Manufacturing Materials

Unit code: NEM3201 | Study level: Undergraduate

Credit points

(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)

Location

Footscray Park

Prerequisites

NEM2102 - Introduction to Engineering Materials

(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)

Overview

This unit expands students' understanding of materials science and engineering, focusing on the structure, properties, processing, and applications of key engineering materials, including ), non-ferrous alloys, polymers, ceramics, and composites. It integrates these concepts with sustainable engineering product design and modern manufacturing technologies. Students will explore how the structure of various material classes can be designed to achieve specific properties, supporting the development of efficient, durable, and sustainable products. The unit also covers material degradation and performance under service conditions, including materials failure mechanisms, corrosion, creep, wear and oxidation, along with techniques for material failure analysis. Additionally, the unit introduces problem-solving methodologies and emphasises the professional responsibilities of engineers, preparing students for real-world applications in materials selection and design.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

Analyse the structure, properties, and processing of various materials, while evaluating key issues in manufacturing and environmental impact within the context of engineering science;
Determine and justify appropriate materials and design their structures to achieve a predetermined set of desired properties;
Conduct research to understand the correlations between material structure and properties in engineering applications;
Analyse and solve numerical and practical engineering challenges in materials selection and design; and
Evaluate and apply formulation and solution techniques, effectively communicate findings, and use a systems approach in design.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Project

Grade: 15%

Report on the processing of non-ferrous materials (Group) (1000 words)

Assessment type: Portfolio

Grade: 25%

Portfolio (includes activities developing materials selection and mechanical design skills) (Individual) (2000 words)

Assessment type: Test

Grade: 60%

In-class invigilated test - (Individual) (120 mins)

Project: Milestone checks and structured feedback ensure that students are meeting progress expectations, and that their work is original and demonstrates independent thinking. This project focuses on the processing of non-ferrous materials, requiring students to investigate processing methods, properties, and applications. Students will analyse the materials' performance and write a report outlining their findings.

Portfolio: Individual submissions are required for each activity within the portfolio, and regular peer and instructor feedback ensures accountability and progression of learning. The portfolio includes a series of activities designed to develop students' skills in materials selection and mechanical design. It encourages reflection and iterative learning, with students demonstrating a progression of design and analysis skills through structured exercises and feedback.

Test: The test is invigilated under controlled conditions to maintain integrity and ensure secure assessment of students' understanding. The test assesses students' theoretical knowledge and ability to solve engineering problems related to materials science and mechanical design. It is an individual assessment and includes calculations, design considerations, and analysis.

Required reading

Materials Science and Engineering - An Introduction

Callister, D.W. Jr (2013)| John Wiley & Sons

Manufacturing Engineering and Technology

Kalpakjian, S., 2010| Addison- Wesley

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical Engineering)

NHEM | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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