Overview:

This module covers principles of operation, application, suitability for types of defect detection, defect characterisation, limitations and technical developments for a range of Non Destructive Evaluation (NDE) inspection techniques including Ultrasonic and Eddy current inspection.

Students will have a practical example and be introduced to the latest applications and developments of NDE through the research activities of the department.  The link will be made between NDE and fracture mechanics and lifetime prediction of components.  Fracture mechanics will be further developed for ductile and brittle materials, as well as composite materials, Weibull analysis and fatigue.

The aim of the module is to impart knowledge and understanding of the wide variety of NDE techniques used by industry for defect and material characterisation; inspection and analysis of both discrete and distributed defects.  The module starts with basic physical concepts, moving on to systems and practices; the advantages and limitations of these techniques; the scientific principles on which the technique is based and ends with current research challenges.

In the second part of the module the use of linear elastic fracture mechanics for calculating the remaining life of an engineering component or structure containing defects of a known size and geometry will be covered together with studying the methods applied to limit fatigue and fracture in metals, ceramics and composite materials.

This module would thus benefit students who wish to pursue a future career in product design, manufacture, or maintenance.

Topics covered:

Topics covered in the module include:

Ultrasonic NDE
 Acoustic emission monitoring
 Eddy Current inspection
 Magnetic inspection techniques
 Radiographic techniques for NDE
 Mechanics of composite materials
Learning outcomes:

Upon completion of this module students will be able to:

Have a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of mechanical and related engineering disciplines.
 Have comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the mechanical and related engineering disciplines, and an appreciation of their limitations.
 Understand concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
 Have awareness of developing technologies related to mechanical engineering.
 Use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
 Apply mathematical and computer-based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
 Generate an innovative design for products, systems, components or processes to fulfil new needs.
 Have awareness of the framework of relevant legal requirements governing engineering activities, including personnel, health, safety, and risk (including environmental risk) issues.
 Have a thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
 Have extensive knowledge and understanding of a wide range of engineering materials and components.
 Understand the use of technical literature and other information sources.
 Understand appropriate codes of practice and industry standards.
 Have awareness of quality issues.
 Apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints.