The Loss of Essential Skills in Chemical and Mechanical Engineering Due to Automation

The Loss of Essential Skills in Chemical and Mechanical Engineering Due to Automation

As technology advances and machines take over many tasks, some traditional skills and knowledge are being lost. This article explores two fields, chemical and mechanical engineering, and highlights the valuable experiences and know-how that are no longer as prominent due to automation.

Chemical Engineering

When I entered the school of engineering in university, we were issued two slide rules, a large one and a smaller one. Now, these are considered historic relics. Traditionally, engineers and scientists relied on such tools for daily calculations. However, modern calculators and computers have rendered these tools obsolete.

Another area where knowledge has been lost is the hands-on experience of working with chemicals on a moderate scale for both synthesis and analysis. While contemporary machines can detect and identify incredibly small amounts of substances, the need for making large quantities to report a synthesis has diminished. As a result, there is less emphasis on learning the nuances of handling chemicals.

Not only is the physical manipulation of chemicals being lost, but so is a crucial aspect of heat and scaling. Modern chemists often use large-scale equipment, which means they do not fully comprehend how heat of reaction scales up. The concept of surface area per volume as it applies to different scales is now more theoretical than practical.

Additionally, safety has become a concern. Chemists and chemical engineers no longer perform experiments on a scale where serious safety issues could arise. Consequently, they lack the firsthand knowledge gained from protecting their own lives and health. This change is particularly concerning because even small concentrations of substances can become significant in real-world applications.

Another issue lies in the analysis of samples. Modern analytical instruments require only small amounts of material. This can lead to non-representative samples, which may not accurately reflect the average composition. Older methods of analysis were more time-consuming but provided a better picture of the entire sample. For students, the tedious process of obtaining representative samples often leads to a lack of interest.

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering, too, has seen the loss of certain essential skills due to automation. One example is the lathe, a fundamental tool in the field. The invention and construction of the lathe lead-screw are fascinating innovations that went through a long process of trial and error. Early engineers faced significant challenges in building these machines without the assistance of a lathe itself, making the process an intricate and detailed one.

These days, most machining work is done using CNC or GNC (Galvanic) machines. While these advanced machines have certainly improved efficiency and precision, they also carry the risk of fostering a loss of traditional mechanical engineering expertise. Only a small group of modelmakers continue to hold this knowledge, and as such, many old techniques and subtle skills are being forgotten.

A notable example in mechanical engineering is the basic steam engine. The ingenuity and skill required to design and construct these engines with minimal tools are truly remarkable. The process of building such engines teaches a level of craftsmanship and deep understanding that machines cannot replicate completely.

Conclusion

The advancements in technology have undoubtedly improved efficiency and precision across various fields. However, they have also contributed to the loss of invaluable skills and knowledge. Chemical and mechanical engineering, in particular, have seen a decline in practical, hands-on experiences that are crucial for a well-rounded education and professional development.

While modern tools and machines are valuable, it is essential to preserve and pass on traditional methods and techniques. Doing so ensures that future generations of engineers can build on the foundation laid by their predecessors and continue to innovate and solve complex problems with a full understanding of both the latest technology and the historical context of their craft.