MTE4594 - Engineering alloy design, processing and selection - 2019

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.

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.

NOTE: From 1 July 2019, the duration of all exams is changing to combine reading and writing time. The new exam duration for this unit is 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Alloy selection exercise: 25%

Alloy systems project: 25%

Examination (2 hours): 50%

Students are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final examination component and an overall mark of 50% to achieve a pass grade in the unit. Students failing to achieve this requirement will be given a maximum of 45% in the unit.

3 hours lectures/applied classes and 9 hours of private study per week

See also Unit timetable information

Materials science