Mechanical Testing and Properties

Abstract

We select a material by matching its mechanical properties to the service conditions required of the component. The first step in the selection process requires that we analyse the application to determine the most important characteristics that the material must possess. Should it be strong, or stiff, or ductile? Will it be subjected to repeated application of a high force, sudden intense force, high stress at elevated temperature, or abrasive conditions? Once we know the required properties, we can select the appropriate material using data listed in handbooks. We must, however, know how the properties listed in the handbook are obtained, know what the properties mean, and realise that the properties listed are obtained from idealised tests that may not apply exactly to real-life engineering applications.