Materials Guide

Material selection is one of the most critical decisions in product design and manufacturing. The right material balances mechanical properties, cost, manufacturability, and end-use requirements. Understanding material properties like tensile strength, hardness, thermal resistance, and chemical compatibility is essential. Metals range from lightweight aluminum alloys for aerospace to hardened tool steels for industrial tooling. Engineering plastics offer chemical resistance and electrical insulation. Composites combine materials for superior strength-to-weight ratios. Each material family has distinct manufacturing considerations. OrderCAD's materials library includes 200+ grades across metals, plastics, and composites. Our engineers help you select the optimal material for your application, considering mechanical loads, environmental exposure, regulatory requirements, and production volume.