Engineering Materials module (ME31001)

You will learn about a range of engineering materials. These include metals and non-metals, and their main properties. It also covers how these are influenced by composition and processing.

You will also learn about:

• the design of structures with predetermined properties
• development of new materials
• classification of materials based on chemical bonding or on their characteristics

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• explore the relationship between the properties, processing, and structures of materials. You will also explore their applications
• learn about material characteristics in creating products, structures, and systems that are safe and structurally sound
• explore different ways of material testing. This will determine the extent to which they can withstand deformations before fracture and failure set in
• learn about various defects in engineering materials. You will also learn about the causative factors. You will see how they can influence the overall mechanical properties and structures of materials

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• show adequate knowledge of the selection of engineering materials for specific applications
• describe important properties and limitations of the main engineering materials
• explain the influence of heat treatment and processing on the properties of materials
• indicate the appropriate treatment of the manufacturing process for a material. This will consider the properties of the materials and the requirements of an application
• relate materials and their processing to resultant properties
• link design and material choices to the limitations of an application and a manufacturing process

Assignments / assessment

• written class test 1 (40%)
• written class test 2 (40%)
• laboratory report (20%)
  • material testing
  • based on the practical session which will be carried out as part of this module
  • report the applied methods and acquired results which will subsequently be discussed

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

• lectures
• tutorials
• practical sessions
• seminars, these will cover:
  • crystal structure
  • defects
  • diffusion
  • mechanical properties
  • fracture and failure and non-destructive testing
  • metals
  • phase and microstructure of metals
  • ceramics
  • polymers
  • corrosion and degradation of materials
• practical laboratories
  • materials testing