Types of materials

You need to be familiar with the different properties of ferrous and non-ferrous metals; softwood and hardwood timbers; and thermoplastics andthermoset plastics.

When working with resistant materials you need to be able to choose the best material for a job. Wood, metal and plastics are the most common materials used, followed by composites and ceramics.

The main classification of materials is given in the chart below. You need to know these terms and their definitions.