Introductory description

This module provides the fundamental knowledge in materials science and manufacturing, relevant to Degree Apprenticeship Standards ST0023, ST0024, ST0025 and ST0027.
In any engineering activity the performance of materials needs to be understood to ensure that the processes of design and manufacturing can consistently deliver new products to the market. Today, with increasing environmental legislation and greater competition, the engineer is tasked with using novel materials, which in turn means they have to be proportionately more reliable and their properties even better controlled. Many aspects affect material properties. At the most basic level the arrangement of the individual atoms within the structure is important. Therefore, this module focuses on Structure-Property Relationship.

This module is linked with C1, AHEP C2, AHEP C3, AHEP C4, AHEP C12, AHEP C13 and AHEP C16 of the AHEP 4.

LO 1 - C1, C4, C13
LO2 - C1, C4
LO3 - C1, C4
LO4 - C1, C2, C4
LO5 - C1, C2, C4, C12, C13, C16
LO6 - C1 ,C2, C4, C13

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

• Atomic structure. Molecular structure and bonding. Structure of solid materials. Crystal systems. Crystal imperfections. Substitutional solid solutions. Interstitial solid solutions. Structure/Properties relationship
• Thermal Treatments and Strengthening mechanisms.
• Properties of materials: Mechanical Electrical Magnetic Physical properties.
• Testing Standards.
• Metallic. Ceramics. Polymers. Composites. Electronic materials.
• Bulk materials. Engineered materials. Fabricated products. Servicing of products. Recycling/disposal. Manufacturing Technologies.
• Material Selection using Granta Edupack.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Summarise the basic concepts and the terminology of materials science so that the students are able to work in a multi-disciplinary team. [AHEP:4-C1, C4]
• Interpret the structure-property relationship and how it relates to the utility of engineering materials in use and in manufacture. [AHEP:4- C1, C4]
• Describe simple theoretical models to predict mechanical behaviour and basic failure mechanisms of engineering materials. [AHEP:4- C1, C2, C4]
• Working as part of a team or as an individual, demonstrate the basic concepts of mechanical behaviour and failure mechanisms through experiment, producing a technical report. [AHEP:4- C1, C2, C4, C12, C13, C16 ]
• Apply basic mechanical theory, knowledge of structure-property relationship and manufacturing processes to conduct a materials selection process with CAE tool with consideration of economic and environmental drivers linking with Engineering Design Process. [AHEP:4- C1 ,C2, C4, C7, C13]

Indicative reading list

• Manufacturing Processes for Engineering Materials. Kalpakjian and Schmid ISBN 9789810679538
• Manufacturing Engineering Technology: Kalpajian and Schmid ISBN 9789810694067
• Materials Science for Engineers, James F Shackelford. ISBN 0-13-127619-0
• Callister W.D., Materials Science and Engineering ISBN 9781119453918
• Ashby, M.F, Materials Selection in Mechanical Design ISBN 9780081005996
• Askeland, D.R. The science of engineering materials ISBN 9781305077102
• Principles of Modern Manufacturing - Materials Processed and Systems, MikellP. Groover ISBN 978-1-119-24912-2

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

-Select, use and apply approved problem-solving methods to solve complex problems and determine appropriate solutions or actions (S2 in all DA standards).

• Select the best method for collating and conveying complex information using a range of data sources and supporting documentation (S3 in all DA standards).
• Comply with statutory and organisational safety standards and requirements, supporting safety risk assessments and mitigate any risks (S7 in ST0023, S7 in ST0027 and S8 in ST0024 and ST0025)
• Collate and use a range of data sources and supporting documentation to support projects (S3 in ST0027)
• Observe, record and draw accurate and auditable conclusions from data and/or developmental or test evidence (S3 in ST0027, S5 in ST0023, ST0024, ST0025)
• Ensure that all systems and/or equipment has been correctly configured and checked for safe operation before use (S12 in ST0027, S11 in ST0023, S13 in ST0024 and ST0025)
• Interpret and produce technical documentation such as schematic and circuit diagrams, engineering drawings or 3D CAD models, simulation models, project plans, engineering reports, test reports, fault reports or data analytics using company documentation systems and guidelines (S4 in ST0027).

Transferable skills

• Critical Thinking: Recognise patterns, themes and key messages from sometimes confused and incomplete data; Make informed decisions on the value of a range of sources allowing an evidence based conclusion based on this analysis.
• Organisational awareness: Understanding organisational norms of behaviour.
• Information literacy: The systematic collection, analysis and evaluation of information in the investigation of a topic.
• Professionalism: Manages priorities and time.
• Self-awareness: Aware of personal strengths and emotional intelligence; Reflect on learning, seeking feedback on and evaluating personal practices, strengths and opportunities for personal growth.
• Teamwork: Operate within, and contribute to, a respectful, supportive and cooperative group climate.
• Problem solving: Use rational and logical reasoning to deduce appropriate and well-reasoned conclusions.
• Communication: Written: Present arguments, knowledge and ideas, in a range of formats.