Materials Selection by the Design Engineer

This paper discusses the problems of materials selection by the design engineer in terms of properties, cost, availability, use, processing operations, reliability of performance, and health hazards. Examples are cited, with emphasis on electrical, electronics, and communications technologies. In view of the variety, complexity, and sometimes subtlety of the factor involved in materials selection, a systematic approach is essential if the best use is to be made of available information in terms of requirements. Design of a Selection Index is proposed as a means of quantitative comparisons. The Selection Index is based upon the categories listed above and permits weighting of the various factors involved in order to maintain flexibility.