Exam Question
(a) Define creep and specify the conditions under which it occurs?
(6)
(b) Discuss three metallurgical/processing techniques that are employed to enhance the creep resistance of metal alloys.
(10)
Class 4 (4th Engineer)
MEKG
📅 Feb 2026
Reference Answer
### (a) Definition and Conditions of Creep (6 Marks)
#### Definition of Creep
Creep is the time-dependent, permanent (plastic) deformation of a material subjected to a constant stress or load, which is below its yield strength. It is a thermally activated process, meaning its rate increases significantly with temperature. In essence, it is the tendency of a solid material to move slowly or deform permanently under the influence of persistent mechanical stresses.
Key characteristics of creep are:
#### Definition of Creep
Creep is the time-dependent, permanent (plastic) deformation of a material subjected to a constant stress or load, which is below its yield strength. It is a thermally activated process, meaning its rate increases significantly with temperature. In essence, it is the tendency of a solid material to move slowly or deform permanently under the influence of persistent mechanical stresses.
Key characteristics of creep are:
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