.png&w=1920&q=75)
B-TECH in Petrochemical Engineering at Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Kakinada
Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Petrochemical Engineering at Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Kakinada Kakinada?
This B.Tech Petrochemical Engineering program at JNTUK Kakinada focuses on the scientific and engineering principles behind crude oil and natural gas processing, refining, and the production of a wide array of petrochemical products. It is crucial for India''''s energy sector and emphasizes sustainable practices and technological advancements for conversion of fossil fuels and biomass into valuable chemicals. The program differentiates itself by its strong emphasis on core chemical engineering principles applied to the petrochemical industry.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 10+2 science graduates with a strong aptitude for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, who are keen to pursue a career in core engineering sectors. It also suits individuals aspiring to contribute to India''''s burgeoning energy, refining, and chemical industries. Career changers with a science background seeking a specialized technical domain, or professionals looking to upskill in process engineering and petrochemical production, will find this program valuable.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in oil refineries, petrochemical plants, fertilizer industries, and research & development. Roles include Process Engineer, Production Engineer, Design Engineer, and R&D Scientist. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-6 LPA, growing to INR 10-20+ LPA with experience. Growth trajectories often lead to management or specialized technical expert roles in major Indian and multinational companies like Reliance, ONGC, IOCL, BPCL, and GAIL.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Strengthen Core Science & Math Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to mastering first-year subjects like Engineering Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. Utilize online platforms like NPTEL for conceptual clarity and problem-solving practice in areas like differential equations and basic thermodynamics, forming a robust base for advanced petrochemical concepts.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses for Chemistry/Physics/Math, Khan Academy, Reference textbooks (e.g., Levenspiel for CRE, McCabe & Smith for Mass Transfer)
Career Connection
A strong foundation is critical for understanding complex process calculations and reactions, which are daily tasks for a petrochemical engineer.
Develop Programming and Engineering Graphics Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in Programming for Problem Solving and Engineering Graphics labs. Learn C/C++ for basic algorithmic thinking and master CAD software for equipment design visualizations. Engage in coding challenges on platforms like HackerRank to sharpen logical problem-solving abilities.
Tools & Resources
HackerRank, GeeksforGeeks for C programming, AutoCAD/SolidWorks tutorials
Career Connection
These skills are essential for process modeling, simulation, and designing plant layouts or equipment, highly sought after in modern petrochemical industries.
Join Technical Societies and Clubs- (Semester 1-2)
Become an active member of the Chemical Engineering/Petrochemical Engineering student chapter (e.g., IIChE student chapter if available) or other relevant technical clubs. Participate in workshops, seminars, and technical quizzes to build peer networks and gain early exposure to industry trends and applications.
Tools & Resources
IIChE Student Chapter events, Departmental technical fests
Career Connection
Early networking and exposure help identify interests, build communication skills, and potentially find mentors who can guide future career paths.
Intermediate Stage
Master Core Petrochemical Principles with Practical Application- (Semester 3-5)
Deeply engage with core subjects like Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer, Mass Transfer, and Chemical Reaction Engineering. Seek out opportunities to visit local industrial units (if permissible) or participate in departmental lab experiments beyond syllabus requirements to understand the practical aspects of unit operations.
Tools & Resources
Virtual tours of refineries (e.g., IOCL, HPCL websites), Lab equipment manuals, Process simulators (basic versions for learning)
Career Connection
Proficiency in these core areas directly translates to roles in process design, optimization, and troubleshooting within petrochemical plants.
Pursue Mini-Projects and Industrial Training- (Semester 4-6)
Actively look for mini-projects within the department or seek short-term industrial training during summer breaks. Focus on applying theoretical knowledge to solve real-world problems, such as optimizing a small-scale heat exchanger or analyzing a reaction system. Document findings thoroughly.
Tools & Resources
Departmental faculty for guidance, Local small-scale industries, Online project repositories
Career Connection
Practical project experience showcases problem-solving abilities and hands-on skills to potential employers, making you internship and placement ready.
Develop Software Proficiency in Process Simulation- (Semester 5-6)
Start learning process simulation software like Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II, or MATLAB/Simulink, which are industry standards. Even basic familiarity with these tools through online tutorials or university licenses can provide a significant advantage in understanding process dynamics and design.
Tools & Resources
AspenTech University Program, YouTube tutorials for process simulators, MATLAB documentation
Career Connection
Modern petrochemical industries heavily rely on simulation for design, optimization, and safety analysis, making these skills highly valuable for fresh graduates.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Specialization and Advanced Electives- (Semester 6-8)
Strategically choose professional electives that align with career aspirations (e.g., Polymer Science, Corrosion Engineering, Advanced Separation). Engage in in-depth study, participate in advanced workshops, and read research papers in chosen specialized areas to gain expert knowledge.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL advanced courses, Research papers on IEEE/ScienceDirect, Industrial expert talks
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge sets you apart in a competitive job market, enabling you to target specific roles within the vast petrochemical industry.
Undertake a Comprehensive Capstone Project- (Semester 7-8)
Invest thoroughly in the final year project (Project Work I & II). Choose a topic with industrial relevance, ideally involving experimental work, simulation, or design. Collaborate with faculty and industry mentors, aiming for a publication or presentation at a national conference if possible.
Tools & Resources
Research labs in the department, Industry mentors, Scientific writing guides, Conference proceedings
Career Connection
A strong capstone project demonstrates independent research, problem-solving, and presentation skills, crucial for securing R&D or advanced engineering positions.
Prepare Rigorously for Placements and Professional Exams- (Semester 7-8)
Attend campus placement training sessions focusing on aptitude, technical interviews, and soft skills. Prepare for competitive exams like GATE if considering higher studies (M.Tech) or PSU jobs. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile with all projects, skills, and certifications.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, GATE exam preparation materials, Mock interviews, LinkedIn learning
Career Connection
Systematic preparation for interviews and exams maximizes chances for securing desirable placements in core petrochemical companies or pursuing advanced academic opportunities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Intermediate (10+2) with Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry (M.P.C.) as compulsory subjects or an equivalent examination, followed by a valid rank in EAMCET/JEE Main entrance examination.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
Credits: 160 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BS1101 | Engineering Chemistry | Core | 3 | Water Technology, Electrochemistry & Batteries, Corrosion & its Control, Computational Chemistry & Polymers, Instrumental Methods & Material Chemistry |
| BS1102 | Mathematics - I (Calculus and Differential Equations) | Core | 3 | Differential Equations of First Order, Linear Differential Equations of Higher Order, Laplace Transforms, Partial Differential Equations, Fourier Series |
| ES1101 | Programming for Problem Solving | Core | 3 | Introduction to Programming, Conditional and Looping Constructs, Functions and Arrays, Strings and Pointers, Structures, Unions, and File I/O |
| ES1102 | Engineering Graphics | Core | 3 | Introduction to Engineering Drawing, Orthographic Projections, Projections of Points, Lines, and Planes, Projections of Solids, Isometric Projections |
| HS1101 | English | Core | 3 | Listening Skills, Speaking Skills, Reading Skills, Writing Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary |
| BS1103 | Engineering Chemistry Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Titrimetric Analysis, Instrumental Analysis, Water Quality Parameters, Viscosity & Surface Tension, Conductometry |
| ES1103 | Programming for Problem Solving Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Basic C Programs, Conditional and Loop Statements, Functions and Arrays Implementation, Strings and Pointers Exercises, Structures and File Handling Programs |
| HS1102 | English Language & Communication Skills Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Listening Comprehension, Pronunciation Practice, Group Discussions, Presentations, Resume Writing |
| MC1101 | Environmental Science | Mandatory Course | 0 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and the Environment, Natural Resources, Environmental Ethics |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BS1201 | Mathematics - II (Linear Algebra and Vector Calculus) | Core | 3 | Matrices, Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors, Vector Differentiation, Vector Integration, Laplace Transforms |
| BS1202 | Applied Physics | Core | 3 | Wave Optics, Lasers & Fiber Optics, Quantum Mechanics, Semiconductor Physics, Magnetic & Dielectric Materials |
| ES1201 | Basic Electrical Engineering | Core | 3 | DC Circuits, AC Circuits, Transformers, DC Machines, AC Machines |
| ES1202 | Engineering Mechanics | Core | 3 | System of Forces, Equilibrium, Friction, Centroid and Moment of Inertia, Kinematics and Kinetics |
| MC1201 | Constitution of India | Mandatory Course | 0 | History of Indian Constitution, Preamble and Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Federalism, Emergency Provisions |
| BS1203 | Applied Physics Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Young''''s Modulus Determination, PN Junction Diode Characteristics, Photoelectric Effect, Stewart & Gee''''s Experiment, LCR Circuit Resonance |
| ES1203 | Basic Electrical Engineering Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Ohm''''s Law & Kirchhoff''''s Laws, Superposition & Thevenin''''s Theorems, Three-phase AC Circuits, Transformer Load Test, DC Machine Characteristics |
| ES1204 | Computer Aided Engineering Graphics Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Introduction to CAD Software, 2D Drawing Commands, Orthographic Projections using CAD, Isometric Views using CAD, Sectional Views |
| ES1205 | Workshop | Lab | 1.5 | Carpentry, Fitting, Welding, Sheet Metal, House Wiring |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BS2101 | Mathematics - III | Core | 3 | Special Functions, Complex Functions, Conformal Mapping, Calculus of Residues, Integral Transforms |
| PCC2101 | Chemical Process Calculations | Core | 3 | Units and Dimensions, Material Balances without Reactions, Material Balances with Reactions, Energy Balances, Humidity and Saturation |
| PCC2102 | Fluid Mechanics | Core | 3 | Fluid Statics, Fluid Flow Phenomena, Flow through Pipes, Flow Measurement, Fluid Moving Machinery |
| PCC2103 | Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics - I | Core | 3 | Basic Concepts and Definitions, First Law of Thermodynamics, Volumetric Properties of Pure Fluids, Heat Effects, Second Law of Thermodynamics |
| PCC2104 | Organic Chemistry | Core | 3 | Atomic Structure and Chemical Bonding, Stereochemistry, Reaction Intermediates, Alkanes and Alkenes, Aromatic Hydrocarbons |
| PCC2105 | Fluid Mechanics Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Bernoulli''''s Theorem Verification, Venturimeter & Orificemeter Calibration, Friction Factor Determination, Pump Characteristics, Flow through packed beds |
| PCC2106 | Organic Chemistry Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Qualitative Analysis of Organic Compounds, Preparation of Organic Compounds, Melting Point Determination, Distillation Techniques, Crystallization |
| MC2101 | Professional Ethics & Human Values | Mandatory Course | 0 | Ethics and Values, Engineering Ethics, Moral Autonomy, Safety, Risks, and Rights, Global Issues |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BS2201 | Probability & Statistics | Core | 3 | Probability Distributions, Sampling Distributions, Testing of Hypotheses, Correlation and Regression, Statistical Quality Control |
| PCC2201 | Mechanical Operations | Core | 3 | Particle Size Analysis, Size Reduction, Solid-Solid Separation, Solid-Liquid Separation, Agitation and Mixing |
| PCC2202 | Heat Transfer | Core | 3 | Conduction Heat Transfer, Convection Heat Transfer, Radiation Heat Transfer, Heat Exchangers, Evaporation |
| PCC2203 | Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics - II | Core | 3 | Thermodynamics of Solutions, Phase Equilibria, Reaction Equilibria, Gas-Liquid Equilibria, Power Cycles and Refrigeration |
| PCC2204 | Inorganic Chemistry | Core | 3 | Periodic Table and Chemical Bonding, Acid-Base Theories, Coordination Chemistry, Solid State Chemistry, Nuclear Chemistry |
| PCC2205 | Mechanical Operations Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Crushing and Grinding, Screen Analysis, Filtration Characteristics, Flotation Experiments, Mixing Studies |
| PCC2206 | Heat Transfer Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Thermal Conductivity Measurement, Natural Convection Heat Transfer, Forced Convection Heat Transfer, Double Pipe Heat Exchanger, Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger |
| MC2201 | Essence of Indian Traditional Knowledge | Mandatory Course | 0 | Introduction to Indian Knowledge System, Indian Traditional Sciences, Indian Art and Culture, Indian Economic Thought, Impact of Globalisation |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCC3101 | Mass Transfer - I | Core | 3 | Molecular Diffusion, Mass Transfer Coefficients, Interphase Mass Transfer, Humidification and Dehumidification, Drying |
| PCC3102 | Chemical Reaction Engineering - I | Core | 3 | Reaction Kinetics, Batch Reactors, Ideal Flow Reactors, Design for Single Reactions, Multiple Reactions |
| PCC3103 | Process Dynamics & Control | Core | 3 | Dynamic Behavior of Processes, Laplace Transforms for Process Control, Transfer Functions, Feedback Control, Stability Analysis |
| PCC3104 | Petroleum Refinery Engineering | Core | 3 | Crude Oil Composition and Properties, Atmospheric & Vacuum Distillation, Cracking Processes, Reforming & Isomerization, Treating Processes |
| PEC3101 | Professional Elective - I (e.g., Polymer Science & Engineering) | Elective | 3 | Polymerization Techniques, Polymer Properties, Polymer Processing, Polymer Applications, Characterization of Polymers |
| OEC3101 | Open Elective - I | Elective | 3 | |
| PCC3105 | Mass Transfer Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Binary Diffusion Coefficient, Vapor Liquid Equilibria, Liquid-Liquid Extraction, Tray Dryer Experiment, Packed Bed Absorption |
| PCC3106 | Chemical Reaction Engineering Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Batch Reactor Kinetics, Plug Flow Reactor Studies, CSTR Performance, Series-Parallel Reactor Setup, Effect of Temperature on Reaction |
| INT3101 | Skill Oriented Course - I (Petrochemical Analysis & Testing) | Skill Course | 2 | Crude Oil Characterization, Petroleum Product Testing, ASTM Standards, Chromatographic Techniques, Spectroscopic Methods |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCC3201 | Mass Transfer - II | Core | 3 | Distillation, Absorption, Extraction, Adsorption and Ion Exchange, Membrane Separation Processes |
| PCC3202 | Chemical Reaction Engineering - II | Core | 3 | Non-Ideal Flow, Catalysis and Catalytic Reactors, Heterogeneous Reactions, Biochemical Reaction Engineering, Fluidized Bed Reactors |
| PCC3203 | Process Equipment Design | Core | 3 | Design of Pressure Vessels, Design of Heat Exchangers, Design of Distillation Columns, Design of Reactors, Cost Estimation of Equipment |
| PCC3204 | Petrochemical Technology | Core | 3 | Feedstocks for Petrochemicals, Production of Olefins, Production of Aromatics, Synthesis of Alcohols and Ketones, Production of Polymers and Plastics |
| PEC3201 | Professional Elective - II (e.g., Natural Gas Engineering) | Elective | 3 | Natural Gas Properties, Gas Processing Operations, Gas Transportation & Storage, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Gas Utilization Technologies |
| OEC3201 | Open Elective - II | Elective | 3 | |
| PCC3205 | Process Dynamics & Control Lab | Lab | 1.5 | First Order Process Response, Second Order Process Response, PID Controller Tuning, Level Control System, Flow Control System |
| PCC3206 | Petrochemical Technology Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Distillation of Crude Oil, Cracking of Hydrocarbons, Viscosity of Petroleum Products, Flash and Fire Point Determination, Acid Value of Oil |
| INT3201 | Skill Oriented Course - II (Process Simulation) | Skill Course | 2 | Introduction to Process Simulators (e.g., Aspen HYSYS), Basic Unit Operations Simulation, Thermodynamic Property Models, Steady State Simulation, Reporting and Analysis |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCC4101 | Process Economics & Plant Design | Core | 3 | Economic Evaluation, Project Feasibility Analysis, Plant Location & Layout, Utilities in Chemical Plants, Detailed Equipment Design |
| PCC4102 | Process Instrumentation | Core | 3 | Measurement of Temperature, Measurement of Pressure, Measurement of Flow, Level Measurement, Analytical Instruments |
| PCC4103 | Industrial Safety and Hazards | Core | 3 | Hazard Identification & Assessment, Risk Analysis, Fire & Explosion Safety, Toxic Release Mitigation, Safety Management Systems |
| PEC4101 | Professional Elective - III (e.g., Advanced Separation Processes) | Elective | 3 | Membrane Separations (Reverse Osmosis, Ultrafiltration), Chromatography, Supercritical Fluid Extraction, Adsorptive Separations, Reactive Distillation |
| OEC4101 | Open Elective - III | Elective | 3 | |
| PROJ4101 | Project Work - I | Project | 2 | Problem Identification, Literature Review, Methodology Development, Preliminary Design/Experimentation, Report Writing |
| INT4101 | Internship / Industrial Training (6 Weeks) | Internship | 1.5 | Industrial Process Observation, Equipment Familiarization, Data Collection, Report Preparation, Application of Theoretical Knowledge |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCC4201 | Energy Engineering & Management | Core | 3 | Energy Resources, Energy Conservation, Renewable Energy Systems, Energy Auditing, Waste Heat Recovery |
| PCC4202 | Optimization of Chemical Processes | Core | 3 | Introduction to Optimization, Linear Programming, Non-Linear Programming, Dynamic Programming, Application to Chemical Processes |
| PEC4201 | Professional Elective - IV (e.g., Corrosion Engineering) | Elective | 3 | Types of Corrosion, Corrosion Mechanisms, Corrosion Control Methods, Materials Selection, Corrosion Monitoring |
| OEC4201 | Open Elective - IV | Elective | 3 | |
| PROJ4201 | Project Work - II | Project | 6 | Advanced Problem Solving, Experimental Design & Execution, Data Analysis & Interpretation, Innovative Solutions, Thesis Writing & Presentation |
| PCC4203 | Seminar | Project | 2 | Literature Survey, Technical Presentation Skills, Current Trends in Petrochemical Engineering, Critical Analysis, Public Speaking |
| PCC4204 | Comprehensive Viva-Voce | Viva | 2 | Overall Subject Knowledge, Application of Concepts, Problem-Solving Abilities, Communication Skills, Understanding of Industry Practices |
