Process Engineer Review

I am required to support and lead pilot scale batch-making for deodorant sticks, involving the use of large machinery and equipment such as mixing vessels and filling machines. We design batch experiments to test different ingredients and percentages, holding times, pack types, cooling methods and filling methods. After the sticks are made, analytical lab testing must be performed such as rheology, hardness, titration and microscopy.
Individual projects are also given to improve production efficiency or gather crucial batch data.

I was given a lot of responsibility, given many individual projects to lead such as CFD simulation modelling in which I was required to liaise with teams around the world. I was able to take on new challenges and tasks as I deemed important to help our processes around the pilot plant.

I have developed knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer and fluid dynamics as they apply to mixing and processing of our molten deodorant product and optimising the processes.
Lab testing and quality control techniques have been carried out including microscope testing to observe particulate sizes, rheometry to study the viscosity of our product over variables such as temperature and shear rate.
I used many software tools such as Excel to input and analyse our data, Fusion 360 to design many parts our the pilot plant to streamline our processes, and AWS Simulation Software to carry out the CFD simulations.

I received lots of support on my placement. This was either in the form of training when I started, being able to ask questions to colleagues when I encountered problems, or having bi-weekly meetings with my line manager to discuss development, projects or any general life problems.

The company was full of lots of friendly faces who were more than happy to help you out, even if it wasn't to their own benefit. The pilot plant team I worked with were extremely supportive for anything, but were also very friendly and easily approachable to have chats in the office, whether this was about work or simply how your weekend was!

I have enjoyed it thoroughly, and would definitely consider returning to work here after my studies. This is due to a combination of factors due to the enjoyment of the work, the people around me that I work with on a daily basis, and the fulfilment due to the projects I am delivering.

Yes