Properties

• Metals


  • Contain a useful range of properties making them suitable for many commercial products
• Selecting metals


  • Manufacturers should consider the supply, results on the environment and the cost of the metal
• Hand tools


  • Need to be hard
  • Resistant to tension and compression
  • Ergonomic and comfortable to use
• High carbon steel


  Often used for tool making as it is hard, resists abrasion and can withstand high pressure
• Chromium


  May be added to add strength and resist distortion
• Cooking utensils


  • Need to be tough
  • Durable
  • Corrosion resistant
  • Food safe
  • Flame and heat resistant
  • Safe to handle
  • Aesthetically pleasing
• Stainless steel


  Commonly used because it is strong, doesn't rust easily, is hygienic and is a poor conductor of heat