Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering Basics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between mechanical engineering (ME) and electrical engineering (EE), specifically whether a solid understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals is necessary for mechanical engineers. The scope includes educational requirements, practical applications in the workforce, and the integration of both fields in engineering practice.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that mechanical engineering programs typically include several courses in electrical engineering, indicating a necessity for knowledge in this area.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of understanding electrical concepts in practical applications, particularly in research and development roles, where collaboration with electrical engineers is common.
  • Another participant notes that while a basic understanding of electrical engineering is beneficial, it may not be strictly necessary, depending on the specific career path within mechanical engineering.
  • A participant mentions their requirement to take multiple semesters of electrical engineering courses, advocating for even more exposure to the subject.
  • One contributor reflects on their experience, stating that while their degree was focused on mechanical engineering, the integration of electrical engineering concepts was significant in their coursework and professional interactions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that a foundational knowledge of electrical engineering is advantageous for mechanical engineers, but there is no consensus on whether it is strictly necessary for all career paths within the field. Some express that it is essential, while others suggest it is useful but not mandatory.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights varying educational requirements and personal experiences, which may depend on specific engineering programs and career trajectories. There is an acknowledgment of the integration of disciplines in modern engineering practices, but no definitive conclusions are drawn regarding the necessity of electrical engineering knowledge for all mechanical engineers.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a mechanical engineering degree, professionals in interdisciplinary engineering roles, and educators in engineering programs may find this discussion relevant.

Benny
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Hi, I'm wondering if mechanical engineering requires a fairly extensive knowledge of the basics of electrical engineering eg. circuit theory and the practical side of it.
 
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Any ME program will have a good 3 or so classes minimum in EE. In today's market you have to know the basics because everything is intermeshing. It's not like you'll sit down and anylize circuit diagrams or anything like that, but there is a lot of theory and knowledge that is just plain day to day language and understanding. For example, in my area, R&D, I work closely with EE's in our data syatems and our engine control systems. I have to know how sensors are implemented and work, PLC's, and basic industrial control schemes for heaters, coolers and such. It is mandatory to know how these things operate for the inevitable breakdowns and troubleshooting of systems. It's not super high end digital stuff, but it's all in an area that is not considered pure ME. Without a basic understanding of electrical engineering, you can be at a real disadvantage depending on where you end up career wise.

Don't be afraid of braanching out and learning something new.
 
Thanks for the responses.
 
Im required to take 3 simesters of EE work. Phyiscs 2, and two courses called "electonics and instrumentation", but I would recommend more if possible.
 
There's so much integration in engineered products these days that it's really useful (as a clanky) to be able to at least converse on the same terms as a sparky. My degree was pure mechanical, but I had 2 compulsory E&E modules, as well as the obligatory computing stuff, and then did a load of control systems, which was more electrical than mechanical. It's not absolutely necessary, but it's bloody useful. I'd feel embarassed at work if I had to approach our sparky just to ask how to calculate the power coming from my genset.
 

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