Smarter Engineering Starts Here: Harnessing AI in the Workplace

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising the way engineers work, transforming time-consuming manual processes into smart, automated workflows. From design optimisation to data analysis and client communications, AI empowers engineering teams to work faster, smarter, and more efficiently.

But what exactly is AI, and how can you harness its potential in your workplace?

What Is Artificial Intelligence?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the development of machines or computer programs that can perform tasks traditionally requiring human intelligence. These tasks include:

• Understanding and processing natural language

• Solving complex problems

• Recognising patterns in large data sets

• Learning from experience and improving over time

At its core, AI works by applying algorithms—sets of instructions—to vast amounts of data. For instance, if you show an AI hundreds of fired heater designs and label which performed best under different conditions, the AI can learn what design variables drive success. Later, it can help you predict performance or suggest improvements in new projects.

How AI Is Transforming Engineering Workflows

In modern engineering workplaces, AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s already an essential tool. Here are some of the most impactful ways AI is enhancing engineering operations:

1. Automating Repetitive Tasks

Many daily engineering tasks are repetitive and time-consuming. Entering measurements, renaming files, reformatting documents, and updating spreadsheets often consume hours each week. AI-powered tools can now automate these processes, freeing up time for more valuable work.

For example:

AI Document Assistants can scan and reformat technical reports instantly, applying consistent templates and styles.

Smart Data Entry Systems can extract information from emails, drawings, or PDFs and place it directly into the correct fields in your systems.

In CAD software, AI can automatically update drawings when design changes are made, reducing the need to manually edit multiple files and lowering the risk of errors.

2. AI-Assisted Datasheet Population

Manually filling datasheets from client specifications is one of the most error-prone engineering tasks. AI can now extract essential information and pre-populate datasheets faster and more accurately than ever before.

Using Natural Language Processing (NLP), AI can:

• Pull parameters like design pressure, temperature, materials, and equipment ratings from specifications, P&IDs, and vendor documents

• Handle both structured tables and unstructured text

• Highlight missing data for human review

However, it’s critical to remember that engineers must validate AI-generated datasheets to ensure compliance with project standards. AI supports speed and consistency but does not replace professional judgment.

3. Enhanced Specification Review

During the early stages of a project, engineers must sift through hundreds of pages of specifications, standards, and references. AI-powered tools can accelerate this process:

• Summarise long documents into digestible overviews

• Flag incomplete clauses or conflicting requirements

• Highlight discrepancies between client specifications and internal standards

• Identify outdated references to design codes (API, ASME, ISO)

For example, if a specification references a design code that has since been updated, AI can bring this to your attention instantly—something that might otherwise require hours of cross-checking.

Important Note: When using AI for specification reviews, engineers remain responsible for recognising subtle or high-impact requirements that automated systems may overlook. Always confirm AI outputs before relying on them in critical decisions.

4. Design Optimisation and Performance Checks

One of the most exciting AI applications is design validation and optimisation. In fired heater design, AI can help engineers:

• Validate thermal performance parameters like absorbed duty, firebox heat release, tube wall temperatures, and stack losses

• Suggest design alternatives that improve efficiency or reduce emissions

• Check calculated values against standards such as API 560

Additionally, AI tools can generate MATLAB code to perform advanced calculations and simulations.

Example Prompts for AI-Assisted Design Analysis

Here are some real-world prompts engineers can use with ChatGPT or similar tools:

• “Generate a MATLAB script to calculate heat transfer in a fired heater radiant section using specified tube diameters, fuel composition, and inlet/outlet temperatures.”

• “Validate the thermal efficiency of a fired heater given flue gas temperature, excess air, and fuel HHV. Include heat loss estimation.”

• “Write MATLAB code to simulate the effect of varying excess air on NOx emissions and stack temperature in a natural-draft fired heater.”

• “Create a MATLAB function to calculate pressure drop across a bank of finned tubes in the convection section of a fired heater.”

By combining AI with engineering expertise, teams can rapidly evaluate multiple design scenarios and improve outcomes.

5. Client Communication Assistance

AI doesn’t only support technical work—it can also enhance communication. Engineers often need to draft clear, professional emails to clients, suppliers, or colleagues. AI-powered tools can:

• Draft and polish emails

• Summarise meeting discussions

• Help request missing information

• Adjust tone and formality for different audiences

  
  

Example AI Prompts for Communication:

• General Email Drafting: Write a follow-up email to a vendor reminding them to submit the final datasheet by next Friday. Be firm but courteous.

• Clarification Requests: Help me write an email asking for clarification on the motor specification provided in the datasheet. Mention inconsistencies in voltage and frame size.

• Professional Responses: Write a professional response to a client query about the efficiency of a fired heater. Include brief technical justification.

• Tone Adjustment: Rewrite this email to sound more formal and diplomatic while addressing errors in the datasheet.

Using AI to streamline communications saves time and ensures consistency, helping your engineering team present a polished, reliable image to clients.

6. AI Tools Every Engineer Should Know

Here are some of the most popular AI tools transforming engineering:

• ChatGPT – For generating reports, creating code, brainstorming ideas, and drafting communications

• Google Gemini – For answering technical questions and solving engineering problems

• Autodesk Generative Design – For AI-assisted design, modelling, and simulation

• IBM Watson – For analysing large data sets and providing decision-support insights

These tools are increasingly accessible and can be integrated into daily workflows to improve efficiency and accuracy.

Responsible Use of AI in Engineering

While AI offers significant benefits, it must be used responsibly:

• Data Security: Only use AI tools approved by your organisation to handle confidential or commercially sensitive information.

• Validation: Always review AI outputs for accuracy and compliance with project standards.

• Oversight: Remember, AI is a support tool—not a replacement for professional expertise and judgment.

By maintaining oversight, you can use AI safely and effectively to drive better outcomes.

The Future of AI in Engineering

AI is rapidly evolving, and its role in engineering will only expand. In the near future, we can expect:

• More powerful design optimisation tools capable of evaluating thousands of scenarios simultaneously

• Advanced predictive maintenance solutions using real-time data to prevent equipment failures

• Seamless integration between AI, IoT, and cloud-based platforms for even smarter operations

By embracing AI today, engineering organisations like UnitBirwelco are positioning themselves at the forefront of innovation.

How to Start Integrating AI Into Your Engineering Workflows

If you’re ready to harness the power of AI, here are some simple steps to begin:

1. Identify repetitive or time-consuming tasks in your workflows that could be automated.

2. Select AI tools that align with your business goals—from design software to communication assistants.

3. Train your teams on using these tools effectively and responsibly.

4. Pilot small AI projects to build confidence and measure benefits.

5. Maintain oversight and review to ensure accuracy, compliance, and security.

   
   

Conclusion

AI is no longer an emerging trend—it’s a proven asset driving productivity, accuracy, and innovation across the engineering sector.

At UnitBirwelco, we believe that smarter engineering starts here, and embracing AI is a critical part of that journey. By combining human expertise with cutting-edge technology, your team can deliver high-performance solutions that exceed client expectations.

Ready to discover how AI can transform your engineering workflows?

Contact UnitBirwelco today to learn more about our engineering solutions and how we’re integrating AI to build the future.