Late Material Decisions

Once the material is chosen late in the design process, it will be too late to optimize performance.

The geometry has become fixed, the design has been approved, and the deadlines are near. ⏳ At this point, the choice of material has become a trade-off.

We pick what we know: “Let’s use PA12, it should work well”. Sometimes it will work, while other times it may limit the final design.

The selection of material is not only a parameter, but it also defines:

  • Stiffness
  • Flexibility
  • Surface characteristics
  • The long-term performance

If you make your material selection early in the design process, the design and performance can be developed together. If you make your selection late in the design process, you will have to adjust the product design around the material’s limitations.

The best products are not only well-designed, but are also well-matched to the material used in the design from the very beginning. 🎯