GCSEDesign & TechnologyAQARevision Notes2. Specialist Technical PrinciplesUsing & Working With MaterialsProperties of Metals & Alloys

Properties of Metals & Alloys (AQA GCSE Design & Technology): Revision Note

Exam code: 8552

Philip Holton

Written by: Philip Holton

Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett

Updated on

Properties of metals and alloys in commercial products

  • Commercial products are made from metals and alloys because of the properties that these materials have

  • For each commercial product, the material used will have properties which benefit the use of that product

Commercial products made from metals and alloys

  • Workshop handtools

  • Kitchen cookware

  • Car parts

Properties of metal and alloy products and their uses

  • There is a wide range of metal and alloy commercial products

  • The material that the manufacturer uses for each depends on the properties that the material has

Cooking

Material

Stainless steel

General properties

Durable and corrosion-resistant

Performance properties

Good heat conductor

Mechanical properties

Strong and tough

Physical properties

Non-porous surface

Hand tools

Material

High carbon steel

General properties

Hard-wearing

Performance properties

Brittle

Mechanical properties

Very hard and strong under compression

Physical properties

Retain sharpness

Car parts

Material

Mild steel

General properties

Strong but will rust if not protected

Performance properties

Durable

Mechanical properties

Good tensile and compressive strength

Physical properties

Dense, good thermal and electrical conductor

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Author
Reviewer
Philip Holton

Author: Philip Holton

Expertise: Design and Technology Content Creator

Phil is a Design and Technology specialist with over 22 years of experience across education, curriculum development, and assessment, working with major exam boards and organisations across the UK. He focuses on making GCSE D&T clear and accessible, helping students build the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in their exams.

Bridgette Barrett

Reviewer: Bridgette Barrett

Expertise: Development Editor

After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 30 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.