About
The Applied Thermofluids Laboratory (ATFL) at Purdue conducts basic and applied research in the thermal-fluid sciences: thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics. We study a wide range of research applications, from safety of lithium-ion batteries to dehydration of food products. Students working in this lab benefit from a highly team-oriented approach to problem solving. And, students have the opportunity to publish their work in engineering journals and present their work at conferences. To solve the thermal-fluids challenges posed by industry and government sponsors, students will utilize a combination of experimental and computational research methods. Students will strengthen technical skills as well as skills in communication, writing, presenting, data analysis, and interpersonal relationships. Through this approach, students graduating from ATFL will enter their next career as a more well-rounded engineer and technologist.
Director
Research and Teaching
Battery Safety
Li-ion batteries produce heat and gas under certain abuse conditions. We study phenomena such as the onset of thermal runaway, the subsequent venting process, and heat transfer from failing cells to their surroundings. In ATFL we conduct research on advanced numerical modeling and simulation techniques to predict the fire risk associated with Li-ion batteries. Experiments, including destructive tests contained in the blast chamber shown at right, are used to parameterize and to validate models.
Engine and Powertrain Technology
Purdue Polytechnic has a new instructional facility, the Powertrain Technology Laboratory, located in the new Gateway building. Students will learn fundamental operating principles of combustion engines, in addition to sustainability topics such as electrification and alternative fuels. The state-of-the-art facility will provide an unparalleled, hands-on-experience for students to run engines used in today's (and tomorrow's) vehicle propulsion systems.
PARTNERSHIPS
We are grateful to acknowledge our sponsors and partners for their support.
