As part of its commitment to practical learning and industry engagement, the Petroleum and Mining Engineering Department (PAME) at Tishk International University (TIU) organized an academic field trip on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, to the Qarachuq Cement Plant, a major facility owned by KAR Group.
The field trip was arranged for third-grade students enrolled in the Mining Engineering course (PTR-324), along with a selection of fourth-grade students working on related graduation projects. The group was supervised by Professor Dr. Hamed M. Jassim, a faculty member in the department.
Exploring the Industrial Process
The primary aims of the visit were to provide students with a hands-on understanding of the entire cement production process, from raw material extraction to final product packaging. The trip included an in-depth tour of the facility, covering:
- Quarry Site: Students were introduced to the geological makeup of the quarry, observing excavation methods and learning about the properties of raw materials used for cement production.
- Material Transportation: The group was shown the modern conveyor systems that efficiently transport raw materials from the quarry to the plant.
- Cement Production Stages: Engineers explained each phase of production, from raw material handling, crushing, and heating to quality testing and packaging.
- Laboratories and Control Room: Students visited the factory’s laboratories to see the physical and chemical testing procedures. They also gained insights into operational control by visiting the central control room.
Student Feedback & Conclusion
According to the feedback collected from participating students, the field trip successfully met its educational objectives. It provided valuable, hands-on exposure that complemented their classroom knowledge and graduation project work. The visit concluded with a group lunch hosted by the plant, offering a pleasant end to a highly educational day.
The Petroleum and Mining Engineering Department continues to integrate field-based learning experiences to enrich student understanding of industrial practices within Iraq’s vital sectors.
Keywords: Mining Engineering, Field Trip, Cement Production, Industrial Visit, Practical Learning
