How to Use the Material Specifications Database
- Search or browse materials — type a material name (e.g., "aluminium 6061") or browse by category (aluminium, steel, titanium, copper, brass, cast iron).
- Select a material from the results to view its full property profile.
- Review the properties — density, tensile strength, yield strength, elastic modulus, hardness, thermal conductivity, and more.
- Compare materials — use the data to evaluate alternatives for your design (e.g., comparing 6061-T6 aluminium vs. AISI 4140 steel for weight-to-strength ratio).
- Export or copy the data for use in engineering calculations, material selection spreadsheets, or CAD software.
Understanding Engineering Material Properties
Material selection is one of the most critical decisions in engineering design. Density (mass per unit volume) determines component weight and is particularly important in aerospace and automotive applications. Tensile strength is the maximum stress a material can withstand before failure under tension, while yield strength marks the stress at which permanent (plastic) deformation begins. Elastic modulus (Young's modulus) measures stiffness — how much a material deforms under load before yielding. These three properties together define a material's load-bearing capability.
The database includes common engineering alloys with well-characterized properties. Aluminium alloys like 6061-T6 offer excellent strength-to-weight ratios and corrosion resistance, making them ideal for aerospace and structural applications. AISI 4140 steel is a chromium-molybdenum alloy known for high toughness and fatigue strength, widely used in gears, shafts, and automotive components. Titanium Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) combines high strength with low density and exceptional corrosion resistance, used extensively in aerospace, medical implants, and high-performance applications. Stainless steel 304 provides excellent corrosion resistance for food processing, chemical equipment, and architectural applications.
When comparing materials, consider the full picture — not just strength. Hardness (measured by Brinell, Rockwell, or Vickers scales) indicates wear resistance. Thermal conductivity affects heat dissipation capability, critical in electronics and heat exchangers. Machinability, weldability, and cost also play major roles in material selection. A material with excellent mechanical properties may be impractical if it's difficult to manufacture or prohibitively expensive. Always verify properties with manufacturer data sheets and relevant standards (ASTM, ISO, SAE) for your specific application.