NHPC JE Prelims Syllabus 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
1. Engineering Mechanics
1.1 Statics:
- Forces and Moments: Concept of force, types of forces, resultant of forces, moment of a force, couple, equilibrium of rigid bodies, free body diagrams, equations of equilibrium, statically determinate and indeterminate structures.
- Friction: Types of friction, laws of friction, static and dynamic friction, coefficient of friction, angle of friction, friction in machines.
- Centroids and Moments of Inertia: Centroid of plane and solid figures, moment of inertia of plane and solid figures, parallel axis theorem, perpendicular axis theorem.
- Work, Energy and Power: Work done by a force, potential energy, kinetic energy, conservation of energy, power.
1.2 Dynamics:
- Kinematics: Displacement, velocity, acceleration, uniform and non-uniform motion, rectilinear and curvilinear motion, projectiles, relative motion.
- Kinetics: Newton’s laws of motion, momentum, impulse, work-energy principle, conservation of momentum, rotational motion, angular velocity, angular acceleration, torque, moment of inertia, kinetic energy of rotation.
1.3 Strength of Materials
- Stress and Strain: Stress, strain, elastic limit, yield strength, ultimate strength, Poisson’s ratio, modulus of elasticity, shear stress, shear strain, modulus of rigidity.
- Beams: Types of beams, bending moment and shear force diagrams, bending stress, shear stress, deflection of beams, simple bending theory.
- Columns: Types of columns, buckling load, Euler’s formula, slenderness ratio, effective length.
- Torsion: Torsion of circular shafts, shear stress, angle of twist, polar moment of inertia.
1.4 Fluid Mechanics
- Properties of Fluids: Density, viscosity, surface tension, capillarity, compressibility.
- Fluid Statics: Pressure, Pascal’s law, buoyancy, Archimedes’ principle, manometers, pressure measurement.
- Fluid Dynamics: Fluid flow, types of flow, continuity equation, Bernoulli’s equation, applications of Bernoulli’s equation, flow through pipes, head losses, flow measurement.
1.5 Thermodynamics
- Basic Concepts: Thermodynamic systems, properties of systems, work, heat, internal energy, enthalpy, entropy.
- First Law of Thermodynamics: Conservation of energy, specific heats, heat transfer, modes of heat transfer, conduction, convection, radiation.
- Second Law of Thermodynamics: Entropy, Carnot cycle, Kelvin-Planck statement, Clausius statement, irreversibility.
- Thermodynamic Cycles: Rankine cycle, Brayton cycle, Otto cycle, Diesel cycle.
2. Electrical Engineering
2.1 Basic Electrical Engineering:
- Circuit Theory: Kirchhoff’s laws, network theorems, superposition theorem, Thevenin’s theorem, Norton’s theorem, maximum power transfer theorem, AC circuits, phasor diagrams, impedance, admittance, power factor, resonance.
- DC Machines: Types of DC machines, construction, working principle, EMF equation, torque equation, characteristics, starting and speed control.
- AC Machines: Types of AC machines, construction, working principle, EMF equation, torque equation, characteristics, starting and speed control.
- Transformers: Types of transformers, construction, working principle, EMF equation, voltage regulation, efficiency, losses.
2.2 Electrical Measurements and Instrumentation:
- Measuring Instruments: Ammeters, voltmeters, wattmeters, energy meters, multimeters, oscilloscopes.
- Transducers: Types of transducers, working principle, applications.
- Data Acquisition Systems: Components of data acquisition systems, working principle, applications.
2.3 Power Systems:
- Power Generation: Types of power plants, power generation principles, power system components.
- Power Transmission and Distribution: Transmission lines, distribution systems, voltage levels, power factor correction.
- Protection and Control: Protective relays, circuit breakers, fuses, power system control.
3. Civil Engineering
3.1 Building Materials:
- Concrete: Properties of concrete, types of cement, aggregates, water, admixtures, mix design, concrete testing.
- Steel: Properties of steel, types of steel, steel structures, steel fabrication.
- Timber: Properties of timber, types of timber, timber structures, timber preservation.
- Bricks and Masonry: Properties of bricks, types of bricks, masonry construction, mortar.
3.2 Structural Engineering:
- Analysis of Structures: Methods of structural analysis, statically determinate and indeterminate structures, influence lines, moment distribution method, slope deflection method.
- Design of Structures: Design of beams, columns, slabs, foundations, retaining walls, water tanks.
- Earthquake Resistant Design: Seismic design principles, earthquake resistant structures, seismic analysis.
3.3 Geotechnical Engineering:
- Soil Mechanics: Soil classification, soil properties, shear strength, consolidation, permeability, seepage.
- Foundation Engineering: Types of foundations, design of foundations, settlement analysis, bearing capacity.
- Ground Improvement Techniques: Compaction, grouting, soil stabilization.
3.4 Water Resources Engineering:
- Hydrology: Hydrologic cycle, precipitation, infiltration, runoff, evaporation, transpiration, streamflow measurement.
- Irrigation Engineering: Types of irrigation systems, irrigation methods, water requirement of crops, irrigation efficiency.
- Water Supply and Sanitation: Water treatment processes, water distribution systems, sewage treatment processes.
3.5 Transportation Engineering:
- Highway Engineering: Highway planning, highway design, pavement design, traffic engineering.
- Railway Engineering: Railway track, railway signalling, railway electrification.
- Airport Engineering: Airport planning, airport design, air traffic control.
4. General Knowledge and Reasoning
4.1 General Awareness:
- Current Affairs: National and international events, major happenings in the field of science, technology, sports, culture, etc.
- Indian History: Ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history, important events, personalities, movements.
- Indian Geography: Physical features, climate, rivers, flora and fauna, important cities, states, etc.
- Indian Polity: Constitution of India, fundamental rights, directive principles, important institutions, etc.
- Economy: Indian economy, economic policies, major industries, etc.
4.2 Reasoning:
- Logical Reasoning: Analytical reasoning, deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, syllogisms, analogies.
- Verbal Reasoning: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, synonyms, antonyms, sentence completion, etc.
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Spatial reasoning, visual reasoning, pattern recognition, etc.
5. Sample Questions
Table 1: Sample Questions for Engineering Mechanics
| Topic | Sample Question |
|---|---|
| Statics | A 100 kg weight is suspended by two cables, each making an angle of 30 degrees with the horizontal. Determine the tension in each cable. |
| Dynamics | A car starts from rest and accelerates uniformly to a speed of 20 m/s in 10 seconds. Calculate the acceleration of the car. |
| Strength of Materials | A steel rod of diameter 20 mm is subjected to a tensile force of 50 kN. Calculate the stress in the rod. |
| Fluid Mechanics | A rectangular tank of dimensions 2 m x 3 m x 4 m is filled with water. Calculate the pressure at the bottom of the tank. |
| Thermodynamics | A heat engine operates between two reservoirs at temperatures of 500 K and 300 K. Calculate the maximum efficiency of the engine. |
Table 2: Sample Questions for Electrical Engineering
| Topic | Sample Question |
|---|---|
| Circuit Theory | A series RLC circuit has a resistance of 10 ohms, an inductance of 0.1 H, and a capacitance of 100 microfarads. Calculate the resonant frequency of the circuit. |
| DC Machines | A DC shunt motor has an armature resistance of 0.5 ohms and a field resistance of 100 ohms. The motor is connected to a 220 V supply and draws an armature current of 20 A. Calculate the back EMF of the motor. |
| AC Machines | A three-phase induction motor has a stator winding with 6 poles and is connected to a 50 Hz supply. Calculate the synchronous speed of the motor. |
| Transformers | A transformer has a primary winding with 1000 turns and a secondary winding with 200 turns. If the primary voltage is 220 V, calculate the secondary voltage. |
| Power Systems | A 100 MW power plant generates power at a voltage of 11 kV. Calculate the current flowing through the transmission line. |
Note: These are just a few sample questions to give you an idea of the types of questions that may be asked in the NHPC JE Prelims exam. The actual exam may contain questions from a wider range of topics.
6. Preparation Tips
- Understand the Syllabus: Thoroughly go through the syllabus and identify the important topics.
- Refer to Good Books: Use standard textbooks and reference materials for each subject.
- Practice Previous Year Papers: Solving previous year papers will help you understand the exam pattern and difficulty level.
- Join Online Test Series: Online test series will help you assess your preparation level and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Time Management: Practice time management techniques to ensure that you can complete the exam within the allotted time.
- Stay Calm and Focused: Avoid stress and anxiety during the exam. Stay calm and focused on your preparation.
7. Important Resources
- NHPC Website: The official website of NHPC provides the latest information about the exam, including the syllabus, exam pattern, and application process.
- Standard Textbooks: Refer to standard textbooks for each subject to gain a comprehensive understanding of the concepts.
- Online Study Materials: Several online resources, including websites and YouTube channels, offer study materials and mock tests for the NHPC JE exam.
- Coaching Institutes: Coaching institutes can provide structured guidance and mock tests to help you prepare for the exam.
8. Conclusion
The NHPC JE Prelims exam is a challenging but rewarding opportunity for aspiring engineers. By following the syllabus, referring to good resources, and practicing diligently, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to stay focused, manage your time effectively, and believe in yourself. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers for NHPC JE Prelims Exam 2024
1. What is the exam pattern for the NHPC JE Prelims exam?
The exam is an online objective type test with multiple-choice questions. It is divided into two papers: Paper 1 (General Aptitude) and Paper 2 (Engineering Discipline). Each paper carries 100 marks and has a duration of 2 hours.
2. What is the syllabus for the NHPC JE Prelims exam?
The syllabus covers topics from Engineering Mechanics, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and General Knowledge & Reasoning. The detailed syllabus is available on the official NHPC website.
3. What are the eligibility criteria for the NHPC JE exam?
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (BE/B.Tech) in relevant disciplines with a minimum of 60% marks. Age limit varies depending on the category.
4. How can I prepare for the NHPC JE Prelims exam?
- Understand the syllabus thoroughly.
- Refer to standard textbooks and study materials.
- Practice previous year papers and mock tests.
- Join online test series for self-assessment.
- Manage your time effectively during preparation and the exam.
5. What are some important books for the NHPC JE Prelims exam?
- Engineering Mechanics: R.K. Bansal, I.C. Gupta
- Electrical Engineering: D.C. Kulshreshtha, V.K. Mehta
- Civil Engineering: S.K. Duggal, B.C. Punmia
- General Knowledge & Reasoning: Lucent’s GK, Manorama Yearbook
6. What are some tips for the exam day?
- Reach the exam center on time.
- Carry all necessary documents like admit card, ID proof, etc.
- Stay calm and focused during the exam.
- Read the instructions carefully before attempting the questions.
- Attempt easy questions first and then move on to difficult ones.
- Avoid guessing answers unless you are confident.
7. What is the selection process for the NHPC JE exam?
The selection process involves two stages: Prelims exam and Mains exam. Candidates who clear the Prelims exam will be eligible to appear for the Mains exam. Final selection will be based on the performance in both exams.
8. What are the job responsibilities of an NHPC JE?
NHPC JE is responsible for the operation and maintenance of hydroelectric power plants. They are involved in various tasks like monitoring equipment, troubleshooting problems, and ensuring safe and efficient operation of the plant.
9. What is the salary of an NHPC JE?
The salary of an NHPC JE is as per the pay scale of the company. It includes basic pay, allowances, and other benefits.
10. How can I apply for the NHPC JE exam?
The application process is online. You can apply through the official NHPC website. The notification for the exam is usually released in the month of January or February.
Note: These FAQs and answers are general in nature. For specific details, please refer to the official NHPC website and other relevant resources.