Types of Engineering

Engineering is a highly diverse sector comprised of many disciplines. All are highly technical and deal with the development of solutions and new applications. The sections below address the key disciplines of engineering:

Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineers are involved in all aspects of chemical production, research and design, construction and the operation of industrial plants.

Chemical engineers will usually specialise in one area, such as food, pharmaceuticals, heat transfer and energy conversion, petrochemicals (chemicals made from petroleum or natural gas), or consumer products such as plastics, detergents, paint, and synthetic textiles.

They develop equipment to manufacture chemicals and related products, conduct research to develop new manufacturing processes, analyse operating procedures, equipment and machinery functions, and make recommendations for reducing processing time and cost.

They design equipment for safe storage and transportation of chemical solids, liquids, and gases, as well as design control systems for chemical plants, based upon data from lab experiments and pilot plant operations.

Working as part of a team they coordinate with scientists and other engineers to find solutions for environmental or biomedical problems.

Other chemical engineers who have knowledge and experience in both the scientific and production aspects of the work may be employed as administrators, project directors, sales engineers, or technical consultants.

Entry Level Qualifications
Because their work is multi-disciplinary, Chemical Engineers must be knowledgeable in chemistry, physics, and mechanical and electrical engineering, as well as in their own specialty.