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Ahmad Hammouz, P.Eng.
This course provides a comprehensive, technically rigorous introduction to aircraft engine systems, their operating principles, and their role in aviation propulsion. It examines how reciprocating and gas turbine engines generate thrust, convert chemical energy into mechanical work, and meet the performance, reliability, and regulatory demands of modern aircraft. Beginning with the physics of propulsive force and Newton's third law of action and reaction, the course analyzes the combustion processes, thermodynamic cycles, and component interactions that define contemporary aircraft powerplants.
Participants gain an in-depth understanding of the mechanical and thermodynamic fundamentals governing piston engines, turboprops, turbofans, and turbojets, including the relationships among pressure, temperature, and mass flow that drive thrust production. Topics include crankshaft and connecting-rod dynamics, combustion chamber design, cylinder cooling, ignition timing, lubrication systems, and performance factors such as power-to-weight ratio, specific fuel consumption, and altitude derating.
Building on these foundations, the course connects theory to real-world propulsion applications, showing how design features such as nitrided cylinder barrels, sodium-filled exhaust valves, crankshaft dampers, and propeller reduction gearing address thermal loads, vibration, detonation, and structural stress during sustained high-power operation. It also examines engine-selection criteria as a function of mission profile, speed regime, and altitude performance, and the trade-offs between reciprocating and turbine-based propulsion.
This course includes a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.
NY PE & PLS: You must choose courses that are technical in nature or related to matters of laws and ethics contributing to the health and welfare of the public. NY Board does not accept courses related to office management, risk management, leadership, marketing, accounting, financial planning, real estate, and basic CAD. Specific course topics that are on the borderline and are not acceptable by the NY Board have been noted under the course description on our website.