Plant engineering function

By definition, the plant engineering function is multidisciplinary. It routinely incorporates the disciplines of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and civil engineering. Other disciplines, such as chemical engineering for example, may also be needed, depending on the type of industry or service involved. 

There are two ways of analyzing the plant engineering function. One is through the activities plant engineers must perform. The other is through the facilities, systems, and equipment they must be knowledgeable about. For a complete understanding of the function, both must be considered. 

These activities are nearly universal throughout the plant engineering function, although they may be described differently in specific companies or facilities. Also, other activities might be added to the list. 

Organizational structures and reporting relationships within the plant engineering function and in relation to other functions are as unique as each business enterprise and individual plant. Yet, some common stmctures can be identified. 

To be most effective, the plant engineering function should report directly to top plant or facility management. In smaller enterprises, it should report directly to the owner or to top corporate management. In any case. 

It is worth noting that a few very large industrial companies have divided the plant engineering function into... 

Within the plant engineering function, there are typically two primary subfunctions, best described as engineering and maintenance. The engineering subfunction is responsible for such matters as design, construction. 

Figure 1.2 In larger plants, the plant engineering function is often divided into departments to serve particular needs...

In traditional organizations, the plant engineer is responsible for the operation and maintenance of all plant services (i.e. electric and steam generation, water treatment, waste treatment, etc.). In locations where these services are provided by outside sources, the plant engineering function is responsible for the internal distribution of electricity, steam and other services and the supervision of the outside service provider. 

Generally, the plant engineering function is responsible for overall plant safety, as well as all compliance issues. The plant engineer must adapt to the constantly escalating federal, state and local regulations that govern these compliance issues. 

Communicate with top management to get support for the plant engineering function. 

Activity-based budgeting is ideal for tracking plant engineering functions. Identifying activities actually performed along with the cost drivers aUows real-time information to be generated and problem areas identified quickly. Cost distributions between plant engineering and other departments can be done more equitably, and non-value-added activity can be spotted more easUy. 

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