The aims of this module are to develop the student's knowledge of metallic alloys, in terms of their bonding, crystal structure, phase, grain size, defects and compositions, including how they relate to the functional and mechanical properties of materials. An understanding of binary and ternary phase diagrams will be developed, to include the thermodynamics and solidification processes of materials. A range of techniques for characterising metallic materials will be discussed. These comprise microscopy (optical and electron), non-destructive testing, x-ray diffraction, surface analysis and various techniques for measuring electrical and magnetic properties. The manufacturing processes for these alloys and applications will be discussed in detail and will include; investment casing, additive manufacturing and advanced joining techniques amongst others.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Understand and describe the different crystalline structures, bonding and defects present in metallic materials and how they affect the materials functional and mechanical properties.
Analyse binary and ternary phase diagrams to predict the phases, compositions and microstructures observed in a material.
Evaluate data from key techniques used in the characterisation of metallic systems.
Critically evaluate the different manufacturing methods for complex components made from metallic alloys.
