Fırat Mehmet Günkan | Metallurgical Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Metallurgy Award

Dr. Fırat Mehmet Günkan | Metallurgical Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering | Turkey

Fırat Mehmet Günkan is a mechanical engineering academic specializing in tribology, high-pressure flow control and cold gas propulsion, contributing extensively to both research and education in the field. With a PhD focused on the design and validation of a cold thrust system for space applications, supported by an MSc in Mechanical Design and dual bachelor’s degrees in engineering and technical design, he has built a strong multidisciplinary foundation. Over more than a decade of academic experience, his teaching portfolio has included engineering drawing, CAD/CAM and design-oriented courses, complemented by active involvement in research projects on motorized pneumatic needle valves, dynamic torque sensors, six-axis load cells and advanced combustion engine mechanisms. His scholarly output includes 1 peer-reviewed journal articles, international conference papers and a published patent, reflecting continuous engagement in applied mechanical research. His research interests span tribology, supersonic flow, cold gas thrusters, vertical-landing demonstrators, proportional valve design and precision measurement systems. With regular contributions to international tribology forums and national aerospace initiatives, he continues to advance impactful developments in mechanical design, experimentation and propulsion technologies.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications

Günkan, F. M., Sümer, B., & Koç, İ. M. (2025). Reducing drive torque in needle valves through tip material selection with a tribological approach. Tribology International, 209.

Günkan, F. M., Doğru, B., Baykara, C., Kutlar, O. A., & Arslan, H. (2013). Design and dynamic analysis of a novel valve control mechanism. Machines Technologies Materials, 5, 12–15.

Günkan, F. M., Sümer, B., & Koç, İ. M. (2025). Lowering rotational friction of a servo needle valve via driving with smart control strategies. Proceedings of the 50th Leeds-Lyon Symposium on Tribology.

Aşkın, G. Ş., Gökçeli, S., Sümer, B., Ergün, O., Koç, İ. M., & Günkan, F. M. (2025). Frictional behaviour and lubricant effects on polymer-based thin-film electrode arrays for cochlear implants. Proceedings of the 50th Leeds-Lyon Symposium on Tribology.

Üngör, M., Baykara, C., Kutlar, O. A., Günkan, F. M., & Cihan, Ö. (2018). Adaptation of a cycle-skipping strategy to a Wankel engine. Proceedings of the 9th Automotive Technologies Congress.

Olufisayo Emmanuel Ojo | Sustainable Metallurgy | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Metallurgy Award

Mr. Olufisayo Emmanuel Ojo | Sustainable Metallurgy | Best Researcher Award

Durban University of Technology | South Africa

Mr.Ojo Olufisayo Emmanuel, R.Engr., IEng (UK), M.I.E.T, MNSE. An accomplished Electromechanical and Water Engineer with over 18 years of professional experience in mechanical systems design, project management, and sustainable infrastructure development across international development projects funded by organizations such as the World Bank, USAID, AFD, and atmosfair gGmbH. The engineer holds an MSc (Research) in Mechanical Engineering from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, and is currently pursuing doctoral degrees in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. Their research contributions have significantly advanced the fields of renewable energy, desalination systems, and sustainable water technologies. Publications in collaboration with leading experts have explored renewable-energy-powered reverse osmosis, biodiesel optimization, and membrane desalination modeling. Extensive professional practice includes managing water treatment plant projects, developing asset management frameworks, and leading multidisciplinary teams for infrastructure delivery. Recognized for leadership, innovation, and technical excellence, they have designed and supervised numerous water and energy projects across Africa. Their current research interests focus on renewable energy systems, water treatment, and environmental sustainability. Committed to bridging theory and practice, they continue to contribute to engineering advancement through applied research, innovation, and sustainable technology development for global energy and water security.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications

Ojo, E. O., & Inambao, F. (2020). A review of renewable power generation using piezoelectric materials. International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Technology, 10(12), 559–577.

Ojo, E. O., Inambao, F., & Ige, O. E. (2023). Modeling and simulation for a seawater reverse osmosis system. Journal of Materials Engineering, 51(2), 515–535.

Ojo, E. O., & Inambao, F. (2021). A review of renewable energy powered reverse osmosis system for seawater desalination. International Journal of Mechanical and Production Engineering Research and Development, 11(6), 73–90.

Olufisayo, O. E., & Olanrewaju, O. (2024). A review of renewable energy powered seawater desalination treatment process for zero waste. Water, 16(19), 2804.

Ojo, E. O., & Inambao, F. (2024). Additives and blends of biodiesel. Journal of Propulsion Technology, 45(1), 5032–5050.