Description
Pyrometallurgical engineers are constantly being compared to alchemists since both are known for their abilities to turn metals into more valuable products. However, the main difference between these two careers is that we can physically and scientifically prove that engineers are performing these great feats. Metals are being synthesized and formed into useful products everyday by pyrometallurgical engineers. Whether it is silver flatware, plant hangers, iron golf clubs, or key rings, they were all designed and developed by these engineers. Pyrometallurgical engineers design and develop heat-based processes and equipment to concentrate, extract, refine and process metals and other materials.
Pyrometallurgical engineers study the nature and properties of different metals and materials and conduct high temperature experiments to design new products that can be commercially sold. They extract and obtain pure metals and ore through various extractive processes such as refining (see refining engineer), welding, fusing and smelting metals. Smelting is a process that melts metal in extreme heat to separate metal from surrounding ore. This process has been utilized for a long time now and is highly effective. They also control temperature adjustments, change mixtures and other variables in blast-furnace operations and steel-melting furnaces to obtain pig iron and steel of specified metallurgical characteristics and qualities.
Some pyrometallurgical engineers work at creating new pyrometallurgic processes and equipment. This involves research, design and testing. The research stage is crucial as it consists of formulating theories using mathematical and scientific principles to determine whether or not a plan will work. A number of factors must be considered when working with different materials, for example, its properties and whether or not it has the strength to withstand high temperatures. The design component applies the research to create and produce a product. Finally, the testers literally test the products for safety and quality.
Pyrometallurgical engineers usually work with a team of other engineers, technicians and scientists and make sure that everything is running smoothly and safely. If they do find faults within a mechanism, they will work at creating solutions to prevent potential disasters. Some engineers also work at improving already existing products in order to make them more user-friendly or environmentally sustainable.
Pyrometallurgical engineers are required to constantly update their skills and knowledge in order to keep up with technological advancements in this quickly changing field. Upon graduation, all Canadian engineers receive iron rings that remind them of their obligation to build safe structures.
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