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.

View More On Wikipedia.org
  1. vinicius0197

    Engineering Mechanical Engineering with emphasis on mechatronics?

    Hey guys. I'm graduating in mechanical engineering at a university in Brazil. I'm currently on my second semester. I've started running after a mechanical engineering degree mostly because I've got a strong interest in the field of aircraft engineering, and my initial plan was to graduate in...
  2. M

    Precision hole making methods for small holes

    I'm designing a fixture for quality control and need a few precision holes. Their diameters range from 1/8" to 5/16" and need to be ±0.0002" with a depth of 1/2". I've been looking into EDM hole making and honing, but neither seem to be great for that range of diameters. Anyone know of any other...
  3. A

    Engineering Switching from mechanical engineering to physics

    Hello, I'm a Mechanical Engineering student about to begin my third year. After getting a little taste of what MechE's do, I find myself losing interest. I was undecided between MechE and Physics from the beginning, and I believe I'm preferring engineering only because of the jobs. I should also...
  4. D

    Compute damping as a function of frequency

    Hi everyone, I'm french, so sorry for my bad english. I have a problem to compute the damping as a function of frequency. In fact, I plot the transfer function between the input (which is a force applied bu a hammer) and the output (which is an acceleration). Therefore, I can analyse the mode...
  5. D

    Courses to be taken for becoming a drilling engineer

    Hello, I have completed my bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering and will be joining for my masters degree in mechanical engineering shortly. I am planning to become a drilling engineer in the petroleum industry. So in order to achieve my goal, what are the recommended courses that i...
  6. cvnaditya

    Deflection of cantilever beam having two Young's modulas

    what is the formula for the cantilever beam having two different young's modulas and moment of inertia, when a point load is acting on the free end. i have been trying but unable to get the formula. if the formula i can validate my project work and complete it
  7. S

    Engineering Mechanical Engineering vs Civil Engineering

    Hello everyone, I know this has come up a lot in the past but my situation is slightly different. As is everyones. Currently a second year general engineering student with a decision to make soon, MEng Mechanical or MEng Civil? I enjoy both subjects equally. But I will be taking an...
  8. C

    Advice for Senior Mechanical Engineering Course Selection

    Hello all, I am a Senior in Mechanical Engineering and I am in need of some advice for selecting some classes for the upcoming year. I need to select two of the three options listed below. Mechanical Vibrations Automatic Control Systems Manufacturing Process These three courses are electives...
  9. umang kapadiya

    Is mechanical engineering good choice for me?

    I like maths & also like physics. So can i make career in mech. engineering ? I am not good at programming. So if I wish to take computer engineering, it is good choice ? Please suggest best engineering branches. I'm very confused.
  10. B

    Coefficient of friction between wrench jaws and cylinder

    Homework Statement The figure shows an adjustable pipe wrench, drawn to scale. The geometry of the mechanism is arranged so that the jaws clamp more tightly as force is applied to the handle. Friction between the jaws and the pipe transfers a torque from the jaws to the pipe. Find the critical...
  11. Kyle Burris

    Mechanical noise - A/C and radon fan standing wave hum

    Hello, I am moving into a new house, remodeling, etc. & am installing a new A/C compressor and radon fan. Being that low frequency noise highly bothers me & affects my insomnia quite a bit, I am trying to look at all considerations regarding acoustics, mechanical sound propagation properties...
  12. fobsnation

    Mechanical analysis of a simple object

    Homework Statement presentation of a component and its mechanical concerns along with some mathematics behind it. Homework EquationsThe Attempt at a Solution I really have no idea how to even start this but I thought of doing the spring in mechanical pens. I would appreciate any help :)
  13. B

    MS in nuclear engineering or mechanical engineering

    Hi, I am currently trying to decide between a master in nuclear or mechanical engineering. I did my BS in mechanical engineering. If I dicide in a MS in nuclear engineering I am planning in focusing in the development of better and safer fission reactors and later on doing a PhD in fussion. I...
  14. LeDragonian

    How Is Displacement Solved in This Differential Equation?

    It has been a while since I was involved with my differential equations. I am a mech student. I was trying out a sample problem from the dynamics book and came upon this equation. k = some constant of proportionality for a spring pushing back a spring mounted slider. (1/k) arcsin(ks/v_0) = t...
  15. L

    Programs Mechanical Engineering Technology?

    Hi, I am seeking some opinions regarding a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology. I do understand the general scope of the degree opposed to Mechanical Engineering. I am without a college education and working full-time in Quality Control at an industrial CO2 laser company. A local...
  16. ecfedele

    Need some reference on centrifugal pump design

    Little bit of a disclaimer: if you take a look at my first (introductory) post, you'll see that I'm working towards aerospace engineering; therefore, this is leaning towards turbopump design, but for the time being I'll start out slow. Basically, I'd like it if anyone could help me get a sense...
  17. AdityaDev

    Robotics: ECE or mechanical engineering?

    I got to know about robotics 5-6 years ago after watching a program in the Discovery network. I even joined robotics classes and i found it fascinating. (They gave me LEGO mindstorm kits). I also learned C programming and i know python as well.(my friend told me that its important to know C...
  18. enginej

    Heat exchangers for power plants

    I'm new to this forum, and would just like to say this is a very impressive site. My question is what is the best path way in school to design heat exchangers for power plants (more geared towards nuclear power plants.) I'm currently finishing my first year of school studying mechanical...
  19. B

    Calculation of Counterbalance Mass

    Hi, I've been grappling with a calculation that appears to give me a good result, however my gut feeling says other wise. Could someone please check the layout and possibly confirm my final answer. Attached is the layout of the system. The system: -There is a long arm, d1+d2 is one link. then...
  20. X

    Schools Dilemma regarding decision between two top universities

    Hello everyone :) For a while now I have been a lurker on this website. I absolutely love the amount answers one can find to their questions. However, at the moment I am facing a great difficulty in deciding which university I should go to. I have been accepted by several top universities...
  21. M

    Finding work done in compressing (forging) a solid cylinder

    Homework Statement The problem is asking to find the change in temperature of forged cylinder. I know how to calculate this, , however I am struggling to find the work done on the cylinder, which is required to solve this problem. The cylinder is annealed copper, which is compressed from a...
  22. A

    Should I do mechanical engineering?

    Hello I have recently applied for college and I put down mechanical engineering as my number 1. I ament that good at maths in fact I struggle with it, but I am very good at solid works and I love working with metals. I still don't know if mechanical engineering is mainly designing or if there is...
  23. F

    Where can I get standard data for motion time study?

    I'm working on a school project (Plant layout). In the project, I'm in the planning phase of a new product and I need to have some standard data for motion time study (i.e. assembling) to determine equipment, space and people needed in the plant. Where can I find such data?
  24. 0

    Computer Aided Mechanical Engineering

    I am 17 years old and aspiring to be an engineer. When I go to university next year the course I will be studying is Computer-Aided Mechanical Engineering. I wanted to study just Mechanical Engineering however I did not get into the university that does it and this is the only course that I want...
  25. S

    Engineering Nuclear Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering

    I have a bachelor degree in Mechanical Engineering and I am interested in CFD. I have an admit offer for MS in Nuclear Engineering at UIUC with RA and MS in Mechanical Engineering at Stanford without any assistantship. Which one is a better option to choose considering the fact that I am not a...
  26. A

    Schools Extra courses for physics grad school after Mech.Eng?

    Hello everyone, I am starting my third year in Mechanical Engineering. I wish to get a degree in physics after my bachelors, theoretical physics, to be precise. So what extra courses should I take now in order to be ready for grad. school ? Please note that my college does not offer minors.
  27. T

    Converting stress-strain curve to shear stress-shear strain

    Homework Statement For a crystalline metal material - Elastic modulus E - Poisson ratio v - A table with test data of stresses vs. total strains, from a monotonic uniaxial tension test, which generates a stress-strain curve. How would you use this data to find the corresponding pure shear...
  28. J

    Civil Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology

    Hello, all. I am currently a Junior in Mechanical Engineering. I was doing really well up until this current semester and my grades are starting to get lower and I have been losing interest in the material. I am considering switching to civil because their technical gpa requirements are a bit...
  29. M

    Fuel Cells; PEMFC; Cause of Proton Movement

    Lately I've started learning about fuel cells, particularly proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), and a fairly basic question that has been bugging me is: Since the cathode is positive, it is clear why the electrons flow through the load and to the cathode, but why do the...
  30. R

    Automotive As a mechanical project we have been asked to design a micro steam car

    [ mod note: moved from homework ] as a mechanical project we have been asked to design a micro steam car. we have chosen to use a wobbler engine for this. The aim of the project to see how far this car can travel based on a given amount of fuel. We are making a boiler which will provide the...
  31. I

    Astrophysics and mechanical engineering

    I have recently completed my A levels with 3 A's in Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics (mechanics) Growing up I've always been fascinated by both aircraft engineering and astrophysics (how the universe came into being, how its going to end, big bang and big crunch etc.) My question is for a...
  32. Danielle Agamon

    Topics in Mechanical Engineering

    Hi! I'm currently in senior high and I'm planning to take Mechanical Engineering for my college.I want to make advance research this incoming vacation about the different things or should I call "topics" about mechanical engineering where would I start? thank you :D
  33. B

    Explosion-Proof Linear Position Control Sensor: LVDT vs. Ultrasonic Comparison

    Homework Statement , [/B]I have to recommend a linear portion control sensor, that can be used in an explosive enviroment. Unsafe electrical contacts should be avoided and the case must not permit any dust or water.Homework EquationsThe Attempt at a Solution . [/B]My thoughts are either a LVDT...
  34. A

    Choosing the Right Diameter for an Aluminum Rod | Stress Analysis Homework Help

    Homework Statement For reasons based on cost,weight,availability , etc., the choice is made to construct the rod from aluminum of σall = 100 MPA. What is an appropriate choice for the rod diameter ? Givens: (P=50 KN) Homework EquationsThe Attempt at a Solution σall=P/A , then he get the Area...
  35. V

    What Are Some Ways to Combine Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering Interests?

    My name is Vivek And i have just joined this forum.I am mechanical engineering student but i have great interest in aerospace.I want to learn more and more about aerospace and mechanical.I can made simple aeromodelling projects side by side just to enhance my aerospace engineering knowledge.Hope...
  36. JamesB93

    Dynamics assignment, power output of car

    I'm currently studying Mechanical Engineering at Level 3 in the UK and I'm beginning my integrated masters in September. I've missed a large chunk of my studies this year due to a broken collarbone I sustained earlier in the year. Instead of getting any special dispensation I'm trying to work my...
  37. J

    Programs Pursuing a Minor in Physics as a Mechanical Engineering Student: Is it Worth It?

    Hello, I'm currently a freshman planning to pursue Mechanical Engineering with the intent of getting a Master's in Nuclear Engineering. I am attempting to decide whether or not to pursue a minor in physics because I deeply enjoy physics. However, my degree by itself is challenging and I want to...
  38. N

    Needlestick Prevention Survey - High Schoolers Need Input

    My group and I are high schoolers working on an engineering project and need input. The project concerns preventing needlestick injuries and we would greatly appreciate anyone that takes the time to answer our survey. Thank you. << Survey link deleted by Moderator >>
  39. M

    Thermodynamics for Mechanical Engineering Problem

    Homework Statement A closed, rigid tank contains a two-phase liquid-vapor mixture of Refrigerant 22 initially at -20 C with a quality of 50.36%. Energy transfer by heat into the tank occurs until the refrigerant is at a final pressure of 6 bar. Determine the final temperature. If the final...
  40. MagnetDude

    Engineering I want to do nuclear, electrical, and mechanical engineering

    Because there are only so many characters I can put in the title I will future explain down here. I want to do design/work on many things... I don't know how likely it is for me to do these things, but I want to work on electric motors, generators, nuclear reactors, Combustion engines, steam...
  41. R

    Civil vs Mechanical vs Computing

    There are probably numerous threads like this, I have read them all but I'm still undecided. I am a high school senior and applying to UK universities - I have applied to more than one subject (three, actually: civil, mechanical engineering and computing, all from Imperial College) and received...
  42. A

    Heat simulation in electrical/mechanical engineering

    Hi all, I was wondering if anyone uses simulation software's to tackle the heat related issues in electrical/mechanical engineering? Regards
  43. D

    Programs Mechanical engineering major problem

    I am currently a freshman getting my undergrad in Physics, but I want to be a mechanical engineer. However, my school does not offer a degree in mechanical engineering. I would consider transferring out, but I have a full ride. The physics department at my school is also fairly good and they...
  44. T

    Mechanical Engineering thoughts in college vs. reality?

    Hi everyone, I'm a sophomore in college and we have a project discussing mechanical engineering. I'd like to know what you thought your career would be like before you graduated and now that you're in your career what is the reality. Addition questions: How long after college did you wait for...
  45. F

    Should i at least try mechanical engineering ?

    So here's the deal, currently I am in med school (1st year) and the thing is i didnt love it but I am starting to hate it now Initially i wantet to study mechanical engineering but i thought i wasnt good enough since I am not naturally good at math (i love physics though),i also was afraid on...
  46. O

    Mechanical Engineering Requirements

    Okay, I hope I'm not bothering, but I just need some help, I'm a 16 years old guy from Egypt, I love Engineering and I've learned the Autodesk Inventor in 2011 (I was only 13), anyway, I need to boost my abilities to be able to be an mechanical engineer, I'm still in high school, but I'm willing...
  47. U

    How can I better adjust myself to the American industry?

    Hello, I am a 3rd mechanical engineering major who is heavily interested into going into the nanotechnology field. I chose mechanical engineering because it is a very broad and powerful field. I have heavily interested in nanotechnology and I would love to pursue that field for a career...
  48. Thom Stoops

    Need Help Designing Mechanism for Automatic Spring Return

    I'm trying to design an entirely mechanical system for returning an extension spring to its extended state, without the assistance of electronics, pneumatics, hydraulics or any other form of auxiliary power. It's for a soft exosuit concept that simply enhances the speed and ease of walking or...
Back
Top