Materials


Within the context of its suitable application, the properties of a tool's component materials are highly important to its reliability. Determining the critical points of stress under normal usage helps define the necessary properties of the materials used. Materials determine design constraints. Design requires materials possess certain properties. Appropriate materials are determined within the constraints of price and availability, but it is unacceptable to use materials with critical limitations that cannot be overcome by design.


What's the point? 1. Suitability 2. Materials
3. Whimsy 4. Precision 5. Crafts(wo)menship
6. Application 7. Design 8. Technique