Overview

Overview: Department of Mechanical Engineering

The Mechanical Engineering Department at Walchand College of Engineering, Sangli is one of the oldest and most established departments of the institute, founded in 1955. The department currently offers one undergraduate program, B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering, with an intake capacity of 60 students, and three postgraduate programs:

In addition to above programs B.Tech Mechanical engineering (Intake-30) and M Tech Design Engineering (Intake-15) for working professionals are also offered.

The department is also recognized as a Research Centre for Doctoral Programs, with Ph.D. admissions facilitated through Shivaji University, Kolhapur, as well as under schemes like AICTE’s Quality Improvement Program (QIP) and AICTE’s Doctoral Fellowship (ADF).

The undergraduate program is accredited by the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) up to June 2027, marking the fifth cycle of accreditation. The postgraduate programs have also been accredited three times by the NBA, highlighting the department’s continued commitment to quality education and academic excellence.

The department boasts a team of highly qualified and experienced faculty members, with around 70% holding doctoral degrees. Faculty members are actively engaged in diverse research areas, including Design Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Thermal Engineering, Industrial Engineering & Inter-disciplinary domains.

As an autonomous institute, our curriculum is regularly updated to align with the latest industry requirements, emerging technologies, and ongoing research developments in the field of Mechanical Engineering. These updates are carried out in accordance with the guiding principles of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes flexibility, multidisciplinary learning, and outcome-based education.

A dedicated committee called the Board of Studies (BoS) is responsible for curriculum development and revision. The BoS comprises all faculty members, along with industry experts, university representatives, academicians, alumni, and representatives from undergraduate and postgraduate students.

In addition to the regular B.Tech degree, students also have the opportunity to enroll in B.Tech (Honours) in Turbomachinery and Mathematical Applications in Mechanical Engineering or B.Tech (Minor) in CAD/CAM/CIM. To enhance flexibility and promote lifelong learning, students can also take advantage of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) offered through the SWAYAM platform—an initiative of the Government of India—and appear for the corresponding certification exams.

The department features state-of-the-art infrastructure, developed in line with AICTE guidelines, and houses well-equipped laboratories. These facilities not only provide extensive practical exposure to students but also support diverse research activities carried out by faculty and research scholars.

The department has received research funding of nearly ₹2.5 crore from various reputed agencies. This substantial funding has significantly contributed to strengthening research, laboratory infrastructure, and innovation capabilities within the department.

The Mechanical Engineering Department also offers a wide range of consultancy services in specialized areas such as vibration measurement, dynamic balancing of machines, material testing, metallurgical testing, chemical analysis, pipe testing, calibration work, and CNC machining, Measurement and testing among others.

Objectives

The Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering aims to achieve the following objectives:

To prepare the students to excel in postgraduate programs or to succeed in industry/technical profession through global, rigorous Mechanical Engineering education.
To provide students with a sound foundation in Mathematics, Core Sciences and Mechanical Engineering fundamentals required to solve the problems in the field of Mechanical Engineering.
To train the students with good scientific and engineering breadth so as to comprehend, analyse, design and create novel products and give solutions for the real-life problems.
To inculcate in students professional, ethical attitude, effective communication skills, teamwork skills, multidisciplinary approach and ability to relate engineering issues to broader social context.
To provide students with an academic environment for excellence, leadership, managerial skills, written ethical codes and guidelines and lifelong learning needed for successful professional career.
To develop creativity, innovative ability and R&D culture to build new sustainable mechanisms, machines, systems and methodology for enhancing engineering and technology standards.

Policy

The Department of Mechanical Engineering is committed to upholding the highest standards of education, research, and professional integrity. Guided by its mission to foster excellence in mechanical engineering and technology.

Vision

To be a Mechanical Engineering Program of the first choice by the aspiring students and prospective employers by implementing world class education practices.

Mission

To meet the vision, all stakeholders of this programme are committed towards outcome based education philosophy by

Adopting vibrant academic curricula and implementing innovative teaching learning processes.
Providing opportunities to the students for the development of professional skills.
Nurturing critical thinking and creativity in students.
Inculcating in students the life-long learning attitude and sensitivity towards society and environment

Strength

The Department of Mechanical Engineering stands out for its key strengths, which include:

Experienced Faculty : The department boasts a team of highly qualified professors and industry experts, specializing in Design Engineering, Thermal Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, and CAD/CAM/CAE. Their blend of academic prowess and hands-on industry experience ensures students receive both theoretical knowledge and practical insights.
Advanced Laboratories for Specialized Learning : Our department is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories that support Design Engineering, Thermal Systems, and Manufacturing Technologies. The labs provide students with advanced tools for simulation, prototyping, thermal testing, and mechanical design, enabling them to conduct in-depth experiments and research in these specialized fields.
Industry-Aligned Curriculum : The curriculum is continuously updated to reflect the latest advancements in Design Engineering, Thermal Engineering, and Manufacturing Engineering. It integrates modern software like ANSYS, MATLAB, SolidWorks, and Autodesk to equip students with the tools and techniques used in industry for product design, thermal management, and advanced manufacturing systems.
Research and Innovation Culture : Active involvement in funded research projects enables students to tackle real-world engineering problems in Design, Thermal, and Manufacturing domains. The department encourages students to contribute to publications, patents, and collaborative research, fostering an environment that promotes innovation and technological advancement.
Collaborations with Industry Leaders : The department maintains strong ties with leading industries in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing. These collaborations offer ample opportunities for internships, industry visits, consultancy projects, and research partnerships, ensuring that students gain exposure to the latest industry trends and applications.
Focused Skill Development Programs : To enhance technical and professional skills, the department regularly organizes specialized workshops, technical events, and training sessions. These programs cover key areas like CAD, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Additive Manufacturing, and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), ensuring that students are well-prepared for industry challenges.
Strong Placement Record : The department has a consistent track record of placing students in top-tier companies in the fields of Design, Thermal Engineering, Manufacturing and Software Industries. Students are successfully recruited by industry leaders such as Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Siemens, and John Deere, and also find opportunities in emerging sectors like automation, robotics, and renewable energy.
Real-World Problem Solving through Industry Projects : Students actively engage in industry-sponsored projects, where they apply theoretical knowledge to solve real-world challenges in Design Engineering, Thermal Engineering, and Manufacturing. These projects provide practical insights and problem-solving experience in collaboration with industry partners, helping students bridge the gap between classroom learning and industrial applications.
Dedicated Research Centers for Specialized Fields : We have established specialized research centers focused on Thermal Systems, Product Design and Development, and Advanced Manufacturing Processes. These centres provide an ideal environment for students to engage in high-level research, work with industry-grade equipment, and contribute to solving complex engineering problems.
Support for Innovation and Entrepreneurship : The department encourages innovation and entrepreneurship through its incubation centers and innovation clubs. Students are supported in developing start-up ideas, working on prototype development, and exploring business ventures in areas like product design, sustainable energy systems, and smart manufacturing.
Comprehensive Mentorship for Career Growth : Our faculty members offer personalized mentorship to students. They guide students through research projects, career pathways, and industry networking opportunities, ensuring that they are well-prepared for leadership roles in mechanical engineering.
Commitment to Excellence in Engineering Education : The department strives for excellence in engineering education by combining theoretical foundations with hands-on experience. Our focus on cutting-edge research, industry-driven skills, and innovation ensures that students are not only well-prepared for their professional careers but also equipped to contribute meaningfully to the development of technology and society.

These strengths collectively position the department as a leader in mechanical engineering, education, research, innovation and Industry Liaison

Areas of Expertise

The Department of Mechanical Engineering excels in the following areas of expertise:

Design Engineering : The Mechanical Engineering Department excels in Design Engineering, focusing on the development of mechanical systems, machine elements, and innovative product designs. Expertise spans across structural mechanics and product lifecycle management, ensuring efficient design solutions that are both functional and durable. Faculty and students engage in cutting-edge Finite Element Analysis (FEA), leveraging tools like ANSYS and Abaqus to validate designs and optimize structures. The department also specializes in vibration analysis and noise control to ensure that designed systems are reliable, safe, and comfortable.
Thermal Engineering : The department is at the forefront of Thermal Engineering, with deep expertise in heat transfer, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics. This knowledge is applied to real-world systems such as IC engines, thermal power plants, and heat exchangers. Students and faculty explore Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for simulating and optimizing fluid flow and heat transfer processes, using state-of-the-art software tools. In addition, the department is deeply engaged in sustainable energy solutions, researching alternative energy sources like solar thermal systems, wind energy, and biomass.
Manufacturing Engineering : The department is well-versed in Manufacturing Engineering, specializing in the design and optimization of manufacturing processes. Key areas of expertise include metal cutting, casting, forming, and CNC machining, ensuring precision in production. The department is also a pioneer in Additive Manufacturing and 3D printing, facilitating rapid prototyping and custom part development. In addition, faculty and students apply lean manufacturing techniques, process optimization strategies, and automation principles to improve efficiency in manufacturing systems.
Industrial Engineering : Our expertise in Industrial Engineering encompasses a broad range of topics aimed at improving productivity and optimizing systems. The department applies principles of operations management, supply chain management, and lean manufacturing to reduce waste, streamline processes, and enhance operational efficiency in industries. Quality control, ergonomics, and workplace optimization are also integral areas of focus, ensuring that systems and processes meet high standards of safety, productivity, and sustainability.
CAD/CAM/CAE : The Mechanical Engineering Department is renowned for its advanced expertise in CAD (Computer-Aided Design), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), and CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering). Students gain proficiency in 3D modeling, product design, and simulation using tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, ANSYS, and MATLAB. The department’s specialized knowledge in Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and structural analysis allows for rigorous testing and validation of designs, ensuring high-quality, optimized products ready for manufacturing.
Interdisciplinary Fields : The Mechanical Engineering Department fosters an interdisciplinary approach, combining principles from various fields to solve complex engineering challenges. Robotics and Mechatronics expertise integrates mechanical systems with electronics and control systems for the design of intelligent machines and automated systems. The department is also deeply involved in automotive engineering, focusing on vehicle dynamics, thermal management systems, and electric vehicle technologies. Additionally, the department’s proficiency in materials science ensures that materials are carefully selected and optimized for use in diverse engineering applications, from manufacturing to sustainable product design.

These areas of expertise enable the department to provide students with advanced knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for leadership roles in the ever-evolving technology landscape.

Salient Department Features

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Walchand College of Engineering is distinguished by its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and industry collaboration. The department stands out for its unique features and strengths:

Well-Equipped Laboratories : The department is home to state-of-the-art laboratories in thermal engineering, design, manufacturing, mechatronics, and materials science. These labs are equipped with advanced instruments and software to support both practical learning and research activities.
Industry-Oriented Curriculum : The curriculum is continuously updated to meet the dynamic needs of the industry, incorporating emerging technologies and practical applications. It includes simulation tools, case-based learning, and real-world problem-solving, ensuring that students are prepared for the challenges in their respective fields.
Strong Research and Innovation Culture : The department actively engages in research in both core and interdisciplinary areas, with substantial funding from both government and private agencies. Students have opportunities to contribute to high-impact research and innovation, aligning with current industrial and societal needs.
Focus on Project-Based Learning : Project-based learning is embedded into the curriculum through mini-projects, final-year projects, and innovation challenges, allowing students to develop essential problem-solving skills and work on practical, real-world applications.
Hands-on Software Training : Students receive extensive training in industry-standard tools such as ANSYS, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, MATLAB, and CREO, enhancing their proficiency in simulation, design, and analysis. This prepares them for technical roles in various sectors.
Regular Industrial Visits and Internships : The department has strong industry partnerships that offer students regular industrial visits, real-time exposure to industry practices, and internships. These opportunities help bridge the gap between academic learning and practical experience.
Active Student Chapters and Clubs : The department is home to active student chapters like SAE, ISHRAE, ASME, and Robotics Clubs, which promote extracurricular technical engagement. These clubs provide a platform for students to participate in national-level competitions and events, enhancing their leadership and teamwork skills.
Excellent Placement Support : The department boasts a strong placement record, with students securing positions in core mechanical industries, IT sectors, and interdisciplinary roles. The department provides comprehensive placement training, including aptitude training, soft skills development, and technical interview preparation.
Incubation and Entrepreneurship Support : The department fosters an entrepreneurial spirit by offering incubation facilities and mentorship to students with innovative ideas and aspirations to start their own ventures. This support is crucial for students pursuing start-ups and technological innovations.
Alumni Network and Mentoring : The strong alumni network connects current students with alumni working in leading industries and research institutions. Alumni actively participate in mentoring programs, guiding students in their academic and career journeys.
Focus on Sustainable and Green Technologies : The department emphasizes research and projects in renewable energy, waste-to-energy systems, and sustainable product design solutions. These efforts are aligned with global trends toward green technologies and environmental sustainability.
Industry Sponsored Labs and MoUs with Industries : The department has established industry-sponsored labs in collaboration with leading companies such as Siemens and PIL, providing students with real-time, cutting-edge technology exposure. It also has Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with industry partners to enhance academic-industry collaboration. Sponsored projects include M.Tech projects, B.Tech internships, and collaborative research in fields such as automated systems, thermal management, and product design.
Industry-Supported Projects and Initiatives : The department runs various industry-sponsored research projects through initiatives like RGSTC projects, ensuring that students gain practical experience by working on current industrial problems and contributing to ongoing technological advancements. These projects provide a platform for hands-on learning and real-world application.

These features collectively position the department as a leader in producing highly skilled, innovative, and socially responsible engineers.

Leadership

Dr. Sagar U. Sapkal is an accomplished academician and researcher in the domain of Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering. He has taught a wide range of courses to undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. scholars, and has guided 6 Ph.D. theses, 41 M.Tech dissertations, and 30 B.Tech projects. His research interests include advanced manufacturing systems, applied operations research, industrial engineering, and additive manufacturing.

Dr. Sapkal has an impressive publication record comprising 47 journal papers, 44 conference papers, 2 book chapters, and 3 patents. He has received several accolades for his research, including the Best Paper Award at the International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Applications (ICAIA 2011) held in Hong Kong, the Meritorious Prize at NAFEMS 2018, and the First Prize at IMTEX 2019 Academia Pavilion, both held in Bengaluru. He is a recognized peer reviewer and session chair for various international and national conferences and contributes as a reviewer to reputed SCI journals such as: Journal of the Operational Research Society; IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man and Cybernetics: Systems; IEEE Transactions on Evolutionary Computation; IEEE Access; Complexity; International Journal of Computer Integrated Manufacturing; Precision Engineering; Expert Systems with Applications; Computers & Industrial Engineering. Dr. Sapkal has also served as a Ph.D. thesis examiner for several universities, including Anna University, Pune University, Shivaji University, Dr. B.A. Technological University, Solapur University, and K.L. University.

He is actively involved in professional bodies, being a Life Member of ISTE and IIIE, a Life Fellow of IIPE, and a Member of ASME. In addition to attending numerous training programs conducted by AICTE, ISTE, TEQIP, IITs, NPTEL, GIAN, and various industries, he has delivered invited talks at STTPs, FDPs, workshops, and training programs. He has also served as an organizing member for national conferences and STTPs. His contribution to infrastructure includes the development of Metrology & Manufacturing Technology Laboratories, the Product Innovation Laboratory, and relevant curriculum design. He has organized multiple industrial visits for B.Tech and M.Tech students and has been involved in consultancy and testing projects.

Dr. Sapkal holds several key academic and administrative positions: Head, Department of Mechanical Engineering, WCE Sangli; Chairman, Board of Studies (BoS) and Department Advisory Board (DAB), Mechanical Engineering; Member, BoS Centre of Inter & Multidisciplinary Research Collaboration & Learning Excellence; Member, BoS of Shivaji University; Academic Expert, affiliated autonomous institutes. He has also served as Academic and Evaluation Coordinator for both UG and PG programs in Mechanical and Production Engineering, respectively and In-Charge Head, Department of Robotics and Automation, WCE Sangli. Additionally, he held the role of Chief Rector of hostels and currently coordinates the Value Education course and related infrastructure.