Product Design

• What are ferrous metals primarily composed of?

  Iron and small amounts of other elements
• Why are ferrous metals ideal for structural applications?

  They are known for their strength and durability
• How can carbon steel be categorized?

  Into low, medium, or high carbon steel
• What happens to steel as carbon content increases?

  It becomes harder but more brittle
• What is a notable property of cast iron?

  Excellent castability and machinability
• In what applications is cast iron commonly used?

  Engine blocks, pipes, and machinery
• What magnetic property do ferrous metals possess?

  They are magnetic, advantageous in electronics
• What is a major drawback of many ferrous metals?

  Their tendency to rust without treatment
• How can rusting in ferrous metals be prevented?

  By treating or alloying to prevent oxidation
• What do non-ferrous metals not contain significantly?

  Iron
• How do non-ferrous metals generally compare to ferrous metals?

  They are more corrosion-resistant and lighter
• What is a commonly used non-ferrous metal?

  Aluminium
• Why is aluminium valued in various applications?

  For its lightweight, strength, and corrosion resistance
• In which applications is aluminium commonly used?

  Aircraft structures and beverage cans
• What is copper known for?

  Excellent electrical and heat conductivity
• Where is copper commonly used?

  In wiring, plumbing, roofing, and electronics
• Name two other non-ferrous metals besides aluminium and copper.

  Zinc and tin
• What are precious non-ferrous metals mentioned?

  Gold and silver
• What makes each non-ferrous metal useful in various applications?

  Each has unique properties
• What are alloys?

  A mixture of two or more metals
• Why are alloys designed?

  To improve properties of individual components
• What metals primarily compose stainless steel?

  Iron, carbon, and chromium
• What is the role of chromium in stainless steel?

  It provides a protective layer against rust
• What are the main components of brass?

  Copper and zinc
• What properties make brass popular in musical instruments?

  Superior machinability, corrosion resistance, and acoustic properties
• What metals primarily compose bronze?

  Copper and tin
• Why is bronze valued in manufacturing?

  For its hardness and resistance to wear
• In what applications is bronze commonly used?

  Bearings, springs, and sculptures
• Working with Metals

  • Various processes including casting, forging, extrusion, and welding can be used to form and join metal parts.
  • Heat treatments like annealing, quenching, and tempering can alter the physical properties of metals, improving their hardness, ductility, or resistance to wear and corrosion.
  • Safety precautions are essential when working with metals, given the risk associated with high temperatures, sharp edges, and potentially harmful fumes.
• What are the key properties and uses of the following alloys: stainless steel, brass, and bronze?

  • Stainless Steel:
  • Composed of iron, carbon, chromium
  • Resistant to rust and corrosion
  • Brass:
  • Composed of copper and zinc
  • Superior machinability and acoustic properties
  • Used in musical instruments and fittings
  • Bronze:
  • Composed of copper and tin
  • Valued for hardness and wear resistance
  • Used in bearings, springs, and sculptures
• What type of trees do hardwoods originate from?

  Deciduous, angiosperm trees
• What are hardwoods known for?

  Density and durability
• Name a common example of hardwood.

  Oak
• What is beech commonly used for?

  Furniture, toys, and veneers
• Why is oak popular for furniture and flooring?

  Due to its strong, durable nature
• What contributes to the density and strength of hardwoods?

  Their slow growth rate
• How do vessels or pores affect hardwoods?

  They create intricate grain patterns
• Why can hardwoods be expensive?

  Due to slow growth rate and demand
• What are the characteristics and uses of hardwoods?

  • Originates from deciduous, angiosperm trees
  • Known for density and durability
  • Common examples: oak, beech, ash, maple
  • Oak: used in furniture and flooring
  • Beech: used for furniture, toys, veneers
  • Slow growth rate contributes to density
  • Vessels or pores create intricate grain patterns
  • High cost due to slow growth and demand
• What type of trees do softwoods come from?

  Gymnosperm trees