Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

The academic objectives of this unit are (1) to equip students with the fundamental knowledge of materials science and engineering; (2) to equip the students with the knowledge of engineering material processing and the processing/structure/properties/performance relationships as demonstrated by the Fe-C alloy system; (3) to equip students with the fundamental and practical knowledge of metal corrosion and basic skills for corrosion prevention, and the knowledge of degradation of non-metallic materials; and (4) to establish a general ability for selecting materials for engineering applications.

This unit builds upon ENSC1004 Engineering Materials and covers important fundamental topics of materials science and engineering including diffusion in solids, strengthening mechanisms in metals and phase diagrams. This prepares students to learn and appreciate how microstructure can be developed and controlled to achieve desired mechanical properties of engineering alloys. It teaches the knowledge of industrial thermal processing of engineering alloys, using Fe-C system as a central example. The unit also introduces to students the common forms of corrosion and corrosion prevention techniques, and degradation of polymers and ceramics. It concludes on engineering materials for application in mechanical design and engineering structures.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 core unit in the Biomedical Engineering; Mechanical Engineering major sequences
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) explain mechanisms of diffusion in metals and solve simple diffusion problems for alloy heat treatment; (2) interpret common types of binary phase diagrams and to describe solidification processes and

microstructures of binary alloys; (3) use Fe-C phase diagram, and isothermal and continuous cooling transformation diagrams to

describe microstructure development of steels and cast irons through heat treatment; (4) design heat treatment processes to control microstructures and alter mechanical properties of

alloys; (5) explain strengthening mechanisms of alloys; (6) explain electrochemical fundamental principles underlying industrial corrosion of alloys; and (7) design basic cathodic protection systems for engineering structures against corrosion.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) quizzes; (2) assignments; and (3) exams. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Mr Bobby Gillham
Unit rules
Prerequisites
ENSC1004 Engineering Materials
and Enrolment in
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) or an associated Combined Degree
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.