Description
This unit introduces students to the atomic structure of materials and the way it affects the properties, physical nature and performance characteristics of common manufacturing materials; how these properties are tested, and modified by various processing treatments; and problems that occur which can cause materials to fail in service.
On successful completion of this unit students will be able to explain the relationship between the atomic structure and the physical properties of materials, determine the suitability of engineering materials for use in a specified role, explore the testing techniques to determine the physical properties of an engineering material and identify the causes of in-service material failure.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
1. Explain the relationship between the atomic structure and the physical properties of materials.
Physical properties of materials:
Classification and terminology of engineering materials
Material categories: metallic, ceramic, polymer and composites
Atomic structure, electrostatic covalent and ionic bonding
Crystalline structures: body-centred and face-centred cubic lattice and hexagonal close packed
Characteristics and function of ferrous, non-ferrous phase diagrams, amorphous and crystalline polymer structures
2. Determine the suitability of engineering materials for use in a specified role.
Materials used in specific roles:
The relationship between product design and material selection
Categorising materials by their physical, mechanical, electrical and thermal properties
The effect heat treatment and mechanical processes have on material properties
How environmental factors can affect material behaviour of metallic, ceramic, polymer and composite materials
Consideration of the impact that forms of supply and cost have on material selection
3. Explore the testing techniques to determine the physical properties of an engineering material.
Testing techniques:
Destructive and non-destructive tests used to identify material properties
The influence of test results on material selection for a given application
Most appropriate tests for the different categories of materials
Undertaking mechanical tests on each of the four material categories for data comparison and compare results against industry recognised data sources, explain reasons for any deviation found
4. Recognise and categorise the causes of in-service material failure.
Material failure:
Reasons why engineered components fail in service
Working and environmental conditions that lead to material failure
Common mechanisms of failure for metals, polymers, ceramics and composites
Preventative measures that can be used to extend service life.