Fundamentals of IC Engine Performance and Thermodynamics

Overview of IC Engine Systems 

• Power Technology Comparison
• Combustion Cycles and Regimes
• Design Configuration and Criteria
• Current and Future Markets 

Pressure-Volume Analysis, Work, and Power 

• Power and Efficiency 
• Piston Work Calculations 

Applying Thermodynamic in Compression, Combustion, and Expansion 

• Maximum Work of IC Engines 
• Entropy and Thermodynamic Availability 
• Properties of the Engine Cycles 
• Heat Release and Specific Heat Ratio 
• Combustion of Fuel with Air 

This course is available online anytime. Students work through online course modules on their own time and at their own pace. Once enrolled, you must complete the course within 8 weeks of enrollment.

Access to the Canvas course platform ends after 8 weeks.

• Instructor

  David Foster

  Professor Emeritus, Senior Lecturer

  Dr. David Foster is the Phil and Jean Myers Emeritus Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and former director of the UW Engine Research Center. With over 40 years of experience in diesel and spark-ignition combustion research, he continues to consult for the internal combustion engine industry and U.S. National Laboratories. Dr. Foster holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and has taught courses in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and combustion. His research focuses on improving the understanding of combustion and emissions processes to develop cleaner, more efficient engines. He is a pioneer in applying optical diagnostics to engine systems, including laser-based techniques for in-cylinder measurements. Dr. Foster has received numerous awards for his teaching and research contributions and remains active in advancing propulsion technologies through the Engine Research Center.

• Program Director

  Blake Suhre

10% discount per person for participants registered in the Engine Systems Certificate series. Promo code needed during registration.

If you are planning to attend an Interdisciplinary Professional Programs course, payment is required at the time of registration. Below are the payment options:

Pay by Credit Card

Enroll online and pay by credit card.

• Search for the course on the website and then click on the Enroll Now button from the course webpage.
• Enter all necessary course attendee information and payment information on the course enrollment page.
• You will receive an email to confirm successful enrollment and payment.

Enroll over the phone and pay by credit card.

• Call CERC Registrations at 608-262-2451.
• Provide the registrations representative with:
  • the course name, dates, and/or course number.
  • the necessary course attendee information and payment information.
• You will receive either a mailed document or an email to confirm successful enrollment payment.

Pay by Check

Mail in a completed registration form and check payable to UW Madison.

• Fill out a registration form (found either in the back of the course brochure you received in the mail or here).
• Prepare a check, made payable to UW Madison.
• Mail the registration form and check to: CERC Registrations 21 N Park St, Ste 7101 Madison, WI 53715
• You will receive either a mailed document or an email to confirm successful enrollment and payment.

Pay by Purchase Order

• Request Purchase Order information from interpro@union.wisc.edu
  • If a fee quote is needed, contact custserv@interpro.wisc.edu first
• You will receive an invoice from UW–Madison Business Services for payment, usually within 3–5 business days

Military

If using SF-182 form, please call our registration number at 608-262-2451 or email interpro@union.wisc.edu for details and instructions.

Event Cancellation

We reserve the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or unforeseen events. If we cancel a course, participants will be notified via email or phone and will be given the option for a full refund or to transfer their registration and any fees paid to another course. We are not responsible for non-refundable plane tickets, hotel reservations, and other travel related expenses. For enrollee Course Cancellation, refer to notes on course page.

Once you have accessed the online course materials, no cancellations or refunds are permitted.