Introduction to Chemical Engineering (ICE610S) Lecture 1

This set of flashcards covers key concepts from a lecture on the Introduction to Chemical Engineering, focusing on the aims of the programme, skills required, roles of chemical engineers, and important principles such as unit operations and process flow diagrams.

What is the purpose of the Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering programme?

To develop engineering skills in Namibia and produce professionals grounded in chemical engineering principles.

What is the accreditation associated with the Chemical Engineering programme?

The programme meets the requirements of the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) and the Washington Accord.

What major areas do chemical engineers address in the 21st century?

Sustainable resource exploitation, energy utilization, food production, health and wellbeing, and water security.

List some key skills that chemical engineers need according to the programme outcomes.

Problem solving, application of scientific and engineering knowledge, engineering design, investigations and experiments, technical communication.

What are the two types of processes used in chemical engineering?

Batch processes and continuous processes.

What is a batch reactor?

A reactor where known quantities of raw materials are processed step by step to produce a final product.

What is the role of a continuous reactor?

To feed reactants continuously into a reactor to produce large quantities of a final product.

Name some career options for chemical engineers.

Process engineer, safety engineer, environmental engineer, R&D engineer, and production engineer.

What is the significance of unit operations and unit processes in chemical engineering?

They represent the different physical and chemical steps in a chemical process.

What are two examples of unit processes?

Combustion and oxidation.

Provide an example of a chemical engineering core course.

Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics.

What is the purpose of process flow diagrams (PFD)?

To visually represent the steps and equipment used in a chemical process.

Define a Piping and Instrumentation Diagram (P&ID).

A detailed diagram that shows major and minor flows, control loops, and instrumental details in a process.

What does the design of a reactor depend upon?

Thermodynamics and kinetics of the chemical reactions.

Why are chemical engineers sometimes called 'universal engineers'?

Due to their broad knowledge base and ability to work in diverse fields.

What are microreactors?

Devices used for chemical production on a micro-scale to enhance safety and efficiency.

What are the learning outcomes expected from students upon completion of Introduction to Chemical Engineering?

Understand the chemical engineering profession, identify roles in society, and analyze industry challenges.