Demonstrate Knowledge and Understanding of Engineering Principles and Contextual Methodology: Reliability and Durability (RAD) Report, CU, Singapore

Module Learning Outcomes Assessed:

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of engineering principles and contextual methodology necessary for the testing of materials to derive properties.
2. Apply an understanding of materials science to understand and evaluate material properties.

Overview
An experiment will be performed to evaluate the fracture toughness of a 6061-T6 series aluminum alloy. Prior to starting the experiment, the thickness and pre-crack length will be recorded. A report in the form of a journal article is to be written. The results should be compiled and then evaluated. Your report should also discuss and review in light of published works.

Experiment and Comparative Results

Fracture toughness tests will be performed using samples made from 6061-T6 aluminum alloy. In total four samples will be tested. Two samples will have a nominal thickness of 3 mm and two samples will have a nominal thickness of 5 mm (this will be measured on the day of the experiment).

Sample dimensions are as follows:

Width W = 16 mm, Span S = 80 mm, Cracked length a = 1 mm. See figure below. Crack lengths of 1 mm, 1.5 mm & 2 mm to be investigated.

Fracture toughness values should be determined from the results of the experiment and a report written. In the report, you must compare your results with those from published work using the same material and as well as other aluminum alloys. More guidance on the report structure is given at the end of this document.

Using 6061-T6 different thickness samples tested. Material properties, E = 69 GPa, UTS = 300 MPa, Yield = 240 MPa. The crack growth until fracture to be observed.