Materials and their properties
Understanding Materials and Their Properties
Types of Materials
- Metals β Generally strong, malleable, ductile, heat and electrical conductors, e.g. steel, aluminium, copper.
- Plastics β Typically lightweight, malleable, good insulators, e.g. PVC, ABS, PE.
- Ceramics β Often hard, brittle, heat and electrical insulators, e.g. Glass, clay, porcelain.
- Composites β Made from two or more materials, properties depend on constituent materials, e.g. Fiberglass, carbon fiber composites.
Physical Properties
- Density β Amount of mass in a given volume, affects weight of final product.
- Hardness β Resistance to scratching, wear or indentation.
- Strength β How well the material can withstand an applied force.
- Malleability β Ability to be bent and twisted without breaking.
- Ductility β Ability to be drawn out into a thin wire.
- Thermal Conductivity β Ability to conduct heat.
- Electrical Conductivity β Ability to conduct electricity.
Mechanical Properties
- Elasticity β Ability to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed.
- Plasticity β Ability to permanently change in shape under force.
- Brittleness β Tendency to snap or crack under force.
- Toughness β Resistance to breaking, bending, or deforming when subjected to stress.
- Resilience β Ability to absorb energy and resist shock without cracking or breaking.
Chemical Properties
- Oxidation Resistance β Ability to resist oxidation or rusting.
- Corrosion Resistance β Resistance to chemical attack, breakdown or degradation.
- Flammability β How easily the material catches fire.
- Biodegradability β Extent to which the material disintegrates over time due to biological activity.
Choices Based on Properties
- Product design and manufacturing involves consideration of these properties.
- Choice of material can affect product cost, usability, durability, and environmental impact.
- Understanding the properties of materials is key to making the correct choice for manufacturing.