Metallography

General description:

The student enhances their knowledge of microstructure and its influence on the properties of metals and alloys. They are introduced to the basic concepts of alloy constitution and the principles governing the formation of specific alloy systems. They become proficient in reading phase diagrams, enabling them to understand and interpret observed microstructures. Through calculation exercises and laboratory work, they learn to critically evaluate phenomena in metals and alloys and become accustomed to working independently.

Objectives and competences:

A student builds knowledge about the microstructure and its influence on the properties of metals and alloys. Student gets familiar with the basic concepts of the constitution and principles of alloys occurrence of certain alloying systems. Proficient in reading phase diagrams, which allows understanding and interpretation of the observed microstructure. During computational and laboratory work students learn how critically assess treated phenomena in metals and alloys, and to work independently.

Knowledge and understanding:

Declarative: knowledge and understanding of the rules of mixing of metals and formation of alloy system in conjunction with the process of solidification of metallic materials. Knowledge of basic microstructural features for typical representatives of technical alloys. Principles and mechanisms at macro and micro level responsible for changes in the properties of materials and the application of that knowledge in the characterization and optimization of existing technologies. In laboratory and computational exercises students consolidate the knowledge and learn to critically assess the phenomena and theoretical explanations for them and the states to work independently. Production of written reports and oral presentations. Synthesis of acquired knowledge in practical applications of metallic materials and their manufacture.

Content (Syllabus outline):

The constitution of metallic materials. Mixing of elements. Gibbs phase rule. Alloying system, a heterogeneous equilibria and phase diagram. Lever rule. Phase diagrams and crystallization from a melt. Equilibrium and non-equilibrium solidification. Mixing of alloying elements and the partition coefficient. Constitutional supercooling. Segregation. The constitution of binary alloy systems. The binary system of two-phase equilibrium. Microstructure, physical and mechanical properties in isomorphic system. Correlation of microstructure and mechanical properties in technically important alloy systems. Emphasis is on understanding and approaches to improving the mechanical properties of metallic materials. Binary system with a three-phase equilibrium. Eutectic system. Microstructures of eutectic hypo- and hypereutectic alloys. Process of precipitation along the solvus line and influence on mechanical and other properties. Border types of eutectic systems. Peritectic system. The constitution and physical-metallurgical basics of selected alloy systems and metal materials. Iron, copper, aluminum and special alloys.

Learning and teaching methods:

Lectures, seminars, research seminars, laboratory exercises, simulations, presentations, ICT teaching methods/online classrooms.

Grading system:

Written exam – 60 %.

Oral exam – 40 %.