Materials, Making and Manufacturing (H7106)
Materials, Making and Manufacturing
Module H7106
Module details for 2027/28.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 4
Full Module Description
This module provides a solid foundation in the theory and practice of materials, making and manufacturing. It introduces the major classes of materials and the processes associated with making objects and manufacturing products. The relationships between structure, properties, processes and performance are explored, alongside application and industry case studies to contextualise learning. We will also explore emerging themes such as AI-assisted manufacturing and sustainable materials and processes, reflecting modern practice. Through complementary laboratory and practical sessions, students will develop skills in materials laboratory analysis and workshop manufacturing, as well as in the interpretation of experimental data and communication of technical findings.
Module Outline
This module provides a solid foundation in the theory and practice of materials, making and manufacturing. It introduces the major classes of materials and the processes associated with making objects and manufacturing products. The relationships between structure, properties, processes and performance are explored, alongside application and industry case studies to contextualise learning. We will also explore emerging themes such as AI-assisted manufacturing and sustainable materials and processes, reflecting modern practice. Through complementary laboratory and practical sessions, students will develop skills in materials laboratory analysis and workshop manufacturing, as well as in the interpretation of experimental data and communication of technical findings.
C1 Apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Some of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the particular subject of study
C2 Analyse complex problems to reach substantiated conclusions using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles
C7 Evaluate the environmental and societal impact of solutions to complex problems and minimise adverse impacts
C12 Use practical laboratory and workshop skills to investigate complex problems C13 Select and apply appropriate materials, equipment, engineering technologies and processes, recognising their limitations
C17 Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters with technical and non-technical audiences
Module learning outcomes
Describe and classify common engineering materials (metals, polymers, ceramics, composites) in terms of their atomic structure, bonding and resulting mechanical properties (AHEP4 C1, C2),
Compare and select appropriate manufacturing processes for given material types and design requirements (AHEP4 C1, C2),
Recall how to operate relevant laboratory equipment and analyse resultant data (AHEP4 C12, C13).
Communicate and present technical findings effectively to convey the outcomes of a prototyping process to a technical audience
 (AHEP4 C17).
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple Choice questions | Spring Semester Week 9 | 30.00% |
| Practical Assessment | Spring Semester Week 5 | 30.00% |
| Report | Semester 2 Assessment Week 2 Tue 16:00 | 40.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 2 hours | 111111111110 |
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 110000101000 |
| Spring Semester | Laboratory | 2 hours | 001010000000 |
| Spring Semester | Laboratory | 4 hours | 000101000000 |
| Spring Semester | Practical | 2 hours | 000000010100 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
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The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.