Materials engineering

The course content is focused on materials properties and behavior with respect to mechanical design and engineering. The course takes both a general approach and a detailed approach where the first includes: Materials and theirs roles and importance in history and in modern society, resources and availability, sustainability and environmental considerations, principles for systematic materials selection with respect to performance of materials, and principles for engineering design with respect to material properties. It will also provide an introduction to basic subjects in chemistry that are adapted for mechanical engineering.

Detailed topics are: physical and mechanical properties including density, elastic properties, yielding and plastic properties, hardness and ductility. Atoms, bonds, elements and compounds, mixtures, solid solutions, red-ox reactions, galvanic elements. Relations between atomic structure, molecular structure, microstructure and material properties. Phase diagrams, heat treatment and strengthening mechanisms for important metals and alloys. Materials testing methods (both destructive and non-destructive). Corrosion and degradation mechanisms.

Important engineering materials will be emphasized: Carbon steels, steel alloys, light weight alloys, engineering polymers and fiber composites. Some selected processing and manufacturing methods are included.

Knowledge:

• The candidate knows the materials inner properties and structure and production methods and how the production affects the material properties.
• The candidate is familiar with different testing and inspection methods of properties for common construction materials.
• The candidate has knowledge about materials science historical development and environmental impact of material choice in the design.
• The candidate is able to make an appropriated choice of the materials in the design based on form, strength, production methods and environmental footprint.

Skills:

The candidate is able to:

• make the right choice of materials for a construction based on shape, strength, manufacturing process, environment and life cycle.
• choose the right heat/mechanical process to strengthen the properties of metallic materials.
• choose a reasonable manufacturing method for concrete components/products depending on the type of material.

General competence:

The candidate is able to:

• explain and discuss general aspects of materials and materials technology related to mechanical construction
• make sensible judgments about the suitability of materials in construction solutions with regard to strength, durability and life cycle.

Lectures, exercises and laboratory work.