Richard Sayles

Richard Sayles is an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Maine. He earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Brown University in 1981. His research focuses on fluid flow, heat transfer, and energy systems using numerical techniques like the finite element method. He has collaborated with organizations such as Central Maine Power, Westinghouse Electric Co., and the Naval Underwater Systems Center.

• Education: Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Brown University (1981)

His research interests include approximate solutions for boundary layers on elongating surfaces, calibration of photovoltaic cells as pyranometers, and finite element analysis of heat transfer in baffled enclosures. Key sponsors include M.P., G.S. Edwards, and Duratherm Window Co.

His publications span topics like viscous boundary layer flows, radiation-convection interactions, and finite element analysis of fiber drawing processes. Sayles teaches courses such as Statics, Strength of Materials, and Fluid Mechanics, emphasizing practical applications of theoretical concepts.