Stationary Engineering

Freshman Program

This course provides students with the essential skills and knowledge required to perform maintenance and repair tasks in power plant settings. The focus is on practical, hands-on experience, combined with theoretical understanding.

Key Topics:

• Safety Procedures:
  • Identifying and mitigating workplace hazards
  • Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Safe handling of tools and equipment
• Basic Tool Usage:
  • Proficiency in using hand tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers)
  • Operation of power tools (drills, saws, grinders)
• Pipefitting:
  • Cutting, threading, and joining pipes (copper, black iron, PVC)
• Valve and Fitting Identification:
  • Recognizing different types of valves and fittings
  • Understanding their functions and applications
• Gasket Cutting and Installation:
  • Measuring and cutting gaskets to fit specific applications
  • Installing gaskets to ensure proper sealing
• Leak Detection and Repair:
  • Identifying and locating leaks in piping systems
  • Using leak detection tools and techniques
  • Repairing leaks using appropriate methods
• Mechanical Maintenance:
  • Performing routine maintenance on pumps, compressors, and other mechanical equipment
  • Troubleshooting and repairing mechanical breakdowns
• Electrical Maintenance:
  • Basic electrical wiring and troubleshooting
  • Understanding electrical safety procedures

Hands-on Projects:

• Pipefitting Projects: Assembling pipe systems with various fittings and valves.
• Welding Projects: Practicing welding techniques on different materials.
• Equipment Maintenance: Disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling mechanical components.
• Troubleshooting Simulations: Identifying and resolving common maintenance issues.

By the end of this course, students will have a solid understanding of maintenance and repair procedures, as well as the practical skills to perform these tasks safely and efficiently. They will be well-prepared for entry-level positions in power plant operations and maintenance.

Sophomore Program

This sophomore-level course builds upon the foundational knowledge and skills acquired in the freshman year. It provides students with advanced training in the maintenance and repair of power plant equipment.

Key Topics:

• Power Plant Systems:
  • Understanding the components of a power plant, including boilers, turbines, generators, and auxiliary systems.
  • Identifying the role of each component in the overall power generation process.
• Piping Systems:
  • Pipe materials and specifications
  • Pipe fitting techniques (welding, soldering, threading)
  • Pipe support and insulation
  • Valve selection and installation
• Pump and Compressor Systems:
  • Types of pumps and compressors (centrifugal, rotary, reciprocating)
  • Pump and compressor curves
  • Troubleshooting common pump and compressor problems
• Instrumentation and Control:
  • Basic instrumentation and control systems
  • Pressure, temperature, and flow measurement
  • Control valves and actuators
• Boiler Systems:
  • Boiler types and operation
  • Boiler water chemistry and treatment
  • Boiler feedwater systems
  • Boiler safety systems
• Turbine Systems:
  • Steam turbine operation
  • Turbine components and maintenance
  • Turbine efficiency and performance

Hands-on Training:

• Pipefitting and Welding: Advanced pipefitting techniques, including complex piping layouts and welding procedures.
• Pump and Compressor Maintenance: Disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling pumps and compressors.
• Instrumentation and Control: Calibrating and troubleshooting instrumentation and control systems.
• Boiler and Turbine Maintenance: Understanding boiler and turbine components and performing routine maintenance tasks.
• Troubleshooting and Diagnostics: Identifying and resolving equipment malfunctions.

By the end of this course, students will be well-prepared to work in a power plant setting. They will have the skills and knowledge to perform a variety of maintenance tasks, troubleshoot equipment failures, and ensure the safe and efficient operation of power plant systems.

Sophomore Related Class 2

Engineering Math I

This course provides a solid foundation in basic mathematical concepts essential for engineering and technical fields. By focusing on practical applications, students will develop the skills needed to perform calculations, solve equations, and interpret data.

Key Topics:

• Basic Arithmetic:
  • Operations with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals
  • Order of operations
  • Mental math strategies
• Algebra:
  • Linear equations and inequalities
  • Algebraic expressions and equations
  • Ratios and proportions
• Geometry:
  • Basic geometric shapes and properties
  • Perimeter, area, and volume calculations
  • Pythagorean theorem and trigonometric ratios
• Measurement and Units:
  • Metric and imperial units
  • Unit conversions
  • Precision and accuracy in measurements
• Data Analysis and Interpretation:
  • Collecting and organizing data
  • Data visualization (graphs, charts)
  • Statistical measures (mean, median, mode, range)

Practical Applications:

• Engineering Calculations: Applying mathematical concepts to solve engineering problems.
• Blueprint Reading: Interpreting technical drawings and blueprints.
• Machine Shop Calculations: Calculating dimensions, tolerances, and cutting speeds.
• Electrical Calculations: Performing calculations related to electrical circuits and power systems.

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Perform basic arithmetic operations accurately.
• Solve algebraic equations and inequalities.
• Apply geometric principles to solve problems.
• Convert between different units of measurement.
• Analyze data and interpret results.
• Use mathematical tools to solve engineering problems.

This course provides a strong foundation for further studies in engineering and technical fields. By mastering these fundamental mathematical skills, students will be well-prepared to tackle more advanced concepts and challenges.

Junior Program

This course provides a foundational understanding of boiler operation and maintenance, preparing students for a career in the power industry.

Key Topics:

• Boiler Basics:
  • Types of boilers (fire-tube, water-tube)
  • Boiler components (drum, tubes, headers, furnaces)
  • Boiler operation principles (heat transfer, steam generation)
• Boiler Water Chemistry:
  • Water treatment processes (chemical and physical)
  • Water quality parameters (pH, alkalinity, conductivity)
  • Boiler water testing and analysis
• Boiler Feedwater Systems:
  • Feedwater pumps and heaters
  • Deaerators and economizers
  • Feedwater treatment and conditioning
• Boiler Controls and Instrumentation:
  • Boiler control systems (manual and automatic)
  • Safety interlocks and alarms
  • Boiler instrumentation (pressure gauges, temperature gauges, flow meters)
• Boiler Maintenance and Troubleshooting:
  • Routine maintenance procedures
  • Troubleshooting common boiler problems
  • Boiler inspections and repairs
• Boiler Safety:
  • Boiler codes and regulations
  • Safety procedures and practices
  • Emergency response procedures

Hands-on Experience:

• Boiler Operation: Simulating boiler operation using virtual simulators or real-world equipment.
• Water Testing: Conducting water quality tests to monitor boiler water conditions.
• Equipment Inspection: Inspecting boiler components and identifying potential issues.
• Troubleshooting Scenarios: Analyzing and resolving boiler-related problems.

Preparing for the Massachusetts 2nd Class Fireman’s License:

This course aligns with the requirements for obtaining a Massachusetts 2nd Class Fireman’s License. Students will gain the necessary knowledge and skills to pass the licensing exam, which covers topics such as boiler operation, safety procedures, and water treatment.

By the end of this course, students will be well-prepared to enter the workforce as stationary engineers or to pursue further education in power plant engineering. They will have a strong foundation in boiler technology, safety practices, and regulatory compliance.

Junior Related 2

Engineering Math II/Schematics

This course expands on the foundational mathematical skills introduced in Engineering Math I, focusing on their application in engineering contexts.

Key Topics:

Algebra and Trigonometry:

• Linear Equations and Inequalities: Solving and graphing linear equations and inequalities.
• Quadratic Equations: Solving quadratic equations by factoring, completing the square, and using the quadratic formula.
• Trigonometry: Understanding trigonometric functions, solving triangles, and applying trigonometry to real-world problems.

Geometry:

• Geometric Shapes and Properties: Analyzing and calculating properties of geometric shapes (e.g., area, volume, surface area).
• Coordinate Geometry: Plotting points, finding distances, and determining slopes of lines.

Measurement and Units:

• SI Units: Understanding and using the International System of Units.
• Unit Conversions: Converting between different units of measurement.
• Precision and Accuracy: Evaluating the precision and accuracy of measurements.

Data Analysis and Statistics:

• Data Collection and Organization: Collecting, organizing, and displaying data.
• Statistical Measures: Calculating measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode) and dispersion (range, variance, standard deviation).
• Data Analysis: Analyzing data using statistical techniques and interpreting results.

Engineering Applications:

• Blueprint Reading: Interpreting technical drawings and blueprints.
• Mechanical Measurements: Using measuring instruments (e.g., calipers, micrometers) to take precise measurements.
• Electrical Calculations: Applying mathematical principles to electrical circuits.
• Fluid Mechanics Calculations: Solving problems related to fluid flow and pressure.
• Structural Analysis: Analyzing the forces and stresses on structures.

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Apply mathematical concepts to solve engineering problems.
• Interpret technical drawings and blueprints.
• Use mathematical tools to analyze data and make informed decisions.
• Communicate mathematical ideas effectively.
• Collaborate with others to solve engineering challenges.

This course provides a strong foundation in mathematics for engineering students, enabling them to succeed in more advanced engineering courses and real-world applications.

Senior Program

This senior-level course provides advanced training in steam plant operation and maintenance, preparing students to excel in the power industry.

Key Topics:

• Boiler Operation and Maintenance:
  • Starting up and shutting down boilers
  • Monitoring boiler performance and efficiency
  • Troubleshooting boiler malfunctions
  • Performing routine maintenance tasks
• Boiler Water Chemistry:
  • Water treatment processes (chemical and physical)
  • Water quality parameters (pH, alkalinity, conductivity)
  • Water testing and analysis
  • Blowdown and feedwater control
• Turbine Systems:
  • Steam turbine operation and maintenance
  • Turbine components (blades, rotors, casings)
  • Turbine efficiency and performance
  • Turbine control systems
• Condenser Systems:
  • Condenser types and operation
  • Condenser performance and maintenance
  • Cooling water systems
• Auxiliary Systems:
  • Pumps, fans, and compressors
  • Piping systems and valves
  • Instrumentation and control systems
• Safety and Environmental Regulations:
  • OSHA and EPA regulations
  • Emergency procedures
  • Lockout-tagout procedures

Hands-on Training:

• Simulator Training: Using advanced simulation software to practice real-world scenarios.
• Plant Visits: Observing and learning from experienced operators in real-world power plants.
• Maintenance Tasks: Performing maintenance tasks on power plant equipment.
• Troubleshooting Scenarios: Identifying and resolving complex plant problems.

Preparing for the Massachusetts 2nd Class Fireman’s License:

This course is specifically designed to prepare students for the Massachusetts 2nd Class Fireman’s License exam. Students will gain a deep understanding of boiler operations, safety procedures, and regulatory compliance. They will also develop the practical skills needed to operate and maintain power plant equipment safely and efficiently.

By the end of this course, students will be well-prepared to enter the workforce as qualified stationary engineers. They will have the knowledge and skills to work in a variety of power plant settings, including utility plants, industrial facilities, and cogeneration plants.

Senior Related 2

Analytical Math/Schematics – Elective

This course is designed to provide students with the mathematical and technical skills necessary to analyze and understand the operation of power plant systems.

Key Topics:

Mathematical Concepts:

• Algebra:
  • Linear equations and inequalities
  • Quadratic equations
  • Exponents and logarithms
• Trigonometry:
  • Trigonometric functions and identities
  • Solving triangles
  • Applications in engineering problems
• Geometry:
  • Geometric shapes and properties
  • Pythagorean theorem
  • Trigonometric ratios
• Calculus:
  • Derivatives and integrals
  • Applications of calculus to engineering problems

Technical Drawing and Schematics:

• Blueprint Reading: Interpreting technical drawings and blueprints.
• P&ID Diagrams: Understanding piping and instrumentation diagrams.
• Electrical Schematics: Reading and interpreting electrical schematics.
• Mechanical Drawings: Reading and interpreting mechanical drawings.
• CAD Software: Using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD) to create and modify drawings.

Applications in Power Plant Operations:

• Performance Calculations: Calculating boiler efficiency, turbine output, and heat rate.
• Fluid Mechanics: Analyzing fluid flow in pipes and pumps.
• Heat Transfer: Calculating heat transfer rates and thermal efficiency.
• Control Systems: Understanding control loops and feedback systems.
• Data Analysis: Interpreting data from plant sensors and instruments.

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Apply mathematical concepts to solve engineering problems.
• Interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Analyze and troubleshoot power plant systems.
• Use computer-aided design tools to create and modify designs.
• Make informed decisions based on data analysis.

This course provides a strong foundation in mathematical and technical skills, enabling students to excel in their roles as stationary engineers and power plant operators.

Certifications

• OSHA 10 General Industry
• Massachusetts 2nd Class Fireman’s License
• Massachusetts 1st Class Fireman’s License

Post-Secondary Education

Further Education:

• Facilities Management
• Mechanical Engineering
• Industrial Engineering
• Marine Engineering
• Power Plant Technology
• Building Systems Engineering