Choosing the Right Materials: Selection Charts for Engineering Applications
Which selection chart would you use to short-list suitable materials for each of the following?
Suspension bridge
Springboard for pool diving
Aircraft landing gear
Fuselage in a pressurized aircraft
For a suspension bridge, you would use a selection chart that evaluates materials based on their strength, durability, and flexibility. Materials that are strong and can withstand tension and compression forces would be suitable for a suspension bridge. Examples of materials that could be used for a suspension bridge include steel, concrete, and composite materials.
For a springboard for pool diving, you would use a selection chart that evaluates materials based on their elasticity, stiffness, and durability. Materials that are elastic and can store and release energy quickly would be suitable for a springboard. Examples of materials that could be used for a springboard include fiberglass, carbon fiber, and aluminum.
For aircraft landing gear, you would use a selection chart that evaluates materials based on their strength, fatigue resistance, and toughness. Materials that are strong and can withstand high loads and impacts would be suitable for landing gear. Examples of materials that could be used for landing gear include steel, titanium, and aluminum alloys.
For the fuselage in a pressurized aircraft, you would use a selection chart that evaluates materials based on their strength, stiffness, and resistance to fatigue and corrosion. Materials that are strong, lightweight, and can withstand high stresses and pressures would be suitable for a pressurized fuselage. Examples of materials that could be used for a pressurized fuselage include aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, and composite materials.
Understanding Selection Charts for Engineering Applications
Suspension Bridge: When designing a suspension bridge, it is crucial to select materials that can handle the tensile and compressive forces exerted on the structure. Steel, concrete, and composite materials are commonly chosen for suspension bridges due to their strength and durability.
Springboard for Pool Diving: Elasticity and stiffness are key factors to consider when choosing materials for a springboard used in pool diving. Fiberglass, carbon fiber, and aluminum are preferred materials for springboards as they can quickly store and release energy, providing the desired bounce for divers.
Aircraft Landing Gear: Aircraft landing gear must withstand high loads and impacts during landing and takeoff. Materials like steel, titanium, and aluminum alloys are selected for their strength, fatigue resistance, and toughness, ensuring the safety and reliability of the landing gear.
Fuselage in a Pressurized Aircraft: The fuselage of a pressurized aircraft must be strong, lightweight, and resistant to fatigue and corrosion. Aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, and composite materials are commonly used for pressurized fuselages due to their ability to withstand high stresses and pressures while maintaining structural integrity.
Selection charts help engineers evaluate and compare different materials based on specific criteria relevant to the intended application. By utilizing these charts, engineers can make informed decisions when selecting materials to ensure optimal performance and durability in various engineering applications.