Metallurgical Properties, How to Measure, Assess and Influence - Online Course

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In this course of 3 modules we will look at how material properties are measured, assessed and can be influenced by processing.

The course will concentrate on how key mechanical properties are measured in practice; the key features of microstructures formed during processing and how these microstructures are observed using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy and how microstructure and therefore mechanical properties are changed by heat treatment processes. The course will refer to terminology and principles covered in the course Building Blocks for Metallurgical Success, so it is recommended that that course is completed ahead of undertaking this course.

On demand and instant access to the full course consisting of three modules.

To maximise learning it is recommended that each module is completed in sequence.

Full Course

(save $40)

$185.00

Enrol Full Course

Module 1

Mechanical Properties and Mechanical Testing

$75.00

Enrol Module 1

Module 2

Microexamination and Microstructures

$75.00

Enrol Module 2

Module 3

Heat Treatment

$75.00

Enrol Module 3

$40.00 discount available when you purchase the three modules together.
Certificate on completion.

Course Modules

The course consists of three modules which should be taken in sequence in order to complete the full course.

Module 1 – Mechanical Properties and Mechanical Testing

This module will recap on what is meant by strength and toughness and look at the standard test methods and equipment by which they are determined. The methods by which hardness, creep and fatigue are measured are also discussed. The module will also cover how strength, toughness and creep are influenced by grain size.

Module 2 – Microexamination and Microstructures

This module will recap on how microstructures in steel are formed, which was covered on the atomic scale in the first course Building Blocks for Metallurgical Success, and look at the key microstructural features by which the metallographer can distinguish between differing microstructures and how in practice microstructures are assessed using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy.

Module 3 – Heat Treatment

This module will consider how the properties and microstructure discussed in modules 1 & 2 are achieved in practice. The module will discuss the heating and cooling parameters that are used to achieve a desired property outcome.

What the course covers

Recap on definition of strength, ductility and toughness
Recap on the influence of grain size on strength and toughness
Practical methods by which, strength, ductility, toughness, hardness, creep and fatigue are measured

Tensile test
Charpy and CTOD test
Brinell and Vickers hardness test
Creep testing
Fatigue testing

Recap on Fe-C phase diagram and formation of equilibrium ferrite and pearlite
Recap on how martensite and bainite are formed

What are the key features which differentiate how ferrite and pearlite, bainite and martensite look like in practice
How samples are prepared and etched for microstructural assessment
How these microstructures are observed under an optical light microscope
What features can be distinguished using a scanning electron microscope

Recap on the rules governing Time-Temperature-Transformation and Critical Cooling Rate
How these rules are applied in through practical heat treatment to achieve desired properties

Parameters required for annealing and the property outcome
Parameters required for normalising and the property outcome
Parameters required for quenching and the property outcome

Learning Outcomes

Full understanding of the definitions of key mechanical properties and how these properties are measured in practice
Ability to differentiate between non-equilibrium steel microstructures formed during processing
The practical methods by which microstructures can be observed
An understanding of the importance of sample procurement and sample preparation on the properties measured and microstructures observed
The rules governing heat treatment outcomes and the practical parameters under which these heat treatments are conducted

Who should access the course?

Individuals who wish to work in the metal industry both manufacturing and down-stream processing. Current practitioners in the metals industry, such as scientists, researchers, technologists, technology managers and Operations and Operational management.

Course Duration

3 x 40 minute modules

Course Presenter

Catherine Fennell

Catherine Fennell BMet CEng FIMMM
Principal Researcher

Catherine has 34 years experience in the iron & steel industry covering process development, product development, product characterisation, investigation of defects in rolled products, accreditation of mechanical and chemical testing services and quality assurance of processes and people.

Catherine has throughout her career looked to develop people through accredited apprentice schemes, coaching of managers and delivery of metallurgical training.

Catherine is a Fellow of the Materials, Minerals and Mining Institute and aside from her work at the Materials Processing Institute currently scrutinises and peer reviews applications for membership of the Institute of Material, Minerals and Mining.