Undergraduate - UnitMTE4594 - Engineering alloy design, processing and selection

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Synopsis

Engineering alloys play a vital role in modern society. In almost all structural applications the principle loads are carried by engineering alloys. The reasons underlying this choice are discussed and the general methodology used to choose a material for use in a new application is presented. The link between processing, microstructure and properties is emphasized. A selection of engineering alloys, including steels (carbon, alloy, stainless, dual phase, TRIP/TWIP), cast irons, aluminium, magnesium, titanium, nickel and cobalt-based superalloys and zirconium alloys, is discussed. The state-of-the-art approaches to the design and development of new alloys for the 21st century are outlined.

Outcomes

To develop:

1. a thorough understanding of the combinations of mechanical properties exhibited by engineering alloys and how these compare with other materials classes

2. an understanding of the methodology used in objectively selecting a material and processing procedure for a given engineering application

3. in depth understanding of the microstructures and their development for the most common classes of engineering alloys

4. an understanding of the principles of microstructural design for mechanical applications.

Assessment

Alloy selection exercise: 25%
Alloy systems project: 25%
Examination (3 hours): 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor George Simon

Contact hours

3 hours lectures/tutorials and 9 hours of private study per week

Prerequisites

MTE3542 or MSC3121