Metallurgical engineers study various metal ores and alloys in order to create products and equipment that are stronger, lighter, and more versatile. Some engineers focus on extraction metallurgy, which entails devising more efficient methods for extracting usable metal from ore. Others engage in physical metallurgy, which entails developing new products and refining existing manufacturing methods. Manufacturing plants, steel mills, refineries, and research and development laboratories are just a few of the places where metallurgical engineers work.
Designing machines, equipment, and processes for extracting metal from raw ores is a common metallurgical engineer job. Engineers working in refineries and manufacturing plants test various small-scale procedures for separating pure metal elements from waste. They develop more efficient chemical extraction methods and design crushing, grinding, and sifting machinery. Many experts work to improve leaching procedures, which entail dissolving waste materials from raw ores in order to extract the usable metal within. On-site at mining operations, some extraction engineers assist in determining the best methods for tapping into and collecting ore deposits.
Chemical and physical properties of metallic elements are studied by physical metallurgical engineers. They experiment with various metals and alloys to see which ones are best suited for specific applications. A metallurgical engineer working for a research and development facility, for example, might be asked to design a light and strong golf club head. To determine the most reliable material for the product, he would conduct a series of experiments with various metals such as titanium and cobalt. Metallurgical engineers with mechanical engineering backgrounds can also participate in the prototyping and testing phases of their designs.
Metallurgical engineers work in the aerospace, shipbuilding, and automobile industries, creating safer and more efficient metal parts for various vehicles. Engineers may create rust-resistant gas tanks, engine compartments, and exhaust systems. They figure out how to make car and airplane bodies more durable while maintaining functionality and aerodynamics. Government and military space agencies employ highly skilled metallurgical engineers to develop products that can withstand extreme heat and pressure.
Most metallurgical engineer jobs require a bachelor’s degree in chemical or mechanical engineering. Some universities offer master’s degrees in materials science and engineering to help students prepare for careers in the field. For several years, new employees work as research assistants to senior engineers to gain practical experience and familiarize themselves with the various technical and administrative responsibilities that come with metallurgical engineer jobs.