Newcastle University

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

A1: To provide an understanding of the issues relating to materials selection and corrosion control in subsea systems and to introduce the use of materials selection software.
A2: To explain the metallurgy of mild steels, stainless steels and corrosion resistant alloys and how the microstructure relates to properties.
A3: To introduce non-metallic materials and their use in subsea systems.
A4: To discuss how the main manufacturing processes affect the material properties, particularly welding offshore.

Outline Of Syllabus

1. General principles of materials selection (2 hours): Overview of the principles relating to the selection of materials from the definition of the required properties to the selection of the candidate materials and the determination of the required processing route. Identification of the main materials and material classes used in the offshore and subsea industry. To introduce the use of the CES Edupack software to make material selections.
2. Metallic Materials (6 hours): The chemistry, metallurgy and properties of mild steel, stainless steel and corrosion resistant alloys relating the composition and metallurgy to the required properties.
3. Non-metallic Materials (2 hours): The use of non-metallic materials and composite materials in the subsea industry and the properties of polymers and composites that make their use attractive.
4. Principles of Corrosion (4 hours): An introduction to corrosion fundamentals including corrosion reactions, polarisation, corrosion cells and electrode potentials.
5. Corrosion and Corrosion Protection Offshore (6 hours): An overview of corrosion mechanisms including sweet and sour corrosion, microbial attack and stress corrosion cracking, identifying the vulnerable areas of the system and the principle methods of corrosion protection (cathodic protection systems and inhibition).
6. Welding and Joining Technology (4 hours): The use of welding in subsea systems, particularly for pipe manufacture. Development of microstructure in welded joints and the properties of the weld, heat affected zone and parent plate.

The pre-school material will include an introduction to the material to be revised during lectures. Students will read prepared material and be directed to appropriate websites and books. They will also prepare for the post school assignment by conduct an on-line tutorial relating to the CES Edupack software.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

On successful completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

IKO1: The material selection process and the principle materials used offshore.
IKO2: The industry guidance and codes governing materials selection.
IKO3: The properties and structures of metallic and non-metallic materials.
IKO4: Corrosion principles and corrosion control measures used offshore.
IKO5: Welding and manufacturing processes and the relationship to material properties.

Intended Skill Outcomes

On successful completion of this course, students will develop the following subject specific and intellectual skills:

ISO1: Selection of appropriate materials and manufacturing routes using proprietary materials selection software.
ISO2: Assessment of mechanical and metallographic changes that occur in welding.
ISO3: Identification of industry guidance with respect to materials selection.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Directed study and the formal lectures will provide an effective method for students to assimilate the knowledge content, define the scope of the syllabus topics and attain the required knowledge and skill (ISO1-3) outcomes. The directed study allows students to work through material at their own pace allowing them to develop an in-depth understanding of the material (IKO1-5).

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The exam tests acquisition of a clear general knowledge of the subject plus the ability to think and analyse a problem quickly, to select from and to apply both the general knowledge and detailed knowledge of aspects of the subject. The exam also assesses problem solving skills, the ability to work unaided and to communicate clearly and concisely in writing. The computer assignment provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate their computer and information literacy skills. This coursework also assesses written communication skills.
The Graduate Skills Framework entries indicated as 'A' are also assessed in this way.

General Notes

N/A