

M-TECH in Thermal Engineering at Shanmugha Arts Science Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA)


Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Thermal Engineering at Shanmugha Arts Science Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) Thanjavur?
This Thermal Engineering program at SASTRA Deemed University focuses on advanced concepts in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer. It addresses the growing need for specialized engineers in India''''s energy and manufacturing sectors, equipping students with skills in design, analysis, and optimization of thermal systems for efficiency and sustainability.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for mechanical, aerospace, or mechatronics engineering graduates seeking to specialize in thermal sciences. It also suits working professionals aiming to upgrade their expertise in power generation, HVAC, or renewable energy. Aspiring researchers and those looking to contribute to India''''s energy independence will find this curriculum highly relevant.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as thermal design engineers, energy auditors, CFD analysts, or R&D engineers in India. Entry-level salaries range from INR 4-7 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in power plants, automotive, aerospace, and energy management sectors, aligning with India''''s push for sustainable development.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Thermal Concepts- (Semester 1)
Develop a strong understanding of advanced thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer by rigorous problem-solving. Utilize online platforms for practice and join peer study groups to clarify concepts.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Specific textbooks (e.g., Cengel, Incropera), GATE preparation materials, SASTRA''''s internal academic support
Career Connection
A robust foundation is crucial for excelling in technical interviews and specialized roles in thermal design or analysis.
Basic CFD/Numerical Methods Proficiency- (Semester 1)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand numerical methods taught in the curriculum. Practice using basic computational tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python) to solve simple thermal problems. Consider an online introductory course on CFD.
Tools & Resources
MATLAB, Python, Online tutorials for numerical methods, Numerical Methods in Thermal Engineering course materials
Career Connection
Early exposure to computational tools is essential for pursuing careers in CFD analysis, a highly demanded skill in modern engineering.
Technical Communication for Labs- (Semester 1)
Focus on clear and concise communication during Thermal Engineering Lab I. Learn to write professional lab reports, interpret results effectively, and present findings logically.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Scientific writing guides, Presentation software, Peer review
Career Connection
Strong technical reporting and presentation skills are vital for R&D, consulting, and project management roles.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Applied Thermal Systems- (Semester 2)
For subjects like Power Plant Engineering, RAC, and IC Engines, focus on their practical applications, design considerations, and operational challenges in the Indian context. Visit industrial sites if possible or engage in case studies.
Tools & Resources
Industry white papers, Relevant IS/BIS standards, Textbooks on applied thermal systems, Guest lectures
Career Connection
This knowledge is directly applicable to roles in power generation, automotive, and HVAC industries, crucial for India''''s infrastructure.
Hands-on Lab Competence Advanced- (Semester 2)
Actively engage in Thermal Engineering Lab II, aiming to troubleshoot experimental setups, optimize parameters, and analyze performance data critically.
Tools & Resources
Advanced lab equipment, Data analysis software, SASTRA''''s lab facilities, Peer collaboration
Career Connection
Advanced practical skills in thermal system analysis are highly valued for engineering and R&D positions.
Elective Specialization Exploration- (Semester 2)
Carefully choose electives that align with your career interests (e.g., CFD, Turbomachinery, Renewable Energy). Use this opportunity to gain specialized knowledge and differentiate your skillset.
Tools & Resources
Elective course descriptions, Faculty advisors, Industry reports on emerging thermal technologies
Career Connection
Specialization through electives allows you to target specific industry niches and enhances your employability in focused roles.
Advanced Stage
Strategic Project Work Phase I & II- (Semester 3-4)
Select a project topic aligned with current industry challenges or research gaps, preferably with a faculty mentor having industry connections. Focus on rigorous methodology, problem-solving, and substantial outcomes.
Tools & Resources
Research journals (e.g., Scopus, Web of Science), Simulation software (e.g., Ansys, SolidWorks Flow Simulation), SASTRA research labs
Career Connection
A strong project portfolio is a key differentiator for placements and an essential credential for higher studies or R&D roles.
Networking & Professional Development- (Semester 3-4)
Attend relevant technical conferences, workshops, and industry expos in India. Network with professionals, explore internship opportunities, and join professional bodies like ISHRAE or SAE.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Industry associations, SASTRA''''s career services, Alumni network
Career Connection
Building a professional network opens doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and insights into industry trends, crucial for career growth.
Placement & Interview Preparation- (Semester 3-4)
Systematically prepare for interviews, focusing on technical thermal engineering questions, aptitude, and soft skills. Participate in mock interviews and tailor your resume/CV to specific job descriptions.
Tools & Resources
SASTRA''''s placement cell, Online interview preparation platforms, Company-specific preparation guides, Peer practice
Career Connection
Effective preparation maximizes chances of securing desired placements in core thermal engineering companies or related sectors in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical/Aerospace/Mechatronics/Energy/Production/Automobile/Manufacturing/Power Plant Engineering or equivalent with minimum 60% aggregate marks. Valid GATE score preferred.
Duration: 4 semesters
Credits: 72 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTEO101 | Advanced Thermodynamics | Core | 4 | Review of Laws of Thermodynamics, Maxwell Relations and Real Gases, Combustion Thermodynamics, Chemical Equilibrium, Multi-component Systems |
| MTEO102 | Advanced Fluid Mechanics | Core | 4 | Fluid Properties and Kinematics, Integral Relations for Control Volumes, Navier-Stokes Equations, Laminar and Turbulent Flow, Boundary Layer Theory |
| MTEO103 | Advanced Heat Transfer | Core | 4 | Conduction Heat Transfer, Convection Heat Transfer, Boiling and Condensation, Radiation Heat Transfer, Heat Exchangers and Mass Transfer |
| MTEO104 | Numerical Methods in Thermal Engineering | Core | 4 | Numerical Solution of ODEs, Numerical Solution of PDEs, Finite Difference Method, Finite Volume Method, Introduction to CFD |
| MTEP101 | Thermal Engineering Lab – I | Lab | 1 | Heat Transfer Experiments, Fluid Mechanics Experiments, Combustion Analysis, Refrigeration Test Rigs, Air Conditioning Test Rigs |
| MTEE201 | Gas Dynamics and Jet Propulsion | Elective | 3 | Isentropic Flow, Normal and Oblique Shocks, Flow with Friction and Heat Transfer, Ramjet and Turbojet Engines, Turbofan and Scramjet Engines |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTEO201 | Power Plant Engineering | Core | 4 | Steam Power Plants, Gas Turbine Power Plants, Diesel Engine Power Plants, Hydroelectric Power Plants, Nuclear and Renewable Power Plants |
| MTEO202 | Refrigeration and Air Conditioning | Core | 4 | Vapor Compression Systems, Vapor Absorption Systems, Refrigerants and Psychrometry, Air Conditioning Systems Design, Cooling Load Calculations |
| MTEO203 | Advanced Internal Combustion Engines | Core | 4 | Engine Cycles and Fuel Combustion, Pollutant Formation and Control, Engine Emissions Regulations, Alternative Fuels, Engine Performance Analysis |
| MTEO204 | Energy Conservation and Management | Core | 4 | Energy Audit and Management, Energy Efficiency Techniques, Waste Heat Recovery, Cogeneration Systems, Renewable Energy Sources |
| MTEP201 | Thermal Engineering Lab – II | Lab | 1 | IC Engine Performance Testing, Refrigeration and AC System Performance, Boiler Efficiency Experiments, Heat Pump Analysis, Solar Energy Applications |
| MTEE202 | Turbomachinery | Elective | 3 | Fluid Dynamics of Turbomachines, Axial and Centrifugal Compressors, Axial and Radial Turbines, Cavitation and Surging, Pump and Fan Characteristics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTEO301 | Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Research Problem Formulation, Literature Review Techniques, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Ethics |
| MTEO302 | Seminar | Project/Seminar | 1 | Technical Presentation Skills, Literature Survey and Critical Analysis, Communication and Discussion, Project Proposal Development, Scientific Writing |
| MTEO303 | Project Work – Phase I | Project | 8 | Problem Identification and Scope, Project Planning and Design, Preliminary Data Acquisition, Experimental Setup Development, Extensive Literature Review |
| MTEE203 | Computational Fluid Dynamics | Elective | 3 | Finite Difference/Volume Methods, Discretization Schemes, Navier-Stokes Equation Solvers, Grid Generation Techniques, Turbulence Modeling and Applications |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTEO401 | Project Work – Phase II | Project | 20 | Detailed Design and Implementation, Experimental Validation and Analysis, Simulation and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Documentation, Presentation and Defense |




