Content

The deformation of a metal has two direct consequences. On a 'macro scale' the desired shape change is obtained and on a 'micro scale' the microstructure of the material is changed. This microstructure is related to the mechanical and physical properties of the metal and is heavily dependent of some external parameters like temperature, strain, strain rate, deformation mode, lubricants, etc.
The blacksmith in ancient times was mainly concerned with the macroscopic shape change, but the modern metal industry requires thermo-mechanical processes that lead to a product with optimal properties, not only concerning dimensional precision and appearance, but also concerning mechanical and physical properties. The aim of the present course is to give an overview of the main manufacturing processes but also to provide some understanding of the complicated relations between a forming process and the microstructure of a metal on one hand and between this microstructure and the mechanical properties on the other hand.
    
In part I of this course ('Science') some more theoretical aspects are treated. It is assumed that the student has already acquired some basic knowledge of elasticity and plasticity theory and of physical metallurgy. This knowledge will be further developed, focussed on phenomena that occur during or are related to deformation (strengthening, substructure development, recrystallisation, crystallographic textures, residual stresses, friction, etc.)
    
In part II of this course ('Technology') the most important metal forming operations are described. This part is mainly focussed on the 'macro scale' (shaping a metallic part) although also here some connections with the microstructure will be made. For example in the chapter about 'sheet metal forming' the main issue is the relation between material properties (e.g. plastic anisotropy) and formability.
The third part of this course ("case studies") is devoted to the 'micro scale'. In a number of case studies the thermo-mechanical processing of some products is analysed and discussed. The examples show how properties can be optimised by a careful control of the microstructure during processing.

Course material

Study cost: 1-10 euros (The information about the study costs as stated here gives an indication and only represents the costs for purchasing new materials. There might be some electronic or second-hand copies available as well. You can use LIMO to check whether the textbook is available in the library. Any potential printing costs and optional course material are not included in this price.)

Course notes: “Thermo-Mechanical Processing of Metallic Materials”,  by Bert Verlinden (published by VTK)
The slides used during the lectures, are available on Toledo