MEng Chemical Engineering with Energy and Environment

Year of entry: 2024

Course unit details:
Laboratory Projects 2

Course unit fact file
Unit code CHEN20020
Credit rating 20
Unit level Level 2
Teaching period(s) Full year
Available as a free choice unit? No

Overview

Students undertake a selection of experiments using simulations, analysis of data from experiments that are demonstrated via video, by remote control, and hands-on. The experiment options include:

  • mixing and emulsification,
  • froth flotation tanks,
  • electrochemical water treatment,
  • 3- tank level control,
  • gas absorption,
  • batch distillation,
  • filtration,
  • cooling tower,
  • boiling/condensation,
  • refrigeration/heat pump,
  • thin film evaporator.
A number of experiments involve the use of the building’s distributed control system and as far as possible students are given some experience of using this.

Relevant support material on topics such as experimental design, analysing data are provided.

 

Aims

The unit aims to:
Develop understanding of real equipment, data analysis and problem solving by using a selection of: simulations; demonstrations followed by analysis of previously-generated data; remotely operated equipment, hands-on use of small-scale demonstration equipment; and hands-on use of large-scale experimental rigs in the pilot plant. It also aims to develop teamwork and report writing skills.

 

Learning outcomes

Students will be able to: 
  1. Identify the safety and environmental hazards presented by a laboratory and specific experiments and deal with the risks responsibly.
  2. Given a problem to be addressed by operating a large-scale chemical engineering rig or piece of laboratory equipment, devise an experimental approach.
  3. Demonstrate competence in the operation of large-scale engineering rigs and laboratory equipment.
  4. Record experimental results in a laboratory notebook to a professional standard, giving an appropriate level of detail.
  5. Use the human senses to gather information and make sound engineering judgements about the quality of the experimental results and form conclusions.
  6. Recognize unsuccessful outcomes due to faulty equipment, and where possible devise effective solutions.
  7. Make order-of-magnitude judgements about data quality and the results of calculation.
  8. Identify and describe the sources of systematic and random error and estimate their magnitude.
  9. Identify the strengths and limitations of the theoretical model for an experiment as a predictor of the measured behaviour.
  10. Communicate the work effectively to the intended audience, describing the methodology, presenting the results, and interpreting them.
  11. Work effectively in teams, forming a structure and accepting joint accountability; assigning roles, responsibilities and tasks, monitoring progress; meeting deadlines and integrating individual contributions to the final report.
  12. Behave with the highest ethical standards, including objective reporting of information and interacting with integrity.

Based on: L. Feisel and G. Peterson, A Colloquy on Learning Objectives For Engineering Education, American Society for Engineering Education, 2002.

 

Teaching and learning methods

Students study the process underlying the specific experiment in advance, using materials provided on Blackboard.

On the day(s) of the experiment, students are guided through specific experiments, changing parameters on simulations, directly manipulating experimental equipment or watching demonstrations (including recorded demonstrations) remotely, making and recording observations, and developing of practical skills and knowledge. Many projects require teamwork, including allocation of tasks within the group.

At the end of each session students are given feedback on their records of the methods, results and other observations.

Students analyse the data after the practical session and prepare individual or group reports which are assessed for: the understanding shown of the significance of the process and the underlying theory, the way the methods used are recorded, how the data is analysed and presented, and the quality of the conclusions drawn.

 

Assessment methods

Assessment task

Length

Weighting within unit (if relevant)

Experimental reports (including worksheets)

 

100%

 

Study hours

Scheduled activity hours
Lectures 4
Practical classes & workshops 32
Independent study hours
Independent study 164

Teaching staff

Staff member Role
Bernard Treves Brown Unit coordinator
Philip Martin Unit coordinator

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