Raymond F.      Mignogna,P.E.

A series devoted to considerations of basic technical topics related to metallurgy and statistics. 

Materials Selection

When selecting a material for a particular application, keep the following in mind:

1 - Does the material have the mechanical and physical properties necessary to perform the functions for which the part or product is designed?

2 - Can the material function adequately in the operating environment to which it will be exposed?

3 - Can the material be processed into the proper configuration necessary to meet the design requirements?

4 - Has a design review been conducted to assure that all design, fabrication, quality and installation issues have been addressed?

5 - Has Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) been used to assess the potential for failure, and costs (both financial and other) of failure?

6 - Has the material been specified in accordance with good commercial practice, taking advantage of available standard practices and processes?

7 - Have adequate factors of safety been taken into account during the design and review process?

8 - Is the material available in sufficient quantity, and at prices that will maintain or improve the overall project budget?