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M-TECH in Petrochemical Engineering at Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Kakinada
Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Petrochemical Engineering at Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Kakinada Kakinada?
This M.Tech Petrochemical Engineering program at Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Kakinada focuses on advanced principles and practices in petroleum refining, petrochemical processes, and related areas. Given India''''s growing energy demand and significant investments in the oil and gas sector, this specialization is highly relevant, equipping students for critical roles in downstream industries. The program distinguishes itself through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application in process design and optimization.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for chemical, petroleum, or petrochemical engineering graduates seeking entry into the refining, petrochemical, and allied process industries. It also caters to working professionals aiming to upgrade their skills in advanced reaction engineering, process control, and equipment design. Individuals looking for a career transition into the dynamic energy sector, especially those with a strong foundation in core engineering sciences, will find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure roles as process engineers, design engineers, research scientists, and project managers in India''''s leading oil refineries, petrochemical complexes, and R&D centers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The strong curriculum prepares students for global opportunities and allows for growth into leadership positions within the energy sector, aligning with certifications from professional bodies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Engineering Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on foundational subjects like Advanced Reaction Engineering, Advanced Transport Phenomena, and Petroleum Refining Engineering. Understand the underlying theories and their practical implications through problem-solving and case studies. Engage in active classroom participation and discussions.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Standard textbooks by Fogler, Bird, Geankoplis, Specific research papers, JNTUK digital library
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals is crucial for passing technical interviews and excelling in initial engineering roles, providing a solid base for advanced problem-solving in the petrochemical industry.
Develop Proficiency in Simulation Software- (Semester 1-2)
Actively learn and practice using industry-standard process simulation software like Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II, or DWSIM. Apply these tools to solve problems in lab sessions and projects, understanding their application in process design and optimization.
Tools & Resources
Software tutorials, University lab facilities, Online courses (e.g., Coursera/edX for Aspen certifications), Open-source alternatives
Career Connection
Proficiency in simulation tools is a highly sought-after skill for process design and optimization roles, making graduates immediately valuable to companies in the petrochemical sector.
Engage in Early Research Exploration & Seminars- (Semester 1-2)
Utilize Seminar I and II to delve into research areas relevant to petrochemical engineering. Conduct thorough literature reviews, identify potential research gaps, and present findings effectively. Seek guidance from faculty on choosing relevant topics for future project work.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, University thesis repositories, IEEE Xplore, Technical writing guides
Career Connection
Builds research aptitude, critical thinking, and communication skills essential for project work, higher studies, and R&D positions in the industry.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Elective Choices- (Semester 2-3)
Strategically select elective courses in areas like Corrosion Engineering, Catalysis and Catalytic Reactors, or Energy Engineering based on career interests and industry demand. Deepen knowledge in these specialized domains through advanced study and practical application.
Tools & Resources
Specialized textbooks, Journal articles, Industry reports, Online advanced topic courses
Career Connection
Enables graduates to develop niche expertise, making them strong candidates for specialized roles within the petrochemical industry and providing a competitive edge in the job market.
Undertake Industry-Relevant Mini-Projects/Internships- (Semester 2 Summer Break, Semester 3)
Actively seek out and participate in short-term internships or mini-projects with petrochemical companies or research institutions during semester breaks. Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world industrial problems and gain practical exposure to plant operations and safety protocols.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Professional networking platforms like LinkedIn, Industry contacts, Guidance from alumni
Career Connection
Provides invaluable hands-on experience, builds a professional network, and often leads to pre-placement offers or stronger candidature for final placements.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 2-3)
Attend webinars, workshops, and conferences organized by professional bodies like the Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers (IIChE) or relevant industry associations. Engage with guest speakers and alumni to understand current industry trends, career paths, and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
IIChE membership, Industry event calendars, LinkedIn groups for petrochemical professionals, University alumni network
Career Connection
Builds critical professional contacts that can open doors to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities, providing insights beyond academic learning and enhancing career prospects.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Project Work and Research- (Semester 3-4)
Dedicate significant effort to the M.Tech Project Work (Part I and II). Choose a research topic with industrial relevance or significant academic impact. Focus on robust methodology, rigorous experimentation/simulation, and effective thesis writing and defense.
Tools & Resources
Research labs, Simulation software, Statistical analysis tools, Academic writing guides, Faculty mentorship, Peer review
Career Connection
A well-executed project demonstrates problem-solving abilities, research skills, and dedication, which are highly valued by employers for R&D, process development, and consulting roles.
Master Interview and Professional Communication Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Prepare thoroughly for placements by practicing technical interview questions related to core subjects and specialization. Develop strong soft skills, including communication, teamwork, and leadership, through mock interviews, group discussions, and presentations.
Tools & Resources
Career services workshops, Online interview preparation platforms, Company-specific interview guides, Peer practice groups, Toastmasters International
Career Connection
Enhances employability by ensuring students can articulate their knowledge and skills effectively, making them confident and successful in securing desired job roles in competitive Indian and global markets.
Explore Entrepreneurial Avenues or Higher Studies- (Semester 3-4)
For those inclined towards entrepreneurship, explore opportunities for developing innovative solutions in petrochemical processes or sustainable energy. Alternatively, prepare for competitive exams like GATE (for PSU jobs or Ph.D.) or GRE/TOEFL for international Ph.D. programs if higher education is the goal.
Tools & Resources
University incubation centers, Startup accelerators, GATE/GRE coaching materials, University Ph.D. guidance, Faculty advisors
Career Connection
Provides alternative career paths beyond traditional employment, fosters innovation, or enables progression into advanced academic research and teaching roles, aligning with India''''s emphasis on innovation and research.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Tech in Chemical Engineering / Petroleum Engineering / Petrochemical Engineering / Chemical Technology or equivalent qualification from a recognized University.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 69 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R202201 | Mathematical Methods in Chemical Engineering | Core | 3 | Linear Algebra and Vectors, Probability and Statistics, Ordinary Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations, Numerical Methods, Optimization Techniques |
| R202202 | Advanced Reaction Engineering | Core | 3 | Ideal Reactor Models, Non-Ideal Flow and Mixing, Heterogeneous Catalysis, Fluid-Solid Catalytic Reactors, Biochemical Reaction Engineering, Design of Industrial Reactors |
| R202203 | Advanced Separation Techniques | Core | 3 | Membrane Separation Processes, Adsorption and Ion Exchange, Chromatographic Separations, Supercritical Fluid Extraction, Crystallization and Evaporation, Hybrid Separation Systems |
| R202204 | Advanced Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics | Elective | 3 | Review of Thermodynamic Laws, Phase Equilibria, Chemical Reaction Equilibria, Molecular Thermodynamics, Irreversible Thermodynamics, Process Design Applications |
| R202207 | Fluidization Engineering | Elective | 3 | Principles of Fluidization, Regimes of Fluidization, Gas-Solid Systems, Heat and Mass Transfer in Fluidized Beds, Design of Fluidized Bed Reactors, Applications of Fluidization |
| R202210 | Chemical Engineering Lab-I | Lab | 2 | Heat Transfer Operations, Mass Transfer Operations, Fluid Mechanics Experiments, Reaction Kinetics Studies, Material Characterization, Data Analysis and Reporting |
| R202211 | Seminar I | Project | 2 | Literature Review Techniques, Technical Report Writing, Oral Presentation Skills, Critical Analysis of Research Papers, Research Topic Selection, Academic Ethics |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R202212 | Petroleum Refining Engineering | Core | 3 | Crude Oil Properties and Assay, Atmospheric and Vacuum Distillation, Catalytic Cracking Processes, Reforming and Alkylation, Hydrotreating and Desulfurization, Petroleum Product Quality |
| R202213 | Advanced Transport Phenomena | Core | 3 | Momentum Transport (Fluid Dynamics), Energy Transport (Heat Transfer), Mass Transport (Mass Diffusion), Equation of Change for Transport, Boundary Layer Theory, Turbulent Flow and Transport |
| R202214 | Process Equipment Design | Core | 3 | Design Principles and Standards, Heat Exchanger Design, Pressure Vessel Design, Reactor Design Considerations, Storage Tanks and Columns, Material Selection and Fabrication |
| R202215 | Corrosion Engineering | Elective | 3 | Electrochemical Principles of Corrosion, Forms of Corrosion, Corrosion Prevention and Control, Material Selection for Corrosion Resistance, Corrosion Monitoring and Testing, Corrosion in Petrochemical Industry |
| R202218 | Catalysis and Catalytic Reactors | Elective | 3 | Principles of Heterogeneous Catalysis, Catalyst Preparation and Characterization, Adsorption Theories and Mechanisms, Catalytic Reactor Design, Deactivation of Catalysts, Industrial Catalytic Processes |
| R202221 | Chemical Engineering Lab-II | Lab | 2 | Reaction Engineering Experiments, Process Control Studies, Environmental Engineering Analysis, Process Simulation Software Application, Advanced Analytical Techniques, Safety Practices in Labs |
| R202222 | Seminar II | Project | 2 | Advanced Research Methodology, Identifying Research Gaps, Developing Research Proposals, Public Speaking and Presentation, Peer Review Process, Ethical Considerations in Research |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R202223 | Energy Engineering | Elective | 3 | Global Energy Scenario, Conventional Energy Resources, Renewable Energy Technologies, Energy Conversion Systems, Energy Storage Solutions, Energy Conservation and Management |
| R202226 | Project Work - Part I | Project | 10 | Problem Definition and Scope, Extensive Literature Survey, Developing Research Methodology, Preliminary Design and Calculations, Experimental Setup or Simulation Model, Interim Report and Presentation |
| R202227 | Comprehensive Viva Voce | Project | 2 | Overall Subject Knowledge, Understanding of Specialization, Problem-Solving Abilities, Communication and Articulation, Application of Engineering Principles, Critical Thinking and Reasoning |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R202228 | Project Work - Part II | Project | 16 | Data Collection and Analysis, Results Interpretation and Discussion, Thesis Writing and Formatting, Scientific Paper Publication, Final Project Defense, Contribution to Knowledge |
