As engineers, thermal engineers get placed in many different sectors of the manufacturing and energy harnessing industry. Because regulating temperature and maintaining the integrity of machines is fundamental to any modern industry, thermal engineers cut across the sectors to be efficiently working as professionals.
Here are a few industrial sectors that employ thermal industries majorly-
HVAC industry
The Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning industry deals with the technology of indoor and vehicular environmental comfort. Its goal is to provide thermal comfort and acceptable indoor air quality. HVAC system design is a subdiscipline of mechanical engineering, based on the principles of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer. The industry majorly deals with creating heat control and ventilation systems for residential and commercial spaces.
Automobile industry
An automobile is made of different parts and mechanical gears. It is important to create an automobile that is energy efficient and reduces energy loss. This requires efficient heating systems and smart mechanical gears. For these objectives, a thermal engineer is involved in the design of an automobile.
Thermal power industry
Thermal power plants are tried and tested methods of harnessing electrical energy. As a thermal engineer, professionals help design safe systems of energy conversion and harness that maximises productivity and minimizes energy loss. In many industrial plants, thermal engineers act as maintenance staff ensuring smooth functioning of the thermal systems.
Engineering equipment industry
Engineering equipment are tools that are used by different engineering and manufacturing industry. Thermal engineers help in machine and tool design so that there is minimal heat loss and damage to the tools from temperature changes so that they are strong and durable.
Oil exploration and refining
Oil exploration and refining is one of the most exciting yet dangerous avenues of industry. As an energy source, oil is crucial and oil refining plants require heavy machinery and maintenance that require the finesse of a thermal engineer.
Besides these industries, Nuclear Power Stations, Pollution Control Agencies, Space Research Organization employ numerous thermal engineers every year.