A Level Design and Technology: Product Design

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts in Materials, Testing, and Design processes for A Level Product Design.

Malleability

The ability of a material to be reshaped in all directions without cracking.

Toughness

The ability of a material to absorb sudden shock without breaking or shattering.

Hardness

The ability of a material to resist scratching, wear and tear, and indentation.

Corrosion resistance

The ability of a material to withstand deterioration caused by either chemical or electrochemical reactions.

Thermal conductivity

The ability of a material to conduct heat.

Electrical conductivity

The ability of a material to conduct electricity.

Ferrous metals

Metals that contain iron and are magnetic.

Non-ferrous metals

Metals that do not contain iron and are not magnetic.

Alloys

Mixtures of two or more metals to enhance properties.

Thermoplastics

Polymers that become pliable when heated and can be reshaped.

Thermoset polymers

Polymers that become irreversibly hard when cured.

Elastomers

Polymers that exhibit elastic properties and can return to their original shape after deformation.

Smart materials

Materials that can change properties in response to external stimuli.

Composite materials

Materials made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties.

Tensile strength

The ability of a material to stretch without breaking.

Ductility

The ability of a material to deform under tensile stress.

Recyclability

The capability of a material to be recycled into new products.

Biodegradability

The ability of a material to break down into natural substances over time.

UV resistance

The ability of a material to withstand degradation from UV radiation.

Lamination

The process of bonding layers of material together to improve strength and stability.

Die cutting

A process used to cut out shapes from materials using a die.

Laser cutting

A technology that uses a laser to cut materials, often used for precision cutting.

CNC (Computer Numerical Control)

Automation of machine tools by means of computers executing pre-programmed sequences.

Investment casting

A precision casting process that involves creating a mold from a pattern.

Rapid prototyping

The process of quickly fabricating a physical part or assembly using 3D CAD data.