MEC3001 · Material properties and selection

Overview

This unit introduces you to materials and manufacturing processes used in the fabrication of engineering components and structures. You will explore the physical and chemical underpinnings of engineering materials and how these contribute to their mechanical and non-mechanical properties. You will also learn how degradation of these properties can lead to premature failures, particularly as a result of their interaction with aggressive environments. The knowledge developed will provide a basis for a systematic approach to materials selection and appreciation for its role in engineering design.

Areas of study: E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Mechanical engineering

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Continuous assessment: 100% Assessment in this unit includes a competency hurdle assessment task. The consequence of not achieving a competency hurdle is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Explain the physical and chemical underpinnings of engineering material properties, and the corresponding similarities within families of materials.
2. Analyse engineering problem requirements to translate them into property objectives and constraints, then select and justify appropriate materials and manufacturing processes by evaluating alternatives against selection criteria.
3. Compose and communicate an engineering solution through a reasoned, evidence-based presentation with integrity and intellectual honesty, presenting evidence and analysis objectively, acknowledging limitations, inviting critique, and avoiding exaggeration or logical fallacy.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.