Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3C9: Fracture Mechanics of Materials & Structures, 2022-23
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof N.A. Fleck, Prof V.S. Deshpande
Lab Leader
Dr G McShane
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures + coursework
Prerequisites
3C7 assumed
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Describe the main concepts of fracture mechanics in terms of stress analysis, failure mechanisms and design methods.
- Discuss both linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and ductile fracture.
- Apply the methods to a wide range of engineering applications from thin film design in electronics to fatigue life assessment of nuclear pressure vessels and damage mechanics of concrete.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- To explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Quantitative design methods are physically based and used to predict fatigue life and residual strength of damaged structures
Content
Elastic stress analysis (4L) Prof. Deshpande
- Williams solution using the Airy stress function
- LEFM and interfacial fracture
- Energy appraoch to fracture
- Practical K-calibrations and use of superposition
- Fracture of thin films and of weldments
- Prediction of fracture toughness
Small Scale Yielding (2L) Prof Deshpande
- plastic zone size and crack tip opening displacement
- R-curves: the tear resistance of metals, composites and biological tissues
Large Scale Yielding (4L) Prof Fleck
- Dugdale model for a large plastic zone from a crack tip, and transition to bulk plasticity
- Application to adhesive joints and crazing of polymers, and to pressure vessels
- Void nucleation and growth in a plastic field
Fatigue crack growth (5L) Prof Fleck
- Threshold, Paris law, variable amplitude loading for aircraft
- S-N curves for fatigue crack initiation and growth
Case study on fatigue of railway lines (1L) Prof Smith (Guest lecture)
Case studies on fatigue failure in transport applications given by the former Chief Scientific Advisor to the Ministry of Transport
REFERENCES
Fracture Mechanics: fundamentals and applications, T.L.Anderson,Taylor Francis,2005.
Coursework
Learning objectives:
(i) To develop an understanding of failure process under monotonic loading at ambient temperatures
(ii) To examine the use of stress intensity factor and strain energy release rate to describe the failure of cracked bodies.
(iii) To evaluate the use of linear elastic fracture (LEFM) and the concept of limit load in the assessment of cracked components.
Practical information:
The course work involves:
- Lab Session 1 - Tensile testing (2 hrs), location: Fatigue Laboratory, ground floor, Baker Building
- Lab Session 2 - Pipe bursting (30 mins), location: Materials Teaching Laboratory, ground floor, Inglis Building
- Feedback session (30 mins), location: Oatley 1 Meeting room, second floor, Baker Building
Please book your sessions using the following link:
http://www.eng.cam.ac.uk/teaching/apps/cuedle/index.php?context=3C9(2021)
Full Technical Report:
Students have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
Last modified: 24/05/2022 12:55
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3C9: Fracture Mechanics of Materials & Structures, 2021-22
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof N.A. Fleck, Prof V.S. Deshpande
Lab Leader
Dr B. Liu
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures + coursework
Prerequisites
3C7 assumed
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Describe the main concepts of fracture mechanics in terms of stress analysis, failure mechanisms and design methods.
- Discuss both linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and ductile fracture.
- Apply the methods to a wide range of engineering applications from thin film design in electronics to fatigue life assessment of nuclear pressure vessels and damage mechanics of concrete.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- To explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Quantitative design methods are physically based and used to predict fatigue life and residual strength of damaged structures
Content
Elastic stress analysis (4L) Prof. Deshpande
- Williams solution using the Airy stress function
- LEFM and interfacial fracture
- Energy appraoch to fracture
- Practical K-calibrations and use of superposition
- Fracture of thin films and of weldments
- Prediction of fracture toughness
Small Scale Yielding (2L) Prof Deshpande
- plastic zone size and crack tip opening displacement
- R-curves: the tear resistance of metals, composites and biological tissues
Large Scale Yielding (4L) Prof Fleck
- Dugdale model for a large plastic zone from a crack tip, and transition to bulk plasticity
- Application to adhesive joints and crazing of polymers, and to pressure vessels
- Void nucleation and growth in a plastic field
Fatigue crack growth (5L) Prof Fleck
- Threshold, Paris law, variable amplitude loading for aircraft
- S-N curves for fatigue crack initiation and growth
Case study on fatigue of railway lines (1L) Prof Smith (Guest lecture)
Case studies on fatigue failure in transport applications given by the former Chief Scientific Advisor to the Ministry of Transport
REFERENCES
Fracture Mechanics: fundamentals and applications, T.L.Anderson,Taylor Francis,2005.
Coursework
Learning objectives:
(i) To develop an understanding of failure process under monotonic loading at ambient temperatures
(ii) To examine the use of stress intensity factor and strain energy release rate to describe the failure of cracked bodies.
(iii) To evaluate the use of linear elastic fracture (LEFM) and the concept of limit load in the assessment of cracked components.
Practical information:
The course work involves:
- Lab Session 1 - Tensile testing (2 hrs), location: Fatigue Laboratory, ground floor, Baker Building
- Lab Session 2 - Pipe bursting (30 mins), location: Materials Teaching Laboratory, ground floor, Inglis Building
- Feedback session (30 mins), location: Oatley 1 Meeting room, second floor, Baker Building
Please book your sessions using the following link:
http://www.eng.cam.ac.uk/teaching/apps/cuedle/index.php?context=3C9(2021)
Full Technical Report:
Students have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
Last modified: 17/01/2022 11:54
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3C9: Fracture Mechanics of Materials & Structures, 2025-26
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof N.A. Fleck, Prof V.S. Deshpande
Lab Leader
Dr G McShane
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures + coursework
Prerequisites
3C7 assumed
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Describe the main concepts of fracture mechanics in terms of stress analysis, failure mechanisms and design methods.
- Discuss both linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and ductile fracture.
- Apply the methods to a wide range of engineering applications from thin film design in electronics to fatigue life assessment of nuclear pressure vessels and damage mechanics of concrete.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- To explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Quantitative design methods are physically based and used to predict fatigue life and residual strength of damaged structures
Content
Elastic stress analysis (4L) Prof. Deshpande
- Williams solution using the Airy stress function
- LEFM and interfacial fracture
- Energy appraoch to fracture
- Practical K-calibrations and use of superposition
- Fracture of thin films and of weldments
- Prediction of fracture toughness
Small Scale Yielding (2L) Prof Deshpande
- plastic zone size and crack tip opening displacement
- R-curves: the tear resistance of metals, composites and biological tissues
Large Scale Yielding (5L) Prof Fleck
- Dugdale model for a large plastic zone from a crack tip, and transition to bulk plasticity
- Application to adhesive joints and crazing of polymers, and to pressure vessels
- Void nucleation and growth in a plastic field
Fatigue crack growth (5L) Prof Fleck
- Threshold, Paris law, variable amplitude loading for aircraft
- S-N curves for fatigue crack initiation and growth
REFERENCES
Fracture Mechanics: fundamentals and applications, T.L.Anderson,Taylor Francis,2005.
Coursework
Learning objectives:
(i) To develop an understanding of failure process under monotonic loading at ambient temperatures
(ii) To examine the use of stress intensity factor and strain energy release rate to describe the failure of cracked bodies.
(iii) To evaluate the use of linear elastic fracture (LEFM) and the concept of limit load in the assessment of cracked components.
Practical information:
The course work involves:
- Lab Session 1 - Tensile testing (2 hrs), location: Fatigue Laboratory, ground floor, Baker Building
- Lab Session 2 - Pipe bursting (30 mins), location: Materials Teaching Laboratory, ground floor, Inglis Building
- Feedback session (30 mins), location: Oatley 1 Meeting room, second floor, Baker Building
Please book your sessions using the following link:
http://www.eng.cam.ac.uk/teaching/apps/cuedle/index.php?context=3C9(2021)
Full Technical Report:
Students have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
Last modified: 04/06/2025 13:18
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3C9: Fracture Mechanics of Materials & Structures, 2020-21
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof N Fleck
Lab Leader
Dr G McShane
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures + coursework
Prerequisites
3C7 assumed
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Describe the main concepts of fracture mechanics in terms of stress analysis, failure mechanisms and design methods.
- Discuss both linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and ductile fracture.
- Apply the methods to a wide range of engineering applications from thin film design in electronics to fatigue life assessment of nuclear pressure vessels and damage mechanics of concrete.
Content
Introduction: lessons learned from the history of engineering disasters
Elastic stress analysis (7L) Prof Fleck
- Williams solution using the Airy stress function
- LEFM and interfacial fracture
- Energy appraoch to fracture
- Practical K-calibrations and use of superposition
- Fracture of thin films and of weldments
- Prediction of fracture toughness
Small Scale Yielding (2L) Prof Fleck
- plastic zone size and crack tip opening displacement
- R-curves: the tear resistance of metals, composites and biological tissues
Large Scale Yielding (3L) Prof Fleck
- Dugdale model for a large plastic zone from a crack tip, and transition to bulk plasticity
- Application to adhesive joints and crazing of polymers, and to pressure vessels
- Void nucleation and growth in a plastic field
Fatigue crack growth (4L) Prof Fleck
- Threshold, Paris law, variable amplitude loading for aircraft
- S-N curves for fatigue crack initiation and growth
Possible additional topics: stress corrosion cracking, creep crack growth?
REFERENCES
Fracture Mechanics: fundamentals and applications, T.L.Anderson,Taylor Francis,2005.
Coursework
Measurement of toughness of polymers as used in underground pipelines, and to assess their safety in service.
[Coursework Title]
Learning objectives:
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in [Location], during week(s) [xxx].
- This activity [involves/doesn't involve] preliminary work ([estimated duration]).
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
Last modified: 13/01/2021 16:45
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3C9: Fracture Mechanics of Materials & Structures, 2024-25
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof N.A. Fleck, Prof V.S. Deshpande
Lab Leader
Dr G McShane
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures + coursework
Prerequisites
3C7 assumed
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Describe the main concepts of fracture mechanics in terms of stress analysis, failure mechanisms and design methods.
- Discuss both linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and ductile fracture.
- Apply the methods to a wide range of engineering applications from thin film design in electronics to fatigue life assessment of nuclear pressure vessels and damage mechanics of concrete.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- To explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Quantitative design methods are physically based and used to predict fatigue life and residual strength of damaged structures
Content
Elastic stress analysis (4L) Prof. Deshpande
- Williams solution using the Airy stress function
- LEFM and interfacial fracture
- Energy appraoch to fracture
- Practical K-calibrations and use of superposition
- Fracture of thin films and of weldments
- Prediction of fracture toughness
Small Scale Yielding (2L) Prof Deshpande
- plastic zone size and crack tip opening displacement
- R-curves: the tear resistance of metals, composites and biological tissues
Large Scale Yielding (5L) Prof Fleck
- Dugdale model for a large plastic zone from a crack tip, and transition to bulk plasticity
- Application to adhesive joints and crazing of polymers, and to pressure vessels
- Void nucleation and growth in a plastic field
Fatigue crack growth (5L) Prof Fleck
- Threshold, Paris law, variable amplitude loading for aircraft
- S-N curves for fatigue crack initiation and growth
REFERENCES
Fracture Mechanics: fundamentals and applications, T.L.Anderson,Taylor Francis,2005.
Coursework
Learning objectives:
(i) To develop an understanding of failure process under monotonic loading at ambient temperatures
(ii) To examine the use of stress intensity factor and strain energy release rate to describe the failure of cracked bodies.
(iii) To evaluate the use of linear elastic fracture (LEFM) and the concept of limit load in the assessment of cracked components.
Practical information:
The course work involves:
- Lab Session 1 - Tensile testing (2 hrs), location: Fatigue Laboratory, ground floor, Baker Building
- Lab Session 2 - Pipe bursting (30 mins), location: Materials Teaching Laboratory, ground floor, Inglis Building
- Feedback session (30 mins), location: Oatley 1 Meeting room, second floor, Baker Building
Please book your sessions using the following link:
http://www.eng.cam.ac.uk/teaching/apps/cuedle/index.php?context=3C9(2021)
Full Technical Report:
Students have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
Last modified: 19/01/2025 17:18
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3C9: Fracture Mechanics of Materials & Structures, 2023-24
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof N.A. Fleck, Prof V.S. Deshpande
Lab Leader
Dr G McShane
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures + coursework
Prerequisites
3C7 assumed
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Describe the main concepts of fracture mechanics in terms of stress analysis, failure mechanisms and design methods.
- Discuss both linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and ductile fracture.
- Apply the methods to a wide range of engineering applications from thin film design in electronics to fatigue life assessment of nuclear pressure vessels and damage mechanics of concrete.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- To explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Quantitative design methods are physically based and used to predict fatigue life and residual strength of damaged structures
Content
Elastic stress analysis (4L) Prof. Deshpande
- Williams solution using the Airy stress function
- LEFM and interfacial fracture
- Energy appraoch to fracture
- Practical K-calibrations and use of superposition
- Fracture of thin films and of weldments
- Prediction of fracture toughness
Small Scale Yielding (2L) Prof Deshpande
- plastic zone size and crack tip opening displacement
- R-curves: the tear resistance of metals, composites and biological tissues
Large Scale Yielding (4L) Prof Fleck
- Dugdale model for a large plastic zone from a crack tip, and transition to bulk plasticity
- Application to adhesive joints and crazing of polymers, and to pressure vessels
- Void nucleation and growth in a plastic field
Fatigue crack growth (5L) Prof Fleck
- Threshold, Paris law, variable amplitude loading for aircraft
- S-N curves for fatigue crack initiation and growth
Case study on fatigue of railway lines (1L) Prof Smith (Guest lecture)
Case studies on fatigue failure in transport applications given by the former Chief Scientific Advisor to the Ministry of Transport
REFERENCES
Fracture Mechanics: fundamentals and applications, T.L.Anderson,Taylor Francis,2005.
Coursework
Learning objectives:
(i) To develop an understanding of failure process under monotonic loading at ambient temperatures
(ii) To examine the use of stress intensity factor and strain energy release rate to describe the failure of cracked bodies.
(iii) To evaluate the use of linear elastic fracture (LEFM) and the concept of limit load in the assessment of cracked components.
Practical information:
The course work involves:
- Lab Session 1 - Tensile testing (2 hrs), location: Fatigue Laboratory, ground floor, Baker Building
- Lab Session 2 - Pipe bursting (30 mins), location: Materials Teaching Laboratory, ground floor, Inglis Building
- Feedback session (30 mins), location: Oatley 1 Meeting room, second floor, Baker Building
Please book your sessions using the following link:
http://www.eng.cam.ac.uk/teaching/apps/cuedle/index.php?context=3C9(2021)
Full Technical Report:
Students have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
Last modified: 30/05/2023 15:19
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3C9: Fracture Mechanics of Materials & Structures, 2019-20
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof V Despande and Prof N Fleck
Lab Leader
Dr G McShane
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures + coursework
Prerequisites
3C7 assumed
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Describe the main concepts of fracture mechanics in terms of stress analysis, failure mechanisms and design methods.
- Discuss both linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and ductile fracture.
- Apply the methods to a wide range of engineering applications from thin film design in electronics to fatigue life assessment of nuclear pressure vessels and damage mechanics of concrete.
Content
Introduction: lessons learned from the history of engineering disasters
Elastic stress analysis (7L) Prof Deshpande
- Williams solution using the Airy stress function
- LEFM and interfacial fracture
- Energy appraoch to fracture
- Practical K-calibrations and use of superposition
- Fracture of thin films and of weldments
- Prediction of fracture toughness
Small Scale Yielding (2L) Prof Deshpande
- plastic zone size and crack tip opening displacement
- R-curves: the tear resistance of metals, composites and biological tissues
Large Scale Yielding (3L) Prof Deshpande
- Dugdale model for a large plastic zone from a crack tip, and transition to bulk plasticity
- Application to adhesive joints and crazing of polymers, and to pressure vessels
- Void nucleation and growth in a plastic field
Fatigue crack growth (4L) Prof Deshpande
- Threshold, Paris law, variable amplitude loading for aircraft
- S-N curves for fatigue crack initiation and growth
Possible additional topics: stress corrosion cracking, creep crack growth?
REFERENCES
Fracture Mechanics: fundamentals and applications, T.L.Anderson,Taylor Francis,2005.
Coursework
Measurement of toughness of polymers as used in underground pipelines, and to assess their safety in service.
[Coursework Title]
Learning objectives:
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in [Location], during week(s) [xxx].
- This activity [involves/doesn't involve] preliminary work ([estimated duration]).
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references for this module.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
Last modified: 15/05/2019 09:51
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3C9: Fracture Mechanics of Materials & Structures, 2017-18
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof V Despande and Prof N Fleck
Lab Leader
Dr G McShane
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures + coursework
Prerequisites
3C7 assumed
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Explain the physical processes underlying fracture from a single dominant crack and from a distribution of cracks.
- Describe the main concepts of fracture mechanics in terms of stress analysis, failure mechanisms and design methods.
- Discuss both linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and ductile fracture.
- Apply the methods to a wide range of engineering applications from thin film design in electronics to fatigue life assessment of nuclear pressure vessels and damage mechanics of concrete.
Content
Introduction: lessons learned from the history of engineering disasters
Elastic stress analysis (7L) Prof Deshpande
- Williams solution using the Airy stress function
- LEFM and interfacial fracture
- Energy appraoch to fracture
- Practical K-calibrations and use of superposition
- Fracture of thin films and of weldments
- Prediction of fracture toughness
Small Scale Yielding (2L) Prof Deshpande
- plastic zone size and crack tip opening displacement
- R-curves: the tear resistance of metals, composites and biological tissues
Large Scale Yielding (3L) Prof Deshpande
- Dugdale model for a large plastic zone from a crack tip, and transition to bulk plasticity
- Application to adhesive joints and crazing of polymers, and to pressure vessels
- Void nucleation and growth in a plastic field
Fatigue crack growth (4L) Prof Deshpande
- Threshold, Paris law, variable amplitude loading for aircraft
- S-N curves for fatigue crack initiation and growth
Possible additional topics: stress corrosion cracking, creep crack growth?
REFERENCES
Fracture Mechanics: fundamentals and applications, T.L.Anderson,Taylor Francis,2005.
Coursework
Measurement of toughness of polymers as used in underground pipelines, and to assess their safety in service.
[Coursework Title]
Learning objectives:
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in [Location], during week(s) [xxx].
- This activity [involves/doesn't involve] preliminary work ([estimated duration]).
Full Technical Report:
Students [will/won't] have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references for this module.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
Last modified: 03/08/2017 15:29
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3C8: Machine Design, 2019-20
Module Leader
Lecturers
Dr D J Cole, Prof. M P F Sutcliffe and Dr R L Roebuck
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Analyse the contact stresses and kinematical behaviour of solid contacts and to understand the design of rolling element bearings and other machine elements.
- Understand the design of involute gears and appreciate the stress limits and practical problems of gears.
- To analyse the behaviour of multiple gear drives and planetary gears.
- Understand how components are combined to make up a mechanical power transmission system, including power matching to achieve a desired operating point.
- Apply the principles of power matching to hybrid drives.
- Introduce methods for specifying the type and arrangement of rolling element bearings to meet a specified duty.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Calculate the strength limitations of solid contacts.
- Analyse the kinematical behaviour of contacts, especially in rotating machinery.
- Understand and analyse the performance of friction drives.
- Be familiar with the geometry and kinematics of involute gear wheels and racks.
- Understand the criterion for tooth bending failure and be able to derive the Hertz pressure at tooth contacts.
- Use power and torque calculations to analyse epicyclic gears and multiple gear drives.
- Understand how power transmission components are used as part of a system, including hybrid drives.
- Determine the operating point and calculate the optimum speed ratio for specified conditions.
- Select a rolling element bearing for a specific duty.
Content
Rolling element bearings (2L) Dr David Cole
-
Bearing types; life equation
-
Shaft and bearing arrangements
Gears (6L) Prof. Michael Sutcliffe
-
Geometry and kinematics
-
Failure, root bending and contact fatigue
-
Design and applications
-
Multiple drives and planetary gears
-
Design calculations for planetary gears
Mechanics of contacts (5L) Dr Richard Roebuck
-
Hertzian point contacts
-
Stresses and stiffness
-
Hertzian line contacts
-
Applications in bearings and CVTs
-
Traction drives and CVTs
Power matching (3L) Dr David Cole
-
Introduction and applications: automotive transmission, bicycle transmission
-
Sources and loads; devices and their characteristics
-
Power matching using a simple gear ratio
-
Hybrid drives
Examples papers
Examples Paper 1 - Mechanics of contacts (issued at lecture 9)
Examples Paper 2 - Gears (issued at lecture 3)
Examples Paper 3 - Power matching, rolling element bearings (issued at lecture 1)
(note that this year Examples Paper numbers are not chronological)
Coursework
Power output characteristic of a cyclist
In this experiment the power output charateristic of a cyclist will be determined by holding the heart rate (a proxy for power input) constant and determining the dependence of crank torque and crank power on crank speed.
Learning objectives:
- to calibrate and operate instrumentation to measure human power output
- to propose and test an hypothesis using measured data with large inherent uncertainty
- to understand the power output characteristic of a cyclist
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the Baker Building, South Wing Mechanics Laboratory, during weeks 2 to 8.
- This activity does involve preliminary work, approximately 30 minutes: read the lab sheet carefully before the session.
- Book a timeslot online.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report. The FTR should be a complete, detailed, formal report of the experiment, suitable for publication in an engineering journal. It should include all of the information necessary for the reader to understand the aim, objectives, apparatus, method, results, analysis, discussion and conclusions. In addition the FTR should describe in precise engineering terms the operating principles of three different commercially-available devices for measuring cyclist power output, and comment upon likely sources and magnitudes of error.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
Last modified: 07/10/2019 11:36
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3C8: Machine Design, 2018-19
Module Leader
Lecturers
Dr D J Cole, Prof. M P F Sutcliffe and Dr R L Roebuck
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Analyse the contact stresses and kinematical behaviour of solid contacts and to understand the design of rolling element bearings and other machine elements.
- Understand the design of involute gears and appreciate the stress limits and practical problems of gears.
- To analyse the behaviour of multiple gear drives and planetary gears.
- Understand how components are combined to make up a mechanical power transmission system, including power matching to achieve a desired operating point.
- Apply the principles of power matching to hybrid drives.
- Introduce methods for specifying the type and arrangement of rolling element bearings to meet a specified duty.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Calculate the strength limitations of solid contacts.
- Analyse the kinematical behaviour of contacts, especially in rotating machinery.
- Understand and analyse the performance of friction drives.
- Be familiar with the geometry and kinematics of involute gear wheels and racks.
- Understand the criterion for tooth bending failure and be able to derive the Hertz pressure at tooth contacts.
- Use power and torque calculations to analyse epicyclic gears and multiple gear drives.
- Understand how power transmission components are used as part of a system, including hybrid drives.
- Determine the operating point and calculate the optimum speed ratio for specified conditions.
- Select a rolling element bearing for a specific duty.
Content
Mechanics of contacts (5L) Dr Richard Roebuck
-
Hertzian point contacts
-
Stresses and stiffness
-
Hertzian line contacts
-
Applications in bearings and CVTs
-
Traction drives and CVTs
Gears (6L) Prof. Michael Sutcliffe
-
Geometry and kinematics
-
Failure, root bending and contact fatigue
-
Design and applications
-
Multiple drives and planetary gears
-
Design calculations for planetary gears
Power matching (3L) Dr David Cole
-
Introduction and applications: automotive transmission, bicycle transmission
-
Sources and loads; devices and their characteristics
-
Power matching using a simple gear ratio
-
Hybrid drives
Rolling element bearings (2L) Dr David Cole
-
Bearing types; life equation
-
Shaft and bearing arrangements
Examples papers
Examples paper 1 - Mechanics of contacts (issued at lecture 1)
Examples paper 2 - Gears (issued at lecture 6)
Examples paper 3 - Power matching, rolling element bearings (issued at lecture 12)
Coursework
Power output characteristic of a cyclist
In this experiment the power output charateristic of a cyclist will be determined by holding the heart rate (a proxy for power input) constant and determining the dependence of crank torque and crank power on crank speed.
Learning objectives:
- to calibrate and operate instrumentation to measure human power output
- to propose and test an hypothesis using measured data with large inherent uncertainty
- to understand the power output characteristic of a cyclist
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the Baker Building, South Wing Mechanics Laboratory, during weeks 2 to 8.
- This activity does involve preliminary work, approximately 30 minutes: read the lab sheet carefully before the session.
- Book a timeslot online.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report. The FTR should be a complete, detailed, formal report of the experiment, suitable for publication in an engineering journal. It should include all of the information necessary for the reader to understand the aim, objectives, apparatus, method, results, analysis, discussion and conclusions. In addition the FTR should describe in precise engineering terms the operating principles of three different commercially-available devices for measuring cyclist power output, and comment upon likely sources and magnitudes of error.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
Last modified: 31/05/2018 10:58
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