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PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS - 2 |
V. Ryan © 2005 - 2008 |
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When studying materials and especially when selecting
materials for a project / design, it is important to understand key
properties. The most important properties are outlined below. |
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PDF FILE -
CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE EXERCISE |
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MALLEABILITY |
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The ability of a material to be reshaped in all
directions without cracking
Our technology technician demonstrates the ‘malleability’ of a material
by heating a piece of mild steel until it is red hot. He then beats it with
a large forging hammer to reshape it. Because of the high temperature it
reaches while heating the steel becomes malleable, it can be reshaped
permanently.
Ed often heats up steel, because he likes the colour and it matches
his complexion after he has run up the stairs. |
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TOUGHNESS |
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A characteristic of a material that does not break or
shatter when receiving a blow or under a sudden shock.
Our technology technician demonstrates the ‘toughness’ of a material by
hitting a piece or material to see if it will break or shatter.
Ed has been known to test authentic Chinese Ming Dynasty pottery with
the same technique. This is why he is often arrested in Museums and has
been banned from the local Antique dealers. |
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HARDNESS |
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The ability of a material to resist scratching, wear
and tear and indentation.
Our technology technician, dressed in a kilt, slides along the floor to
see if it will scratch. It will be considered to hard wearing if it
resists scratching.
Ed has been known to fall over. Not a sight for sore eyes. |
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CONDUCTIVITY |
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The ability of a material to conduct electricity.
Our technology technician demonstrates ‘conductivity’ by pressing live
wires against either side of his head (PLEASE NOTE - THIS WILL KILL
NORMAL PEOPLE).
Ed survives because his skull is empty. |
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QUESTIONS:
1. Can you think of any more
properties of materials?
2. Describe safe ways of testing
materials for some of the properties described above/ |
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MATERIALS |
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