Empowering Future Engineers: The Chemical Engineering Design Project at Aalto University

The Design Project in Chemical Engineering at Aalto University is a groundbreaking initiative that marries academic learning with real-world business applications. Spearheaded in its current form by Professor Pekka Oinas since 2016, the course offers student groups the opportunity to draft preliminary implementation plans on topics presented by collaborating companies. This unique setup not only benefits the students but also provides tangible value to the participating companies.

The course, popular since the 1990s, has evolved to include a genuine business dimension in its curriculum. Students simulate working in a real company environment, focusing on projects that provide economic and environmental value. This hands-on experience in factory design is supported by advisers and directors from partnering companies, including AFRY, Andritz, Fazer, Kemira, Metso, and Neste, as well as Aalto University's own faculty.

Throughout the course, students engage in various aspects of process design, from sourcing data and planning to evaluating safety, sustainability, costs, and profitability. This holistic approach encourages the pursuit and utilization of innovative ideas, preparing students for challenges in their future careers.

The course's practical approach is exemplified by Aleksi Toivanen, a master's student in chemical engineering, who worked on a project with Fazer. His role as a constant project head throughout the course provided him with invaluable management experience, enhancing his skills in scheduling, communication, and teamwork.

Doctoral researcher Sahar Babaeipour's involvement in the course highlights the diversity of academic levels and expertise. Babaeipour contributed her knowledge in sustainable practices and process design, gaining managerial experience and a deeper understanding of industry dynamics.

The Neste group's project on producing monomers from biologically based raw materials demonstrates the real-world impact of these student projects. Senior researcher Jukka Hietala from Neste noted the value added by the students' work in understanding and developing new processes, which could potentially lead to new products and technologies for the company.

Similarly, the Andritz group's project on alcohol recovery in pulp mills showcases the symbiotic relationship between academia and industry. Development Engineer Aino Pesola from Andritz emphasized the mutual benefits of such collaborations, leading to new ideas, innovations, and potential recruitment opportunities.

The course culminates in a 'Design Project Gala' where student groups present their projects, competing for a prize. The winning team is celebrated for their outstanding design work, showcasing the high caliber of projects produced.

In essence, the Design Project in Chemical Engineering at Aalto University not only equips students with technical and managerial skills but also fosters a strong connection between academia and industry, driving innovation and preparing the next generation of engineers for the challenges of the real world.