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Polymer and Mechanical Engineering – BEng

  • Campus: Athlone

  • years: 2


Course Overview

Entry into Polymer & Mechanical Engineering is by competition and selection during US773 Engineering (Common Enrty).

This programme is designed to meet the demand for qualified graduates with a solid foundation in polymer and mechanical engineering, with a focus on polymer engineering technologies and processes. This course offers the opportunity to learn in state-of-the-art facilities and to be recruited by companies around the world. The polymer/medical devices sector in Ireland is thriving and is recognised as one of the fastest developing in the world. In excess of 250 companies are currently developing and manufacturing a diverse range of medical devices and diagnostic products. The sector employs a highly skilled workforce – over 45% of employees in the medical device sector are qualified to graduate or postgraduate level.

The student is required to complete a six-month placement from January to June in the third year of the programme. The placement carries 25 credits and most fulfil prescribed criteria, to which the employer will agree in advance. Placements may be done in Ireland or abroad. Placements are readily available across the medical devices, pharmaceutical and broader advanced manufacturing sectors. Companies include: Boston Scientific, Medtronic, Harmac, Trend, Bausch and Lomb.

 

On this course you will:

Apply core polymer engineering principles to the design and development of polymer products and medical device components.

Have the opportunity to undertake a six month paid work placement, commencing January of Year 3. The placement will facilitate you in gaining an insight into industrial practices in your area of specialisation (for example polymer processing, validation, risk assessments).

What will I experience?

At TUS Midlands, Engineering education is very practical. Almost 50% of your time will be spent in state-of-the-art laboratories developing your practical engineering skills, and the other 50% will be spent on engineering theory and its application.

While studying on this course students will:

  • Visit some of our industrial partners to experience the role of a polymer & mechanical engineer.
  • Operate high-end polymer & mechanical technical engineering equipment in our cutting-edge engineering laboratories.
  • Develop the ability to critically appraise polymer & mechanical engineering systems, to identify area of potential improvement, to bring about corrective action and where applicable, to suggest and implement an alternative solution.
  • Learn about environmental loadings of processes/plants and be committed to its reduction, either in terms of the product, the polymer materials or the process.
  • Improve your teamwork and communications skills by working as part of small teams on problem-solving and projects.
  • Develop an ethical awareness with regard to the engineering profession and environment.
  • Gain valuable work experience in 3rd year by completing a 4 month work placement, and in 4th year an industry-based project.

Contact Details

Austin Coffey

Email: Austin.Coffey@tus.ie

Course Modules

  • Sensor Systems 2

    Credits: 5

    This module introduces the learner to various sensors that may be applied in a range of process control, automated and robotic systems.

  • Mechanics 2.1

    Credits: 5

    This module concentrates on that branch of Engineering Mechanics known as ‘Statics’. Statics is the branch of Mechanics that is concerned with the analysis of loads (force and torque, or “moment”) on physical systems in static equilibrium, that is, in a state where the relative positions of subsystems do not vary over time, or where components and structures are at a constant velocity.

  • Polymer Science 2

    Credits: 5

    This module will introduce the student to general introductory chemistry including an introduction to matter, molecules, atomic theory, the periodic table, stoichiometry, acids, bases, intermolecular forces and the fundamentals of organic chemistry as they.

  • CAD For Plastic Part Design 2

    Credits: 5

    Enable the learners to design components and a multi-component assembly in both two and three dimensional computer aided design packages and produce detailed engineering drawings for its manufacture.

  • Energy Systems and Thermofluids 2.1

    The basic theory and practical aspects of thermodynamics are outlined and practical aspects of thermodynamics with an emphasis on the engineering, the environment and society are explored. Candidates develop their understanding of the operation of thermodynamic machines, the effectiveness of such machines and how their performance can be improved. The module contains theoretical, practical and empirical material.

  • Mathematics 2.1

    Credits: 5

    To provide the student with a deeper understanding of mathematical methods as applied to Mechanical and Polymer Engineering problems and give them the necessary mathematical background to understand concepts introduced in other subjects.

  • Control and Power Technology 2

    Credits: 5

    This module introduces the concept of a control system and its various elements, and examines system behaviour. In this context it introduces pneumatics as power sources and its applications. It also introduces the student to the programmable controller by way of simple examples and programs. The module provides the student with an understanding and knowledge of the theory of electrical circuits covering both a.c. and d.c. industrial installations.

  • Mechanics 2.2

    Credits: 5

    This module builds on the basic concepts of mechanics of machines. The material covered in the module examines the response of bodies or systems of bodies to external forces.

  • Processes and Operations Management 2

    Credits: 5

    To build on the knowledge attained by the student in first year, to teach the fundamentals of the more prevalent aspects of production processes in association with the operation’s management skills in relation to the running of these processes. To provide the student with the knowledge of production metrics and costing implications of tooling up such a process. To familiarise the student with production costings and techniques relating to manufacturing processes.

  • Polymer Engineering and Tool Design 2

    Credits: 5

    This module will enable the student to develop a knowledge of polymer processing equipment (e.g. injection moulding, extrusion and blow moulding) and the use of this equipment to process a range of commodity polymer resins.

  • Polymer Properties 2

    Credits: 5

    The aims of this module are to,
    (a) Provide students with knowledge of the dependence of the physical and mechanical properties and dynamic mechanical properties of selected bio-based and fossil based polymers on their structure and morphology.
    (b) Provide training in material characterisation techniques that are essential for quality control and process development activities in industry.

  • Mathematics 2.2

    Credits: 5

    To provide the student with a deeper understanding of mathematical methods as applied to Mechanical and Polymer engineering problems and give them the necessary mathematical background to understand concepts introduced in other subjects.

  • Statistics and Lean Sigma 3

    Credits: 5

    This module provides Engineering Students with statistical tools required for evaluating process performance with the intention of making improvements and maintaining control.

  • Mechanical Systems Design 3

    Credits: 5

    Stress analysis of engineering design problems.
    Using mathematical tools to solve design problems involving compound structures, non-uniform cross sections, mechanical and thermal stresses.

  • Polymeric Materials 3

    Credits: 5

    This module will enable the student to examine the relationship between structures and properties of engineering and speciality polymers, and provides the student with the necessary background to select a polymer for a particular application. It also provides the student with practical laboratory experience in the synthesis and characterisation of selected high performance polymers.

  • Polymer Engineering & Sustainability 3

    Credits: 5

    This module will enable the student to develop an in-depth knowledge of polymer processing equipment and the use of this equipment to process a range of hygroscopic commodity and engineering polymer resins. Students will also be introduced to sustainable polymer manufacturing techniques.

  • Design of Experiments 3

    Credits: 5

    This module will be delivered prior to placement in order to provide students with the tools required to partake in experimental design projects. Many organisations use DOE for process performance improvement.
    The student will learn how to design, analyse and interpret results of designed experiments. This will be done through the use of practical examples and case studies.

  • Mathematics 3

    Credits: 5

    This module is designed to introduce students to problem-solving using Laplace transforms, linear programming, matrices and statistics

  • Project Evaluation and Management 3

    Credits: 5

    The module will enable students to critically evaluate project proposals as well as plan and manage their own projects and participate in industrial projects.

  • Industrial Placement 3

    Credits: 25

    Industrial Placement forms an integral part of the degree programme. Learners must complete the requisite industrial experience with a suitable commercial body for a minimum period of 24 weeks. A student may extend this period by mutual agreement with the company/host. Throughout this period learners will work on the preparation of an evidenced backed portfolio. On completion of this work experience learners will be assessed by a number of methods including reports, presentations, poster presentations and interviews.

What can you do after this programme?

High employability rate within completion of this programme. This degree programme is designed to equip graduates with skill sets that are relevant and essential to emerging industrial technologies. Graduates can expect to find employment as technicians looking after and taking responsibility for the production of the product. They will also identify processes, equipment, and documentation improvements where possible and take part in improvement projects as assigned.

Successful graduates of this programme are eligible for Level 8 Honours Degree in Polymer and Mechanical Engineering at TUS.

Additional Information

At TUS Midlands we provide candidates with a set of transferable skills with a strong focus on practical experiments, problem solving and case study work. We place emphasis on candidate support and aim to provide a learning environment that is both stimulating and academically challenging, whilst also supporting your learning. You will encounter a range of teaching methods that include but are not limited to:

  • Lectures
  • Practical classes
  • Projects and case studies
  • Group work
  • Guest lectures
  • Examinations
  • Portfolio work
  • Integrated assessments

The JL Goor Polymer Engineering Scholarships will enable two CAO applicants to pursue a polymer degree qualification while receiving a bursary of €1,000 for each of their years of study.

The Ultra Polymers Award, accompanied by a €250 bursary, will be presented to the top female polymer & mechanical engineering student at the end of her third year.

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