Metallurgical Engineering is a core faculty or branch of engineering, which deals with the application of engineering techniques and formulas. It is one of the oldest sciences known to humankind. Metallurgical engineering involves the extraction of metals from their ore, and making them suited for practical use.
Metals need to be got from their respective ores. The second step is to process the metals to make alloys, which is done according to the requirement and application. Then purified and shaped according to the use of it. Thus it is the putting to application the extract. A metallurgical engineer should thus know the physical and chemical properties of metals, their structure and utility. This field is subdivided into two categories – Extractive or Process metallurgy, that deals with the extraction process and refining. And alloy or physical metallurgy, which is the adapting of metals for final use and improving the performance.
It can be segmented even further into mineral processing, metal forming, casting, powder metallurgy, fuel refractory and furnaces, etc. So you can choose according to your interests and bet of mind the field of work that bests suits your aptitude and taste.
To be a metallurgical engineer, you should take up science at plus two level, with PCM combination. And then try getting into a good engineering college. It is a four year course, after which you can opt for master’s and further research or PhD. You have to appear for an entrance examination if you wish to pursue engineering from a reputed college like IIT (IIT JEE) or NIT (AIEEE), at the undergrad level. Even for post graduation or M. Tech, you will have to appear for the GATE.
A metallurgical engineer is expected to have a strong base in core science subjects like physics and chemistry, mathematics, and also geology. You should also possess analytical skills, and have a sound knowledge of techniques, latest technology, and instruments.
Metallurgical Engineering is not an independent branch. Its functioning overlaps other faculties like chemical, mechanical, thermal engineering. Moreover, material science subjects like nano- technology and bio processing has only increased its scope of work. With a number of steel plants and mining industries coming up, the demand for skilled professionals is only increasing by the day. Also there is a demand for them in research and development laboratories, engineering institutions and colleges. Also they can work with the defence sector, and various regional bodies involved in furthering education and research in metallurgy. Thus there is scope of lateral and vertical growth in this industry. You can shift from field work to academics or research. It is also a highly remunerative career choice, with the pay being quite handsome. Though there are risks involved in it, but the opportunity to learn, experiment and grow, is immense. Metallurgical Engineering is an interesting career option for those who are heart and soul into engineering and wish to learn, not fond of regular desk jobs, and want to have a soaring career graph.
