MEC3459 · Materials selection for engineers

Overview

This unit introduces you to materials available for the fabrication of engineering components and structures. You will be instructed on the fundamentals of the role of composition and structure of materials in their mechanical properties that are important for engineering design. You will also learn how the materials with undesirable microstructure can lead to premature failures, particularly as a result of their interaction with aggressive environment. The knowledge thus developed will provide a basis for advanced learning on a systematic approach to materials selection as well as the methods by which the materials with the desired mechanical properties can be processed. Case studies will be presented to highlight the importance of selecting appropriate materials for engineering design.

Offerings

The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 40% Final assessment: 60% This unit contains hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement 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. Decide on the appropriate material for a given engineering design considering the operational requirements and the limitations of different material types.
2. Describe methods for modification of material microstructure and control of material properties.
3. Reflect on the intricacies of a common manual fabrication technique (ARC Welding) and its associated safety aspects.
4. Differentiate a range of corrosion types and the principles behind corrosion mitigation.
5. Predict mechanical and corrosion failure modes and explain likely causes.

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.