Mechanical engineering Definition and 552 Threads

Mechanical engineering is an engineering branch that combines engineering physics and mathematics principles with materials science to design, analyze, manufacture, and maintain mechanical systems. It is one of the oldest and broadest of the engineering branches.Mechanical engineering combines creativity, knowledge and analytical tools to complete the difficult task of shaping an idea into reality.
The mechanical engineering field requires an understanding of core areas including mechanics, dynamics, thermodynamics, materials science, structural analysis, and electricity. In addition to these core principles, mechanical engineers use tools such as computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and product lifecycle management to design and analyze manufacturing plants, industrial equipment and machinery, heating and cooling systems, transport systems, aircraft, watercraft, robotics, medical devices, weapons, and others. It is the branch of engineering that involves the design, production, and operation of machinery.Mechanical engineering emerged as a field during the Industrial Revolution in Europe in the 18th century; however, its development can be traced back several thousand years around the world. In the 19th century, developments in physics led to the development of mechanical engineering science. The field has continually evolved to incorporate advancements; today mechanical engineers are pursuing developments in such areas as composites, mechatronics, and nanotechnology. It also overlaps with aerospace engineering, metallurgical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, manufacturing engineering, chemical engineering, industrial engineering, and other engineering disciplines to varying amounts. Mechanical engineers may also work in the field of biomedical engineering, specifically with biomechanics, transport phenomena, biomechatronics, bionanotechnology, and modelling of biological systems.

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  1. M

    Engineering Mechanical Engineering or......Maths?

    I'm currently a rising sophomore in college on track for engineering. I have to say, I love solving math problems, especially Calculus. I love Calculus. I started to take physics classes and I started to lose interest, mainly because its difficult and requires a lot of extra time to study, time...
  2. ramzerimar

    Engineering How to prepare for internships during 2nd year in MechE?

    I'm now heading towards the fourth semester in my Mechanical Engineering course, and I think it's a good time to start thinking about summer internships. Where I live, those usually happen in January-February, and companies start advertising their internship programs in september. I think it...
  3. vtechno1729

    Automotive What is a good linear actuator that has force feedback?

    Where can I find one of these? That is, are there linear actuators where I can specify the force it should apply and it gives me back exactly how much force was applied? Are there any linear actuators that can do this and also give me position feedback, i.e., where my object is after it has been...
  4. D

    Engineering Guidance as a nuclear physicist after B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering

    Can anyone please provide me information about the career as a nuclear physicists after B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering. is it a viable option?
  5. Parsifal1

    Foundations of Mechanical Engineering (textbook)

    I'm hoping to do a foundation year for mechanical engineering next year, can anyone recommend to get this book in preparation for it?: https://www.waterstones.com/book/foundations-of-mechanical-engineering/anthony-johnson/keith-sherwin/9780412616006 Thanks
  6. K

    Automotive How do I calculate required torque for two dc motors?

    Hi, I am doing a design project but I'm kinda stuck with choosing motors because i am not sure of the required torque. My project is a handicapped golf vehicle powered by 2 motors, so it would need to be able of climbing steep gradients. I currently have an equation but I am not entirely sure if...
  7. Alistair McCheyne

    Slider Crank Mechanism Magnitude and Direction

    https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t34.0-12/13181084_10156883800920486_1357045350_n.jpg?oh=a39d7777f01c4aa06301c4f3d740de1e&oe=57301DBC Hi I am currently studying design engineering and my lecturer has left just before an exam. I really don't know how to find the magnitude and direction of...
  8. K

    Is Mechanical Engineering for me?

    I really do love the idea of engineering and being able to design and build such things. I'm currently in 12th grade about to graduate. I am going to a two year college before transferring out but I'm struggling to decide my major. I'm taking physics now and I love it, I think it's a great...
  9. sophiebeth100

    Mechanical engineering mechanics question: Motions of a triangular plate

    Homework Statement Shown in picture Homework Equations So far just used w=v/r The Attempt at a Solution [/B] Could only do part a. W=v/r =0.3/0.2 =1.5rad/s For part b I would assume the velocity is zero? But I don't think that's correct. Any help with part b and c would be great, and is...
  10. ramzerimar

    Internal Forces Diagram: how to do this one?

    I'm wondering how should I do analysis on those problems below: Figure 1: Figure 2: I mean, my professor, while doing an example very similar to Figure 2, he didn't do an imaginary cut in the region BD to find internal forces there, and the internal forces diagram that he drew only contained...
  11. ramzerimar

    Courses How could I apply electric/electronics to MechE?

    I really like Mechanical Engineering. I'm now at the second year of my undergrad and I'm now taking some specific courses in engineering - after a whole year of calculus and physics. I think it's the broadest engineering, and I'm an admirer of the aerospace industry and would like to work with...
  12. A

    Design a Venturi Pump with Compressed Air and Water: Feasibility & Parameters

    I am trying to develop a Ventury https://www.physicsforums.com/javascript: Pump using Compressed Air a d Motive Fluid and Suction Fluid is Water from Shallow Well. Compressed Air parameter is 6CFM Air at 7 bar using 2hp Motor & Compressor set, and required Suction Lift is about 5m. Discharge...
  13. ivtec259

    What makes ivtec259 different from other mechanical engineers?

    Hi, I am a soon to be mechanical engineer with a big interest in electrical stuff and physics in general.
  14. A

    What Drives Your Decisions and Challenges in Mechanical Engineering?

    Hello, fellow mechanical engineers. Care to spend some time to answer a few of my questions? 1) What is your biggest struggle of being a mechanical engineer? 2) What made you choose this field? 3) What is your advice towards future mechanical engineers? 4) Do you regret being a mechanical engineer?
  15. B

    Mechanical Engineering student about to lose his mind

    I am a second year student at Salt Lake Community College. About to finish my associates of science pre-engineering. I transfer to the University of Utah in the fall to start my junior year and I am kind of freeking out. I have worked my tail off. I work a full time job and take night classes...
  16. T

    Other Mechanical Engineering, real-world adv. math applications?

    Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, and commonly ponder about how much of this semi-abstract math I will actually be using the workplace. I have heard real-world ME relies pretty heavily on linear algebra and differential equations. As far as advanced Calculus goes I...
  17. Josephthe2

    Calculating deflection with rotation about center support

    I am preparing for a qualifying exam for my PhD program and am looking at some of the old tests from previous years (as supplied by the school for study/prep material). I have come across a deflection problem that has me stumped, and I might just be overthinking it. The problem:
  18. navierstokes

    Control Systems of Turbomachinery?

    I'm a sophomore of Mechanical Engineering, but I do like delving into more advanced subjects that I haven't seen in undergrad yet, and among those are fluid dynamics. I've made a little bit of research into turbomachinery (while looking for some classes that could interest me hereafter) and...
  19. ramzerimar

    Digital Systems class for a MechE

    Hey people, I need some help, preferably from the Electrical Engineers... Classes start next month and I'm stuck deciding some electives to take during my third mechanical engineering semester. Here's the thing: I decided to take some electives from the EE department so I have a good basis to...
  20. J

    Optimizing Precision in Stepper Motor Driven Gear Systems

    I am driving 2 different gears with a belt off of a stepper motor that has a step angle of 0.018 degrees. For the purpose of my project, I need to have high precision between the stepper motor and the gears that it's driving. Is it necessary to have 20,000 teeth (360/0.018) on the gear that's...
  21. ramzerimar

    Should I stay in MechE or change to Electrical?

    Hey people. First of all, I'm now in the third semester of my course in Mechanical Engineering. I have interest in aerospace/aeronautics, so there are plenty of things in mechanical that I like - fluid mechanics, aerodynamics - and that was the reason I choose this undergrad. Nonetheless, I do...
  22. ramzerimar

    MechE undergrad who also enjoys programming and eletronics?

    I'm now at the second year of my MechE course. Until now, I've taken basic classes in physics, calculus, linear algebra and basic computer programming. I choose to undergraduate in Mechanical Engineering because I'm aware that it is a good and broad degree and it's a field that I like also. It...
  23. charliebrown

    Engineering Mechanical engineering or computer systems engineering

    Hi everybody, I'm looking for some advice in what to do for choosing a career in a few weeks i'll be able to change my career path, I've recently applied for a career change in my school and next february 11 they'll tell me if my change of career is approved. it's very likely that i´ll obtain...
  24. R

    Schools Grad School with a BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology

    Hi everyone, Hopefully someone out there has gone through this as well, or can weight in on it in some way. I have a MET degree from 2007 with a cumulative gpa below 3.0. I want to get into the aerospace industry, and I'd really like to get an advanced degree to maximize my career...
  25. O

    About to study Mechanical engineering - Renewables vs oil

    I'm Currently 19 and I'm starting University this coming September, and I've received a place at the University of Edinburgh to do Mechanical engineering. Now, I've always been fascinated about big heavy industrial applications of mechanical engineering such as oil rigs and I've never really...
  26. K

    Expert Tips for Choosing the Perfect Motor - Maximize Your Design's Performance

    Hello, I am working on a design, and I am having trouble selecting a motor. I will be able to supply 1.2 A and 12VDC, and I need the motor to be able to move a load of 0.5 lbs at 500 rpm. So far, I tried calculating torque (based on F=ma and T=Fr, r=1.06 in in this case). Then I used HP=...
  27. S

    Engineering Mechanical Engineering Research Project

    Hello, my name is Lucas and I am currently in year 11. For my research project I decided to research mechanical and mechatronic engineering to compare both of the occupations in order to make a decision of what I want to pursue as career. If you have the time, please feel free to help me answer...
  28. T

    Mechanical Engineering and the military?

    Hello I'm curios to know if any of you have been affected by my current situation. Currently I go to school and major in Mechanical Engineering, I live on my own(with a roommate) have a full time job and go to school all at the same time. I wouldn't be doing all of that if I didn't have to but...
  29. vinicius0197

    Courses Choosing Between Aerospace and Control Engineering

    Hey everyone. I'm a student of Mechanical Engineering right now and even if I'm still a few years ahead to choose a field to major in, I like to have something in mind to focus on. First of all, I really appreciate the aerospace field. Airplanes and spacecraft were my main motivation in...
  30. vinicius0197

    Engineering Job Market for Control Engineers?

    I've been giving a look at some of the electives in my college - I'm a student of MechE - and became interested in Control Systems, specially after I borrowed some books in the subject in the library and read a little bit more about it. I wonder how big is the field of application of this...
  31. vinicius0197

    Engineering Is management the destiny of every engineer?

    I've been discussing with some friends of mine recently and one of them pointed out that all senior engineers end up more involved with management stuff than actual engineering work. I know that, in some cases, that is not correct, but even so, I wonder if the big opportunities in an engineering...
  32. pioneerboy

    Can an EE or ME degree lead to a career in aerospace engineering?

    Hello there, I have a few questions concerning how the choice between electrical and mechanical engineering influences one's future career if going into the aerospace branch - if possible at all. Can you do a Master or graduate in aerospace engineering with an undergraduate degree in one or the...
  33. rsk2mc

    How to Calculate Temperature in a Multi-Layer Copper Box?

    Hello, I will try and provide as much detail to the problem as I can with the hope someone can help me solve this. We are currently working on a wireless project that contains high electrical currents, because of this the box the electronics are enclosed in experience quite a temperature rise...
  34. R

    Conversion of friction energy in to electrical energy is possible?

    It is possible to convert frictional energy into electrical energy directly?... please tell me and if possible give me the formulae...
  35. Ali Durrani

    Understanding the Basic concepts of Mechanical Engineering

    Hi And Assalamualaikum i am a mechanical Final Year student i have almost completed All the subjects, but my basic concepts are very weak, can anyone help me suggesting few books or handouts that are easy in understanding the basic concepts of Mechanical Engineering. my...
  36. J

    What should I major/minor in for a career in engineering?

    Hello world, (or whos reading) My names JJ King, and I am a 1st year under grad at a community college majoring in mechanical engineering (not 100%) and stuck on it, and i'd like to minor in either mathematics or physics- but that's a little bit on me - i'd like to really get a good idea on...
  37. M

    Engineering to Physics: Guidance for Undergraduate Students

    Hello everyone! I am 3rd year Mechanical Engg. student at one of India's good institutes... I want to switch from Engg to THEORETICAL PHYSICS after my Undergrade. But I don't know how to start or what would be the proper way to study on my own Ug physics. It will be very helpful if anyone can...
  38. vinicius0197

    What Are the Pathways for MechE Students to Enter the Aerospace Field?

    Hi everyone! I'm at the end of the second semester in an mechanical engineering undergraduate course. I love spacecraft s, rocketry, aircraft and all that aerospace stuff, so I'm decided that, so long I finish my undergraduate, I'm going to pursue a major in aerospace (maybe something related...
  39. pioneerboy

    Engineering From mechanical to optical engineering

    Hi there, Is it easily possible to change to optical engineering for the MSc and being involved in big telescope constructions after getting a BSc degree in mechanical engineering? Lucius
  40. P

    Engineering Mechanical Engineering Technology

    I have a question do you think Mechanical Engineering Technology is a good degree to obtain? Would Mechanical Engineering Technology still be in demand even with manufacturing jobs being shipped over seas? Do you think getting a bachelors degree In Mechanical Engineering Technology gives you a...
  41. A

    Thermodynamics - Carnot Cycle-esque question?

    Homework Statement A reversible heat engine produces work from the temperature difference that exists between a mass of m = 9 kg of an ideal gas (cv = 716 J/kgK, R = 287 J/kgK) in a rigid container and a heat reservoir at THR = 285 K. The only heat transfer interaction experienced by the...
  42. ProjectTruth

    Engineering Could use guidance -- seeking a BA in Mechanical Engineering

    Hello all, So,I am seriously seeking a BA in Mechanical Engineering. I still have 1 year of school,and a few extra since I will be working to save up for college. I'm fairly proffecient in trigonometry and basic Algebra. And am currently studying basic Physics. But I know I need to know basic...
  43. J

    Engineering What should i do with my life? (engineering or physics)

    Hi, I'm Joel and I am pretty much finished school in Australia and have to make a decision about university in the near future. I love science (especially Physics) and mathematics at school so am certain that I will go into Science or Engineering but I am not quite sure what type. Whatever I do...
  44. J

    Increasing Cantilever Beam Stiffness

    Is it possible to create a cantilever beam with constant or increasing stiffness. I've been experimenting with several different shapes and profiles, and have not had any luck. I know that there are shapes with constant stress throughout, but I'm hoping to find a shape with constant or...
  45. Antonio V

    Engineering Where can a degree in mechanical engineering take me?

    Hi! I'm currently studying my mechanical engineering degree at a good uni in the UK . I've been doing really well so far, but I don't really know where I want to take it. I know the obvious places like working for a car company/aeronautical/manufacturing etc. are obviously the main option, but...
  46. D

    Programs Should I pursue a degree in mechanical engineering?

    Hi Everyone, I'm hoping to get some advice from you all as to whether I should go to school for an engineering degree. My dilemma is that I am 29 years old this year, I am married with a 7 year old son and a daughter to be born in January. I already have a great job and I work between 48 and...
  47. A

    Engineering Mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technology

    Hi I am new to this forum and have a series question. I have a dilemma I want to do mechanical engineering, but based on my circumstances I'm worried I may not have enough funds to get past and associates degree of engineering. do you guys think I could get a technicians job with that or should...
  48. A

    Need Help Pursuing Career in Robotics

    Hello Everyone, I posted in Physics Forums back in 2011 trying to figure out what undergraduate Major to choose based off my interests. I had received very positive feedback then and am seeking more advice now that I am further along in my career. I am a recent undergrad graduate with a major...
  49. D

    How much of the mechanical engineering entails maths?

    I am currently in a gap year, as i wanted to be 100% sure on what UNI course i was going to go for in 2016. I've been looking into mechanical engineering as a possible option, but my main worry was regarding the extent to which 'maths' is used during the course, and during your actual career. I...
  50. H

    Mechanical Engineering Personal Statement

    hi, I am applying for mechanical engineering course. The research part of my PS is about Maglev train. I choose it because i like the it works. So, i wrote about how the gap is maintained, how superconducting magnets are used and how researchers tried halbach array. know Mechanical engineering...
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