As a part of the academic curriculum, the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering organized a one-day industrial visit for the students to Sripathi Paper & Boards Private Limited, Thiruthangal, Sukkiravarapatti. The visit was aimed at providing the students with practical exposure to the electrical and automation systems employed in a paper manufacturing industry, thereby bridging the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world industrial applications.

A team of 47 students, along with the faculty members Dr. M. Palpandian and Dr. P. Nirmal Kumar visited the industry and observed the various stages of the paper manufacturing process. The visit provided an opportunity for the students to understand the role of electrical power systems, industrial drives, motors, control systems, instrumentation, and automation in continuous manufacturing industries.

The students also interacted with the technical personnel and industry professionals, who explained the practical operation and maintenance of various electrical and control equipment. The visit enabled the students to relate their classroom learning in areas such as Electrical Machines, Power Systems, Power Electronics, Industrial Instrumentation, Control Systems, and Industrial Automation with their practical applications in the paper industry.

OBJECTIVES OF THE VISIT

The primary objectives of the industrial visit were:

• To understand the overall working process of a paper manufacturing industry.
• To gain practical exposure to the electrical systems used in continuous industrial processes.
• To observe the application of three-phase motors, industrial drives, control panels, and electrical protection systems.
• To understand the role of instrumentation, sensors, PLCs, and automation systems in industrial operations.
• To observe the electrical power distribution system adopted within the industry.
• To understand the importance of preventive maintenance and safety practices in industrial electrical systems.
• To interact with industry professionals and gain insights into real-time industrial practices.
• To bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications in electrical engineering.

INDUSTRIAL EXPOSURE

Sripathi Paper & Boards Private Limited, Thiruthangal, Sukkiravarapatti, provided the students with valuable exposure to the functioning of a paper manufacturing industry. During the visit, the students were introduced to the various stages involved in the manufacturing process and the supporting electrical and automation infrastructure.

The students observed the operation of different electrical machines, motors, drives, control panels, power distribution systems, instrumentation and automation equipment used in the plant. The technical personnel explained how electrical energy is utilized efficiently to operate various machines and production systems.

Particular attention was given to the importance of industrial automation and process control in achieving continuous production, maintaining product quality, improving operational efficiency, and reducing manual intervention. The students also gained awareness of the importance of electrical protection, equipment maintenance, energy management, and industrial safety.

OUTCOME OF THE VISIT

The industrial visit provided the students with valuable practical exposure to the application of electrical and electronic engineering concepts in a real-world manufacturing environment. The students gained an understanding of the role of electrical machines, motors, industrial drives, control systems, instrumentation, automation, and power distribution in paper manufacturing industries.

The interaction with the technical professionals also helped the students understand the skills and competencies expected from Electrical and Electronics Engineering graduates in industrial organizations. The visit enhanced their technical knowledge, observational skills, teamwork, communication, and understanding of industrial safety and professional practices.

The industrial visit to Sripathi Paper & Boards Private Limited was highly beneficial in providing the students with first-hand industrial exposure and enhancing their understanding of the practical applications of Electrical and Electronics Engineering in the manufacturing sector. The visit also motivated the students to develop industry-oriented skills and prepare themselves for future employment and professional opportunities.