An MEP engineer (otherwise known as mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) is a vital part of a building project. They ensure that the environment is comfortable and safe throughout the building. Here are a few tasks that an MEP engineer is expected to accomplish.
Mechanical
Mechanical engineering services are needed for efficient cooling, heating, and ventilation. This is where MEP engineers step in. An MEP engineer must install and keep up with the maintenance of several cooling and heating systems, such as ventilators and heaters. An MEP engineer must ensure that each system works correctly so that the habitats of the building are comfortable. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning are used in buildings to regulate internal humidity as well as maintaining internal air quality.
Electrical
Without including electrical engineering services, a building plan is not complete. The two important areas that an MEP engineer must focus on are the lighting and electricity. As well as this, an MEP engineer will also need to take care of security systems and fire alarms. There are various other electrical systems that an MEP engineer must be able to control, which include security and access systems, power supply and distribution, as well as interior and exterior lighting
Plumbing
Another role of an MEP engineer is to find the best solutions possible for a plumbing system. There are various plumbing systems that an MEP engineer will use, including waste removal, water recovery, and treatment systems, heating and cooling, as well as water drainage. Each system usually involves valves, pipes, and plumbing fixtures.
MEP Systems
For an MEP engineer to complete their job successfully, they should be able to access accurate design materials to help them lay out their MEP systems. However, there are complex configurations (such as in congested spaces) that can make it hard to plan when in the design stage. MEP engineers can use BIM (building information modeling) to view design data, which enables them to contribute towards the building process to ensure its more energy efficient.
HVAC
An MEP engineer is responsible for designing the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in structures where people live or congregate. For example, HVAC engineers may need to carry work out on a swimming pool to ensure it is safe for anyone who uses it. There are various types of services that are provided, which include air distribution, exhaust system design, infection control HVAC, and process piping.
Other Responsibilities
There are several other responsibilities that an MEP engineer must adhere to. These include advising the project director on technical aspects of the mechanical services that could potentially affect the construction progress. They must also participate in risk workshops and report any issues or risks that are associated with MEP installations.
If you’re interested in becoming an MEP engineer, you will need to obtain a degree or diploma that is related to mechanical/electrical engineering. You must also have professional engineering experience. This experience should include involvement with different system designs related to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
