The academic content and curriculum of the Foundry Associate Degree Program is designed to comprehensively learn the casting techniques of metals and alloys. The curriculum of the program consists of theoretical lectures, laboratory studies and workshop applications. Students are provided with a wide range of information starting from basic engineering principles to advanced casting techniques.
In the first year, students take introductory courses in the basic principles of casting and materials science. These courses include basic science courses such as mathematics, physics and chemistry. Engineering drawing and technical drawing courses are also an important part of the first year. In these courses, students learn how to make engineering drawings and develop technical drawing reading skills.
Materials Science and Metallurgy courses cover the properties of materials used in the casting process and how these materials are processed. Students learn about the microstructure, mechanical properties and heat treatment of metals and alloys. These courses enhance students' ability to solve material problems that they may encounter during casting.
Casting Technology courses focus on casting methods and their applications. These include various casting techniques such as sand casting, die casting, pressure casting, gravity casting, and continuous casting. Students learn the advantages and disadvantages of each casting method and the situations in which they are used. They also gain detailed knowledge of mold preparation techniques and mold materials.
Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics courses are essential to understand the behavior of molten metal in the casting process. These courses include heat transfer, fluid dynamics and thermal analysis. Students learn how the molten metal moves through the mold and what happens during the solidification process. This knowledge is critical for preventing casting defects and achieving quality castings.
Quality Control and Material Testing courses provide information on the tests and inspections performed to ensure that cast products conform to quality standards. These courses cover various quality control techniques such as non-destructive testing methods, microscopic examinations and mechanical testing. Students gain competence in detecting casting defects and taking the necessary measures to eliminate these defects.
Computer Aided Design and Simulation courses are an important part of modern casting technologies. Students learn how to simulate the casting process with computer models and how to perform optimization studies. The software used in these courses helps students to plan casting processes more efficiently and accurately.
The workshops and laboratory courses in the program enable students to apply their theoretical knowledge in practice. In workshop courses, students develop their manual skills by performing real casting operations. In laboratory courses, they examine material properties by performing various tests and analyzes.
The academic content and curriculum of the Foundry Associate Degree Program aims to provide students with a comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in foundry technologies. In this way, graduates can work as qualified technicians in the sector and meet the specialized workforce needed by the foundry industry.