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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    Engineering Advice for Mech. Eng. Grad Looking to be Landscape or Ag. Engineer

    studying mech engineering but want to be landscape architect or agriculture engineer Next year I will graduate with a bs. in mechanical engineering, what advice can you give me if i want to become a landscape architect or an agricultural engineer( courses i can take ,or ways i can squeeze into...
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    Programs Mechanical Engineering vs Civil Engineering Major?

    I'm interested in either of these disciplines, but I'm stuck between the two. What exactly is the difference between these two fields of engineering and what are the pro's and con's of each? I'm relatively good at math and physics, so in which field would I be able to utilize my skills more? In...
  3. U

    Is this enough of a reason to take up Mechanical Engineering?

    Is this enough of a reason to take up Mechanical Engineering?? I'm going to do an MS in Mechanical Engineering, and so I need to write an SOP )Statement Of Purpose/ Application Essay) for grad school admissions. To be frank, during undergrads, the sole reason I took up mechanical engineering...
  4. U

    Research in mechanical engineering- what is it all about(just general idea)

    Research in mechanical engineering-- what is it all about(just general idea) Hi, I'm a student of mechanical engineering and I'd like to do an MS degree following my undergrads. Up till now, I've had experience in only simulation based research i.e. during my final year project, my...
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    Engineering Mechanics vs Mechanical Engineering?

    I'm primarily interested in engineering mechanics because I like the narrowness of the program to classical mechanics rather than a broad range of subjects including other areas of physics as well. My only concern is the job availability. What are the pro's and con's to engineering mechanics...
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    Information on Mechanical Engineering

    Homework Statement Hello i am majoring in engineering and i would like to know from the mouth of an engineer what you guys do all day, what is the average work day like? is it all calculations and math or is it hands on building things? Homework Equations The Attempt at a Solution
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    How often is mathematics used in Mechanical Engineering?

    Hi, What kinds of mathematics are used in Mechanical Engineering? How often is math used? Is it used almost every step of the way? I'm a physics and mathematics fanatic and I am trying to find a career with a lot of mathematics, physics, and mechanical kind of stuff. Thanks,
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    Engineering Should I Switch from Civil to Mechanical Engineering?

    I just finished my freshman year in civil and I have an internship at a civil and land surveying firm lined up for the summer, but I’m thinking about switching to mech next year and want some advice. Either way, as far as the summer job goes, I’m sure experience in an engineering firm would be...
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    Engineering What is mechanical engineering like?

    Hi, I am considering doing mechanical engineering as a career. What is mechanical engineering like? What are some of the duties like? Is mathematics involved every step of the way? If so, what kind of mathematics are involved? I am trying to find a career that is interesting and involves a...
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    Engineering Engineering Physics or Mechanical Engineering

    Well I am unsure which degree I should go after, I like Engineering Physics because its so broad and includes elements from ME, EE, and normal physics, and this makes me happy because I really I feel like I can learn more and have more job opportunities, but then again lots of websites have told...
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    Dynamics Impulse problem mechanical engineering

    Homework Statement find tension in cable and velocity of B after 5 seconds. System released from rest. no slipping, neglect weight of pulley and cable.Homework Equations τ(t) = Iω Parallel axis theorem? The Attempt at a Solution Picture of problem: http://i49.tinypic.com/5ue7sx.jpgthe question...
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    Engineering Physics = Mechanical Engineering ?

    Physics = Mechanical Engineering ? Hello, Something just occurred to me last night. A B.S. in physics covers almost the same material covered in a B.S degree in mechanical engineering. Think about: thermodynamics, statics, mechanics, etc. Of course the latter does have more coursework...
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    Should I switch from Physics to Mechanical Engineering?

    Hey guys, this is my first post on here. I'm a second-year physics major at a large public university in the U.S., and I am considering changing my major to mechanical engineering (with a physics minor. I faced this decision at the same time last year. If I were to switch I would have to stay...
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    Solving a Mechanical Engineering Problem: AISI 1020 HR Steel Shaft

    Hey. This is my first post, I'm a Senior in Mechanical Engineering, I will help others as far as I can. I'm trying to solve the problem from the picture. The shaft is loaded with 2 transverse loads, 2 moments and 2 torques. The critical point is immediately to the left of "B". The material is...
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    Mechanical engineering so many Choices?

    Hello all, I am a pre-junior mechanical engineering student at Drexel University. I am a non traditional student working on my second bachelors and absolutely love it. I find myself amazed by the fact at my age (33) I have the opportunity to study full time. I will just say for anyone...
  16. T

    Electrical engineering or mechanical engineering

    Hello name is Thomas and I know I want to be an engineer. I am just torn between becoming an electrical engineer or a mechanical engineer. I know the term engineer covers many fields but I was just wondering if maybe someone could give me there opinion. If there are any engineers that could...
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    Career Advice for Mechanical Engineering

    Hi Everyone, I am at a road block in my life where I have no idea what to do next in terms of my career plans. I graduated with a Bachelors in Biochemistry, and recently, I realized there was nothing that spoke to me within this field which I could obtain as a career. I looked into...
  18. 0

    Engineering Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

    Hi guys, I'm currently completing my first year of Engineering. Program selection forms are due in a few days and I am stuck between Electrical and Mechanical engineering. I want a broad-based education that will allow me to pursue just about anything if I prefer to. I have spoken to many...
  19. S

    What are the major areas of study in a Mechanical Engineering Degree?

    Hello, I am interested in finding out what are the primary fields of study for a degree in Mechanical Engineering. I also want to know how these fields of study fit together. If anyone can help, please contact me. Thank you.
  20. 8

    Can I Transition from Civil to Mechanical Engineering with a Low GPA?

    Greetings, I'm currently a month away from obtaining my undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering. My school (Located in CA) carries a decent rank within the engineering community and, from my experience, has a fairly solid curriculum. My issue is that I spent my first two years as an...
  21. M

    Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering?

    Hi everyone, I just got my Journeyman ticket as a heavy duty mechanic and finally amassed enough money to go back to school. I want to get a bachelors degree in either Mechanical or Electrical Engineering. The choice is haunting me I don't no what to do. I think I would be happy in either...
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    Courses Choice of 2 options for Mechanical Engineering Course - Vibrations or Mechanisms

    Good evening, I am unsure as to whether or not I am posting this question in the apropraite section of the this forum and apologize if I am not. With that said I will let you in on the question that I have for you tonight. I am currently a fourth year undergraduate student pursuing a...
  23. B

    Mechanical Engineering Placement Thermodynamics Problem

    Hi all I am struggling with this classs example A pump compressing hydrogen from a low pressure to a high pressure tank where the tanks pressure is constant and H2 is an ideal gas. Hydrogen: (H2: MW = 2, Cv = 10 kJ/kgK) Low pressure tank: (P = 4 bar, T = 30oC) High pressure tank: (P = 100...
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    Good (free) resource for learning basic mechanical engineering

    Hi there, I'm a biomedical engineering undergrad currently enrolled in an university whose engineering program is about as masochistic as any other. I'm doing pretty damn well in all my classes not named "biomechanics", which I attribute to my continued inability to learn much of anything at the...
  25. S

    Motion in circles mechanical engineering

    first time guys. i have a disc with a bearing and a shaft through it. the disc is rotating in simple harmonic motion with a dynamic force of 14400N and speed of 2.43 rpm. i need to use electromagnets to stop this disc from rotating. questions. -where or can can i get electromagnets to stop...
  26. S

    Engineering Engineering Physics vs. Mechanical Engineering

    Hey forum Which one can be considered "better" and why? I'm inclining towards Engineering Physics for my master of science in engineering, but I haven't really looked into mechanical engineering and was wondering what the forum has to say about it.
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    Basic Question in Mechanical Engineering

    In this question and solution: http://imgur.com/Z8DMo Why is it that when we examine the bar BCD, the force exerted by the bar AD, TAD , is not considered in the free body diagram, but when you examine the bar DFG, it is considered in the free body diagram?
  28. 0

    Mechanical engineering vs mechatronics vs software engineering

    Need help :D Hi everyone, I am finishing my high-school and I have to decide what I'm going to study next. I cannot decide between mechanical engineering, mechatronics(modul: robotics) and software engineering. This is what I would like to do...
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    Need help desciding if I am mechanical engineering material. Thanks

    I have worked several different jobs, such as a mechanic for 7 years, logger for 4 years and a welder for 3 years. long stories for each, but i am mechanically inclined. Everywhere i have gone i have been able to look at different things and figure them out quickly, how to fix them and how they...
  30. K

    Programs Mechanical engineering degree vs mechanical engineering technology degree

    What is the difference? My school only offers the technology one. It says you can still take the exams to become a licensed engineer. Will this make an impact job wise? Good or bad?
  31. K

    Biggest differences between aerospace and mechanical engineering?

    I've recently considered going back to college for engineering. What are the biggest differences in aerospace and mechanical engineering other than aerospace being focused on air born objects? I think I've really taken an interest on the side of aerospace engineering. If you are an aerospace...
  32. K

    Biggest differences between aerospace and mechanical engineering?

    I've recently considered going back to college for engineering. What are the biggest differences in aerospace and mechanical engineering other than aerospace being focused on air born objects? I think I've really taken an interest on the side of aerospace engineering. If you are an aerospace...
  33. B

    Engineering Is it easy to go from a Mechanical Engineering background to Physics

    Hi, I am currently an mechanical engineering student. When i finish my BS in engineering i want to a BS in physics. Will i have to take a lot of additional courses in the physics BS?
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    Mechanical engineering if you hated Physics I (Mechanics)

    Hi, I was wondering that if one disliked Physics I (Mechanics & Waves), would they hate mechanical engineering as well? How closely related are the two? Here is the curriculum for my Physics I course: "The basic laws and principles of Newtonian mechanics; oscillations and waves". So kinematics...
  35. P

    Programs Physics major vs mechanical engineering?

    Hey guys. So I came here to ask a couple of questions that you guys probably know the answers to. Basically, I am a high school senior and I took physics in my junior year, and I loved it so much I took it again in senior year (this time just a higher level course). I'm really loving it. I ace...
  36. H

    Master's in electrical engineering after bachelor's in mechanical engineering?

    Hello, Is it possible to get into master's program for electrical engineering (in North America) after completing a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering? The reason being is that I plan to pursue a bachelor's in mechanical engineering because that's the 'safe' degree for where I live...
  37. Q

    Transition from Mechanical Engineering to Physics

    Hello, I am currently a second semester sophomore studying Mechanical Engineering thinking about studying Physics at the graduate level after my undergraduate degree is done. My main inquiry is regarding the transition from Mechanical Engineering to Physics. How hard is it exactly (if at all)...
  38. N

    Mechanical Engineering Tools help

    (I apologize ahead of time If I posted this in the wrong section) I'm in the process of starting an import business. I'm trying to do some market research and need some help, since I don't know too many mechanical engineers myself I want to know if any of you have any experience with these...
  39. K

    What maths would you need for mechanical engineering?

    I mean when we're getting into higher level courses and real life, what are the more applicable subjects in math for mechanical engineering? I'm not asking for myself but for a friend. He wants to get into Computational Fluid Dynamics and would like to prepare himself better during his...
  40. O

    Pure mathematics vs Mechanical engineering

    This year, I will apply for University of Waterloo, and I am quite certain that I will attend this university. But I have been having trouble of deciding my major. Of course, I don't want you to determine my major on in stead of my self! I am asking for advice. I really liked playing with...
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    Engineering What is Mechanical engineering techonology?

    I'm currently a Mechanical engineering major in my junior year. My current GPA through my sophomore year is 2.75 (2.4 for Major) (yeah my humanities are keeping me afloat..hmm). I was thinking of switching to Economics or Business but i just don't think i'd enjoy those either. I found that...
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    Which Field of Research should be chosen in Mechanical Engineering

    Dear Fellows I am just going to start my PhD in Mechanical Engineering. Can you people suggest me, which area should I choose? That will be interesting and challenging... Any Suggestions PLEASE... Saqib.
  43. N

    Civil vs Mechanical Engineering - Structural

    Hey, I am currently a sophomore Civil Engineering student, however I'm not sure whether I should be studying civil or mechanical (based off what I want to get into). Basically, I want to specialize at some point in the structural aspect, however, I know each field branches off into this...
  44. T

    MS in Architectural Engineering vs MS in Mechanical Engineering

    Which is harder? The MS Mechanical Engineering program I'm just starting seems pretty intense and heavy on physics. I'm currently working in AE, but I chose ME for a variety of reasons. Is a MS program in Architectural Engineering equally heavy in physics and theory, or is it more practical...
  45. P

    Control Theory Book for a Mechanical Engineering

    Most books I looked for Control Systems seem to be written by Electrical Engineers. Is there a good book which is written from the point of view of a Mechanical Engineers?
  46. E

    Engineering Electrical or Mechanical Engineering?

    Hello people of the forum. This is my first time posting and in advance thanks for your answers. I Like engineering, math and especially physics. At the moment I am in EE becouse I think it have a lot physics and I guess it have to do a lot with power generation and new technologies. But...
  47. E

    Mechanical Engineering personal statement

    I am very interested in pursuing a career in Mechanical Engineering, and I am in the process of writing my Personal Statement for universities. However, I am not sure what would be good to include, I have around 1 month until the deadline for applications, and in that time I would like to do...
  48. E

    Mechanical Engineering personal statement

    I am very interested in pursuing a career in Mechanical Engineering, and I am in the process of writing my Personal Statement for universities. However, I am not sure what would be good to include, I have around 1 month until the deadline for applications, and in that time I would like to do...
  49. S

    Ideas for final year project of mechanical engineering

    Title basically explains what I'm asking for. It is supposed to be a major design project with complete design, analysis and implementation. Our faculty consistently produces a whole bunch of the dullest projects every year. Suggest something with quite a bit of a wow-factor.
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