MTE3102 · Plasticity of metals and alloys

Overview

This unit introduces the most important mechanical properties of engineering alloys and explores the relationship between these properties, the microstructure, and the mechanisms of plastic deformation. The properties considered will include the yield strength, strain hardening, ultimate tensile strength, fracture, creep, fatigue and wear. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of dislocations and twins as the dominant actors controlling plastic deformation in metals and alloys. The interaction between dislocation/twins and the microstructure is emphasised. You will develop a detailed and quantitative understanding of the relationship between the mechanical properties of engineering alloys and their microstructure and learn how to design microstructures to optimise different properties.

Areas of study: E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Materials engineering E6011 Master of Professional Engineering - Specialisation: Materials engineering

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 50% Final assessment: 50% This unit contains threshold 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. Describe which mechanical properties are most important for structural alloys and the dependence of these properties on microstructure.
2. Analyse the properties and roles of dislocations and twins in carrying plasticity in crystalline solids.
3. Discuss the different strengthening mechanisms in metals and alloys.
4. Discuss the causes of strain hardening and fracture of metals and alloys and how they depend on the microstructure.
5. Analyse the effect of temperature on the plasticity of metals and alloys and compare the deformation structures obtained at different temperatures and strain rates.
6. Predict the effect of microstructure on creep, fatigue and wear of metals and alloys.
7. Apply the principles of microstructure design to the optimization of selected mechanical properties.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-4 hours of scheduled learning activities and 8-9 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.