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DIPLOMA in Plastic Technology at Cochin University of Science and Technology
Ernakulam, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Plastic Technology at Cochin University of Science and Technology Ernakulam?
This Diploma in Plastic Technology program at Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) focuses on equipping students with essential skills for the thriving plastic industry. The curriculum covers fundamental sciences, plastic materials, processing technologies, mold design, and quality control. With plastics being integral to various sectors like packaging, automotive, and healthcare, this program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the Indian manufacturing landscape, emphasizing practical knowledge and industry relevance.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for individuals who have passed their SSLC or equivalent examinations and aspire to build a career in plastic manufacturing. It also caters to those with VHSE, ITI (Plastic Processing Operator), or KGCE (Mechanical/Chemical) qualifications seeking a lateral entry opportunity. Working professionals in related fields looking to specialize or upskill in plastic technology will find this diploma beneficial for career advancement in India''''s industrial sector.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in plastic processing units, mold manufacturing companies, quality control departments, and product design firms across India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 1.8 to 3.5 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. Growth trajectories include roles as production supervisors, quality engineers, mold designers, and technical sales executives, contributing to the nation''''s industrial growth.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Strengthen Core Engineering Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand Engineering Mathematics and Physics concepts from semesters 1 and 2. Utilize online platforms like NPTEL for supplementary learning and practice problem-solving regularly. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts, building a solid foundation for specialized subjects.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Khan Academy, Reference textbooks, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong grasp of engineering fundamentals is crucial for understanding plastic material science and processing principles, which are essential for technical roles in the plastics industry.
Hands-on Workshop Proficiency- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all workshop sessions for Basic Engineering Drawing and Workshop Practice. Focus on developing precise drawing skills and practical fabrication techniques. Seek additional practice opportunities in college workshops or local fabrication units during breaks to gain confidence with tools and machinery.
Tools & Resources
Drawing instruments, Workshop tools, Technical manuals, Local workshops for practical exposure
Career Connection
Practical skills in engineering drawing and basic workshop operations are highly valued in manufacturing and product development, directly impacting your employability in design and production roles.
Early Introduction to Plastics Fundamentals- (Semester 2)
Beyond classroom lectures, explore introductory books and online resources about different types of plastics and their applications in India. Visit local plastic product manufacturers if possible, or watch industrial process videos to visualize the concepts learned in ''''Fundamentals of Plastics''''. This proactive approach deepens understanding and sparks early interest.
Tools & Resources
Books on polymer science basics, YouTube industrial process videos, Industry publications
Career Connection
Early exposure to industry applications provides context for theoretical learning, making you more knowledgeable and passionate, which is advantageous during internships and job interviews.
Intermediate Stage
Master Plastics Processing and Mold Design Software- (Semester 3-4)
Focus intensely on ''''Plastics Processing Technology'''' and ''''Mould & Die Design''''. Beyond lectures, get hands-on experience with simulation software like Moldflow or basic CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks) available in the college lab or through free student licenses. Practice designing simple molds and simulating basic processes to understand real-world challenges.
Tools & Resources
Moldflow software (student version), SolidWorks/AutoCAD, Design project assignments, Online tutorials
Career Connection
Proficiency in CAD/CAE and a strong understanding of processing technologies are critical skills for roles in product development, mold design, and process optimization within Indian plastic manufacturing companies.
Comprehensive Plastics Testing and Quality Control- (Semester 3-4)
Engage deeply with Plastics Testing & Quality Control subjects and lab sessions. Understand the standards (BIS, ASTM, ISO) for plastic testing. Practice performing tests accurately and interpreting results. Seek opportunities for short projects involving material characterization to build analytical skills and attention to detail.
Tools & Resources
Testing lab equipment, Relevant BIS/ASTM standards, Quality control charts, Mini-projects on material characterization
Career Connection
Expertise in quality control and testing is highly sought after by plastic industries to ensure product reliability and compliance, opening doors to quality assurance and R&D positions.
Active Communication and Project Engagement- (Semester 3-4)
Leverage the ''''Communication Skills'''' subject to refine your technical writing and presentation abilities. Actively participate in the final ''''Project'''' in Semester 4. Choose a project topic aligned with current industry trends or challenges in India (e.g., plastic recycling, biodegradable plastics). Focus on problem-solving, teamwork, and effective documentation.
Tools & Resources
Presentation tools (PowerPoint), Technical writing guides, Project management tools, Team collaboration platforms
Career Connection
Strong communication and project management skills are essential for collaborating in professional environments. A well-executed project demonstrates your problem-solving capabilities, enhancing your resume for placements and future career growth.
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in SSLC / Equivalent Examination. For Lateral entry, pass in VHSE / ITI (Plastic Processing Operator) / KGCE (Mechanical / Chemical) with at least one year of industrial experience in Plastic Industry.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (for Theory), 50% (for Practical/Project), External: 75% (for Theory), 50% (for Practical/Project)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 101 | ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS – I | Core | 4 | Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus (Differentiation), Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry |
| 102 | ENGINEERING PHYSICS – I | Core | 4 | Units and Measurements, Properties of Matter, Heat and Thermodynamics, Optics, Sound and Waves |
| 103 | ENGINEERING CHEMISTRY – I | Core | 4 | Atomic Structure and Periodic Table, Chemical Bonding, Acids and Bases, Water Technology, Environmental Chemistry |
| 104 | BASIC ENGINEERING DRAWING | Core | 4 | Drawing Instruments and Conventions, Geometrical Constructions, Orthographic Projections, Sectional Views, Isometric Projection |
| 105 | WORKSHOP PRACTICE – I | Lab | 2 | Fitting, Sheet Metal Work, Carpentry, Welding (Arc, Gas), Foundry |
| 106 | PHYSICS LAB – I | Lab | 2 | Measurement of Physical Constants, Experiments on Properties of Matter, Experiments on Heat, Optical Instruments, Basic Electrical Measurements |
| 107 | CHEMISTRY LAB – I | Lab | 2 | Volumetric Analysis, pH Measurement, Water Hardness Determination, Corrosion Rate Measurement, Fuel Analysis |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 201 | ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS – II | Core | 4 | Calculus (Integration), Differential Equations, Matrices and Determinants, Vector Algebra, Laplace Transforms |
| 202 | ENGINEERING PHYSICS – II | Core | 4 | Electrostatics and Current Electricity, Magnetism and Electromagnetism, Semiconductor Physics, Lasers and Fiber Optics, Modern Physics |
| 203 | ENGINEERING CHEMISTRY – II | Core | 4 | Electrochemistry, Corrosion and its Control, Fuels and Combustion, Lubricants, Polymer Chemistry Fundamentals |
| 204 | FUNDAMENTALS OF PLASTICS | Core | 4 | History and Evolution of Plastics, Classification of Polymers, Polymerization Techniques, Additives for Plastics, Basic Properties of Plastics |
| 205 | WORKSHOP PRACTICE – II | Lab | 2 | Machine Shop Operations (Lathe, Drilling), Basic Plastics Fabrication, Surface Finishing Processes, Assembly Techniques, Measurement and Inspection |
| 206 | PHYSICS LAB – II | Lab | 2 | Experiments on Electricity and Magnetism, Semiconductor Device Characteristics, Logic Gates, Optical Fibre Communication, Spectroscopy |
| 207 | CHEMISTRY LAB – II | Lab | 2 | Polymer Synthesis, Analysis of Plastics (Identification Tests), Experiments on Fuels and Lubricants, Electrochemical Cells, Qualitative Organic Analysis |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 301 | PLASTIC MATERIALS | Core | 4 | Thermoplastics (Polyolefins, PVC, PS), Engineering Plastics (Nylons, PC, ABS), Thermosetting Plastics (Phenolics, Epoxies), Elastomers and Rubbers, Biodegradable and Recycled Plastics |
| 302 | PLASTICS PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY – I | Core | 4 | Extrusion Process and Equipment, Injection Molding Technology, Blow Molding Techniques, Thermoforming, Calendering and Coating |
| 303 | PLASTICS MOULD & DIE DESIGN – I | Core | 4 | Principles of Mold Design, Two-Plate Molds, Runner, Gate, and Sprue Systems, Cooling Systems in Molds, Ejection Systems |
| 304 | PLASTICS TESTING & QUALITY CONTROL | Core | 4 | Mechanical Properties Testing (Tensile, Impact), Thermal Properties Testing (HDT, Vicat), Electrical Properties Testing, Chemical Resistance Testing, Quality Control Concepts and Statistical Methods |
| 305 | PLASTICS WORKSHOP – I | Lab | 2 | Extrusion Machine Operation, Injection Molding Machine Operation, Blow Molding Machine Operation, Thermoforming Practice, Basic Troubleshooting of Machines |
| 306 | PLASTICS TESTING LAB – I | Lab | 2 | Melt Flow Index Testing, Density Measurement, Tensile Strength Testing, Impact Strength Testing (Izod, Charpy), Hardness Testing |
| 307 | COMMUNICATION SKILLS | Lab | 2 | Listening and Speaking Skills, Effective Writing, Technical Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Interview Techniques |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 401 | PLASTIC PRODUCT DESIGN & CAE | Core | 4 | Principles of Plastic Product Design, Material Selection for Design, CAD for Plastics, FEA for Plastic Components, Rapid Prototyping |
| 402 | PLASTICS PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY – II | Core | 4 | Compression Molding, Transfer Molding, Rotational Molding, Reaction Injection Molding (RIM), Polymer Compounding and Blending |
| 403 | PLASTICS MOULD & DIE DESIGN – II | Core | 4 | Three-Plate Molds, Hot Runner Systems, Unscrewing Molds, Die Design for Extrusion, Mold Materials and Manufacturing |
| 404 | INDUSTRIAL MANAGEMENT | Core | 4 | Principles of Management, Production Planning and Control, Total Quality Management, Industrial Safety and Health, Entrepreneurship Development |
| 405 | PLASTICS WORKSHOP – II | Lab | 2 | Compression Molding Operation, Rotational Molding Process, Film Blowing Extrusion, Recycling of Plastic Waste, Adhesive Bonding and Welding of Plastics |
| 406 | PLASTICS TESTING LAB – II | Lab | 2 | Thermal Analysis (DSC, TGA), Rheological Characterization, Electrical Properties Testing, Flammability Testing, Weathering Resistance Testing |
| 407 | PROJECT | Project | 2 | Project Formulation and Planning, Literature Review, Experimental Design and Execution, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Technical Report Writing and Presentation |
