List of Inventors: Inventions, Patent Number, Date of Invention

Albert Kingsbury
Born Where: United States
Field Of Study: Engineering, Invention
Albert Kingsbury is famous for inventing what: Thrust Bearing
Patent Number: 947,242
Date of Patent Issuance: January 25, 1910

Alessandro Volta
Born Where: Italy
Field Of Study: Chemistry, Physics
Alessandro Volta is famous for inventing what: Electric Cell

Alexander Graham Bell
Born Where: United Kingdom
Field Of Study: Engineering, Invention
Alexander Graham Bell is famous for inventing what: Telephone
Patent Number: 174,465
Date of Patent Issuance: March 07, 1876

Alexander Lyman Holley
Born Where: United States
Field Of Study: Mechanical Engineering
Alexander Lyman Holley is famous for inventing what: Improvement in the Manufacture of Ironand Steel by the Bessemer or Pneumatic Process
Patent Number: 86,303
Date of Patent Issuance: January 26, 1869

Alexander Miles
Born Where: United States
Field Of Study: Engineering
Alexander Miles is famous for inventing what: Improved Method for Opening and Closing Elevator Doors
Patent Number: 371,207
Date of Patent Issuance: October 11, 1887

Alfred Einhorn
Born Where: Germany
Field Of Study: Chemistry
Alfred Einhorn is famous for inventing what: Alkamin Ester of Para-Aminobenzoic Acid
Patent Number: 812,554
Date of Patent Issuance: October 11, 1887

Alfred Free
Born Where: United States
Field Of Study: Chemistry
Alfred Free is famous for inventing what: Composition of Matter, Glucose Detection for Diabetes
Patent Number: 2,848,308
Date of Patent Issuance: August 19, 1958

Alfred Nobel
Born Where: Sweden
Field Of Study: Chemistry
Alfred Nobel is famous for inventing what: Improved Explosive Compounds Dynamite
Patent Number: 78,317
Date of Patent Issuance: May 26, 1868

Alfred Y. Cho
Born Where: China
Field Of Study: Electrical Engineering
Alfred Y. Cho is famous for inventing what: Optical Devices Utilizing Single Crystal GaP or GaAs
Patent Number: 3,830,654
Date of Patent Issuance: August 20, 1974

Ali Javan
Born Where: Iran
Field Of Study: Physics Ali Javan is famous for inventing what: Helium-neon laser
Patent Number: 3,149,290
Date of Patent Issuance: September 15, 1964

Almon Strowger
Born Where: United States
Field Of Study: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
Almon Strowger is famous for inventing what: Automatic Telephone Switch
Patent Number: 447,918
Date of Patent Issuance: March 10, 1891

Alois Langer
Born Where: United States
Field Of Study: Bio-Chemical Engineering, Biology, Engineering
Alois Langer is famous for inventing what: Method and Apparatus for Monitoring Heart Activity
Patent Number: 4,202,340
Date of Patent Issuance: May 13, 1980

Alpheus Babcock
Born Where: United States
Field Of Study: Instrumental Engineering
Alpheus Babcock is famous for inventing what: Cast-Iron Piano Frame
Patent Number: 4,292
Date of Patent Issuance: November 26, 1845

Amar Bose
Born Where: United States
Field Of Study: Electrical Engineering
Amar Bose is famous for inventing what: Feedback Control
Patent Number: 4,494,074
Date of Patent Issuance: January 15, 1985

Ambrose Swasey
Born Where: United States
Field Of Study: Invention, Mechanical Engineering
Ambrose Swasey is famous for inventing what: Telescope
Patent Number: 959,179
Date of Patent Issuance: May 24, 1910

Amos Joel, Jr
Born Where: United States
Field Of Study: Electrical Engineering
Amos Joel, Jr is famous for inventing what: Mobile Communication System
Patent Number: 3,663,762
Date of Patent Issuance: May 16, 1972

An Wang
Born Where: China
Field Of Study: Computer Engineering, Invention
An Wang is famous for inventing what: Pulse Transfer Controlling Device, Magnetic Core Memory
Patent Number: 2,708,722
Date of Patent Issuance: May 17, 1955

Andrew Alford
Born Where: Russia
Field Of Study: Electrical Engineering
Andrew Alford is famous for inventing what: Localizer Antenna System
Patent Number: 2,682,050
Date of Patent Issuance: June 22, 1954

Andrew J. Moyer
Born Where: United States
Field Of Study: Biology
Andrew J. Moyer is famous for inventing what: Method for Production of Penicillin
Patent Number: 2,442,141
Date of Patent Issuance: May 25, 1948

Andrew Jackson Beard
Born Where: United States
Field Of Study: Invention, Mechanical Engineering
Andrew Jackson Beard is famous for inventing what: Car-Coupling
Patent Number: 594,059
Date of Patent Issuance: November 23, 1897

Andrew Smith Hallidie
Born Where: United Kingdom
Field Of Study: Invention, Mechanical Engineering
Andrew Smith Hallidie is famous for inventing what: Improvement in Grip Pulleys (cable car system)
Patent Number: 100,140
Date of Patent Issuance: February 22, 1870

Mechanical Engineering Research

Mechanical Engineering Research is an international, double-blind peer- reviewed, open-access journal. Mechanical Engineering Research is published by the Canadian Center of Science and Education in both print and online versions. The journal is striving to provide the best platform for researchers and scholars worldwide to exchange their latest findings. The scopes of the journal include, but are not limited to, the following topics:

• Thermal Engineering and Fluids Engineering
• Mechanics
• Kinematics, Dynamics, & Control of Mechanical Systems
• Mechatronics, Robotics and Automation
• Design, Manufacturing, & Product Development
• Human and Machine Haptics

Authors are encouraged to submit complete, unpublished, original, and full-length articles that are not under review in any other journals. The online version of the journal is free access and download. If you want to order print copies, please visit:www.ccsenet.org/store

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Mechanical project ideas related to fluid mechanics

Here is a list of fluid mechanics projects for mechanical engineering students. You can use these projects for your small projects, mini projects or even as your final year projects:

1. Design auto water sprinkler: This project is related to fluid mechanics. Mechanical engineering students can use fluid power to operate an automatic water sprinkler at public parks and green belts on roads. These water sprinklers are usually in rotary motion and are used to water the plants in parks and green belts on roads.

2. Rainwater into useful water: Can you introduce some device which is capable of converting rain water into useful drinking water? Just think about this idea and help your community and your country with some innovative solution.

3. Waste water to useful energy: In this fluid mechanical related mechanical engineering project, you are required to build a mechanism to convert all waste water into useful energy within a multi-story building.

4. Water pumping system using wind power: This mechanical engineering project idea is used to device a water pumping system which uses wind energy for its operations.

5. Design a hydraulic chair: This is a mechanical engineering design project which is also related to fluid mechanics. This mechanical project needs to design a comfortable chair using hydraulic techniques.

6. Hydraulic weighing machines: Design a small scale hydraulic weighing machine which can be used to weigh trucks and heavy loads when fabricated for large scale applications.

For more projects ideas related to mechanical engineering please read related articles as:

• Automobile project ideas for mechanical engineering students
• Thermal mechanical engineering projects
• Projects related to robotics for mechanical engineering students
• Mechanical engineering design projects
• Mechanical project ideas related to fluid mechanics
• Final Year Mechanical engineering projects
• Mechanical engineering projects

Category:

• Projects

Tags:

• Fluid Projects
• Fluid Mechanics Projects
• Project
• Mechanical Engineering Projects

The Role of the Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers are the designers of the mechanical, thermal and fluid-flow related aspects of all such systems, including computer and feedback control of complex systems.Design of all products involves a broad, basic education and significant knowledge of how to apply, interface and use computers in modern engineering.

  

Mechanical engineers work in almost every technical field imaginable, including aerospace, automotive, biomedical engineering, computer aided design, energy and environmental systems. Indeed, a Mechanical Engineering (M.E.) education is the broadest of all engineering disciplines, with the widest applicability and most flexibility in terms of career paths.

Mechanical engineering education involves learning how to creatively apply a strong scientific and mathematical basis to the design of safe, reliable, environmentally sound, and cost effective systems. Teamwork, communication skills and knowledge of how to apply and use modern computer simulations and control systems are important skills to all M.Es. At the higher degree level, Mechanical Engineers perform the basic research needed to advance knowledge in the engineering sciences.

 

The education of a Mechanical Engineer is very broad and focuses on the skills needed to be an effective problem solver. Many students combine the broad technical knowledge gained in their undergraduate M.E. studies with graduate study in M.E. Some M.E. students combine their M.E. knowledge with other technical disciplines such as Patent law, Business development, Research and Consultancy.

HISTORY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERINGThe history of mechanical engineering can be traced directly to the ancient world, to the designers and inventors of the first mechanisms, which were powered by human or animal labour, water or wind energy, or a combination of these. The words engine and “ingenious” are derived from the same Latin root, “ingenerate”, “to create”. The early English verb engine meant “to contrive”. Thus the early engineers were the people who contrived (i.e. invented) new things.

 

The invention of the steam engine in the latter part of the 18th century provided a key source of power for the Industrial Revolution and gave enormous impetus to the development of machinery of all types. As a result, a new major classification of engineering dealing with tools and machines, namely mechanical engineering, received formal recognition in 1847.Today’s mechanical engineer is heavily involved in the development and use of new materials and technologies, and especially in computer aided engineering. A rapidly growing field for mechanical engineers is environmental control, comprising the development of machines and processes that will produce fewer pollutants, as well as the development of new equipment and techniques to reduce or remove existing pollution.Although mechanical engineers may occasionally work alone on a small project, they are more likely to be working on large, multi-disciplinary projects, liaising with specialists from other areas.In almost every sphere of modern life, from the air-conditioned office or home to the modern industrial plant or mode of transport, one sees the work of mechanical engineers who continue to develop and apply new knowledge and technology to improve the quality of life for society as a whole.

  

MECHANICAL ENGINEERING FUNCTIONS
Four functions of the mechanical engineer can be cited.

1. understanding and dealing with the bases of mechanical science. These include dynamics, concerning the relation between forces and motion, such as in vibration; automatic control; thermodynamics, dealing with the relations among the various forms of heat, energy, and power; fluid flow; heat transfer; lubrication; and properties of materials.

2. the sequence of research, design, and development. This function attempts to bring about the changes necessary to meet present and future needs. Such work requires a clear understanding of mechanical science, an ability to analyze a complex system into its basic factors, and the originality to synthesize and invent.

3. the production of products and power, which embraces planning operations, and maintenance. To produce the maximum value with the minimum investment and cost while maintaining or enhancing long term viability and reputation of the enterprise.

4. the co-ordinating function of the mechanical engineer, including management, consulting, and in some cases, marketing.

In these functions there is a long continuing trend towards the use of scientific methods. Operations research, value engineering, and PABLA (problem analysis by logical approach) are typical titles of such rationalized approaches. Creativity, the ability to take the important and unexpected step that opens up new solutions remains in mechanical engineering, as elsewhere, largely a personal and spontaneous characteristic.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNTIES
Employment opportunities have attracted mechanical engineers to projects involving alternative energy sources, the improvement of engineering designs and the related manufacturing processes to be more energy efficient, to avoid the creation of pollutants, environmental monitoring and re-mediation projects. Mechanical Engineers work in the energy field on both new methods for energy generation such as solar, fuel cell and wind generated power, and also on the design of traditional electrical power plants equipped with reactors, pressure piping, heat exchangers and other specialised components.In the automobile industry, mechanical engineers design the various parts of cars. In manufacturing companies of all kinds, they develop the systems that improve and speedup production processes.Mechanical Engineers are also involved in diverse projects. Mechanical Engineers design advanced materials and structures to meet the demands of supersonic and hypersonic flight and space travel.

  

Mechanical engineers also work alongside physicians, therapists, and other medical professionals to investigate the workings of the human body and to design aids and instruments for medicine applications. Other mechanical engineers work with trainers, coaches, and athletes on the design of sporting equipment. Mechanical Engineers involved in government research assist on key policy decisions regarding technology development and use. Mechanical Engineers working with the U.S. Department of Energy, Department of Transportation and other agencies conduct important research in solar energy, advanced materials, radioactive waste removal, magnetic-levitation trains and space missions to the planet Mars. In Ireland many Mechanical Engineers are involved in supporting our industries move up the value chain that help generate the Knowledge Economy.

 

EXAMPLES OF WHAT MECHANICAL ENGINEERS DO INCLUDE:

• Motor vehicle engine design to increase efficiency, reduce weight etc.
• Motor vehicle body and component design for function, aesthetics and aerodynamics
• Aircraft engine and body design, maintenance, condition monitoring and fault diagnosis
• Manufacturing equipment design, maintenance, condition monitoring and fault diagnosis
• Production planning in manufacturing or mining industries
• Quality control of manufactured products
• Design of novel consumer products
• Management consulting-organisational troubleshooting and efficiency improvement
• Environmental pollution control
• Occupational and environmental noise and vibration control
• Mechanical services in buildings –design and maintenance(e.g. air conditioning)
• Design and layout of new production lines for bulk manufacturing of products
• Introduction of new technology to increase efficiency in industry
• Computer modelling to improve products design and manufacturing processes
• Development of new materials(including polymers and steels)
• Development of better ways of joining materials together (e.g. new welding technologies)
• Design of spacecraft and associated launch hardware
• Aid worker, helping third world countries by installing essential services
• Water supply engineer responsible for operation of large pumping stations
• Electricity generation or distribution engineer responsible for installation and maintenance of power generation and powerdistribution equipment
• Gas turbine designer
• Technical manual writer
• Manager of specific projects
• Manager of specialised engineering aspects of companies
• Inventor (new equipment and processes)
• Computer analyst developing new and more efficient products

DIT Faculty of Engineering has an Honours Degree (DT022) recognised for Chartered grade of the Engineering Institutions and an Ordinary Degree (DT006) in Mechanical Engineering. Further details on these courses can be found on the DIT web site under Mechanical and Transport Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering. If you wish to discuss DIT Mechanical Engineeringprogrammes further, please contact the following:

Dr. David Kennedy, Head of Department, Mechanical Engineering. Tel 4023846
Dr. Gareth O'Donnell, Mechanical Engineering, (Honours Degree DT022). Tel 4023609

Mr. Paddy MacNamara, Mechanical Engineering, (Ordinary Degree DT006). Tel 4023605

Career in Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering is one of the oldest branches of engineering. It is also referred to as the ‘mother’ branch of engineering. Another appealing feature of mechanical engineering is that the application base of this field of study is extremely broad and diverse. Almost all inventions during the ancient period and a vast majority in the modern era are direct contributions of one or the other application of mechanics.

Traditionally, mechanical engineers have to deal with concepts such as mechanics, thermodynamics, robotics, kinematics, structural analysis, fluid mechanics and many others. These concepts are applied in the process of designing state-of-the-art manufacturing units, different types of motor vehicles, aircraft and aerospace parts and a vast assortment of industrial machinery. Mechanical engineers also contribute in the development of various engines, power plant equipment, heating and cooling systems and other simple and complex machinery. Mechanical engineers not only design new mechanical systems but they are also responsible for testing, maintaining and manufacturing them.

The aforementioned are the conventional roles and responsibilities of mechanical engineers. However, times have changed. Nowadays the scope of mechanical engineering is expanding beyond its traditional boundaries. Mechanical engineers are focussing their attention towards new areas of research such as nanotechnology, development of composite materials, biomedical applications, environmental conservation, etc.

The ever increasing scope of this particular job profile now requires professionals to get into financial and marketing aspects of product development and even into people and resource management. All in all mechanical engineering offers a wide bouquet of job options to students who are looking for a stable and stimulating career.

Step-by-Step

Passing 10+2 with PCM (Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics) is the first step you take towards becoming a professional mechanical engineer. To be eligible for a graduate programme (BE/BTech) in a college, you should have scored at least 50% marks and 60% for being eligible for IITs (Indian Institute of Technology) in 10+2 with PCM as subjects. After this, you can sit for various entrance examinations such as:

•  The Joint Entrance Examination for IITs (IITJEE) for admission to various IITs

•  All-India Engineering Entrance Exam (AIEEE) for admission to various National Institutes of Technology or regional engineering colleges

Apart from these, there are hundreds of engineering colleges across the length and breadth of the country where you can get into a graduate programme in mechanical engineering. Some of these colleges conduct their own entrance exams whereas some accept AIEEE scores.

You can also opt for a diploma in engineering from a polytechnic. For obtaining a diploma, the basic eligibility is completion of Class 10 with 50% marks. The duration of these diploma courses is three-years for regular and four-years for part-time study.

You can also go for an associate membership qualification from the Institute of Mechanical Engineers, which is considered at par with the diploma earned from a state run polytechnic or a university degree. Another option is to earn a similar qualification offered by the Institution of Engineering (India). Diploma holders can also get direct entry into the second year of a graduate program (lateral entry).

After successful completion of the graduate program, you can go for the two-year masters program in mechanical engineering or ME/MTech. If you are interested in pursuing a post-graduate programme in mechanical engineering from any of the IITs, then you must appear for the Graduate Aptitude Test for Engineers (GATE).

These days many engineering colleges are offering a dual (BE/BTech and ME/MTech) programmes. Some other institutions are offering a combination of an engineering degree along with a management programme.

In case you are interested in further studies, you can go do a PhD or even opt for a management degree from a reputed business school.

Start Early

To make mechanical engineering your chosen career path, you must have affinity for the way different machines function. This trait can be observed from early childhood when children try to tinker around with different machinery in their immediate vicinity. Such kids often tend to take apart mechanical toys, clocks, bicycles and then they try to assemble them back again.

These children are so innovative that they may even try to make new things. Here, parents have a special role to play. They must understand that the child possesses an inquisitive mind that is interested in gaining knowledge about machinery and not in breaking or destroying things. Parents must encourage the child’s curiosity to know more about different gadgets and machines in and around the house.

During schooling, the quest to play around with machinery increases all the more. This curiosity often culminates with the child opting for science with the PCM subject combination.

Is it the Right Career for Me?

Like other career paths, the entry into this particular branch of engineering also requires you to possess certain basic traits. First and foremost, you must have a penchant for mechanical components and machinery and how these machines work. Then you must be good at physics, chemistry and mathematics. You must also have skills such as an analytical bent of mind, logical reasoning and problem solving.

Further, you must have immense patience, physical strength, ability to work for long hours and an inventive spirit that are essential ingredients for becoming a successful mechanical engineer.

What would it Cost Me?

A graduate programme from a private engineering institution will cost you anywhere between Rs.50,000 to Rs.2,00,000 annually. However, in a reputed government run establishment such as the Indian institute of Technology (IIT) or any regional engineering college, you will have to pay an annual fees in the range of anywhere between Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000.

Funding/Scholarship

Educational institutes offering programmes in mechanical engineering generally extend scholarships to students from socially and economically backward classes. For example, IITs waive off the complete tuition fees for students belonging to the socially backward communities. Scholarships, freeships, stipends and financial assistance are also provided to students on the basis of merit and other qualifying criteria.

Job Prospect

Since mechanical engineering is the broadest of all engineering fields, the job prospects on offer for skilled mechanical engineers are aplenty and unending. Mechanical engineers are required to design, test, manufacture, install, operate and maintain a wide array of machines and mechanical systems that are used in countless industries. These professionals can find employment both in the government and private sector undertakings.

Major industries that employ mechanical engineers include automobiles, space research, aeronautical, energy and utilities, air conditioning, bio-mechanical industry. Other major employers include giant manufacturing plants, air conditioning and refrigeration industry, turbine manufacturing plants, oil and gas exploration and refining industries and the agricultural sector.

In the government sector, mechanical engineers can provide their knowledge to various government run projects in the role of technical experts and consultants. They can also work in private engineering companies that provide technical consultancy to both government and corporate firms.

These engineers can also hold high managerial positions in government as well as private sector organisations according to their field of expertise and educational qualifications.

Pay Packet

Mechanical engineering offers a wide variety of career opportunities to job aspirants. The average monthly salary of mechanical engineers who are new to this profession is approximately in the range between Rs.10,000 and Rs.25,000. Good campus placements can fetch even better packages for deserving students. Mechanical engineers who hold a post-graduate degree from a reputed academic institute tend to get better offers than diploma and degree holders.

From here on the annual pay packet depends on a number of factors such as the skill set possessed, experience, expertise, the employer, nature of roles and responsibilities, etc. Highly skilled mechanical engineers can easily command pay packets as high as Rs 40-45 lacs per annum.

Demand and Supply

There is great demand for skilled mechanical engineers in different segments of the industry. Their expertise is required in traditional manufacturing industries such as automobiles, aviation, shipping, aerospace, power plants and machinery manufacturing. In recent times, the services of expert mechanical engineers have even been sought in fields such as nanotechnology, biomedical engineering, energy conservation and environmental engineering.

There is also great requirement for mechanical engineer consultants who have management skills along with technical proficiency. The primary role of such professionals is to manage both technology and people and firms that provide engineering consultancy require them.

Various engineering colleges and polytechnics across the country are doing their best to meet the burgeoning demand of skilled mechanical engineering professionals.

Market Watch

The job market for mechanical engineers is perennial. Even the vagaries of the global economic crisis could not knock out the demand for these professionals in the Indian job market. Although some branches of mechanical engineering went out of focus during the meltdown period, the overall situation was much better as compared with other careers. On the brighter side, things are getting back to normal and this evergreen career path is again gaining coin amongst career aspirants as it did during the pre-meltdown years.

In fact, this is a period of resurgence for mechanical engineers. They not only have countless options in the industrial sector but they can also make foray into new realms of technology and even get into management and technical consultancy.

According to a survey, mechanical engineering is amongst the most sought after branches of engineering preferred by students seeking admission to various technical institutes across India in the recent years.

International Focus

Highly qualified professionals from this field, such as post-graduates from various IITs, often seek suitable employment in foreign countries. It is not that only highly qualified mechanical engineers get opportunity to work abroad. If you are employed in a multinational company, you may also get the chance to work on offshore projects

Positives/Negatives

+ives

•  There are umpteen job openings and you will not remain unemployed
•  Constant involvement in the development of new components, gadgets and machines
•  Innovative contribution to the new frontiers of science such as nanotechnology, biomedical engineering and environmental sciences
•  Not hit by recession or global economic meltdown

-ives

•  Working conditions can be adverse at times
•  Deadlines and work pressure can exact a heavy toll on the body and mind
•  Physically strenuous and not for the weak

Different Roles, Different Names

Mechanical engineering is considered the ‘mother’ of all branches of engineering. In this context the roles and responsibilities held by a mechanical engineer are different and depend on their area of specialisation and the industry they are working for.
In broad terms, the job profile of mechanical engineers can be classified into the following functional segments:

•  Research and Development (R&D): Engineers whose role is to do research and then plan for new machines and their constituent parts.

•  Design: Professionals whose responsibility is to draft technical drawings, manually or with the aid of computers.

•  Production: Engineers who supervise the manufacturing of mechanical components and machines.

•  Analysis and testing: Engineers who analyse and test different types of machines and their parts to ensure that they function flawlessly.

•  Installation: Professionals who install machines and mechanical parts at the client location.

•  Maintenance: Engineers whose primary role is to ensure that machinery is working as per specifications.

Top Companies

1.  Automobile and auto part manufacturers
2.  Aerospace industry
3.  Various Government sector undertakings
4.  Aviation companies
5.  Steel plants
6.  Thermal plants and gas turbine manufacturers
7.  Air conditioning and refrigeration industry
8.  Shipping industry
9.  Engineering consultancies
10. Armed forces

Tips for Getting Hired

1.  It is advisable to earn a post-graduate degree in this field
2.  Computer proficiency is a must these days
3.  You must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills
4.  A management degree further brightens your career prospects

Career in Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering is one of the oldest branches of engineering. It is also referred to as the ‘mother’ branch of engineering. Another appealing feature of mechanical engineering is that the application base of this field of study is extremely broad and diverse. Almost all inventions during the ancient period and a vast majority in the modern era are direct contributions of one or the other application of mechanics.

Traditionally, mechanical engineers have to deal with concepts such as mechanics, thermodynamics, robotics, kinematics, structural analysis, fluid mechanics and many others. These concepts are applied in the process of designing state-of-the-art manufacturing units, different types of motor vehicles, aircraft and aerospace parts and a vast assortment of industrial machinery. Mechanical engineers also contribute in the development of various engines, power plant equipment, heating and cooling systems and other simple and complex machinery. Mechanical engineers not only design new mechanical systems but they are also responsible for testing, maintaining and manufacturing them.

The aforementioned are the conventional roles and responsibilities of mechanical engineers. However, times have changed. Nowadays the scope of mechanical engineering is expanding beyond its traditional boundaries. Mechanical engineers are focussing their attention towards new areas of research such as nanotechnology, development of composite materials, biomedical applications, environmental conservation, etc.

The ever increasing scope of this particular job profile now requires professionals to get into financial and marketing aspects of product development and even into people and resource management. All in all mechanical engineering offers a wide bouquet of job options to students who are looking for a stable and stimulating career.

Step-by-Step

Passing 10+2 with PCM (Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics) is the first step you take towards becoming a professional mechanical engineer. To be eligible for a graduate programme (BE/BTech) in a college, you should have scored at least 50% marks and 60% for being eligible for IITs (Indian Institute of Technology) in 10+2 with PCM as subjects. After this, you can sit for various entrance examinations such as:

•  The Joint Entrance Examination for IITs (IITJEE) for admission to various IITs

•  All-India Engineering Entrance Exam (AIEEE) for admission to various National Institutes of Technology or regional engineering colleges

Apart from these, there are hundreds of engineering colleges across the length and breadth of the country where you can get into a graduate programme in mechanical engineering. Some of these colleges conduct their own entrance exams whereas some accept AIEEE scores.

You can also opt for a diploma in engineering from a polytechnic. For obtaining a diploma, the basic eligibility is completion of Class 10 with 50% marks. The duration of these diploma courses is three-years for regular and four-years for part-time study.

You can also go for an associate membership qualification from the Institute of Mechanical Engineers, which is considered at par with the diploma earned from a state run polytechnic or a university degree. Another option is to earn a similar qualification offered by the Institution of Engineering (India). Diploma holders can also get direct entry into the second year of a graduate program (lateral entry).

After successful completion of the graduate program, you can go for the two-year masters program in mechanical engineering or ME/MTech. If you are interested in pursuing a post-graduate programme in mechanical engineering from any of the IITs, then you must appear for the Graduate Aptitude Test for Engineers (GATE).

These days many engineering colleges are offering a dual (BE/BTech and ME/MTech) programmes. Some other institutions are offering a combination of an engineering degree along with a management programme.

In case you are interested in further studies, you can go do a PhD or even opt for a management degree from a reputed business school.

Start Early

To make mechanical engineering your chosen career path, you must have affinity for the way different machines function. This trait can be observed from early childhood when children try to tinker around with different machinery in their immediate vicinity. Such kids often tend to take apart mechanical toys, clocks, bicycles and then they try to assemble them back again.

These children are so innovative that they may even try to make new things. Here, parents have a special role to play. They must understand that the child possesses an inquisitive mind that is interested in gaining knowledge about machinery and not in breaking or destroying things. Parents must encourage the child’s curiosity to know more about different gadgets and machines in and around the house.

During schooling, the quest to play around with machinery increases all the more. This curiosity often culminates with the child opting for science with the PCM subject combination.

Is it the Right Career for Me?

Like other career paths, the entry into this particular branch of engineering also requires you to possess certain basic traits. First and foremost, you must have a penchant for mechanical components and machinery and how these machines work. Then you must be good at physics, chemistry and mathematics. You must also have skills such as an analytical bent of mind, logical reasoning and problem solving.

Further, you must have immense patience, physical strength, ability to work for long hours and an inventive spirit that are essential ingredients for becoming a successful mechanical engineer.

What would it Cost Me?

A graduate programme from a private engineering institution will cost you anywhere between Rs.50,000 to Rs.2,00,000 annually. However, in a reputed government run establishment such as the Indian institute of Technology (IIT) or any regional engineering college, you will have to pay an annual fees in the range of anywhere between Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000.

Funding/Scholarship

Educational institutes offering programmes in mechanical engineering generally extend scholarships to students from socially and economically backward classes. For example, IITs waive off the complete tuition fees for students belonging to the socially backward communities. Scholarships, freeships, stipends and financial assistance are also provided to students on the basis of merit and other qualifying criteria.

Job Prospect

Since mechanical engineering is the broadest of all engineering fields, the job prospects on offer for skilled mechanical engineers are aplenty and unending. Mechanical engineers are required to design, test, manufacture, install, operate and maintain a wide array of machines and mechanical systems that are used in countless industries. These professionals can find employment both in the government and private sector undertakings.

Major industries that employ mechanical engineers include automobiles, space research, aeronautical, energy and utilities, air conditioning, bio-mechanical industry. Other major employers include giant manufacturing plants, air conditioning and refrigeration industry, turbine manufacturing plants, oil and gas exploration and refining industries and the agricultural sector.

In the government sector, mechanical engineers can provide their knowledge to various government run projects in the role of technical experts and consultants. They can also work in private engineering companies that provide technical consultancy to both government and corporate firms.

These engineers can also hold high managerial positions in government as well as private sector organisations according to their field of expertise and educational qualifications.

Pay Packet

Mechanical engineering offers a wide variety of career opportunities to job aspirants. The average monthly salary of mechanical engineers who are new to this profession is approximately in the range between Rs.10,000 and Rs.25,000. Good campus placements can fetch even better packages for deserving students. Mechanical engineers who hold a post-graduate degree from a reputed academic institute tend to get better offers than diploma and degree holders.

From here on the annual pay packet depends on a number of factors such as the skill set possessed, experience, expertise, the employer, nature of roles and responsibilities, etc. Highly skilled mechanical engineers can easily command pay packets as high as Rs 40-45 lacs per annum.

Demand and Supply

There is great demand for skilled mechanical engineers in different segments of the industry. Their expertise is required in traditional manufacturing industries such as automobiles, aviation, shipping, aerospace, power plants and machinery manufacturing. In recent times, the services of expert mechanical engineers have even been sought in fields such as nanotechnology, biomedical engineering, energy conservation and environmental engineering.

There is also great requirement for mechanical engineer consultants who have management skills along with technical proficiency. The primary role of such professionals is to manage both technology and people and firms that provide engineering consultancy require them.

Various engineering colleges and polytechnics across the country are doing their best to meet the burgeoning demand of skilled mechanical engineering professionals.

Market Watch

The job market for mechanical engineers is perennial. Even the vagaries of the global economic crisis could not knock out the demand for these professionals in the Indian job market. Although some branches of mechanical engineering went out of focus during the meltdown period, the overall situation was much better as compared with other careers. On the brighter side, things are getting back to normal and this evergreen career path is again gaining coin amongst career aspirants as it did during the pre-meltdown years.

In fact, this is a period of resurgence for mechanical engineers. They not only have countless options in the industrial sector but they can also make foray into new realms of technology and even get into management and technical consultancy.

According to a survey, mechanical engineering is amongst the most sought after branches of engineering preferred by students seeking admission to various technical institutes across India in the recent years.

International Focus

Highly qualified professionals from this field, such as post-graduates from various IITs, often seek suitable employment in foreign countries. It is not that only highly qualified mechanical engineers get opportunity to work abroad. If you are employed in a multinational company, you may also get the chance to work on offshore projects

Positives/Negatives

+ives

•  There are umpteen job openings and you will not remain unemployed
•  Constant involvement in the development of new components, gadgets and machines
•  Innovative contribution to the new frontiers of science such as nanotechnology, biomedical engineering and environmental sciences
•  Not hit by recession or global economic meltdown

-ives

•  Working conditions can be adverse at times
•  Deadlines and work pressure can exact a heavy toll on the body and mind
•  Physically strenuous and not for the weak

Different Roles, Different Names

Mechanical engineering is considered the ‘mother’ of all branches of engineering. In this context the roles and responsibilities held by a mechanical engineer are different and depend on their area of specialisation and the industry they are working for.
In broad terms, the job profile of mechanical engineers can be classified into the following functional segments:

•  Research and Development (R&D): Engineers whose role is to do research and then plan for new machines and their constituent parts.

•  Design: Professionals whose responsibility is to draft technical drawings, manually or with the aid of computers.

•  Production: Engineers who supervise the manufacturing of mechanical components and machines.

•  Analysis and testing: Engineers who analyse and test different types of machines and their parts to ensure that they function flawlessly.

•  Installation: Professionals who install machines and mechanical parts at the client location.

•  Maintenance: Engineers whose primary role is to ensure that machinery is working as per specifications.

Top Companies

1.  Automobile and auto part manufacturers
2.  Aerospace industry
3.  Various Government sector undertakings
4.  Aviation companies
5.  Steel plants
6.  Thermal plants and gas turbine manufacturers
7.  Air conditioning and refrigeration industry
8.  Shipping industry
9.  Engineering consultancies
10. Armed forces

Tips for Getting Hired

1.  It is advisable to earn a post-graduate degree in this field
2.  Computer proficiency is a must these days
3.  You must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills
4.  A management degree further brightens your career prospects