SEGi University’s Chemical Engineering students have emerged as champions in the 12th IEM Chemical Engineering Design Competition 2024, clinching the first prize and a cash reward of MYR 5000. Held on 29 June 2024 at Taylor University and organised by the Chemical Engineering Technical Division (CETD) of The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia (IEM), the competition challenged participants to design a cost-effective sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production plant. SEGi’s team, comprising Eshwarr G. Sivakumar, Jonathan Ng Wai Chung, Tan Wai Hong, and Mohamed Mesud Abdelkadir, outperformed teams from various public and private universities, showcasing their exceptional engineering acumen.
The competition, themed “Production of Cost-Effective Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF),” required participants to design a plant producing SAF from lignocellulosic biomass at a lower cost while adhering to Jet A or Jet A-1 specification standards such as ASTM D1655 and ASTM D7566. The team’s project addressed technical, economic, health, and safety aspects, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9, which promotes industry, innovation, and infrastructure.
Notably, SAF has been recognised for its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly. For instance, United Airlines flew the first passenger flight powered entirely by SAF in 2021, highlighting the aviation industry’s shift towards sustainable practices (Honeywell Aerospace). The SEGi team’s innovative design incorporated advanced simulation tools like PRO/II and 3D plant design modelling software, reflecting the university’s commitment to delivering industry-relevant education.
The success of SEGi’s team was bolstered by the guidance of experienced lecturers, including Ir. Dr. Mohd. Faizan Jamaluddin, Ir. Kenneth Yeoh, Ir. Choo Chee Ming, and Ir. Dr. Lee Siong Hoong. The students benefited from their mentors’ extensive industrial experience and the university’s strong foundation in Chemical Engineering fundamentals. SEGi’s programme, accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Council (EAC) for the maximum six-year period (2023-2028), emphasises practical skills and innovative thinking, preparing students for real-world challenges.
Dr. Sangeetaprivya A/P Siva, a certified Aspen HYSYS simulator instructor, highlighted the importance of integrating industry-relevant curriculum to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the workforce. The competition also provided an opportunity for students to enhance their teamwork and presentation skills, demonstrating significant improvement and a positive attitude towards lifelong learning.
The event, which featured 22 participating teams, included insightful talks from industry experts such as TS Park from Aveva Asia Pacific Sdn. Bhd. and Dr. Nazim Rosli Ahmad from DAR Energy Sdn. Bhd. Their presentations underscored the growing need for engineering talents in expanding industry activities, aligning with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy). The award was presented by Ir. Rozali Ahmad, Business Development Director of DAR Energy Sdn Bhd, who is also the main sponsor of the event.
SEGi’s triumph in this prestigious competition not only highlights the university’s commitment to excellence in education and innovation but also reinforces its role in fostering sustainable development. The students’ innovative solutions and their alignment with global sustainability goals reflect SEGi’s dedication to making a positive impact on the world.
This event is organised in support of the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG):
SDG 4: Quality Education
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure