Introduction
The Materials section of Materials and Reliability introduces students to the fundamental methods used to analyse static and fatigue failure in ductile and brittle metals, with the aim of informing the selection of suitable materials for engineering design. The section explores stress, strain, and their interdependencies when determining principal stresses and principal strains; key static failure theories; Marin correction factors for fatigue analysis; the assessment of alternating and non-zero mean stress states using key fatigue failure theories; and the extension of fatigue failure theories to multiaxial loading, varying phase and frequency loading, and cumulative damage.
The Reliability section of Materials and Reliability introduces students to the statistical tools used to analyse the condition of components and systems over their lifecycle. A substantial statistical foundation is established in this section, from which system reliability and maintainability may be carefully and accurately assessed. This section provides comprehensive coverage of data handling, the treatment of measurement uncertainties, and probability concepts and distributions, enabling reliability prediction and modelling, as well as the sustainable operation of systems within uncertain environments.
The unit integrates several practical activities that enable students to apply their developing knowledge of materials and reliability engineering. Practical work includes the use of strain gauges to assess static failure in components, the interpretation of loading histories for fatigue analysis, and uncertainty analysis to quantify instrumentation accuracy. Emphasis is placed on component and system performance and on extending service life, thereby promoting sustainability and climate-responsible engineering practice.
Overall, this unit prepares students for Solid Mechanics by equipping them with essential tools for evaluating component and system performance under static and fatigue loading. The unit also introduces the probabilistic perspectives needed for reliable engineering design and covers the uncertainty analysis tools necessary to determine levels of accuracy in testing undertaken in subsequent units.
Summary
| Unit name | Materials and Reliability |
| Unit code | ENG218 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering School of Engineering |
| Discipline | Engineering |
| Coordinator | Doctor Jason Ali-Lavroff |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Intermediate |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Learning Outcomes
- Analyse static failure in ductile and brittle materials using static failure theories.
- Analyse fatigue failure using correction factors and fatigue failure theories.
- Analyse the reliability of engineering components and systems using statistical tools.
- Solve practical engineering problems relating to product performance, extending product life, and overall climate resilience by extending and employing the concepts of static failure theory, fatigue failure theory, and reliability.
- Assess operational data and uncertainties from sensors to monitor a condition or control a process.
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | 3x 1 hour lectures per week, 1x 1 hour tutorial per week, 3x 2 hour labs per semester. |
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| Assessment | In Semester Test (10%)|Field Trip (15%)|Laboratory (35%)|Exam (40%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.