Program Overview
The BEng in Precision Engineering from TUS is a three-year program designed to prepare students for careers in the precision engineering industry. The program focuses on the design, manufacturing, and measurement of highly specified parts using manual and CNC machines, CAD systems, and specialized measurement equipment. Students gain hands-on experience through practical workshops and laboratory sessions, preparing them for roles in fields such as medical, aerospace, automotive, and oil and gas exploration. Graduates will be well-versed in Six Sigma and metrology standards, as well as advanced CNC tooling and machining strategies.
Program Outline
Precision Engineering – BEng - TUS
Degree Overview:
This BEng in Precision Engineering is a 3-year full-time program designed to meet the needs of the Precision Engineering industry. It focuses on the design, manufacturing, and measurement of highly specified parts for various sectors like medical, aerospace, automotive, and oil and gas exploration. The program emphasizes hands-on experience with both manual and CNC machines, enabling students to produce parts from initial design to final product. The program promotes active learning through a combination of theory and practical application in workshops and labs. Students gain experience with state-of-the-art CNC machines, CAM software, and metrology equipment, including Fanuc Robodrill (3-axis milling machine), Spinner 5-axis milling machine, and Mazak twin spindle lathe with milling capability. Assessment includes continuous assessment (40%), Christmas exam (20%), and final exam (40%).
- Introduction to CNC Programming and Operation (10 Credits): Introduces CNC technology, machining processes, and operations. Focuses on CNC programming, setting, and operation using ISO G and M codes and conversational programming techniques on CNC milling machines and CNC lathes. Covers tool setup, work setting, safe operation, and measurement methods. Assessment includes practical coursework, problem-solving exercises, and theoretical understanding.
- Mechanical CAD and Design (10 Credits): Introduces engineering drawing standards and utilizes 2D and 3D CAD software for preparing engineering drawings.
- Mechanical Engineering Science (10 Credits): Develops understanding of basic physics laws and their application to engineering.
Year 2:
- CNC Programming (CAM), Setting and Operation (10 Credits): Advances CNC knowledge and skills using CAM software. Covers advanced CNC tooling technology, quality standards, tooling analysis, speeds, feeds, operation sequencing, and machining strategies. Students program, set up, and operate CNC 3-axis and 5-axis milling machines and CNC lathes.
- CAD & Design (5 Credits): Deepens understanding of SolidWorks CAD Parametric Modelling environment, including hardware, software, physical surroundings, and mechanical engineering design concepts.
- Engineering Technology and Maintenance (15 Credits): Introduces advanced technologies, procedures, and techniques used in mechanical and manufacturing engineering. Covers manufacturing processes, metrology, material science, and maintenance. Includes practical workshop activities using lathes and milling machines.
- Six Sigma and Metrology (10 Credits): Introduces principles of Six Sigma and metrology standards. Covers geometric tolerancing, gauge repeatability and reproducibility, and measurement methods using CMMs, vision systems, profile projectors, and basic tools.
- Industrial Machine Mechanics – Statics and Dynamics (10 Credits): Develops knowledge of fundamental principles of machine mechanics and dynamics of industrial machinery.
- Mech Eng Maths & Programming (10 Credits): Strengthens mathematical fundamentals for solving complex engineering problems. Develops programming, debugging, and engineering computation skills using software like Visual Basic in Excel.
Year 3:
- Semester 1:
- Advanced CNC Machining (5 Credits): Develops advanced CNC tooling technology, quality standards, and machining strategies. Students program, set up, and operate CNC 5-axis milling machines and lathes with advanced turning and milling capability. Utilizes CAM software for complex components and advanced machining techniques.
- Advanced Six Sigma and Metrology (5 Credits): Introduces advanced Six Sigma tools for the precision machining industry and regulated industries like medical device and aerospace manufacturing. Covers statistical analysis, process optimization, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Includes CMM programming for complex geometrical shapes.
- Materials and Mechanics (5 Credits): Enhances understanding of materials and processes used by engineers. Applies mechanical equations to practical problems through component testing and case studies. Analyzes mechanical components under complex loading.
- Process Planning (5 Credits): Enhances understanding of process planning in a precision engineering environment. Covers modern manufacturing processes, strategic usage of processes for specific components, and integration of manufacturing techniques.
- Group Project (5 Credits): Involves active learning through an applied group project with industrial links. Focuses on research, design, engineering principles, materials analysis, and manufacturing. Develops team development and professional skills like project management, problem-solving, technical writing, and presentation.
- Semester 2:
- Engineering Work Placement (15 Credits): Provides a 5-month (20 weeks) work placement in an engineering organization. Students apply practical skills and theoretical knowledge gained during the program in a supervised professional engineering environment.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary depending on the module and include:
- Continuous assessment
- Project work
- Coursework
- Examinations
- Moodle-based assignments
- Practical workshop activities
- Group projects
- Work placement evaluations
Teaching:
The program utilizes a combination of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Practical workshops
- Laboratory sessions
- Group projects
- Case studies
- Industry guest speakers
- Online learning resources
Careers:
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in the Precision Engineering industry, including:
- Precision/Production/Manufacturing Engineer
- Design engineer and development of complex parts
- Additive Manufacturing (3D printing)
- Metrology and Inspection
- Process Management and control
- Lean Engineer Graduates may also pursue further studies in engineering, such as a BEng (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering or other suitable engineering courses.
Other:
The program is offered at the Moylish campus in Limerick City.
