From inventing new materials that help explore different dimensions of space to finding cures for diseases at the nanoscale, Material Engineers are an integral part of human advancement and evolution. Material Engineers use the principles of science and properties of materials to solve problems or enhance existing processes. Let us say that a material is needed to do a specific task X and it needs to meet various other requirements such as specific shape and dimensions. A material that can be used to perform task X may not easily satisfy other requirements.
A particular material is chosen for the task because it has the required properties to perform the task. The properties of a material are inherently dependent on the structure of the material. The structure of a material is the arrangement of atoms and molecules and how they are combined throughout the material. The structure of the material can be dictated by determining the suitable processing technique. Thus correct processing techniques give rise to the necessary structure that exhibits the suitable properties. The processed material should perform expectedly. The performance should also be economical and societally acceptable. Hence, a material engineer’s role is to critically evaluate these factors to come up with different types of materials that could be eligible for the task. They are also aware of the changes in properties of materials at different processing conditions.
Engineering, in general, is known as a discipline where any problem can be defined in terms of advanced calculus and the solution usually lies in solving the calculus. However, materials engineers do not necessarily deal with calculus all the time. Certain problems can also be diagnosed and solved by the application of a thorough understanding of the science behind them. For example, when a piece of metal is found to be rusting, it could be prevented using a suitable rust prevention technique after assessing the conditions carefully. This process does not necessarily involve complex derivations and calculations.
Material Engineering is a vast subject area covering various aspects of a material and its existence. Some of the knowledge areas are explored in the field of materials engineering but not limited to different types of manufacturing processes for various industrial materials such as metals, polymers, glass, ceramics, wood, etc., the processing phases of a material and how different conditions affects its properties, the thermodynamics behind these processes and design and application of materials according to the requirements. In addition to these, in-depth knowledge on plastics and rubber, composite materials, electronic materials, biomaterials, magnetic materials, construction materials, ceramics, energy materials and nanomaterials can also be obtained from the curriculum. Material engineers also have sound knowledge of industrial processes such as welding, corrosion prevention, recycling, surface engineering, and characterization techniques. As materials engineers, our prime focus is to address environmental concerns thus every step in a process is approached in an eco-friendly manner.
Due to the wide array of knowledge, material engineers find their way into diverse fields in the industry. Career opportunities in the materials field include metal, polymer and ceramic industries, nanomaterials, biomedical, electronics, energy generation and storage, automotive, design and manufacturing, research and development, building and construction, advanced materials and aerospace are some of the many industries in which material engineers play a crucial role.
In the Sri Lankan context, material engineers are commonly found in:
- The manufacturing field is one of the areas where there are ample opportunities for materials engineers. They are usually designated to monitor daily productions and optimize and ensure the production standards. Common industries include glass, steel, tires, textile, cables, rubber and polymers, etc.
- Construction field where they are involved in Quality Assurance (QA) testing, raw material acquisition, failure analysis, etc. Thorough knowledge of construction materials would be an added benefit in this field.
- Research and Development teams of large companies where the fieldwork can vary at different scales of research (macro to nanoscale).
- Business Analysts/ ERP Analyst groups utilize a combination of manufacturing knowledge and analytical skills to evaluate the feasibility of new productions. They act as a bridge between the production floor and the target market.
- Academic fields where individuals pursue higher studies to contribute valuable knowledge through publications in particular areas of interest.
Duties of a materials engineer include but are not limited to;
- Plan and collaborate projects with engineers from other disciplines
- Create proposals, make a budget allocation, prepare reports and carry out other necessary managerial tasks.
- Supervising works of subordinates and other engineers.
- Designing and monitoring testing procedures.
- Monitor performance of the material and their mode of degradation.
- Troubleshooting failures, diagnosing causes and finding possible solutions for the issue.
- Evaluate design objectives of new ideas and products and their feasibility as an economical outcome to the industry.
- Assess the overall material processing procedure and make sure they adhere to environmental guidelines.
Some of the common job roles for material engineers in Sri Lanka include but are not limited to:
- Maintenance engineer
- Inspection engineer
- Process engineers
- Research and development engineer
- Materials engineer
- Research scientist
- Quality assurance engineer
- Process Development Engineer
- Metallurgist
- Design engineer
- Biomedical engineer
- Project manager
- Aerospace Engineer
- Electrical and electronics engineer
Written By — Sajeevan Angappan
Sinhala Translator — Roshinie Jayasundara
Tamil Translator — Mohamed Izad
