The Industry Interface Cell (II Cell) at SiliconTech, the engineering institute of Silicon University, organized two industrial visits as part of its summer internship program on the foundation of the core industry. The students visited Odisha Power Transmission Corporation Limited (OPTCL), Chandaka, on 13 June 2025, and the National Aluminium Company Limited Captive Power Plant (NALCO CPP), Angul, on 21 June 2025.
The primary objective of the initiative was to familiarize students with the functioning of large-scale power systems and industrial utilities. Through direct observation and interaction with on-site professionals, students were able to understand how theoretical knowledge in electrical engineering is implemented in high-voltage transmission and power generation environments. The visits aimed to enhance student readiness for careers in the core engineering industry.
During the visit to OPTCL, Chandaka, students explored a 220/132 kV grid substation and observed critical electrical infrastructure, including power transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and control systems. The visit provided valuable insights into the principles of high-voltage transmission, system protection mechanisms, and the importance of operational safety protocols.
The visit to the NALCO Captive Power Plant, Angul, focused on thermal power generation. Students had the opportunity to observe the functioning of large-scale boilers, turbines, and auxiliary systems that play a vital role in ensuring a continuous power supply to NALCO’s aluminum smelting operations. They also interacted with plant engineers who explained key operational workflows and maintenance practices. Discussions during the visits highlighted the role of automation and monitoring systems in managing complex electrical networks.
Both visits were guided by on-site technical teams and followed all necessary safety protocols. Overall, the hands-on exposure allowed students to better understand the scale, complexity, and interdependence of systems within the power sector.
These visits offered a valuable experiential learning opportunity for the sixteen participating students and four faculty members. Participants found the experience highly informative and relevant to their internship. The exposure not only strengthened their understanding of industrial operations but also motivated them to consider career paths in the power and energy sectors.
