Synthesizing Thermal Sciences is a comprehensive textbook designed to bridge the gap between fundamental thermal-science theory and its practical application in modern energy-conversion systems. Written for upper-level undergraduate and graduate students in mechanical, marine, and power engineering, as well as practicing engineers seeking a unified reference, the text integrates thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid flow into a coherent analytical framework.
Unlike traditional texts that treat these subjects independently, this book emphasizes synthesis-demonstrating how thermal principles interact within real machines such as steam and gas turbines, internal combustion engines, refrigeration systems, boilers, and power plants. Core concepts including the First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics, entropy, exergy, and cycle analysis are developed methodically and then applied to complete systems, reinforcing both physical understanding and engineering judgment.
The text places particular emphasis on energy converters encountered in marine, industrial, and utility applications. Detailed treatments of Rankine, Brayton, Diesel, Otto, and combined cycles are supported by clear explanations, worked examples, and practical heat-balance calculations. Common student challenges-such as interpreting cycle diagrams, applying property tables, and formulating mass- and energy-balance equations-are addressed directly with step-by-step guidance.
Drawing on decades of teaching and professional engineering experience, the author presents material with clarity, precision, and relevance to real-world operation. Numerous illustrations and schematics are included to support visual learning and system comprehension. The book is well suited for use as a primary course text or as a long-term professional reference.
Synthesizing Thermal Sciences is especially valuable for programs that emphasize applied engineering, licensure preparation, and the operation of large-scale thermal systems. By connecting equations to physical machinery and operational practice, the text equips readers with both analytical competence and practical insight essential for modern engineering careers.
About the Author :
Jose Femenia, P.E., is a marine and mechanical engineer and educator with nearly five decades of experience in engineering education, professional practice, and public service. He earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Marine Engineering from the State University of New York Maritime College and a Master of Mechanical Engineering from The City College of New York, City University of New York.Mr. Femenia devoted the majority of his career to engineering education, serving on the faculty of both SUNY Maritime College and the United States Merchant Marine Academy. At SUNY Maritime College, he held the position of Engineering Department Chairman for twenty-one years, overseeing curriculum development, faculty leadership, and accreditation efforts. At the United States Merchant Marine Academy, he served twelve years as Department Head and five years as Director of the Master of Marine Engineering Program. He also served as an Adjunct Professor at the Webb Institute of Naval Architecture.In addition to his classroom responsibilities, Mr. Femenia accumulated more than four years of at-sea service aboard SUNY Maritime's training ships, including the TS Empire State IV, V, and VI. While at sea, he stood engineering watch, provided operational instruction, and served as Senior Engineering Training Officer. His instructional focus included the operation and maintenance of steam propulsion plants, auxiliary systems, and diesel engines, allowing him to integrate real-world operational experience directly into his teaching.Throughout his academic career, Mr. Femenia also worked part-time for marine and mechanical engineering firms, applying theoretical principles to practical engineering problems. His professional service includes two-year terms as President of both the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers and the Society of Marine Port Engineers. He additionally served for more than thirty years on the New York State Board for Engineering and Land Surveying as a Member and Extended Member.Mr. Femenia has consulted on numerous engineering projects and authored a variety of technical papers and publications. His work reflects a career-long commitment to rigorous engineering analysis, professional ethics, and the education of future engineers.
