This module gives the student an introduction to the concept of material selection for design applications based on the suitability of their mechanical properties and the implications of their production methods. The project element gives the student an opportunity to explore and question the above concept and to observe it’s effects on the design of everyday products and how it may influence their own designs for given products.
Indicative syllabus covered in the module and / or in its discrete elements
MC1. Primary forming processes Manufacture of metal components and stock by: Casting Extrusion Hot and cold rolling Available stock sizes Formats of commonly used materials Forging and drawing
MC2. Conventional Machining Methods Lathes, milling M/Cs, drilling M/Cs and their uses. Introduction to work holding. tool materials and applications
MC3. Power transmission Belt drives Sprockets Couplings Keyways Reduction gearboxes Practical labs using above components
MC4. Materials for design Properties of materials, mechanical, thermal, electrical properties etc. Destructive material testing Non-destructive material testing
MC5. Material selection: Fitness for function Comparison of alternative materials for specific tasks Selection processes using CD/web databases (Cambridge).
MC6. Specific material characteristics Makeup, specification and process methods of common manufacturing materials.(eg. Ferrous/non-ferrous Metals, Alloys, Plastics, ceramics, glass, timber, Composites etc.) Effects of anisotropic / isotropic properties of the above
MC7. Material jointing methods Outline of common jointing methods and their appropriate applications including welding, fasteners, adhesives etc.
MC8 Surface Coatings: Corrosion protection Aesthetics Alteration of physical properties
