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. S

    Basic Mechanical Engineering Help Required

    Hi there, hoping someone can help me. I am studying ICS distance learning course and, well to be honest am getting no support whatsoever from the course tutor AND have discovered lots of mistakes in their learning modules. I have no faith in them now whatsoever! However, I need to complete the...
  2. T

    Mechanical engineering technologist

    hey Lads and Lass', I am planning on going back to school and I was hoping I could get some advice from you fine folks. First, I'll give you a bit of background on my situation. I'm a red seal HVAC/R mechanic with an extensive background in building automation systems (DDC systems...
  3. N

    Master's in Mechanical Engineering

    Hello all, I am going to finish my under-grad degree in EPhysics in about a little bit over a year so it's time to pick post-graduate plans. I decided to go to grad school for a Masters in engineering, particularly Mechanical. I was wondering is this plausible? I know mechanical...
  4. J

    Engineering Mechanical Engineering vs Civil

    Hello I am wondering what is the better one to go into. This upcoming year I will be going into first year engineering, then the second year we must choose our specialty., Right now I am thinking about civil and mechanical. I don't like the ideas behind electrical nor am I interested in it. I...
  5. L

    Engineering What are gradschool options for Mechanical Engineering?

    Just wondering what I could go into for grad school with a ME undergrad? I really enjoy physics, but I want to be more "hands-on" for my career, but at the same time I want to be able to freely communicate with professional physicists. Is there a website or something that lays out graduate...
  6. M

    Planning on Mechanical Engineering or Aeronautics.

    I'm planning on going to USA in school. If I take BSc in Mathematics is it possible for me to go to Aerospace engineering as major or Mechanical? I have searched many schools and some of them teach Mechanical as BSc. But if I will not get into school that teaches Mechanical engineering can I...
  7. N

    Mechanical Engineering Projects Ideas

    heyyy ppl am studyin 3rd year b.e mechanical engg. nd am plannin to do som projects i don't know anythin in it so pleasez guide me seniors brothers frends please help me
  8. L

    Engineering Transition to Civil from Mechanical Engineering?

    Hi, I'm currently enrolled in a university studying Mechanical Engineering (I'm one of the only girls in my classes). I like it, but I really would like to be doing Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering, but my college doesn't offer it. My advisor told me I could transition to Civil...
  9. G

    Engineering How stable is Aerospace Engineering? What about Mechanical Engineering?

    Which one is more stable? I heard that Aerospace Engineers get hired for a job, then get fired. I'm going to be a junior in High School next year and I'm thinking about what I want to be. Thanks!
  10. G

    Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering?

    Hi, I'm going to be a junior in High School next year and I am trying to decide what I want to be. I think i narrowed it down to Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering. What would be easier to find a job with? Are they both relatively easy, or hard? I heard that if you have a...
  11. N

    Information for a beginner in mechanical engineering

    Hi everyone! This is my first post on these forums. I have successfully passed and secured an all India rank of 396 in IITJEE this year. I am going to study mechanical engineering in IIT Bombay. Hence i need some kind of an insight in this department. My actual interest was in both...
  12. Z

    Computer Science or Mechanical Engineering?

    Which branch has a bigger scope (in terms of pay package) in India and Worldwide - C.Sc. or Mechanical Engineering? Which one is better - M.B.A. or M.S. after B.Tech. in any of the above branches? How do I find out if I have interest in Computer Science Engineering? Although I have interest in...
  13. J

    Aerospace Engineering vs. Mechanical Engineering

    Hi, I am currently a high school junior and I've wanted to be an Aerospace engineer for a long time. But I recently began to wonder if i could do just as well or better with a Mechanical degree. I would like to have a job dealing with airflow (fluid dynamics, aeroelasticity, structural analysis...
  14. A

    Engineering Combining Electrical & Mechanical Engineering with Computer Science?

    Hello everyone, To start, I am trying make a connection between my Engineering Interests and the majors college has to offer for them. To help this discussion, this is what I like to do in my free time. I like to drawing, build things from random parts, learning how things work, etc. I...
  15. R

    Required Computer Skills for Mechanical Engineering

    Hey guys, I am a freshmen planning to Major in Mechanical Engineering. After I graduate, I want to purse a career in the Aerospace industry coz Aviation is my interest. I was wondering what kind of computer programming skills and CAD designing skills should I acquire inorder to make myself...
  16. A

    Aerospace or mechanical engineering?

    Hello, I am just starting college and I have been intending on getting my BA in Aerospace Engineering but lately engineers that I have talked to say that a safer and equal paying job would be Mechanical Engineering. I was wondering which would be a better decision from a job security, financial...
  17. D

    Engineering Geological vs. Mechanical Engineering

    Hello. I am currently finishing up my first semester as a junior in geological engineering. I have been thinking about changing to mechanical engineering. I chose geological engineering because I wanted to get into the energy industry either geothermal (because I am from Nevada) or oil. I feel...
  18. A

    Engineering Research in Mechanical Engineering

    Hello, I am a student of mechanical engineering. I am considering a research career in my field. The reason I'm attracted to research is I want to be doing something new everyday not a regular job routine. Also I have a fiercely independent nature and i hate to be ordered around. I like to do...
  19. D

    Engineering Mastering Mechanical Engineering

    Hey everyone, I am studying mechanical engineering. I just want to know if you recommend having a master in any of Mechanical Engineering's branches, and if you know what are it's benefits because most of my friends said that it's waist of time (Don't know why!) Thanks :D
  20. B

    What classes and programs to take for Mechanical Engineering in HS?

    What classes or programs would good to take or participate in while in high school for an introduction and background in Mechanical Engineering before college? Also, what colleges are the best for Engineering? Thanks so much.
  21. A

    (aerospace engineering or mechanical engineering) my difficult decision

    Hello! I know this is a popular topic. But I really need help. I am going to study Aerospace Engineering ( undergraduate) . The problem is that I have already applied for Aerospace Engineering, and now I am hesitating about Aero Eng. or Mech. Eng. I like Engineering. My problem is that I am...
  22. R

    Advice Needed: Pursuing Physics Career from Mechanical Engineering

    Summary: I'm a mechanical engineering student from a developing country who wants to pursue an academic career in physics. However, there are several obstacles such as financial dependence, conflicts of interest with family members, and the probability of doing undergraduate education in...
  23. E

    Programming in mechanical engineering

    Hi, I have a general question related to the mechanical engineering profession. I am a second year mechanical engineering student and I also have a college degree in computer science, my skills are mainly C/C++ programming and networking/Linux environment (system administration). I love...
  24. J

    Diodes application in mechanical engineering

    can anyone give me some suggestions on the applications of diodes to our course? i'm not really familiar with machines that uses diodes. a simple example would be enough and highly appreciated. i'm just a 2nd year college student by the way.
  25. H

    Analytical Mechanics in Mechanical Engineering

    How important is Analytical Mechanics in Mechanical Engineering? I'm asking that because my regular course does not offer Analytical Mechanics in its original curriculum, so I would have to get it as an elective from Physics course (curriculums are pretty much pre-defined in here). Thing is...
  26. F

    Engineering Can a mechanical engineering guy apply for MS in physics?

    I am a 2nd year student at BITS Pilani(India) and I am pursuing in mechanical engg. Since in India you don't have a lot of options other than engineering and my college has a good reputation here, I decided to opt for engineering. However, I don't have any real interest in engineering and I...
  27. B

    Engineering Should I Minor in Polymer Science or Computer Science for a Career in Aerospace?

    Hello, I am currently a sophomore at Georgia Tech as a Mechanical engineering major. My ultimate goal is to do advanced research for aerospace but a bit more on the mechanical side (propulsion, structures, etc). I was wondering if getting a minor in polymer science/ material science would be...
  28. B

    Engineering Exploring Mechanical Engineering: Pros, Cons, and Job Opportunities

    I'm currently a senior in high school who is wondering about the difference between some fields of engineering. I'm taking AP Calculus, and AP physics. Mechanical Engineering is my top choice as of right now I'm wondering what the pros and cons of the job is, as well as the difficulty of the...
  29. C

    Choosing Mechanical Engineering

    Hello, I am a senior in high school and I have been looking into the field of Mechanical Engineering. I am in a somewhat frustrating position because the program I was confident was right for me now seems somewhat lackluster. My interest lies in Mechanical Engineering because I am intrigued...
  30. S

    Civil vs Mechanical Engineering: Seeking Professional Advice

    Hi! I'm currently a 2nd Year Civil engineering student, and I wrote this topic for I am seeking a professional advice, actually I have doubts whether should I stay in my current course or to shift in mechanical engineering, and lately I find my course a bit boring and uninteresting (is...
  31. Q

    Courses Short Courses for Mech. Eng. Student: C++, Elec., Pneu. Ind. Ctrl.

    is learning C++ worth it to be studied? electronics?(i took this last semester but i think the hands-on part are not enough). how about pneumatic industrial controls? ...or can you suggest any other short courses? pls give me some good advice. pls pls pls. thanks in advance :D note: when...
  32. R

    Schools Grad School Mechanical Engineering Programs

    What are some decent grad schools for mechanical engineers without a perfect GPA? I would like to start researching my options but I really have no idea where to start
  33. U

    Engineering PhD areas in Mechanical Engineering.

    Hi, I am basically very interested in Physics,and right from when I was in school,I wanted to take up a career in Physics. However,due to certain reasons,I could not get admitted into a Physics major degree. In order to stay as close to main stream Physics as possible,I took up Mechanical...
  34. B

    Engineering Mechanical Engineering, Questions about the job?

    Hi, I'm a freshman in college, and I'm working on a research paper for my own career choice. I've been very interested in majoring in Mechanical engineering since last year. I'm a true car junkie. I spend hours reading different articles about cars and engines. I'm really interested in all of...
  35. S

    Engineering Civil or Mechanical Engineering: Which Path Should I Choose?

    I am in dilemma, don't know whether to do mechanical or civil engineering. Civil engineering has lots of scope in my country but mechanical has got none. I have chance to study them both at scholarships. Which should i choose?
  36. A

    Looking for a mechanical engineering school

    Hi, I am 23 years old and am interested in pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering. I am currently a business major but I just hate it. Engineering is my real calling. I would like to find a school that has a more project-based/hands-on approach. I like the idea of having a degree, but...
  37. G

    Engineering From civil engineering to mechanical engineering?

    help I am having trouble deciding for my future. i live here in the philippines, and yes maybe most graduates from a third world country may be looked down to but i want to maximize what i can learn from my engineering school(mapua institute of technology) to ensure me a good future. im...
  38. P

    Send dismal PGRE scores to mechanical engineering programs?

    So a little background, physics major/math minor 3.81 overall GPA, 3.65 physics 4 good letters of rec combined 4.5 yrs research with 3+ at a good internship with a very renowned government funded private research company in southern California, don't want to name names However, I just...
  39. X

    Mechanical Engineering Major -> Aerospace

    Mechanical Engineering Major --> Aerospace The university that I am attending does not have an aerospace program, however we do have mechanical engineering. I was wondering what my concentration in mechanical engineering would be if I wanted to pursue aerospace afterwards. The two...
  40. U

    Query regarding Mechanical engineering project

    Hi,I'm in the second year of my mechanical engineering course in SRM (Chennai)...I am interested in pursuing research in Mechanical engineering after Btech and my favourite subjects are Thermodynamics and fluid dynamics. I was wondering if a project related aeronautical engineering (which is...
  41. S

    How Should I Transition from Navy to Mechanical Engineering?

    I'm new to this site. This concern that I have has various parts. Here we go. I started out studying CE up to sophmore year at FAMU-FSU School of Engineering and ended up completing a B.A. in Math at another university in 1998 (financial issues). Joined the Navy in 1999 and about to leave...
  42. A

    What Defines the Roles of Mechanical Engineering Technician and Technologist?

    1) Is there a difference between Mechanical Engineering Technician and technologist? 2) If the University program is call Mechanical Engineering Technology - Design does that mean ill be taught mainly on Designing? 3) Is it mandatory for me to have my grade 11 and 12 Chemistry credit to...
  43. Z

    Engineering Chemical or Mechanical Engineering?

    I had interest in Chemical Engineering since 9th grade. But now when I'm in 12th, Mechanical engineering gained my interest. When I looked at the subjects taught in these branches, some were out of my interest. Now every other branch (aerospace, material science etc) I see, I don't like all...
  44. D

    Final year project ideas in mechanical engineering

    hi!... friends.. am new to this phyisics forum.. can anyone assist me in doing ma final year project? please give me some basic ideas to start with... thanks in advance..
  45. S

    Mechanical Engineering 3D force system

    Homework Statement A system of cables suspends a crate weighing W = 420 lb. The dimensions in the figure are as follows: h = 20.9 ft, l = 5.70 ft, x = 7.05 ft, \theta = 36.0\circ, and \phi = 20.0\circ. Determine TA, TD, and TE, the tensions in cable segments CA, CD, and CE, respectively...
  46. A

    Engineering Is mechanical engineering a good career path in Canada ?

    I attend Canadian university and in civil engineering program(I finished up my 2nd year). I am thinking of transferring into mechanical engineering. However, I do not know what kind of career path I can expect in Canada with mechanical engineering. There is not any big company in Canada and...
  47. A

    Mechanical engineering or engineering science and mechanics

    Hi! I am an undergraduate student going to Virginia Tech at the moment and have run into a bit of a problem. I've had to take some time off of school for the last year to deal with some medical problems- but I hope to be back in the fall! Before I left to deal with medical issues I was...
  48. A

    What are some recommended mechanical engineering books?

    Hi people does anyone here know of any good mechanical engineering books. I want to get one but i don't really know what's good or not , i don't really want to waste the money on getting something that isn't very good, the prices aren't cheap for some of those books. thanks people.
  49. C

    Find a Mechanical Engineering Project Idea

    Homework Statement please suggest me an idea for doing project in mechanical engineering Homework Equations The Attempt at a Solution
  50. A

    Higher education in Mechanical Engineering

    I am Nelson from New york..I want to complete my higher education in Mechanical Engineering. I would want to know various universities which offer them nearby.
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