Revised 1/2010

MEC 161 - Basic Fluid Mechanics - Hydraulics/pneumatics (4 CR.)

Course Description

Introduces theory, operation and maintenance of hydraulic/ pneumatics devices and systems. Emphasizes the properties of fluids, fluid flow, fluid statics, and the application of Bernouli's equation. Lecture 3 hours. Laboratory 3 hours. Total 6 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

To provide students with a basic understanding of mobile hydraulic/pneumatic systems and their design. 

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Ability to read, write, and speak the English language.

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Explain fundamental hydraulic principles
• Apply the laws of hydraulics and pneumatics
• Calculate force, pressure and area
• Interpret Hydraulic and Pneumatic schematics
• Outline the properties of fluids
• Describe the functions of pumps, motors, valves, and actuators

Major Topics to Be Included

• Pascal’s Law and its effect on hydraulic/pneumatic systems
• Read and layout various hydraulic/pneumatic schematics
• Various types of hydraulic/pneumatic pumps and motors used in mobile systems
• Various types of valves used in hydraulic/pneumatic systems