What is the difference between 'engineer' and 'architect'?

difference between engineer and architects

Any kind of design and construction project requires the expertise of many types of industry professionals. It’s through the combined efforts of these experts that quality spaces are created. Not only do they have to be safe and durable, but they also have to be as aesthetically pleasing as they are functional. While the goals of the engineer and architect are all related to the efficient completion of a project, they have very different roles and responsibilities throughout the process.

The Role of an Architect

According to the National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB), an architect is “trained in the art and science of the design and construction of buildings and structures that primarily provide shelter.” An architect develops the overall look of buildings and structures, especially when it comes to aesthetics. But its design involves a lot more than just appearance. They also need to be functional, safe, and economical — all while meeting the specific needs of the people who use them. But most importantly, they need to be built with the public’s health, safety, and welfare in mind.

Architects are involved in every part of the project. Even before the design process even starts, they can help with the location of a potential site or to determine the limitations of a facility that already exists. During the construction phase of the project, they can continue to monitor its progress with regular site visits and meetings with the contractor. This continuous presence throughout the design and building process gives the architect a unique position by managing the moving parts of the project’s delivery. They often act as lead consultants by accepting responsibility for every part of the project and by acting as the client’s primary point of contact.

The Role of an Engineer

Whether they’re structural, mechanical, electrical, or from some other discipline, engineers work with the architect to design the project’s technical aspects by using certain scientific principles. Their expertise doesn’t include any abstract artistic concepts (which is part of the architect’s role) but is related to the real-world implementation of different systems. This includes an extensive knowledge of math and physics. The main question they ask is, “Will the system works as the design intends?” Then, they use engineering tools to set functional limits and set parameters for the design plan.

Because there are so many distinct specializations within the field, engineers are keenly focused on one specific part of a project. A structural engineer is only concerned with the strength and stability of a building’s design and materials, while a mechanical engineer designs machines that use power (such as refrigeration and HVAC systems). They often lack the architect’s holistic view of the project’s delivery process, so they’re often called when their expertise with engineering tools is needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of tools are used by engineers?

difference between engineer and architects

Engineers use a variety of tools to do their work. Some of them include but may not be limited to:

3D Printers— Can be used to bring design ideas to life by creating a scaled-down model of exactly what needs to be created.
CAD Software— Allows you to create precise 2D and 3D technical drawings, which has become a staple for any good engineer. The great thing about CAD is its range and diversity of different programs, so you can get the feel for what meets your needs.
Construction Software— Allows you to make important changes to your plans in real time and in collaboration with other people involved in a particular project.
Graphic Calculator— While many people claim that this type of engineering equipment has become a thing of the past, it can still be valuable to any budding engineer. But it will depend on what type of engineering you want to pursue.

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What are the six main types of engineers?

The six main types of engineers include:

Aerospace Engineers— Are involved in the design, analysis, construction, testing, and operation of flight vehicles (such as aircraft, helicopters, rockets, and spacecraft). It’s based on the principles of fluid dynamics, materials science, structural analysis, propulsion, and aerospace design. It also involves automatic control, orientation, and development of different computer programs.
Chemical Engineers— Work in a variety of fields (such as oil refining, fertilizer technology, and food processing). It involves the development and improvement of processes as well as in the design, construction, operation, administration, and security of plants that are involved in these processes.
Civil Engineers— Are involved in the planning, analysis, design, construction, and maintenance of a variety of facilities (such as buildings, roads, railways, airports, waterways, canals, dams, and feeding houses). Civil engineers also have to deal with important problems (such as disaster mitigation and management, as well as the construction of offshore structures for oil production).
Mechanical Engineers— Design and develop everything that’s considered mechanical. Many of them specialize in areas like manufacturing, robotics, air conditioning systems, as well in automotive and transportation. They also analyze the relationships of a design with regard to the principles of movement, energy, and force to make sure the product works safely, reliably, and efficiently.
Production Engineers— The design and planning of manufacturing systems has become a more complicated process, especially as it relates to the appearance of more sophisticated production methods and control systems. Production engineers are involved in the implementation, development, and management of new production processes, information and control systems, as well as different types of inspection equipment that relate to the assembly and handling of products.
Biomedical Engineers— The application of engineering principles and techniques related to the medical field. They combine the ability to solve engineering problems related to the medical and biological professions in a way that can improve the level of patient care as well as in the quality of life for people in general.

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What kind of equipment is used by engineers?

In today’s digital world, engineers have access to a variety of engineering supplies and tools that can help them be more innovative in their respective fields. If you ask any engineer about the tools they use in their jobs, they will most likely give you a long list. If you’re looking for the best selection of engineering equipment on the market, feel free to look at what we have in stock.

How can I keep my engineering tools maintained?

Here are some ways you can keep your engineering supplies maintained:

Store your tools properly.
Keep your tools and equipment clean.
Keep your tools and equipment in a dry place.
Inspect your tools for wear and damage.
Keep your batteries in good shape.
Protect any electrical cords.
Regularly inspect your engineering tools and equipment.
Replace any parts when needed.
Only use tools that are in good working order.
Make sure you use the right equipment for the job.

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Where can I buy quality engineering tools?

If you’re looking for one of the best places to buy engineering equipment online, you can find what you need at Engineer Supply. We have a variety of tools that are perfect for engineers, architects, and construction professionals. Feel free to look at what we have in stock, so you can find a tool that will meet your specific needs.