Precision Engineering (Add-on) – BEng (Hons)

The learner will develop a greater depth of knowledge in current advanced industry standard CNC tooling technology and quality standards, analyse tooling usage, speeds, feeds, operation sequencing, and machining strategies for greater machining efficiency. The learner will program, set up, and operate CNC 5 axis milling machines and lathes with advanced turning and milling capability.

The learner will use industrial standard computer-aided-manufacturing (CAM) software for complex components. These complex components will require the learner to investigate advanced techniques to machine parts with complex 3D surfaces, use simultaneous 5-axis motion and to use advanced milling techniques on turned components.

The CAM software will allow the learner to simulate machining on multi axis machining centres and turning centres to verify programmes before post-processing and transferring the data to the machine controller. The learner’s knowledge of ISO programming will be developed for more advanced CNC machining techniques, sub programming, programming offsets, and the development of macros, advanced canned cycles, multiple‑part environment, and multiple‑component machining.

The aim of this module is to provide a detailed and in-depth understanding of engineering mathematical concepts, which will allow the learner to be able to apply this knowledge to solve practical and relevant mechanical engineering problems.

This module aims to improve the learner’s knowledge and understanding of process planning in a precision engineering environment.

The learner will develop a knowledge of modern manufacturing processes through the completion of coursework in a practical workshop environment and will critically analyse the strategic usage of the manufacturing processes for specific components to increase the manufacturing efficiency, productivity, and profitability of modern precision engineering industries. The module will also discuss the integration of manufacturing techniques to the learner with focus on the precision engineering industry Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). The role, implementation and monitoring of process planning in a modern precision engineering industry is analysed.

This module involves active learning where learners participate in an applied based group project. The group project topic may have industrial links and involves the practical application of research, design, engineering principles, materials analysis, and manufacturing. The group project allows for team development where each member has a defined role to play in the development of a project solution.

This module also incorporates professional development, which aims to advance the learner’s transferrable skills, in order to prepare for work placement and employment. Transferrable skills such as project management and organisation, creative problem solving, technical writing and presentation skills are developed in this module.

This module is the work placement element for candidates on the Level 7 Degree and Level 8 Honours Degree programmes in Precision Engineering. The aim of this module is to give learners the opportunity to apply the practical skills and theoretical knowledge that they have gained in previous stages of their programmes while being employed in a supervised professional engineering industry.

The Engineering work placement is a semester long 5-month period. This will give learners 20 weeks of placement in an engineering organisation (January to May). During this time the learners will aim to transfer and build upon the knowledge, skills and competencies that they have gained in the previous stages of their programme. This enhanced learning will be used by candidates who are continuing onto a Level 8 programme.

On successful completion of the work placement the student may stay on with the employer for the duration of the summer.