematics and numerical analysis play an increasingly valuable supporting role.

June's meeting covered a wide range of topics from water and wind power; to airplanes and Formula 1 cars; oceans and atmospheres; and flow-induced structural disasters.

Click here for slides of the presentation.

The history of the jet Engine, 22nd February 2024

The STEM Group presentation in February covered the history of the jet engine from the early days of Frank Whittle’s machine to the development of Rolls Royce’s Ultra Fan, the largest jet engine ever produced.  Whittle had many difficulties securing Government funding in the lead-up to WW2 and, although he was eventually able to secure enough to build an engine and fly it, the opportunity to develop a jet fighter in time to participate meaningfully in the war was lost.  He played no part in the aircraft industry in later years and emigrated to America where he received many awards for his work.

Here is the link to the Powerpoint presentation.  Click on View; Slideshow.