Kavian Cooke - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Kavian Cooke

Research paper thumbnail of Optimal Operation of Energy Hubs in an Auction-Based Peer-To-Peer Energy Trading Framework

Research paper thumbnail of CPD and portfolios: the process and product

Journal of Radiotherapy in Practice, Jul 1, 1999

This review article aims to address the paucity of information regarding professional portfolio d... more This review article aims to address the paucity of information regarding professional portfolio development for therapeutic radiographers. It will review briefly the current literature regarding continuous professional development (CPD) for therapeutic radiographers and add to the on going debate regarding the monitoring and enforcement of a mandatory CPD scheme. It will recapitulate the applications of professional development portfolios and equip therapeutic radiographers with the basic knowledge and skills to undertake the process of portfolio development, ultimately leading to a product that provides evidence of CPD.

Research paper thumbnail of A comparative analysis of techniques used for joining intermetallic MMCs

Intermetallic Matrix Composites, 2018

Abstract Dispersion-strengthened metal matrix composites are used extensively in the development ... more Abstract Dispersion-strengthened metal matrix composites are used extensively in the development of engineering components, due in part to their high strength-to-weight ratio, high-temperature stability, high creep resistance, high melting point, low density, and corrosion resistance. The addition of a reinforcing phase has led to significant improvements in the mechanical properties of these alloys. However, despite substantial improvements in the properties, the lack of reliable joining methods has restricted their full potential. The differences in physical and metallurgical properties between the intermetallic phase and the matrix prevent the successful application of fusion welding processes, conventionally used for joining monolithic alloys. Therefore, alternative techniques that prevent microstructural changes in the base metal are required. Extensive scientific research has been conducted on joining metal matrix composites reinforced with hard intermetallic compounds. In this study, transient liquid-phase (TLP) diffusion bonding was used to join two pieces of Al 6061 alloy containing 15 wt% of Al2O3 particles. Examination of the joint region was achieved using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The results indicate that the reactions between the reinforcements, the matrix, and the Ni interlayer lead to the formation of numerous intermetallic compounds in the joint region.

Research paper thumbnail of A comparative study on weld characteristics of AA5083-H112 to AA6061-T6 sheets produced by MFSC and FSSW processes

Vacuum, 2021

Abstract This study's objective was to conduct a comparative analysis and characterization of... more Abstract This study's objective was to conduct a comparative analysis and characterization of the microstructural evolution within the weld nugget for joints of AA5083-H112 and AA6061-T6 produced by friction stir spot welding (FSSW) and modified friction stir clinching (MFSC) processes. The mechanical performance of the welded joints was assessed in shear using a single lap joint. The microstructural study identified significant variation in joint microstructure and material flow due to the differences in the tool geometry and methodology used for the welding processes. The results show that the use of modified friction clinching process improves the welded joint by eliminating keyholes/hook defects leading to the formation of high-strength joints. Mechanical characterization of the welded joints indicated that the shear strength increased significantly from 78.69 MPa for the conventional FSSW to 131 MPa for the MFSC process.

Research paper thumbnail of The role of intelligent manufacturing systems in the implementation of Industry 4.0 by small and medium enterprises in developing countries

Engineering reports, Oct 13, 2022

The desire to enhance connectivity and communication while simplifying data used to improve and o... more The desire to enhance connectivity and communication while simplifying data used to improve and optimize products and processes has driven many organizations within developed countries to invest heavily in implementing intelligent technologies for manufacturing. These technologies promise to enhance global manufacturing capabilities while sustaining demands by integrating equipment and frameworks in advanced economies for future production systems. On the other hand, many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within developing countries have shown apprehension and mistrust toward the emerging technologies associated with Industry 4.0. This article provides a comprehensive review of SMEs' readiness within developing countries to implement the novel technologies falling within the Industry 4.0 realm. Such techniques include intelligent manufacturing systems, cyber‐physical systems, and other crucial technological tools for improved connectivity and communication within manufacturing and production systems. Analysis of the literature shows that many SMEs within developing countries are experiencing delays in introducing intelligent manufacturing and digitizing factories due to a lack of knowledge and communication issues. These firms lag in embracing the transformation to equipment and systems that can communicate with future‐oriented technologies and introduce intelligent devices and machines into production processes. This article explores challenges, identifies gaps and suggests the potential solutions to address the readiness of SMEs toward Industry 4.0 in developing countries, through a systematic summary and integrative analysis of the findings from the literature.

Research paper thumbnail of Aluminium Alloys and Composites

Aluminium Alloys and Composites, 2019

He is a Chartered Engineer, a member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), a me... more He is a Chartered Engineer, a member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), a member of the Caribbean Academy of Science and former Vice President of the Jamaica Institution of Engineers (JIE). He obtained his PhD from the University of Calgary in Materials Engineering, a B. Eng. with honors and an MPhil from the University of Technology in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA from Patten University in Management. His research has focused on surface and interface engineering and he has authored three books and numerous journal articles and conference proceedings. Contents Preface XIII Section 1 Types and Properties of Aluminium Alloys and Composites Chapter 1 Introductory Chapter: Structural Aluminum Alloys and Composites by Kavian Omar Cooke Chapter 2 Aluminum Mineral Processing and Metallurgy: Iron-Rich Bauxite and Bayer Red Muds by Yingyi Zhang, Yuanhong Qi and Jiaxin Li Chapter 3 Aluminium and Its Interlinking Properties by K. Velmanirajan and K. Anuradha Chapter 4 Composites and Alloys Based on the Al-Ce System by David Weiss Chapter 5 Novel Applications of Aluminium Metal Matrix Composites

Research paper thumbnail of Fabrication of AA6061/316 composites via a double pin FSP tool

Journal of materials research and technology, Sep 1, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Effects of materials positioning and tool rotational speed on metallurgical and mechanical properties of dissimilar modified friction stir clinching of AA5754-O and AA2024-T3 sheets

Results in physics, Mar 1, 2021

Abstract The performance of the modified friction stir clinched and friction stir spot welded joi... more Abstract The performance of the modified friction stir clinched and friction stir spot welded joints of AA5754-O and AA2024-T3 Al alloy was improved by investigating the impact of material flow influencing parameters such as material positioning and tool rotational speed on the microstructure, mechanical and fracture behaviors of the joints. The results reveal that the positioning of a harder material (AA2024-T3) as the upper plate induces higher peak temperatures in the friction stir clinched (500 °C) and friction stir spot welded (475 °C) joints. This positioning favors inter-material mingling, grain coarsening with inherent higher dislocation density and tangles, and improved tensile failure loads in the AA2024-T3/AA5754-O joint than the AA5754-O/AA2024-T3 joint. The formation of partial weld-center defect declines in the AA2024-T3/AA5754-O at low tool rotational speed due to the better local heat build-up and geometric-differential flow effect in comparison with the AA5754-O/AA2024-T3 counterparts. The positioning of harder Al alloy on the top of a soft Al alloy is thus recommended for the improvement of modified friction stir clinched joints.

Research paper thumbnail of Diffusion brazing of IN738 to SiC ceramic with Ag-Cu-Ti powder: Effect of bonding time on metallurgical and mechanical properties

Results in physics, Dec 1, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Mechanical and microstructural aspects of the hybrid joint of PP-C30S and 2219 aluminum alloy

Results in physics, Dec 1, 2020

Abstract In this work, 2219 aluminum alloy and PP-C30S sheets are welded using Threaded-hole Fric... more Abstract In this work, 2219 aluminum alloy and PP-C30S sheets are welded using Threaded-hole Friction Stir Spot Welding (THFSSW) and Probeless Friction Stir Spot Welding (PFSSW). The results revealed that the reaction layers were produced between the aluminum and polymer, irrespective of the process type. However, a larger reaction layer was formed in the THFSSW joint (37µm) as compared to that of the PFSSW joint (24µm), and this consequently in conjunction with the induced mechanical interlocking resulted in the increment of the weld strength from 290 N to 436 N. This implies that various frictional heat and adhesion force was generated during processes.

Research paper thumbnail of Aluminium surface impregnated with nano constituents for enhanced mechanical performance

Research paper thumbnail of Microstructural response and wear behaviour of Ti-6Al-4V impregnated with Ni/Al2O3 + TiO2 nanostructured coating using an electric arc

Scientific Reports

Titanium alloys are known for their excellent corrosion resistance; however, low surface hardness... more Titanium alloys are known for their excellent corrosion resistance; however, low surface hardness results in poor wear resistance, which limits its potential application. This study employs a novel two-step process to embed a hard Ni coating containing a mixture of nanosized particles (Al2O3 and TiO2) into the surface of the Ti-6Al-4V alloy using an electric arc produced during the inert tungsten gas welding process. The surface of the sample was evaluated using Vickers Microhardness, Scanning electron microscopy, Energy dispersive spectroscopy and pin-on-plate wear testing. Microstructural analysis showed that impregnating the titanium surface with Ni/(Al2O3 and TiO2) nanomaterials resulted in the formation of a hard martensitic structure to a depth of approximately 2 mm below the surface. The changes observed are driven by modification of the surface chemistry and the presence of nickel, causing grain size reduction, solid solution strengthening and dispersion strengthening of the...

Research paper thumbnail of Transient liquid phase (TLP) bonding as reaction–controlled diffusion

Materials Today Communications

Research paper thumbnail of Labour Market Reforms for enhancing Public Sector Productivity in Jamaica

Research paper thumbnail of Reforming Jamaica's National Systems of Innovation

Research paper thumbnail of A R T I C L E Application of Taguchi optimization method to the transient liquid phase diffusion bonding process

Aluminum metal matrix composites (Al-MMCs) find extensive applications in engineering structures ... more Aluminum metal matrix composites (Al-MMCs) find extensive applications in engineering structures requiring good strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. A major limitation to the widespread use of these materials is the unavailability of a suitable joining process that maximizes their potential. Currently, fusion welding techniques are used to join Al-MMCs, however, the high temperature required for fusion welding processes can cause extensive damage to the strengthening particles thereby changing the microstructure and performance of the joints produced. Transient liquid phase (TLP) bonding has been identified as a suitable alternative, however, the bonding parameters have yet to be optimized. In this study a Taguchi's fractional-factorial design L9 (34-2) of experiments was used to optimize the process parameters of TLP bonding. The results indicated that an optimal joint strength of 142 MPa can be achieved with the bonding temperature of 620ºC, bonding pressure of 0...

Research paper thumbnail of Discussion Paper and Priority Recommendations; Technology Innovation Productivity Committee LMRC

Research paper thumbnail of Kinetics of joint formation during diffusion induced solid state bonding of titanium and magnesium alloys

This study explores the diffusion bonding of titanium to magnesium. The microstructural evolution... more This study explores the diffusion bonding of titanium to magnesium. The microstructural evolution and intermetallic compounds formed within the bond region are studied. The microstructure and composition of the bonds were characterized using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) equipped with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). The mechanical properties of the bonds were evaluated using a micro-hardness test to determine the hardness variation across the joint region, while shear strength measurements were used to assess the joint strength. The results indicated that solid-state diffusion bonding of Ti6Al-4V and Mg (Az31) lead to the formation of Ti3Al and Ti2Mg3Al18 reaction layers within the joint region. Evaluation of the mechanical properties of the bonds revealed that the bond strength increased with increase bonding time to 116 MPa at a bond time of 1 hr. The joint formation and strength were attributed to dispersion strengthening due to the nucleation of dispersed intermetal...

Research paper thumbnail of Nanostructured Ni/Al2O3 Interlayer: Transient Liquid Phase Diffusion Bonding of Al6061-MMC

Aluminum metal matrix composites are materials frequently used in the automotive and aerospace in... more Aluminum metal matrix composites are materials frequently used in the automotive and aerospace industries due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, formability, corrosion resistance, and long-term durability. However, despite the unique properties of these materials, the lack of a reliable joining method has restricted their full potential in engineering applications. This article explores the effect of bonding time on transient liquid phase diffusion bonding of Al6061 containing 15 vol.% alumina particles using a 5 μm electrodeposited Ni-coating containing nano-sized alumina particles as the interlayer. Joint formation was attributed to the solid-state diffusion of Ni into the Al6061 alloy followed by eutectic formation and isothermal solidification at the joint interface. Examination of the joint region using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction showed the formation of eutectic phases such as Al3Ni, Al9FeNi, and Ni3Si within the joi...

Research paper thumbnail of Development of an innovative integrated curriculum for process improvements in a product development organisation

This paper explores a teaching methodology underpinned by the six-sigma framework, which was used... more This paper explores a teaching methodology underpinned by the six-sigma framework, which was used to develop an academic programme between the University of Bradford and Business partner Jaguar Land Rover. The proposed methodology utilises a blended approach that integrates academic learning, through interactive classroom learning and workplacebased learning under the supervision of a Master Black Belt. Candidates within the programme develop skills in leadership, project and stakeholder management, and communication. The learning infrastructure includes peer support in which experienced learners use their acquired knowledge and understanding to support those at earlier stages. The result is an ‘Eco-system’ which develop self-sufficient networks and communities of capable engineers. Learning within the programme has triggered multiple research projects that contribute significantly to organisation knowledge, cost, and quality. Confirmation of candidate knowledge and learning is unde...

Research paper thumbnail of Optimal Operation of Energy Hubs in an Auction-Based Peer-To-Peer Energy Trading Framework

Research paper thumbnail of CPD and portfolios: the process and product

Journal of Radiotherapy in Practice, Jul 1, 1999

This review article aims to address the paucity of information regarding professional portfolio d... more This review article aims to address the paucity of information regarding professional portfolio development for therapeutic radiographers. It will review briefly the current literature regarding continuous professional development (CPD) for therapeutic radiographers and add to the on going debate regarding the monitoring and enforcement of a mandatory CPD scheme. It will recapitulate the applications of professional development portfolios and equip therapeutic radiographers with the basic knowledge and skills to undertake the process of portfolio development, ultimately leading to a product that provides evidence of CPD.

Research paper thumbnail of A comparative analysis of techniques used for joining intermetallic MMCs

Intermetallic Matrix Composites, 2018

Abstract Dispersion-strengthened metal matrix composites are used extensively in the development ... more Abstract Dispersion-strengthened metal matrix composites are used extensively in the development of engineering components, due in part to their high strength-to-weight ratio, high-temperature stability, high creep resistance, high melting point, low density, and corrosion resistance. The addition of a reinforcing phase has led to significant improvements in the mechanical properties of these alloys. However, despite substantial improvements in the properties, the lack of reliable joining methods has restricted their full potential. The differences in physical and metallurgical properties between the intermetallic phase and the matrix prevent the successful application of fusion welding processes, conventionally used for joining monolithic alloys. Therefore, alternative techniques that prevent microstructural changes in the base metal are required. Extensive scientific research has been conducted on joining metal matrix composites reinforced with hard intermetallic compounds. In this study, transient liquid-phase (TLP) diffusion bonding was used to join two pieces of Al 6061 alloy containing 15 wt% of Al2O3 particles. Examination of the joint region was achieved using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The results indicate that the reactions between the reinforcements, the matrix, and the Ni interlayer lead to the formation of numerous intermetallic compounds in the joint region.

Research paper thumbnail of A comparative study on weld characteristics of AA5083-H112 to AA6061-T6 sheets produced by MFSC and FSSW processes

Vacuum, 2021

Abstract This study's objective was to conduct a comparative analysis and characterization of... more Abstract This study's objective was to conduct a comparative analysis and characterization of the microstructural evolution within the weld nugget for joints of AA5083-H112 and AA6061-T6 produced by friction stir spot welding (FSSW) and modified friction stir clinching (MFSC) processes. The mechanical performance of the welded joints was assessed in shear using a single lap joint. The microstructural study identified significant variation in joint microstructure and material flow due to the differences in the tool geometry and methodology used for the welding processes. The results show that the use of modified friction clinching process improves the welded joint by eliminating keyholes/hook defects leading to the formation of high-strength joints. Mechanical characterization of the welded joints indicated that the shear strength increased significantly from 78.69 MPa for the conventional FSSW to 131 MPa for the MFSC process.

Research paper thumbnail of The role of intelligent manufacturing systems in the implementation of Industry 4.0 by small and medium enterprises in developing countries

Engineering reports, Oct 13, 2022

The desire to enhance connectivity and communication while simplifying data used to improve and o... more The desire to enhance connectivity and communication while simplifying data used to improve and optimize products and processes has driven many organizations within developed countries to invest heavily in implementing intelligent technologies for manufacturing. These technologies promise to enhance global manufacturing capabilities while sustaining demands by integrating equipment and frameworks in advanced economies for future production systems. On the other hand, many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within developing countries have shown apprehension and mistrust toward the emerging technologies associated with Industry 4.0. This article provides a comprehensive review of SMEs' readiness within developing countries to implement the novel technologies falling within the Industry 4.0 realm. Such techniques include intelligent manufacturing systems, cyber‐physical systems, and other crucial technological tools for improved connectivity and communication within manufacturing and production systems. Analysis of the literature shows that many SMEs within developing countries are experiencing delays in introducing intelligent manufacturing and digitizing factories due to a lack of knowledge and communication issues. These firms lag in embracing the transformation to equipment and systems that can communicate with future‐oriented technologies and introduce intelligent devices and machines into production processes. This article explores challenges, identifies gaps and suggests the potential solutions to address the readiness of SMEs toward Industry 4.0 in developing countries, through a systematic summary and integrative analysis of the findings from the literature.

Research paper thumbnail of Aluminium Alloys and Composites

Aluminium Alloys and Composites, 2019

He is a Chartered Engineer, a member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), a me... more He is a Chartered Engineer, a member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), a member of the Caribbean Academy of Science and former Vice President of the Jamaica Institution of Engineers (JIE). He obtained his PhD from the University of Calgary in Materials Engineering, a B. Eng. with honors and an MPhil from the University of Technology in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA from Patten University in Management. His research has focused on surface and interface engineering and he has authored three books and numerous journal articles and conference proceedings. Contents Preface XIII Section 1 Types and Properties of Aluminium Alloys and Composites Chapter 1 Introductory Chapter: Structural Aluminum Alloys and Composites by Kavian Omar Cooke Chapter 2 Aluminum Mineral Processing and Metallurgy: Iron-Rich Bauxite and Bayer Red Muds by Yingyi Zhang, Yuanhong Qi and Jiaxin Li Chapter 3 Aluminium and Its Interlinking Properties by K. Velmanirajan and K. Anuradha Chapter 4 Composites and Alloys Based on the Al-Ce System by David Weiss Chapter 5 Novel Applications of Aluminium Metal Matrix Composites

Research paper thumbnail of Fabrication of AA6061/316 composites via a double pin FSP tool

Journal of materials research and technology, Sep 1, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Effects of materials positioning and tool rotational speed on metallurgical and mechanical properties of dissimilar modified friction stir clinching of AA5754-O and AA2024-T3 sheets

Results in physics, Mar 1, 2021

Abstract The performance of the modified friction stir clinched and friction stir spot welded joi... more Abstract The performance of the modified friction stir clinched and friction stir spot welded joints of AA5754-O and AA2024-T3 Al alloy was improved by investigating the impact of material flow influencing parameters such as material positioning and tool rotational speed on the microstructure, mechanical and fracture behaviors of the joints. The results reveal that the positioning of a harder material (AA2024-T3) as the upper plate induces higher peak temperatures in the friction stir clinched (500 °C) and friction stir spot welded (475 °C) joints. This positioning favors inter-material mingling, grain coarsening with inherent higher dislocation density and tangles, and improved tensile failure loads in the AA2024-T3/AA5754-O joint than the AA5754-O/AA2024-T3 joint. The formation of partial weld-center defect declines in the AA2024-T3/AA5754-O at low tool rotational speed due to the better local heat build-up and geometric-differential flow effect in comparison with the AA5754-O/AA2024-T3 counterparts. The positioning of harder Al alloy on the top of a soft Al alloy is thus recommended for the improvement of modified friction stir clinched joints.

Research paper thumbnail of Diffusion brazing of IN738 to SiC ceramic with Ag-Cu-Ti powder: Effect of bonding time on metallurgical and mechanical properties

Results in physics, Dec 1, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Mechanical and microstructural aspects of the hybrid joint of PP-C30S and 2219 aluminum alloy

Results in physics, Dec 1, 2020

Abstract In this work, 2219 aluminum alloy and PP-C30S sheets are welded using Threaded-hole Fric... more Abstract In this work, 2219 aluminum alloy and PP-C30S sheets are welded using Threaded-hole Friction Stir Spot Welding (THFSSW) and Probeless Friction Stir Spot Welding (PFSSW). The results revealed that the reaction layers were produced between the aluminum and polymer, irrespective of the process type. However, a larger reaction layer was formed in the THFSSW joint (37µm) as compared to that of the PFSSW joint (24µm), and this consequently in conjunction with the induced mechanical interlocking resulted in the increment of the weld strength from 290 N to 436 N. This implies that various frictional heat and adhesion force was generated during processes.

Research paper thumbnail of Aluminium surface impregnated with nano constituents for enhanced mechanical performance

Research paper thumbnail of Microstructural response and wear behaviour of Ti-6Al-4V impregnated with Ni/Al2O3 + TiO2 nanostructured coating using an electric arc

Scientific Reports

Titanium alloys are known for their excellent corrosion resistance; however, low surface hardness... more Titanium alloys are known for their excellent corrosion resistance; however, low surface hardness results in poor wear resistance, which limits its potential application. This study employs a novel two-step process to embed a hard Ni coating containing a mixture of nanosized particles (Al2O3 and TiO2) into the surface of the Ti-6Al-4V alloy using an electric arc produced during the inert tungsten gas welding process. The surface of the sample was evaluated using Vickers Microhardness, Scanning electron microscopy, Energy dispersive spectroscopy and pin-on-plate wear testing. Microstructural analysis showed that impregnating the titanium surface with Ni/(Al2O3 and TiO2) nanomaterials resulted in the formation of a hard martensitic structure to a depth of approximately 2 mm below the surface. The changes observed are driven by modification of the surface chemistry and the presence of nickel, causing grain size reduction, solid solution strengthening and dispersion strengthening of the...

Research paper thumbnail of Transient liquid phase (TLP) bonding as reaction–controlled diffusion

Materials Today Communications

Research paper thumbnail of Labour Market Reforms for enhancing Public Sector Productivity in Jamaica

Research paper thumbnail of Reforming Jamaica's National Systems of Innovation

Research paper thumbnail of A R T I C L E Application of Taguchi optimization method to the transient liquid phase diffusion bonding process

Aluminum metal matrix composites (Al-MMCs) find extensive applications in engineering structures ... more Aluminum metal matrix composites (Al-MMCs) find extensive applications in engineering structures requiring good strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. A major limitation to the widespread use of these materials is the unavailability of a suitable joining process that maximizes their potential. Currently, fusion welding techniques are used to join Al-MMCs, however, the high temperature required for fusion welding processes can cause extensive damage to the strengthening particles thereby changing the microstructure and performance of the joints produced. Transient liquid phase (TLP) bonding has been identified as a suitable alternative, however, the bonding parameters have yet to be optimized. In this study a Taguchi's fractional-factorial design L9 (34-2) of experiments was used to optimize the process parameters of TLP bonding. The results indicated that an optimal joint strength of 142 MPa can be achieved with the bonding temperature of 620ºC, bonding pressure of 0...

Research paper thumbnail of Discussion Paper and Priority Recommendations; Technology Innovation Productivity Committee LMRC

Research paper thumbnail of Kinetics of joint formation during diffusion induced solid state bonding of titanium and magnesium alloys

This study explores the diffusion bonding of titanium to magnesium. The microstructural evolution... more This study explores the diffusion bonding of titanium to magnesium. The microstructural evolution and intermetallic compounds formed within the bond region are studied. The microstructure and composition of the bonds were characterized using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) equipped with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). The mechanical properties of the bonds were evaluated using a micro-hardness test to determine the hardness variation across the joint region, while shear strength measurements were used to assess the joint strength. The results indicated that solid-state diffusion bonding of Ti6Al-4V and Mg (Az31) lead to the formation of Ti3Al and Ti2Mg3Al18 reaction layers within the joint region. Evaluation of the mechanical properties of the bonds revealed that the bond strength increased with increase bonding time to 116 MPa at a bond time of 1 hr. The joint formation and strength were attributed to dispersion strengthening due to the nucleation of dispersed intermetal...

Research paper thumbnail of Nanostructured Ni/Al2O3 Interlayer: Transient Liquid Phase Diffusion Bonding of Al6061-MMC

Aluminum metal matrix composites are materials frequently used in the automotive and aerospace in... more Aluminum metal matrix composites are materials frequently used in the automotive and aerospace industries due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, formability, corrosion resistance, and long-term durability. However, despite the unique properties of these materials, the lack of a reliable joining method has restricted their full potential in engineering applications. This article explores the effect of bonding time on transient liquid phase diffusion bonding of Al6061 containing 15 vol.% alumina particles using a 5 μm electrodeposited Ni-coating containing nano-sized alumina particles as the interlayer. Joint formation was attributed to the solid-state diffusion of Ni into the Al6061 alloy followed by eutectic formation and isothermal solidification at the joint interface. Examination of the joint region using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction showed the formation of eutectic phases such as Al3Ni, Al9FeNi, and Ni3Si within the joi...

Research paper thumbnail of Development of an innovative integrated curriculum for process improvements in a product development organisation

This paper explores a teaching methodology underpinned by the six-sigma framework, which was used... more This paper explores a teaching methodology underpinned by the six-sigma framework, which was used to develop an academic programme between the University of Bradford and Business partner Jaguar Land Rover. The proposed methodology utilises a blended approach that integrates academic learning, through interactive classroom learning and workplacebased learning under the supervision of a Master Black Belt. Candidates within the programme develop skills in leadership, project and stakeholder management, and communication. The learning infrastructure includes peer support in which experienced learners use their acquired knowledge and understanding to support those at earlier stages. The result is an ‘Eco-system’ which develop self-sufficient networks and communities of capable engineers. Learning within the programme has triggered multiple research projects that contribute significantly to organisation knowledge, cost, and quality. Confirmation of candidate knowledge and learning is unde...