Choosing Materials in Engineering Design
Selecting the right material for a part or assembly is a critical step in engineering. Whether using traditional methods or advanced computer simulations, accurate material data is essential to making sound design decisions.
Where to Find Material Data
Several reliable resources are available to engineers:
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Matweb – An extensive online database with contributions from thousands of material manufacturers. It’s a great starting point for research, though contacting manufacturers directly is best for project-critical details.
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Handbooks and Standards – Many taxpayer-funded resources, such as MIL-HDBK-5 (covering defense and aerospace materials), provide vetted data for engineering applications.
Using Material Data Wisely
For critical applications, average values or trend lines are not sufficient. Best practice is to select the minimum reported property values to ensure safety and reliability. In high-end commercial and military projects, customers may require even more conservative values.
Traceability Matters
Always ensure material data is traceable. Keep clear documentation on whether values come from customers, manufacturers, or third-party sources. This level of rigor helps avoid errors, supports compliance, and builds confidence in your design.
Norman T. Neher, P.E.
Analytical Engineering Services, Inc.
Elko New Market, MN
www.aesmn.org