Course Details

Exam Registration322
Course StatusOngoing
Course TypeElective
LanguageEnglish
Duration12 weeks
CategoriesMechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Processes and Technology
Credit Points3
LevelUndergraduate/Postgraduate
Start Date19 Jan 2026
End Date10 Apr 2026
Enrollment Ends02 Feb 2026
Exam Registration Ends20 Feb 2026
Exam Date25 Apr 2026 IST
NCrF Level4.5 — 8.0

Introduction To Mechanical Micro Machining: A 12-Week Course by IIT Kharagpur

The demand for miniature and micro-scale components is skyrocketing across industries like optics, biomedical devices, and microfluidics. To meet this demand, engineers need specialized knowledge in precision manufacturing. The Introduction to Mechanical Micro Machining course, offered by the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, provides a comprehensive deep dive into this critical field.

This 12-week program is meticulously designed for undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as professionals, to bridge the gap between conventional machining knowledge and the intricate world of micro-scale fabrication.

About the Course Instructor: Prof. Ajay M. Sidpara

The course is led by Prof. Ajay M. Sidpara, a distinguished faculty member in the Mechanical Engineering Department at IIT Kharagpur. A recognized expert, Prof. Sidpara's research focuses on nano-scale surface finishing and micro machining. His extensive work includes developing advanced tooling and improving process efficiencies.

With an impressive portfolio of 26 journal papers, 12 book chapters, multiple conference papers, and 3 filed patents, his expertise is well-established. His contributions have been recognized with awards like the Gandhian Young Technological Innovation Award (2013) and the Young Engineers Award (2015). Prof. Sidpara brings both deep academic knowledge and practical research insight to this course.

Why Study Mechanical Micro Machining?

Mechanical micro machining is a pivotal technology for creating high-accuracy, complex micro-products from metals, polymers, and ceramics. Unlike lithographic processes or other micro machining methods like EDM or LBM, it offers significant advantages in terms of material versatility and processing time.

While the machines may appear similar to conventional ones, the process mechanics, machine components, and challenges at the micro-scale are profoundly different. Understanding these nuances is essential for successfully manufacturing components with features ranging from a few millimeters down to tens of micrometers.

Who Should Enroll?

  • Intended Audience: Students and professionals in Mechanical, Manufacturing, and Production Engineering.
  • Prerequisites: A fundamental understanding of conventional machining processes (e.g., turning, milling, drilling).
  • Industry Support: The curriculum is highly relevant for premier research institutes like BARC (Mumbai), CMERI (Durgapur), and CMTI (Bangalore).

Detailed 12-Week Course Layout

The course is structured to build knowledge from foundational concepts to advanced applications and metrology.

WeekTopic
Week 1Experimental observations and theoretical prediction of constituents of an atom
Week 2Scaling law
Week 3Mechanical micro machining (process, mechanism)
Week 4Burr formation, surface roughness, built-up edge
Week 5Cutting fluid, run-out, grain size
Week 6Micro machine structure - I
Week 7Micro machine structure - II
Week 8Fabrication of micro cutting tools
Week 9Miniature machine tools
Week 10Diamond Turning (process, types, mechanism, applications)
Week 11Metrology for micro machining
Week 12Sensor integration for process monitoring

Key Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will gain a solid understanding of:

  • The fundamental principles and mechanics of material removal at the micro-scale.
  • Critical challenges like burr formation, surface integrity, and tool fabrication.
  • The design and structure of micro-machine tools and systems.
  • Advanced processes like Diamond Turning and their applications.
  • Essential metrology and sensor-based monitoring techniques for quality assurance.

Recommended Books and Resources

The course curriculum is supported by authoritative texts and research, including:

  • Micro-Cutting: Fundamentals and Applications by Cheng & Huo (Wiley).
  • Introduction to Micromachining (2nd Ed.) edited by V. K. Jain (Narosa).
  • Precision Manufacturing by Dornfeld & Lee (Springer).
  • A selection of relevant research papers for cutting-edge insights.

This course is an exceptional opportunity to learn from a leading expert at IIT Kharagpur and build specialized skills in the high-growth field of micro manufacturing. Whether you aim for a career in advanced research or high-precision industry, this knowledge will be a significant asset.

Enroll Now →

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