Zarqa University Faculty of Engineering Technology

Mechanical Engineering Department

◉ Course Name: Economics Engineering

◉ Activity Number: Activity 7

◉ Instructor Name: Mohammad Qabaja

◉ Student Name: Mohammad Al-Ali

◉ University NO: 20203028

◉ Date: 8/12/2023
Economics plays a significant role in mechanical, energy, architecture, and civil
engineering across various aspects of planning, design, construction, operation,
and maintenance. Here's a breakdown of its importance in each of these
engineering disciplines:

Mechanical Engineering:

1. Cost Analysis: Mechanical engineers rely on economic analysis to evaluate the costs of
manufacturing processes, equipment, and materials. This helps in selecting the most cost-
effective solutions for production.

2. Energy Efficiency: Economic considerations are central to developing energy-efficient

mechanical systems, as engineers strive to balance the initial investment in energy-saving
technologies with the long-term operational cost savings.

3. Life Cycle Cost Analysis: Engineers conduct life cycle cost analyses to assess the
economic impact of mechanical systems over their entire life span, considering not only initial
costs but also operating, maintenance, and replacement costs.

Energy Engineering:

1. Economic Viability of Energy Projects: Energy engineers assess the economic viability
of renewable energy projects, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric systems, by conducting
cost-benefit analyses and evaluating return on investment.

2. Energy Policy and Regulation: Energy engineers work within the framework of economic
policies and regulations, considering factors such as subsidies, tax incentives, and market
mechanisms to promote the development and adoption of sustainable energy solutions.

3. Energy Market Analysis: Economists in energy engineering analyze energy markets to

understand pricing mechanisms, demand-supply dynamics, and the economic feasibility of
different energy sources.

Architecture Engineering:

1. Cost-Effective Design: Architects integrate economic considerations into their designs to

create aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces while also ensuring cost-effectiveness in
terms of construction materials and energy usage.

2. Sustainable Design: Economics plays a key role in sustainable architecture, as architects

must consider life cycle costs, energy efficiency, and environmental impact in their designs,
balancing initial construction costs with long-term operational savings.
3. Value Engineering: Architects utilize economic principles in value engineering to optimize
building performance and cost by analyzing various design alternatives and their economic
implications.

Civil Engineering:

1. Cost Estimation: Economics is crucial in estimating construction costs for civil engineering
projects. Engineers need to consider material costs, labor costs, and other expenses to
develop accurate project budgets.

2. Resource Allocation: Civil engineers often work with limited resources, and economic
principles help them allocate resources efficiently to ensure that materials, labor, and
equipment are utilized optimally.

3. Economic Feasibility Studies: Before beginning a civil engineering project, feasibility

studies are conducted to assess the economic viability of the project. Engineers evaluate the
costs and benefits to determine whether the project is financially feasible.

In summary, economics is integral to engineering across these disciplines, guiding decisions

related to cost estimation, resource allocation, sustainability, cost-effective design, energy
efficiency, and economic viability. By integrating economic principles into their work,
engineers can create innovative solutions that are not only technically sound but also
economically feasible and sustainable.