High-energy X-rays and neutrons offer the large penetration depths that are often required for the determination of bulk properties in engineering material research. In addition, new sources provide very high intensities on the sample, which can be used not only for high spatial resolution using very small beams, but also for high time resolution in combination with a fast detector. This opens up possibilities for a wide range of specific engineering in situ experiments. Typical examples that are already widely used are heating or tensile testing in the beam. However, there are also more challenging experiments in the field of light metals, like e.g. friction stir welding, dilatometry, solidification, or cutting. Selected examples are presented.