

M-TECH in Thermal Energy Systems at Indian Institute of Technology Indore


Indore, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Thermal Energy Systems at Indian Institute of Technology Indore Indore?
This Thermal Energy Systems program at Indian Institute of Technology Indore focuses on advanced principles and applications of heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics. With India''''s growing energy demands and push for sustainable solutions, this specialization addresses critical needs in power generation, renewable energy, and industrial thermal management. The program distinguishes itself by combining rigorous theoretical foundations with practical system design and analysis, preparing engineers for a dynamic energy landscape in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in Mechanical, Chemical, or closely related disciplines who possess a strong aptitude for thermal sciences. It caters to fresh graduates aspiring to enter the energy sector, as well as working professionals aiming to upgrade their skills in thermal system design, energy efficiency, and renewable technologies. Candidates seeking to contribute to India''''s energy security and environmental sustainability initiatives will find this specialization highly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in power plants, renewable energy firms, HVAC industries, and R&D organizations. Potential positions range from Thermal Design Engineer and Energy Auditor to Research Scientist. Entry-level salaries typically fall within INR 6-12 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program also prepares students for higher studies or research careers, aligning with certifications in energy management and auditing relevant to the Indian industry.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Analytical and Mathematical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on Advanced Engineering Mathematics, Thermodynamics, and Fluid Mechanics. Utilize online platforms for problem-solving and conceptual clarity beyond classroom lectures. Actively participate in tutorials and group study sessions to solidify understanding.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Khan Academy, Standard textbooks like Kreyszig for Math, Cengel & Boles for Thermodynamics, White for Fluid Mechanics
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for understanding complex thermal systems, excelling in technical interviews, and performing well in R&D and design roles.
Master Core Thermal Engineering Software- (Semester 1-2)
Begin familiarizing yourself with computational tools relevant to thermal engineering such as MATLAB, Python for data analysis, and basic CFD/FEA software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM tutorials). Leverage university labs and workshops for hands-on experience.
Tools & Resources
University licensed software (MATLAB, ANSYS), Online tutorials (Coursera, edX for CFD basics), Python programming environment
Career Connection
Proficiency in these simulation and analysis tools is highly valued by industries hiring for design, modeling, and analysis roles in thermal systems.
Engage in Early Research Exploration- (Semester 1-2)
Identify faculty research areas of interest within Thermal Energy Systems and attempt to participate in small projects or literature reviews. Attend department seminars to grasp ongoing research and potential thesis topics.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science for research papers, Departmental research group meetings, Faculty office hours for discussions
Career Connection
This helps in identifying potential M.Tech project topics and can lead to early research publications, enhancing profiles for both higher studies and R&D jobs.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Courses- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose Department and Open Electives that align with your career aspirations (e.g., Renewable Energy, CFD, Power Plants). Deepen your knowledge in these specialized areas through advanced coursework and practical mini-projects.
Tools & Resources
Elective course materials and recommended readings, Specialized software for chosen area (e.g., TRNSYS for solar, Aspen Plus for process simulation)
Career Connection
Building expertise in niche areas makes you a more attractive candidate for specialized roles in specific energy sectors and enhances your thesis work.
Seek Industry Internships and Live Projects- (Semester 3 (including summer break))
Actively apply for internships in thermal energy companies, power generation units, or research labs during semester breaks. Work on industry-relevant problems to gain practical exposure and understanding of industrial challenges.
Tools & Resources
IIT Indore Career Development Centre, LinkedIn for professional networking, Industry contacts and faculty recommendations
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable experience, networking opportunities, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting employability in the Indian market.
Participate in Technical Competitions and Workshops- (Semester 3)
Engage in national-level technical competitions, hackathons, or workshops related to thermal engineering, energy conservation, or sustainable technologies. This helps in applying theoretical knowledge and showcasing practical skills.
Tools & Resources
IEEE, ASME student chapters, National energy forums and conferences, University technical clubs and innovation cells
Career Connection
Demonstrates initiative, problem-solving skills, and teamwork, which are highly regarded by recruiters for engineering and R&D roles.
Advanced Stage
Excel in M.Tech Project and Research Publication- (Semester 3-4)
Dedicate significant effort to your M.Tech project (Part-I and Part-II), aiming for impactful research or a robust design solution. Strive to publish your work in reputed conferences or journals, even if it''''s a short paper, to showcase your research aptitude.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (Scopus, Google Scholar), Advanced simulation software, Academic writing tools (LaTeX, Mendeley), Faculty mentorship and peer review
Career Connection
A strong project and publication enhance your academic profile for higher studies/PhD and demonstrate independent research capability for R&D roles in industry.
Network with Industry Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 4)
Attend industry seminars, conferences, and alumni meets to build a professional network within the energy sector. Leverage these connections for insights into career opportunities, industry trends, and potential job referrals within India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional networking, IIT Indore alumni network portal, Industry-specific events and job fairs
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for discovering hidden job markets, gaining mentorship, and securing placements in competitive fields like thermal energy engineering.
Prepare Strategically for Placements and Interviews- (Semester 4)
Systematically prepare for placement interviews by practicing technical concepts, general aptitude tests, and soft skills. Tailor your resume and cover letter to specific companies and roles in the thermal energy sector, highlighting relevant project work.
Tools & Resources
Career Development Centre resources, Mock interviews with faculty or seniors, Online aptitude platforms (e.g., GeeksforGeeks, IndiaBix)
Career Connection
Focused preparation ensures you are job-ready and confident to convert placement opportunities into successful career starts in Indian companies and MNCs.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E./B.Tech. or equivalent degree in relevant discipline with a minimum of 60% marks or 6.0 CPI/CGPA out of 10 (55% or 5.5 CPI for SC/ST/PwD). Valid GATE score in the relevant discipline. (As per IIT Indore M.Tech Admissions general criteria)
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 53 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME601 | Advanced Engineering Mathematics | Core | 4 | Linear Algebra, Calculus of Variations, Complex Variables, Partial Differential Equations, Numerical Methods, Integral Equations |
| ME603 | Advanced Thermodynamics | Core | 4 | Review of Laws of Thermodynamics, Thermodynamic Relations, Mixtures and Solutions, Chemical Equilibrium, Exergy Analysis, Irreversibility |
| ME605 | Advanced Fluid Mechanics | Core | 4 | Conservation Equations, Inviscid Flows, Viscous Flows, Boundary Layer Theory, Turbulent Flows, Compressible Flows |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME602 | Advanced Heat Transfer | Specialization | 4 | Conduction Heat Transfer, Convection Heat Transfer, Radiation Heat Transfer, Phase Change Heat Transfer, Heat Exchanger Analysis, Microscale Heat Transfer |
| ME604 | Thermal Energy Systems Design | Specialization | 4 | System Modeling, Thermodynamic Cycles, Component Design, Optimization Techniques, Energy Conservation, System Integration |
| ME616 | Combustion Engineering | Specialization | 4 | Chemical Kinetics, Flame Propagation, Combustion Products, Pollutant Formation, Industrial Combustion Systems, Combustion Diagnostics |
| ME600 | Seminar | Core | 2 | Literature Review, Technical Writing, Presentation Skills, Research Methodology, Peer Evaluation, Topic Selection |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME606 | Gas Dynamics | Elective | 3 | Review of Compressible Flow, Isentropic Flow, Normal and Oblique Shocks, Prandtl-Meyer Flow, Flow with Friction and Heat Transfer, Supersonic Nozzles |
| ME608 | Refrigeration and Air Conditioning | Elective | 3 | Vapour Compression Systems, Refrigerants, Vapour Absorption Systems, Psychrometrics, Air Conditioning Load, Duct Design |
| ME610 | Power Plant Engineering | Elective | 3 | Steam Power Plants, Gas Turbine Plants, Combined Cycle Power Plants, Nuclear Power Plants, Renewable Energy Power Plants, Environmental Aspects |
| ME612 | Computational Fluid Dynamics | Elective | 3 | Governing Equations of Fluid Flow, Discretization Methods, Finite Difference Method, Finite Volume Method, Turbulence Modeling, Grid Generation |
| ME614 | Solar Energy Engineering | Elective | 3 | Solar Radiation, Flat Plate Collectors, Concentrating Collectors, Photovoltaic Systems, Solar Thermal Power Plants, Energy Storage |
| ME618 | Two Phase Flow and Heat Transfer | Elective | 3 | Boiling Heat Transfer, Condensation Heat Transfer, Two-Phase Flow Regimes, Pressure Drop in Two-Phase Flow, Critical Heat Flux, Microchannel Two-Phase Flow |
| ME620 | Measurement and Instrumentation | Elective | 3 | Basic Concepts of Measurement, Statistical Analysis of Data, Temperature Measurement, Pressure Measurement, Flow Measurement, Data Acquisition Systems |
| ME622 | Renewable Energy Technologies | Elective | 3 | Solar Energy Systems, Wind Energy Systems, Bioenergy Technologies, Geothermal Energy, Hydro Power, Ocean Energy |
| ME624 | Advanced I.C. Engines | Elective | 3 | Engine Cycles and Performance, Combustion in SI and CI Engines, Emissions and Control, Alternative Fuels, Engine Simulation, Advanced Engine Technologies |
| ME626 | Advanced Air Conditioning | Elective | 3 | Comfort Conditions, Indoor Air Quality, HVAC System Components, Vapor Compression Systems, Absorption Refrigeration, Thermal Storage |
| ME628 | Cryogenic Engineering | Elective | 3 | Properties of Cryogenic Fluids, Gas Liquefaction Systems, Cryogenic Refrigerators, Cryogenic Insulation, Cryogenic Storage and Transfer, Applications of Cryogenics |
| ME630 | Energy Auditing & Management | Elective | 3 | Energy Basics, Energy Audit Methodology, Thermal Utilities Audit, Electrical Utilities Audit, Energy Conservation Measures, Energy Performance Assessment |
| ME632 | Design of Heat Exchangers | Elective | 3 | Heat Exchanger Classification, Heat Exchanger Analysis, Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers, Plate Heat Exchangers, Compact Heat Exchangers, Design Optimization |
| ME634 | Steam and Gas Turbines | Elective | 3 | Thermodynamics of Turbines, Steam Turbine Stages, Gas Turbine Cycles, Compressors and Turbines, Blade Design, Performance Analysis |
| ME636 | Nuclear Power Engineering | Elective | 3 | Nuclear Reactor Physics, Reactor Types, Heat Transfer in Reactors, Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Reactor Safety, Waste Management |
| ME640 | Micro and Nano Scale Heat Transfer | Elective | 3 | Heat Transfer at Small Scales, Thin Film Heat Transfer, Phonon Transport, Electron Transport, Near-Field Radiation, Nanofluids |
| ME642 | Thermal System Optimization | Elective | 3 | Optimization Techniques, Objective Functions, Constrained Optimization, Geometric Programming, Dynamic Programming, Application to Thermal Systems |
| ME644 | Transport Phenomena in Biological Systems | Elective | 3 | Fluid Flow in Biological Systems, Heat Transfer in Biological Systems, Mass Transfer in Biological Systems, Biothermal Modeling, Drug Delivery, Tissue Engineering |
| ME646 | Energy Storage | Elective | 3 | Thermal Energy Storage, Mechanical Energy Storage, Electrochemical Energy Storage, Chemical Energy Storage, Hybrid Storage Systems, Storage System Design |
| ME648 | Fuel Cells | Elective | 3 | Fuel Cell Principles, Types of Fuel Cells, Fuel Cell Components, Performance Characteristics, Fuel Processing, Applications and Challenges |
| ME650 | Direct Energy Conversion | Elective | 3 | Thermoelectric Converters, Thermionic Converters, Photovoltaic Converters, Magnetohydrodynamic Generators, Fuel Cells (Review), Applications |
| ME652 | Applied Thermodynamics of Fuels | Elective | 3 | Fuel Properties, Combustion Chemistry, Thermochemistry of Fuels, Pollutant Formation, Alternative Fuels, Fuel Characterization |
| ME654 | Exergy Analysis | Elective | 3 | Concept of Exergy, Exergy of Heat, Work, and Mass, Exergy Balance for Closed Systems, Exergy Balance for Open Systems, Exergetic Efficiency, Applications in Thermal Systems |
| ME656 | Combustion Instability | Elective | 3 | Acoustics Basics, Flame Dynamics, Thermoacoustic Instabilities, Combustion Oscillations, Control Strategies, Experimental Techniques |
| ME658 | Energy, Environment, and Climate | Elective | 3 | Global Energy Scenario, Environmental Impact of Energy, Climate Change Science, Energy Policy, Carbon Capture Technologies, Sustainable Development |
| ME700 | M.Tech Project (Part-I) | Project | 6 | Problem Identification, Literature Review, Methodology Development, Experimental/Simulation Setup, Preliminary Results, Project Planning and Reporting |
| OE### | Open Elective | Elective | 3 | Any PG level course from other departments based on student interest and availability |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME700 | M.Tech Project (Part-II) | Project | 12 | Advanced Experimental/Simulation Work, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing, Result Discussion, Conclusions and Future Work, Oral Examination and Defense |




