Metallurgist

Metallurgists research and design methods to separate metals from ore and process them into valuable products. They test ores to determine the best way to recover metals efficiently and effectively and oversee processes of extracting metals from ore. They also produce commercial metal products through casting, alloying, heat treating or welding refined metals, alloys and other materials, amongst others. Some might also focus on identifying changes in metal under particular conditions and investigate where and why metallurgical failure has occurred.

Metallurgists can work with mining engineers, geologists and other geophysical specialists around the mining of metals. They can work in a laboratory, metal treatment plant, refinery, mining sites or manufacturing production plants shaping metals to create new products.

Skills

Metallurgists require a thorough understanding of the physical and chemical properties of metals, compounds and alloys. They will further benefit from:

• Strong mathematical and engineering competence
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving ability
• Critical thinking around design and processing techniques
• Sound attention to detail

Tasks

Conduct research and investigate metal and alloy properties

Design processes and methods for metal extraction and alloying

Test and develop the manufacture and processing of metal products

Compile reports to advise on process performance and shortcomings

Studies

B.Eng. in Metallurgical Engineering at UP

B.Sc.Eng. in Metallurgical Engineering at Wits

B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Chemistry at all universities

Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Metallurgical Engineer at TUT, UJ and VUT

Employers

Metal, iron and steel manufacturing companies.

Metal ore mining companies.

Research institutions.

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