Course Modules - Materials in the Offshore Environment

Module Leader

Aim

To enable the student to understand the structure and properties of materials, and to apply this knowledge to the use of materials in the offshore environment.

Syllabus

Introduction to materials: Atomic structure, crystal structure, imperfections, diffusion, mechanical properties, dislocation and strengthening mechanisms, phase diagrams, phase transformations, solidification, corrosion
Introduction to materials in offshore structures: to materials usage in offshore engineering in fixed and floating structures, jack-ups, pipelines, and in topside and process equipment
Structural steels - C-Mn ferrite-pearlite structural steels, specifications and influence of composition, heat treatment and microstructure on mechanical properties.
Pipeline steels - effect of processing grain refinement, thermomechanical treatment and accelerated cooled steels (TMCP). Effect of composition, inclusions, grain size and production route on mechanical properties.
Corrosion resistant materials - stainless steels - austenitic, ferritic, martensitic and duplex stainless steels - compositions, microstructures, properties. Other corrosion resistant alloys, copper and nickel based alloys, clad material.
Non-metallic materials - concrete and reinforced concrete, polymers and composites used offshore
Offshore failures: case studies.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module the student will:

Understand the basic principles of material structures on a micro and macro scale, and be able to relate microstructure to mechanical performance
Have a broad knowledge of how the chemical composition, microstructure and processing route for steels and non-ferrous alloys influence the resulting mechanical properties
Be able to relate fracture, corrosion and welding behaviour to particular alloy specifications
Understand the basis of selection of specific materials (steels, stainless steels, polymers, composites, copper and nickel based corrosion resistant alloys and concrete) for different applications offshore
Know how to apply design codes, and their relevance to specification of materials in offshore applications
Have knowledge of the specifications, composition, structure and properties of the various steels and non-ferrous alloys