

M-TECH in Thermal Engineering at Sagar Institute of Research & Technology


Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Thermal Engineering at Sagar Institute of Research & Technology Bhopal?
This Thermal Engineering program at Sagar Institute of Research & Technology, Bhopal, focuses on advanced principles and applications of heat transfer, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics. It is highly relevant in the Indian industry, addressing crucial needs in energy efficiency, power generation, refrigeration, and automotive sectors. The program distinguishes itself by combining theoretical rigor with practical application, preparing graduates for the dynamic demands of thermal system design and analysis.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for mechanical engineering graduates seeking entry into specialized roles within the energy, HVAC, automotive, and power generation industries. It also caters to working professionals in manufacturing or design sectors looking to upskill in thermal management and energy systems. Aspiring researchers interested in sustainable energy solutions and advanced thermal sciences will find the curriculum beneficial for building a strong foundation.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as Thermal Design Engineers, HVAC Consultants, Energy Auditors, R&D Engineers in automotive/power industries, or pursue further research. In India, entry-level salaries can range from INR 4-7 lakhs annually, growing significantly with experience to 10-20+ lakhs for senior roles. The specialization aligns with industry needs for professionals capable of optimizing energy use and developing efficient thermal systems.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Thermal Concepts with Simulation Tools- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on deeply understanding Advanced Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, and Heat Transfer. Supplement classroom learning with hands-on practice using engineering simulation software like ANSYS Fluent/CFX or COMSOL for basic thermal and fluid flow problems. This builds a strong conceptual and practical base.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL lectures on core subjects, Open-source CFD codes (e.g., OpenFOAM tutorials), ANSYS Academic version, Engineering textbooks, RGPV question banks
Career Connection
Proficiency in simulation tools is highly sought after for R&D and design roles in industries like automotive, aerospace, and energy.
Build Research Acumen through Seminar and Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in Seminar-I and Seminar-II by choosing contemporary topics in thermal engineering. Develop robust literature review skills, identify research gaps, and practice technical presentation. Collaborate with peers for constructive feedback on research ideas.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Xplore, Scopus, Google Scholar, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, LaTeX for technical report writing
Career Connection
Essential for future dissertation work, R&D positions, and effective technical communication in any engineering role.
Practical Skills Development in Thermal Labs- (Semester 1-2)
Maximise learning from Thermal Engineering Lab I and II by understanding experimental setups, data acquisition, and analysis. Aim to correlate experimental results with theoretical predictions and identify sources of error. Seek opportunities for extra lab time or mini-projects to apply concepts.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Data acquisition systems, Experimental equipment (e.g., IC engine test rigs, refrigeration trainers), Microsoft Excel for data analysis
Career Connection
Develops hands-on problem-solving abilities crucial for design, testing, and maintenance roles in thermal industries.
Intermediate Stage
Initiate and Structure Dissertation Stage I- (Semester 3)
Proactively identify a research problem in Semester 3 for Dissertation Stage I. This involves extensive literature review, formulating clear objectives, defining a robust methodology, and initiating preliminary experimental or simulation work. Regular interaction with the supervisor is key to refining the project scope.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (Scopus, Web of Science), Research proposal templates, Project management tools (e.g., Trello for task tracking), Early-stage simulation/experimental setup
Career Connection
Lays the groundwork for demonstrating independent research and problem-solving skills, crucial for R&D and advanced technical roles.
Broaden Perspective with Open Electives- (Semester 3)
Utilize the Open Elective in Semester 3 to gain interdisciplinary knowledge or a complementary skill. Choose subjects that either strengthen core thermal understanding (e.g., advanced materials) or provide a wider perspective (e.g., data analytics for engineers, entrepreneurship).
Tools & Resources
Course catalogs of other departments, Discussions with faculty, Online learning platforms (Coursera, edX) for related foundational concepts
Career Connection
Enhances versatility and employability in a multidisciplinary industrial landscape, making graduates adaptable to diverse roles.
Consolidate Knowledge for Comprehensive Viva Voce- (Semester 3)
Prepare systematically for the Comprehensive Viva Voce in Semester 3 by reviewing all core subjects covered in the first two semesters. Form study groups, practice explaining concepts, and identify areas of weakness to strengthen overall understanding.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Class notes, Previous year''''s exam papers, Peer study groups, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Demonstrates a holistic grasp of the specialization, which is vital for technical interviews and showcasing foundational expertise to potential employers.
Advanced Stage
Execute and Document Dissertation Stage II- (Semester 4)
Focus intensively on completing the Dissertation Stage II in Semester 4. This involves conducting experiments, performing detailed simulations, analyzing results rigorously, drawing conclusions, and meticulously writing the thesis. Ensure high-quality documentation and prepare for the final defense.
Tools & Resources
Advanced data analysis software (MATLAB, Python), LaTeX/Word for thesis writing, Plagiarism checker tools, Presentation software (PowerPoint, LaTeX Beamer)
Career Connection
The successful completion of a high-quality dissertation is often a strong differentiator in the job market, directly showcasing expertise and research capability.
Proactive Placement and Industry Engagement- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in campus placements, company drives, and off-campus recruitment opportunities. Tailor your resume and cover letters to specific job descriptions. Leverage networking built in previous semesters and attend career fairs. Seek feedback on interview performance.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, LinkedIn, Job portals (Naukri, Indeed), Mock interview sessions, Alumni network
Career Connection
Direct path to securing employment in relevant thermal engineering industries or R&D organizations upon graduation.
Publish Research and Build Professional Profile- (Semester 4)
Aim to publish a research paper from your dissertation work in a reputed journal or conference. Create and maintain a professional online profile (e.g., LinkedIn, ResearchGate, Google Scholar) showcasing your skills, projects, and publications.
Tools & Resources
Reputable journal/conference websites, Academic writing guides, ORCID iD, Personal website/portfolio
Career Connection
Boosts credibility, attracts potential employers or academic institutions for further studies, and establishes an early professional footprint.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E./B.Tech. in Mechanical, Production, Automobile, or Industrial Engineering or equivalent degree with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/OBC of Madhya Pradesh). GATE qualified candidates are preferred as per DTE MP norms and AICTE guidelines for scholarship.
Duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Credits: 66 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME-101 (MTTE-101) | Advanced Engineering Mathematics | Core | 3 | Linear Algebra, Vector Spaces, Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors, Transforms (Laplace, Fourier), Partial Differential Equations, Numerical Methods |
| ME-102 (MTTE-102) | Advanced Thermodynamics | Core | 3 | Review of Laws of Thermodynamics, Entropy and Exergy Analysis, Gas Mixtures and Psychrometry, Combustion Thermodynamics, Irreversibility and Availability |
| ME-103 (MTTE-103) | Advanced Fluid Mechanics | Core | 3 | Incompressible Fluid Flow, Viscous Flow, Boundary Layer Theory, Turbulent Flow Models, Compressible Flow Fundamentals, Potential Flow |
| ME-104 (MTTE-104) | Thermal System Design | Core | 3 | System Modeling and Simulation, Optimization Techniques, Design of Heat Exchangers, Fluid Flow System Design, Pumping Systems, Energy Storage Systems |
| ME-105 (MTTE-105) | Elective-I (Example: Advanced Heat Transfer) | Elective | 3 | Advanced Conduction Heat Transfer, Forced and Natural Convection, Radiation Heat Transfer, Phase Change Heat Transfer, Heat Exchanger Analysis |
| ME-106 (MTTE-106) | Thermal Engineering Lab-I | Lab | 2 | IC Engine Performance Testing, Refrigeration and AC System Trials, Heat Transfer Apparatus Experiments, Fluid Flow Measurements, Combustion Analysis |
| ME-107 (MTTE-107) | Seminar-I | Seminar | 1 | Literature Survey, Technical Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Research Topic Selection |
| ME-108 (MTTE-108) | Research Methodology and IPR (Audit Course) | Audit | 0 | Research Problem Formulation, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Analysis, Intellectual Property Rights, Patent Filing Process |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME-201 (MTTE-201) | Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) | Core | 3 | Governing Equations of Fluid Flow, Finite Difference Method, Finite Volume Method, Grid Generation Techniques, CFD Applications in Thermal Systems |
| ME-202 (MTTE-202) | Refrigeration and Air Conditioning System Design | Core | 3 | Vapour Compression Refrigeration Systems, Psychrometry and Air Conditioning Processes, Cooling and Heating Load Calculations, Air Distribution System Design, Control Systems for HVAC |
| ME-203 (MTTE-203) | Design of Heat Exchangers | Core | 3 | Types of Heat Exchangers, LMTD and NTU Methods, Fouling and Heat Exchanger Degradation, Thermal and Mechanical Design Considerations, Compact Heat Exchangers |
| ME-204 (MTTE-204) | Elective-II (Example: Power Plant Engineering) | Elective | 3 | Thermal Power Plant Cycles, Gas Turbine Power Plants, Hydroelectric Power Generation, Nuclear Power Plants, Renewable Energy Technologies |
| ME-205 (MTTE-205) | Elective-III (Example: Turbo Machinery) | Elective | 3 | Thermodynamics of Fluid Flow, Axial and Radial Flow Turbines, Compressors and Pumps, Performance Characteristics of Turbo Machines, Design Aspects of Impellers |
| ME-206 (MTTE-206) | Thermal Engineering Lab-II | Lab | 2 | CFD Software Practice (ANSYS/OpenFOAM), HVAC System Analysis and Optimization, Heat Exchanger Performance Evaluation, Design of Thermal Components, Simulation of Thermal Systems |
| ME-207 (MTTE-207) | Seminar-II | Seminar | 1 | Advanced Literature Review, Research Problem Definition, Technical Writing Standards, Effective Presentation Techniques |
| ME-208 (MTTE-208) | Mini Project with Seminar | Project | 2 | Project Formulation and Planning, Design and Analysis of a Thermal System, Report Writing and Documentation, Project Presentation and Defense |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME-301 (MTTE-301) | Open Elective | Elective | 3 | Interdisciplinary subject chosen by student, Can include topics like Soft Computing, Energy Management, Data Science for Engineers, Industrial Safety |
| ME-302 (MTTE-302) | Dissertation/Project Work (Stage-I) | Project | 6 | Problem Identification and Scope Definition, Detailed Literature Review, Methodology Development, Preliminary Design or Experimental Plan, Initial Simulation or Analysis |
| ME-303 (MTTE-303) | Comprehensive Viva Voce | Viva | 5 | Overall Thermal Engineering Concepts, Core Subject Knowledge, Research Aptitude, Problem-Solving Abilities |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME-401 (MTTE-401) | Dissertation/Project Work (Stage-II) | Project | 14 | Experimental Work and Data Collection, Detailed Simulation and Analysis, Result Interpretation and Discussion, Thesis Writing and Documentation, Final Project Defense |




