The next virtual course will take place on Thursday 23 October 2025.
We are delighted to be working with experienced trainer Clayton Thomas to offer this one-day short course introducing Metal Processing.
Fabrication and processing methods play a key role in shaping the properties and performance of engineering materials. This course offers delegates a clear understanding of how common techniques—such as forging, casting, welding, and machining - affect microstructure and material behaviour. The influence of these processes on both mechanical properties and overall material performance will be explored, supporting more informed choices in design, manufacturing, and quality assurance.
Who should attend the course?
Aimed at new starters and engineers so that they gain an understanding of the common methods of metal processing and fabrication and the effect they have on material properties
How much does the course cost?
The fee for this one day course is £570 +VAT at 20% where applicable. IOM3 members and subscribers to our Business Partner Programme are entitled to a discount of 10% on the course fee.
A special rate of £99 is availble to Student & Early Career members of IOM3.
How is the course structured?
Forging and Hot Working:
- Mechanical working and wrought materials
- Effect on microstructure and properties
- Recrystallisation
- Hot Rolling
- Closed and open die forging
- Typical issues with forging
Casting:
- Castings and properties
- Microstructure
- Nucleation and grain size
- Methods of casting : Sand, Investment, Die casting
- Mould design
- Casting parameters
- Materials and casting
- Typical issues with castings
Welding:
- Summary of common methods of welding
- Structure of a weld
- Properties and welding
- Pre and post weld heat treatments
- Material composition and welding
- Welding Qualification
- Typical issues with welds
Machining:
- Basis of machining
- Machinability of alloy
- Machining materials
- Tool design and materials
- Effect of composition and heat treatment on machining
- Typical issues with welding

Register to attend the next course
Virtual course using Zoom
9:30am to 4:30pm Thursday 23 October