

M-TECH in Thermal Engineering at Sahyadri College of Engineering & Management


Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Thermal Engineering at Sahyadri College of Engineering & Management Dakshina Kannada?
This M.Tech Thermal Engineering program at Sahyadri College of Engineering & Management focuses on advanced principles and applications of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat and mass transfer. With a strong emphasis on energy systems, combustion, and sustainable technologies, the program addresses the growing demand for specialized engineers in India''''s power, automotive, and HVAC sectors. Its curriculum, aligned with VTU, prepares students for real-world challenges in thermal design and analysis.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for mechanical engineering graduates seeking advanced expertise in energy systems, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics. It caters to fresh graduates aiming for R&D roles in thermal industries or academia, and working professionals looking to upskill in areas like renewable energy, power generation, or HVAC design to enhance their career progression in India''''s rapidly evolving industrial landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as Thermal Design Engineers, HVAC Consultants, Energy Auditors, R&D Engineers, and academic researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 10-20 LPA. The specialization aligns with growth trajectories in sectors like power generation, automotive, aerospace, and sustainable energy, offering significant professional advancement opportunities.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Thermal Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to understanding advanced thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer. Utilize online resources like NPTEL courses and VTU''''s e-learning platforms for conceptual clarity. Form study groups to discuss complex problems and solve numericals together, which is critical for strong academic performance in core subjects.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL (IIT/IISc videos), VTU e-learning portal, Standard textbooks (Yunus Cengel, Incropera), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals is essential for cracking technical interviews for R&D and design roles in thermal engineering companies like Thermax, BHEL, and Tata Motors, ensuring a solid foundation for practical applications.
Develop Simulation and Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in laboratory sessions for Advanced Thermal Engineering Lab-1 to gain hands-on experience. Complement this with learning simulation software such as ANSYS Fluent/CFX or OpenFOAM (for CFD) and MATLAB/Python for numerical analysis. Participate in workshops organized by the department on these tools.
Tools & Resources
ANSYS Fluent/CFX, OpenFOAM, MATLAB, Python (with NumPy/SciPy), College labs and workshops
Career Connection
Proficiency in simulation tools and analytical methods is highly valued by companies designing thermal systems, engines, and HVAC components, leading to roles in product development and R&D within India.
Explore Research Methodology and IPR- (Semester 1)
Utilize the ''''Research Methodology and IPR'''' course to understand the basics of academic research and intellectual property. Read recent research papers in your areas of interest and attend departmental seminars. This early exposure helps in identifying potential project topics and understanding the ethics of research.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Xplore, Scopus, Google Scholar, Departmental research seminars, VTU Digital Library
Career Connection
This practice builds foundational skills for undertaking your M.Tech project and can open doors to research-oriented careers in public sector undertakings or PhD opportunities in India and abroad.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Electives and Mini-Projects- (Semester 2-3)
Carefully choose professional electives based on your career interests (e.g., CFD, Renewable Energy, HVAC Design). For each elective, undertake a mini-project or case study applying the concepts. This deepens your understanding and allows for practical application of specialized knowledge, making your profile stand out.
Tools & Resources
Elective course materials, Simulation software (ANSYS, COMSOL), Industry case studies, Mentorship from faculty
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge through electives directly prepares you for niche roles in specific thermal engineering fields, such as energy consulting, renewable energy project management, or HVAC system design in India.
Seek Industry Internships- (Semester 3)
Actively apply for internships during summer breaks or dedicated internship semesters with companies in thermal engineering domains (e.g., HVAC manufacturing, power plants, automotive R&D, energy auditing firms). Focus on gaining practical exposure to design, analysis, or experimental work in an industrial setting. Leverage the college''''s placement cell for opportunities.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn, Internshala, Company career pages, Industry contacts
Career Connection
Internships are crucial for industry exposure, networking, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting your employability in the competitive Indian market.
Participate in Technical Competitions and Workshops- (Semester 2-3)
Engage in inter-collegiate technical competitions, design challenges, or hackathons related to thermal engineering (e.g., energy efficiency, sustainable design). Attend workshops and conferences on emerging thermal technologies. This enhances problem-solving skills, exposes you to new trends, and builds a strong professional network.
Tools & Resources
SAEINDIA events, ISME/ISTE student chapters, Local and national conferences, Online competition platforms
Career Connection
Participation in such events showcases initiative and practical skills to potential employers, especially for roles requiring innovation and teamwork in Indian R&D centers.
Advanced Stage
Execute a High-Impact Project Work- (Semester 3-4)
Focus intensely on your M.Tech Project Work (Phase 1 & 2). Choose a topic with industrial relevance or significant research potential. Aim for tangible outcomes like a functional prototype, validated simulation model, or a publishable research paper. Regularly seek guidance from your supervisor and departmental experts.
Tools & Resources
Advanced simulation software, Experimental setups, Research journals, Faculty mentorship, Project funding (if available)
Career Connection
A well-executed project is your best resume builder for M.Tech graduates, directly demonstrating your ability to solve complex thermal problems and contribute to industry or academia, which is highly regarded by Indian recruiters.
Network and Attend Industry Events- (Semester 3-4)
Actively network with professionals in thermal engineering through LinkedIn, industry association meetings (e.g., ISHRAE, FADA), and alumni events. Attend webinars and virtual job fairs. Building a strong professional network can provide insights into industry trends and job opportunities in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, ISHRAE India, Professional association events, Alumni network, Industry webinars
Career Connection
Networking often leads to direct job referrals, mentorship opportunities, and a better understanding of industry expectations, facilitating smoother entry into the Indian professional workforce.
Prepare for Placements and Higher Studies- (Semester 3-4)
Dedicate time to comprehensive placement preparation, including aptitude tests, technical interviews, and mock group discussions. Tailor your resume and cover letter to specific job descriptions. If considering higher studies, prepare for competitive exams like UGC NET/GATE (for PhD) or GRE/TOEFL (for abroad) and prepare strong statements of purpose.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, Online aptitude platforms (e.g., IndiaBix), Mock interview practice, Career counseling, GRE/TOEFL/GATE preparation materials
Career Connection
Thorough preparation ensures you are well-equipped to secure placements in top Indian companies or gain admission to prestigious PhD programs, fulfilling your career aspirations.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- BE/BTech in Mechanical Engineering/Industrial Production Engineering/Automobile Engineering/Manufacturing Engineering or equivalent degree with minimum 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST candidates) from a recognized university. Valid GATE score or PGCET score is mandatory.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 77 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTE22F11 | Advanced Thermodynamics | Core | 3 | Concepts and Laws of Thermodynamics, Equations of State, Thermodynamic Relations, Mixtures of Ideal Gases, Combustion Thermodynamics, Chemical Equilibrium |
| MTE22F12 | Advanced Fluid Mechanics | Core | 3 | Fundamental Concepts of Fluid Flow, Differential Relations for Fluid Motion, Ideal Fluid Flow, Viscous Flow, Boundary Layer Theory, Turbulence Modeling |
| MTE22F13 | Advanced Heat and Mass Transfer | Core | 3 | Conduction Heat Transfer, Convection Heat Transfer, Radiation Heat Transfer, Mass Transfer Principles, Phase Change Heat Transfer, Heat Exchanger Analysis |
| MTE22S141 | Finite Element Method | Professional Elective – 1 (Option 1) | 3 | Basic Concepts of FEM, One-Dimensional Elements, Two-Dimensional Elements, Isoparametric Elements, FEM Applications in Heat Transfer |
| MTE22S142 | Non-Conventional Energy Sources | Professional Elective – 1 (Option 2) | 3 | Solar Energy Systems, Wind Energy Conversion, Geothermal Energy, Ocean Energy, Biomass Energy Conversion, Hybrid Energy Systems |
| MTE22S143 | Computational Fluid Dynamics | Professional Elective – 1 (Option 3) | 3 | Governing Equations of Fluid Flow, Finite Difference Method, Finite Volume Method, Discretization Schemes, Grid Generation Techniques, Turbulence Modeling |
| MTE22S144 | Industrial Pollution and Control | Professional Elective – 1 (Option 4) | 3 | Air Pollution Sources and Effects, Water Pollution and Treatment, Solid Waste Management, Noise Pollution Control, Pollution Control Technologies, Environmental Regulations |
| MTE22L15 | Advanced Thermal Engineering Lab-1 | Lab | 2 | Heat Transfer Coefficient Measurement, Heat Exchanger Performance Analysis, Refrigeration Cycle Analysis, IC Engine Performance Testing, Fluid Flow Measurement Techniques, Thermal Conductivity Measurement |
| MTE22AC16 | Research Methodology and IPR / Technical Paper Writing | Ability Enhancement Course | 1 | Research Problem Formulation, Data Collection and Analysis, Statistical Methods, Technical Report Writing, Intellectual Property Rights, Patents and Copyrights |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTE22F21 | Convective Heat Transfer | Core | 3 | Laminar Forced Convection, Turbulent Forced Convection, Natural Convection, Condensation Heat Transfer, Boiling Heat Transfer, Convection in Microchannels |
| MTE22F22 | Experimental Methods in Thermal Engineering | Core | 3 | Measurement Techniques, Sensors and Transducers, Data Acquisition Systems, Uncertainty Analysis, Flow Visualization, Thermal Imaging |
| MTE22F23 | Advanced Internal Combustion Engines | Core | 3 | Engine Operating Cycles, Combustion Phenomena in SI/CI Engines, Fuel Injection Systems, Engine Emission Control, Alternative Fuels for IC Engines, Engine Performance and Characteristics |
| MTE22S241 | Refrigeration and Cryogenics | Professional Elective – 2 (Option 1) | 3 | Vapor Compression Refrigeration, Vapor Absorption Refrigeration, Cryogenic Cycles, Cryogenic Insulation, Liquefaction of Gases, Cryogenic Applications |
| MTE22S242 | Combustion Engineering | Professional Elective – 2 (Option 2) | 3 | Fuel Properties and Characterization, Reaction Kinetics and Mechanisms, Flame Propagation and Stability, Combustion Products Analysis, Pollutant Formation and Control, Industrial Burners and Furnaces |
| MTE22S243 | Power Plant Engineering | Professional Elective – 2 (Option 3) | 3 | Thermal Power Plants, Hydroelectric Power Plants, Nuclear Power Plants, Gas Turbine Power Plants, Combined Cycle Power Plants, Renewable Energy Power Generation |
| MTE22S244 | Renewable Energy Technologies | Professional Elective – 2 (Option 4) | 3 | Solar Photovoltaic Systems, Solar Thermal Technologies, Wind Turbine Design and Operation, Geothermal Energy Systems, Bioenergy Conversion, Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Energy |
| MTE22S251 | Design of Thermal Systems | Professional Elective – 3 (Option 1) | 3 | System Modeling and Simulation, Optimization Techniques for Thermal Systems, Heat Exchanger Design Principles, Boiler and Condenser Design, Cooling Tower Design, Solar Collector Design |
| MTE22S252 | Air Conditioning Systems | Professional Elective – 3 (Option 2) | 3 | Psychrometrics and Comfort Conditions, Heating and Cooling Load Calculations, HVAC System Components, Duct Design and Air Distribution, Refrigerants and Environmental Impact, Energy Efficiency in HVAC |
| MTE22S253 | Fuels and Advanced Combustion | Professional Elective – 3 (Option 3) | 3 | Liquid and Gaseous Fuels, Solid Fuels and Combustion, Advanced Combustion Concepts, Biofuels and their Applications, Syngas Production and Utilization, Pollutant Formation in Combustion |
| MTE22S254 | Waste Heat Recovery Systems | Professional Elective – 3 (Option 4) | 3 | Sources of Waste Heat, Heat Exchangers for Recovery, Recuperators and Regenerators, Heat Pumps for Waste Heat, Thermoelectric Generators, Economic Analysis of WHR Systems |
| MTE22L26 | Advanced Thermal Engineering Lab-2 | Lab | 2 | HVAC System Performance Testing, CFD Analysis of Thermal Systems, Renewable Energy System Characterization, Combustion Analysis and Emissions, Heat Pipe Performance Evaluation, Advanced Measurement Techniques |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTE22S311 | Microscale Heat Transfer | Professional Elective – 4 (Option 1) | 3 | Heat Transfer in Microchannels, Microfins and Microjet Cooling, Thin Film Heat Transfer, Microfluidics and Thermal Management, MEMS Thermal Systems, Nanofluids in Microscale |
| MTE22S312 | HVAC Design | Professional Elective – 4 (Option 2) | 3 | Load Calculation Methodologies, HVAC System Selection, Duct and Pipe Design, HVAC Controls and Automation, Energy Efficiency in HVAC Design, Building Management Systems |
| MTE22S313 | Energy Conservation and Management | Professional Elective – 4 (Option 3) | 3 | Energy Audit Procedures, Energy Economics and Costing, Demand Side Management, Energy Storage Technologies, Building Energy Performance, Renewable Energy Integration |
| MTE22S314 | Advanced Heat Exchanger Design | Professional Elective – 4 (Option 4) | 3 | Compact Heat Exchanger Design, Phase Change Heat Exchangers, Fouling in Heat Exchangers, CFD for Heat Exchanger Optimization, Material Selection for Heat Exchangers, Advanced Manufacturing for HX |
| MTE22I32 | Internship | Internship | 10 | Industrial Training, Problem Identification, Solution Implementation, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Professional Etiquette |
| MTE22P33 | Project Work Phase – 1 | Project | 10 | Literature Review, Problem Definition, Methodology Development, Preliminary Design/Simulation, Resource Planning, Ethical Considerations |
| MTE22RV34 | Research Viva-Voce | Viva-Voce | 2 | Research Question Defense, Methodology Explanation, Results Interpretation, Future Scope Discussion, Oral Communication Skills, Critical Thinking |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTE22P41 | Project Work Phase – 2 | Project | 20 | Experimental/Simulation Work, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Result Validation, Final Report Writing, Project Presentation, Publication Opportunities |




