Metalmorphasis: Change and Transition

Abstract

Change is constant, as nothing stays the same. Consider the words of the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu, “Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them—that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” Some changes are the result of biology and the passage of time, within the natural cycle or order of things. Others are self-generated, under our own control and resulting from willful efforts, or dependent upon encounters with significant others—family, friends, colleagues, and others close to us. Still, other changes occur because of circumstance or fate, a proverbial "date with destiny" and often beyond what we feel is our control. Whether it is our personal life or occupational, like metalcasting, this change can facilitate transition and transformation. I have coined the term metalmorphasis and this lecture as reflection of how to embrace change, recognize the opportunities presented and utilize it as a vehicle for new beginnings. This is not just philosophical but also a look how we as metallurgist and metalcasters apply and control input variables (time, temperature, pressure, chemical reactions, etc.) to transform metals and create metalmorphasis.