Mechanical Properties

Introduction

· Materials choices are central to issues of engineering design and fabrication.
· The mechanical properties of the materials have always played a role in optimizing the product for cost and performance.

From: Galileo, "Dialogues," ( c. 1590 )

· Before continuum mechanics was developed, or the atomic structure of materials was understood, engineers were required to make things that depended on material performance.
· Empirical measurements were used to determine the mechanical response to loads, and these observations became part of the lore of the skilled trades.