Units / MTE5194
MTE5194 · Engineering alloy design, processing and selection
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 5Department of Materials Science and Engineering
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
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.
Areas of study: E6014 Master of Engineering - Specialisation: Materials engineering
Offerings
The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Materials selection assignment | Written | 25% | Threshold |
| 2 | Alloy systems project | Project | 25% | Threshold |
| 3 | Final assessment | Examination | 50% | Threshold |
Continuous assessment: 50% Final assessment: 50% 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. The assessments of this unit are designed to demonstrate the achievement of the advanced learning outcomes and standards expected of Master’s level coursework.
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
prohibitions
- MTE4594 — Engineering alloy design, processing and selection
Learning outcomes
- a detailed appreciation of the combinations of mechanical properties exhibited by engineering alloys and how these compare with other materials classes
- a demonstrated ability to apply the methodology of materials and process selection for a given engineering application
- in-depth assessment of the role of microstructures and their development on the properties of the most common classes of engineering alloys
- a demonstrated ability to apply the principles of microstructural design for mechanical applications
- a demonstrated ability to communicate in both written and verbal form the physical metallurgy of different alloys classes.
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 6-8 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.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Applied sessions | 22 hours |
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