| The module introduces the concepts of alloying and the reasons for using certain elements in metallic alloys. The module deals with the concept of free energy of formation, nucleation and growth, solid state phase transformations and ageing reactions. The concepts are then applied to industrially significant metallic systems such as Aluminium-based alloys. The extraction, physical metallurgy and microstructures of steels are described as a separate, parallel theme.
The module further uses the concepts developed in Semester 1 to describe the applications of these commercially important alloys. The major classes of steels will be described with applications such as: pressing steel for auto-bodies, engineering steels for engines, gears and power-train, steels for construction and corrosion-resistant steels for chemical plant. The parallel lectures on non-ferrous alloys will explore the use of light alloys for aerospace applications and Nickel-based alloys for jet-engine (gas-turbine) and other high temperature uses. The formation of ordered phases and the application of this important class of alloy will be described.
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