FACULTY OF ENGINEERING, BUILT ENVIRONMENT

AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT: MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Diploma of Engineering Technology (Mechanical

PROGRAMME:
Engineering)

MODULE NAME: FLUID MECHANICS I

MODULE CODE: MFM21A

NQF LEVEL: 6
CREDITS: 14

COMPILED BY: Mr L Masheane

DATE REVISED: 04/2020

PRACTICAL GUIDE
CONTENTS
 CONTENTS

1. Module overview............................................................................................3

1.1 Purpose Statement 3

1.2 Graduate Attributes to be assessed in this Module 3
1.3 Mark allocation 3

2. Experiment no. 1............................................................................................5

3. Experiment no. 2............................................................................................9

4. Experiment no. 3..........................................................................................12

5. Laboratory and practicum rules:.................................................................14

6. Safety............................................................................................................ 15

6.1 General Safety 15

7. Practical report.............................................................................................16

8. Practical/Assignment Submittal and Identification Sheet.........................16

1. Module overview

1.1 Purpose Statement

Practical work is an essential part of work to be studied in the subject, Fluid

Mechanics I. The student is expected to hand in a report upon completion of
each practical. This report must include background theory, equipment used
during the practical, procedure used during the practical, results, analysis,
discussion and conclusions. The document must be in the format and at the
same standard of work that you will submit to your employer.

This report must be handed in one week after completion of the practical for
evaluation. The total mark for all your reports and practical tests is 35% of the
course mark. An average of 50% for the practical mark must be obtained for
admission to the main evaluation

NB: You can be refused entrance to the laboratory if:

o You have not prepared for the practical.

o You do not have a laboratory coat and laboratory notes.

1.2 Graduate Attributes to be assessed in this Module

Graduate Attributes will be assessed in this module.

1.3 Mark allocation

Practical 1:

Hydrostatic Force on a Submerged Surface

Marks Description
35 Layout, Project Statement, Accuracy and Neatness
45 Results: Partly submerged:
Calculation of resultant force (theoretical) (8 marks)
Calculation of the moment of Rexp (4 marks)
Calculation of Rexp (8 marks)
Fully submerged:
Calculation of resultant force (theoretical) (8 marks)
Calculation of the moment of Rexp (4 marks)
Calculation of Rexp (8 marks)
Graphs (5 marks)
10 Results and discussions
10 Comments and Conclusion
100 Total
Practical 2:

Metacentric Height
Marks Description
35 Layout, Project Statement, Accuracy and Neatness
45 Results:
Calculation of GMexp (7 marks)
Calculation of angle of tilt in radians (7 marks)
Calculation of depth of immersion (d) (7 marks)
Calculation of second moment of area ( I ) (2 marks)
Calculation of distance BM (3 marks)
Calculation of distance BG (7 marks)
Calculation of GMtheor (7 marks)
Graphs (5 marks)
10 Results and discussions
10 Comments and Conclusion
100 Total

Practical 3:

Bernoulli’s Theorem
Marks Description
10 Layout, Project Statement and Neatness
50 Results:
Calculation of Areas (10 marks)
Calculation of Flow Rate (10 marks)
Calculation of mean velocities (10 marks)
Calculation of velocity heads (10 marks)
Tabulating the pressure head (h) at different positions (10 marks)
Calculation of Total Energy Heads (10 marks)
10 Accuracy of results
20 Graphs
10 Comments and Conclusion
100 Total
2. Experiment no. 1

HYDROSTATIC FORCE ON A SUBMERGED SURFACE

1. AIM:

To investigate the validity of the formulae for resultant force on and position of, center of
pressure on a vertical rectangular surface.

2. APPARATUS:

Hydrostatic Pressure apparatus with loose weights.

Counterbalance weight

Flat surface

3. METHOD:

3.1 Measure the dimensions a; b; d and l.

3.2 Level the apparatus by using the adjustable feet.

3.3 Adjust the counterbalance weight until the balance arm is horizontal.

3.4 Place a mass on the balance pan and fill the tank with water until the balance arm
is horizontal. Note the water level (y) on the scale. Pour water over dry surfaces
when filling the tank to reduce the surface tension.

3.5 Repeat the procedure for different masses and noting the corresponding water
levels.
3.6 Take approximately 8 readings on the bottom scale and 6 readings on the top
scale.

3.7 Verify previous readings by reducing the masses on the balance pan.

4. THEORY:

Partial immersion: (y<d)

1
R gby 2
Resultant force = 2 (theoretical)

by 3
_
y y 2
D  122  y    y
by 6 2 3
Center of pressure = 2
 y
Rexp  Rexp  a  d  
Moment of  3  (experimental)
Moment of Rexp = Moment of weight =  mgl
 y
Rexp  a  d    mgl
 3
mgl
Rexp 
 y
a  d  
 3

Fully immersion: (y>d)

Resultant force = R  gbd y (theoretical)

_
d
y  y
2

bd 3
12 ¿
D= ¿ +y
bd y
¿
d2
D− y = ¿
Center of pressure = 12 y
  
 d d2 
Rexp  Rexp  a   _ 
 2 12 y 
Moment of   (experimental)

Moment of Rexp = Moment of weight =  mgl

 
 d d2 
Rexp  a   _   mgl
 2
 12 y 
mgl
Rexp 
 
 d d2 
 a   _ 
2
 12 y 

5. RESULTS

For the values of y, tabulate the measurements as follows.

5.1 Partially immersed:

y R  y m mgl Rexp
a  d  
 3

Rexp
Draw graphs of R (theoretical) and against y.

5.2 Fully immersed:

y R   m mgl Rexp
 d d2 
 a   _ 
2 
 12 y 

Rexp
Draw graphs of R(theoretical) and against y.
6. CONCLUSION AND COMMENT:
PARTIAL IMMERSION:

d
y Water

COMPLETE IMMERSION:

Water
y
d

b
3. Experiment no. 2

METACENTRIC HEIGHT

1. AIM:

To investigate the validity of the formulae relating to the Metacentric height of a floating
body at different centre of gravities.

2. APPARATUS:

Metacentric height apparatus

Moving weight

Moving mass (m)

3. METHOD:

3.1 Obtain the mass of : (a) the assembled pontoon (b) the moving mass (m).

3.2 Adjust the moving weight to the highest position and determine the position of the
centre of gravity of the assembled pontoon relative to its base, by obtaining the
point of balance.

3.3 Fill the container with enough water for the pontoon to float.

3.4 With the moving mass in the central position of the floating pontoon, check that
the plumb line is on the zero mark.
3.5 Move the moving mass to the left or right of centre in 10 mm increments until full
range of scale is covered. Note the angular displacement in degrees of the plumb
line for each position.
3.6 Repeat paragraph 3.5 for two different positions of the moving weight to work with
different centres of gravity. Restrict heights of the vertical sliding mass between
200 mm and 400 mm, measured from the bottom of the pontoon.

4. THEORY:

mx
GM 
Metacentric height = M

Where: m = mass of the adjustable mass

M = total mass of pontoon
x = distance of m from the centre
q = angle of tilt (radians)

I
BM 
V

b3
I
12

d
BG  y 
2

Where: y = position of G from bottom

d

2 position of B from bottom
d = depth of immersion (draught)
Mg
V = Volume of displaced water = g

GM = BM - BG

5. RESULTS:

Tabulate the readings as follow:

M m x  mx M GM
Draw a graph of GM against  and comment.
 I d
y
5.2 Calculate GM = BM - BG = V 2

5.3 Compare the experimental value of GM with the value obtained in 5.2.

6. CONCLUSION AND COMMENT:

Moving weight

Moving mass (m)

350 mm 200 mm
4. Experiment no. 3

BERNOULLI'S THEOREM

1. AIM:

To investigate the validity of Bernoulli's theorem as applied to the flow of water in a

tapering circular duet.

2. APPARATUS:

Hydraulic bench
Bernoulli's apparatus

Manometer tubes

Flow control valve

3. METHOD:

3.1 Connect the apparatus to the hydraulic bench. Level the apparatus with the
adjusting feet.

3.2 Close the delivery valve on the hydraulic bench. Switch on the pump. Open the
flow control valve on the apparatus slightly. Open the delivery valve on the
hydraulic bench to fill the manometer tubes with water.

3.3 Ensure that all connecting pipes and manometer tubes are free from air bubbles.

3.4 Carefully adjust the two valves to give the largest convenient difference between
the highest and lowest manometer levels. To enable the manometer levels to be
lowered by means of a hand pump connected to the Schrader air valve.

3.5 Take the reading on every manometer tube (h).

3.6 Take the time for a certain volume of water flowing through the system.
3.7 Repeat the experiment for two other flow rates.

4. THEORY:

v2
Velocity head = 2 g

where v = velocity of the water in the pipe at a certain point.

p
h
Pressure head = w

v2 p

H = Total energy head = 2 g w

5. RESULTS:

Tabulate the readings as follow:

Section Diameter Area Q (m3/s) v v2 h H

2g
A 10 mm
B 10,6 mm
C 11,3 mm
D 12,4 mm
E 14,6 mm
F 25 mm

6. CONCLUSION AND COMMENT:

F E D
C
B A
5. Laboratory and practicum rules:

1. The posted safety rules in the labs must be strictly observed.

2. Non-attendance at practical sessions will result in automatic

disqualification for that practical point. Proof must be handed in within 3 (three)
working days: in case of sickness, death in the family or any other cases of emergency
preventing the attendance of a practical session or the submission of practical scripts.

3. Students must prepare prior to the lab session by reading the laboratory manual
and completing all assigned pre-laboratory work for the experiments.

4. Students should come to the laboratory on time!

5. Laboratory overcoats and closed shoes must be worn during each session. No
open shoes are allowed in the laboratory.

6. Do not commence with the practical session or handle any laboratory equipment
without supervision! Handle all apparatus with care to keep it in a perfect condition.

7. Students must actively participate in performing the experiments, and should also
take an active role in writing all extra information provided during laboratory work.

8. Smoking and eating are prohibited inside the laboratory.

9. No disturbances, individually or in a group will be tolerated. Do not rave, talk or

walk unnecessarily or fiddle with other apparatus inside the laboratory.

10. Although practical sessions are done in a group, it is expected that every student
must hand in his own work (unless otherwise stated). All students participating in
duplication (copying someone else’s work) will be automatically disqualified for
that practical session. Dishonesty will be reported to the Disciplinary Committee and
could lead to permanent suspension from CUT.

11. Late submittal penalties - Unless an extension has been sought and granted,
late assignments will be penalized when marking.  The penalty rate will be -20% if
late but still handed in on same day. No assignments will be accepted after the
submission date! Therefore, it is in your interest to aim to complete the work before the
due date.

12. A minimum Practical mark of 50% is required for Examination Approval

13. The Practical mark makes up 35% of the semester course mark.

As stipulated by the Faculty’s rules and regulations - It is the student’s responsibility to

adhere to the above mentioned Laboratory and Practicum rules.
6. Safety

6.1 General Safety

Close attention should be given to all aspects of safety throughout training, and the
highest possible standards insisted upon. There is a special need to emphasize the
fundamental safety rules of behaviour, dress and practice when students enters a
laboratory. Instructors have a particular responsibility to set a good example and to
check without delay any departure from safe working practices by students. Individual
responsibilities in respect of the safety of all persons in the laboratory must be clearly
understood by everyone. It is essential to develop safe working habits.

6.1.1 What to do
 Think before you act.
 Ask if in any doubt.
 Help to keep gangways clear.
 Keep your bench and working area tidy.
 Find out the position and type of fire appliances available.
 Report all accidents to your supervisor

6.1.2 What not to do

 Do not run.
 Do not play practical jokes.
 Do not touch any equipment or try out machines unless authorized to do so.
 Do not leave rubbish lying about.
 Do not walk under suspended loads.
 Do not attempt to give first aid unless you are competent to do so.
 Do not throw things.

6.1.3 Further points to consider

 Wear your lab coats buttoned up.
 Roll up your overall sleeves above the elbows or button up the cuffs.
 Obey all safety rules and signs.
 Report any accident, however slight.
 Have all injuries properly treated, however minor.
 Do not wear torn lab coats.
 Do not wear rings or a watch when working.
 Do not take chances.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY:

1. Report all abnormalities and accidents immediately to the lecturer or supervisor!

2. If required, evacuate the building in a quiet and calm manner.
3. The first aid kit and fire extinguisher may only be used by authorised people.
7. Practical report

The practical report must consist of the following:

Front Page: Use the “Assignment Submittal & Identification” form provided in this guide
for each report.

Inner pages of Report: All data, sketches, explanations and calculations. For reports
submitted through ethuto, calculations must be done by hand, scanned and added to the
final report. Graphs can be presented on graph paper. Note the evaluation summary are
items that should be in the report layout (by that order).

1. Aim
Aim of the experiment/practical/assignment.

2. Summary of Theory
Summary of the underlying theory, which you must present in your own words after
searching in the relevant literature (provide references).

3. Sketch of the apparatus

Sketch and description of the apparatus, with reference to the most important
measuring points and/or measuring devices.

4. Procedure
A short description, in your own words, of the experimental procedure.

5. Experimental data & observations

Measured values and data in tabular form.

6. Calculations (Graph if applicable)

Calculations must be shown clearly.

7. Results
Results or final values must be presented again in tabular form (with experimental
data) to compare where possible (all data, experimental and calculated)

8. Conclusion
Interpretation, discussion, remarks on some interesting observations, questions, etc.

8. Practical/Assignment Submittal and Identification Sheet

 RESULT%

Student number(s):

Surname and initials:

Programme: DipEngTech (Mechanical Engineering)

Module name: FLUID MECHANICS I

Module code: M F M 2 1

Graduate Attribute (GA) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

assessment:

Practical/Assignment
number:
Group number:
Due date: 2 0 2 0 M M D D

Lecturer:

DECLARATION OF OWN WORK:

I, ______________________________________________________, student number_________________________, hereby
declare that the content of this practical/assignment report is my own work, as defined and constituted in the Rules and
Regulations of the Central University of Technology, Free State (Please consult the Programme Guide of the Department).
Signed: ________________________________
Date: ________________________________

Assignment task Assignment Student Graduate attributes (GA) indicators Obtained GA

Weight Mark are marked
with X
If a student obtains 50% on assignment task, he or she obtains a GA.
The assignment rubric is described in both practical and learner
guide.
Aim 5
Sketch of apparatus 5 Work is performed within the boundaries of the practice area. (GA2)
Summary of theory 15 Concepts, ideas and theories are communicated (GA2)
Available literature is searched, and material is critically evaluated for
suitability to the investigation. (GA4)
Experimental procedure 5 Investigations and experiments are planned and conducted within an
appropriate discipline. (GA4)
Data and observation 10 Uncertainty and risk is handled. (GA2)
Calculation and graphs 30 Theories, principles and laws are used. (GA2)
An appropriate mix of knowledge of mathematics used. (GA2)
Results and discussions 10 Reasoning about and conceptualising engineering materials, components,
systems or processes is performed. (GA2)
Information is analysed, interpreted and derived from available data. (GA4)
Conclusion 10 Conclusions are drawn from an analysis of all available evidence. (GA2)

Accuracy and neatness 10 The purpose, process and outcomes of the investigation are recorded in a
technical report. (GA2)

Assignment rubric with integrated ECSA graduate attribute

 Poor Below Average Above Excellent Total
average average Weight
Aim of practical Topic

0-1: No aim 1-2: The aim 2-3: The aim is 3-4: The aim 4-5: The aim is
at all. is presented, given as stated reflects an explained, in the 5
but not clear. in the lab overall words of the
guide. understanding student, the
of what needs objective of the
to be done. experiment is
clear.
0-1: No 1-2: Copied 2-3: Unlabelled 3-4: Hand- 4-5: Computer -
sketch. and pasted sketch. draw sketch drawn sketch 5
picture. with labels and with labels and
description of a short
the operation description of
Sketch of apparatus

of the how the

apparatus. apparatus
Work is works.
performed
within the
boundaries of
the practice
area. (GA2)
0-4 No 5-10: It is 10-15: 15-18: Good 12-15: Correct
summary is presented In Available writing skills language and 15
given at all. point form literature is (language and grammar. The
and not searched and grammar). relevant points
Summary of theory

essay style. material is There should presented to

critically be coherence. good
evaluated for Concepts, coherence.
suitability to ideas and
the theories are
investigation. communicate
(GA4) d (GA 2)
0-1: Copied 1-2: Written 2-3: Presented 3-4: 4-5: Written in
from the in student’s in student’s Presented in past tense and 5
practical own words own words and student’s own in third person,
guide but is not the process is words and the student’s own
clear. clear. process is words. The
clear and procedure must
correct. be clear and
Investigations correct.
Experimental procedure

and
experiments
are planned
and
conducted
within an
appropriate
discipline.
(GA4)
 0: No data 2-4: The data 4-6: The data 6-8: The data 8-10: The data
collected collected is is present in a is present in a is clearly 10
Data and observations

presented in table form and table form and captured and

an informally the analysis the analysis tabulated. Short
manner. provided. provided is description of
correct. the data or the
Uncertainty table. Data and
and risk is its analysis is
handled. correct.
(GA2)

0-4: The 5-10: The 10-15: The 15-18: The 18-20: The
calculations calculation calculations calculations calculations are
not done formulas are are clearly are clearly clearly shown as
according to not used. shown as shown as instructed in the 20
the instructed by instructed in guide. The
instruction any scientific the guide or graphs or sketch
in the guide source and any scientific drawn are of the
or any presented with source but correct
scientific the graph, or graphs or properties and
Calculations and graphs

source. sketch where sketch drawn are labelled

are applicably. are not of the correctly.
Theories, correct
principles properties.
and laws are An
used. (GA2) appropriate
mix of
knowledge of
mathematics
used. (GA2)
0-1: No 3-4: The 5-6: The 7-8: The 9-10: The
results and results are results are results are results are 10
no tabulated correctly correctly correctly
discussion. without any tabulated, and tabulated, and calculated and
discussion. discussed. correctly tabulated.
Reasoning discussed. Discussion are
about and Information is clear and
Results and discussion

conceptualisi analysed, scientifically

ng interpreted correct.
engineering and derived
materials, from available
components, data. (GA4)
systems or
processes is
performed.
(GA2)
 0-1: No 2-4: No 5-6: If partial 7-8: Correct 9-10: Correct
conclusions firmness in correct conclusion is conclusion is
are drawn. the in the conclusion is made covering made covering
ideas made. all the aspects all the aspects 10
presented Conclusions from which from which
that are are drawn assumptions assumptions
taken from from an were made to were made to
the data analysis of all close the close the
collected. available argument. argument.
evidence. Statement
(GA2) provided in this
section full
convince that
researched
ideas or the
Conclusion

problem
completely is
completely
solved.
0-1: Sub- 2-4: No 5-6: Average 7-8: Average 9-10: Easy to
standard logical order writing skills. writing skills. follow
presentatio on the ideas Quite easy to Quite easy to (coherence).
n of work- presented. follow. follow. Consistency in
pages not Writing skills, Meaning ideas Meaning ideas font and
numbered, sentence in a coherent in a coherent academics
topics not construction, order. order. No writing style. All 10
fully grammar, etc Repetition of unnecessary the topics and
covered, are below words in repetition of sub-topics are
spelling and average. writing. words in numbered
grammatical The purpose, writing. Correct sequentially.
errors. process and grammar and Clear table of
Unfollowabl outcomes of punctuations. contents’, which
e order of the The 80% of correspond to
the investigation the report is the report
numbering. are recorded typed. contents.
in a technical Topics put as
report. (GA2) numbered on
the index.
Correctly
Accuracy and neatness

referenced
(havard
method). The
100% of the
report is do
typed and the
sketch are done
any digital
method.