theory- summer term 1
TRANSCRIPT
Y10 DT Distance Learning
Theory- Summer Term 1This work can either be completed on paper or using computer software of your
choice. BUT IT WILL BE COLLECTED IN SEPTEMBER.
This work contains 13 tasks that should be completed over the next 5 weeks- the first
task (processing metals) is quite long and is the equivalent of 3 lessons worth of work.
The remaining 12 tasks are stand alone lessons each.
You should also complete 1 hour of independent revision alongside this work. For this,
you should use you ‘Pocket Poster’ book- either the hard copy or digital copy.
The overview of the 5 weeks of work is as follows:
Week commencing Lesson 1 Lesson 2 Lesson 3
20/4/2020 Processing metals Processing metals Processing metals
27/4/2020 Ergonomics Quality control CAD/CAM
4/5/2020 Biodegradable
polymers
Processing woods Manufacturing
woods
11/5/2020 Adhesives Finishing wood Materials
properties
18/5/2020 Product analysis
exam question
Product analysis /
disassembly
Product analysis
exam question
Lessons 1, 2 and 3- Processing
metals
Processing metalsProcessing metals
Redistribution
Processes where materials are
reshaped without loss of material
Wasting processes
Generally all those
processes where
material is cut away
Addition
Processes where
materials are joined
together
Sawing and
filling
Drilling and
milling
Grinding and
sanding
Blanking and
piercing
Bolts and
screws
Adhesives
Welding,
brazing and
soldering
Casting Forging SinteringForming
Sand casting
Die casting
Gravity die casting
Low pressure
die casting
High pressure
die casting
Press forming
Embossing and
coining
Cold forging
Hot forging
Drop forging
Hot pressing
Metals can be processed in a variety of ways. You need to know about casting- which is a redistributing process, highlighted with the red box beside.
Processing metals- RedistributionLike polymers, metals can be heated to known melting temperatures. When molten,
the liquid metal can then be poured (or forced under pressure) into a mould. Mould
can be created from sand, alloy steel or ceramics, depending on the metals being
cast.
Sand casting
Sand is used for the mould. Sand contains oils that act as binders to help it hold its
shape while the hot metal is being cast into it.
Step 1: a ‘pattern is made’. This could be made from a range of materials such as
woods, metals or plastics. Patterns can be split for more complex shapes.
Step 2: Each half of the pattern s placed on a baseboard. A mould box half is placed
over it.
Step 3: green sand is ‘tamped’ around the pattern forcing it into contact with the
pattern. This is followed by packing sand.
Step 4: The pattern is removed from the mould half. The runner and the riser gates
are then cut into the top half of the sand mould.
Step 5: the mould halves are fitted together with location pins, ensuring correct
alignment.
Step 6: molten metal is poured into the running gate. The rise is used to indicate
when the mould is full. De-gassing tablets may be necessary to reduce the risk of
porous casting.
Step 7: Once metal has solidified, the sand mould is broken open leaving the product
with runner and riser gates attached. These will be removed either by using a hand
saw or by some other means, depending on the material being cast.
Advantages:
• Complex 3D
shapes can be
produced.
• Cores can be
used to produce
hollow sections
• Its appropriate
for small runs
• Automated
processes are
suitable for
longer
production runs.
Disadvantages:
• Due to the poor
surface finish,
some machining
will be
necessary.
• It’s not as
accurate as die
or investment
casting
• It has a low rate
of output and is
therefore
suitable only for
small production
runs.
Casting
Sand casting for
Ferrari engines
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8SYhISGxN4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9g_JfhjcBAU
Engine block casting
https://www.youtube.co
m/watch?v=yXVLbzI3xTE
Die casting
Die casting is the term used
for the processes of casting
metals with a low melting
point into alloy steel dies (or
moulds). It is known as a
permanent mould process, and
the molten metal either enters
the mould under the action of
gravity or it is forced into the
mould under pressure.
The alloys cast in this way are
generally zinc, aluminium and
magnesium based alloys. Their
low melting temperatures
make them particularly useful
for large scale production.
The processes involved in die
casting vary due to the amount
of pressure/ force applied to
the molten metal as it enters
the mould.
In general, the higher the
force applied, the quicker the
process and the finer the
detail being produced.
Advantages of die casting over
sand casting:
Finish: the surface finish of a
die cast product is superior to
that of sand casting; it’s a
smooth as the finish of the die
surface.
Accuracy: the shape of the die
determines the shape of the
product, therefore the
accuracy of size and detail are
as required.
Quality of the material: die
cast products tend to be better
from the material’s point of
view due to the effects on the
material structure of rapid
cooling.
Scale of production: rapid
cooling of the components (1
sec per cycle) makes high
pressure die casting suitable
for large scale production; this
is necessary to cover the cost
of dies and for the
manufacturer to make profit.
Energy: alloys with a low
melting point require less heat
to melt, resulting in lower
energy costs.
Casting
Die cast shell housing
https://www.
youtube.com/
watch?v=Pj_
mjjUQad8
https://www.
youtube.com/
watch?v=_A6
KG010u3o
Gravity die casting
Molten metal is poured into the
dies through runners., in a similar
way to that of sand casting. The
process uses force of gravity to
ensure the molten metal reaches
all parts of the metal mould.
The dies are made from alloy
steel and are split to allow for
removal of the completed
product.
Gas rings around the outside of
the die keep the mould heated,
ensuring even cooling of the cast
metal
Fluxes are also used to prevent
oxidation of the metal as it is
being cast.
Gravity is the only force applied
to the molten metal as it enters
the die and makes contact with
all parts of the die. Therefore,
products manufactured in this
way tend to be large with simple
shapes . Examples include car
wheels.
Casting https://www.yout
ube.com/watch?v
=xxPLYjqOx9k
Pressure die casting
Die cast processes can also use high or low
pressures to force the molten metal into
the die. The additional pressure is required
to ensure that the molten metal reaches all
parts of the more intricate dies.
High pressure die casting uses a hydraulic
ram to force the material into the die.
In this process molten metal is poured into
a cylinder, either from a crucible of from a
ladle. The hydraulic ram then forces the
molten metal into the closed dies.
The dies are water cooled, resulting in
rapid cooling of the product. As the dies
open, ejector pins push the product out of
the die.
In hot chamber high pressure die casting
process the molten metal is also forced
into the dies by the use of a hydraulic ram
but, in this case, the ram is fed directly
from the reservoir of molten metal
Typical products of high pressure die
casting include small, highly detailed
components. Examples include components
for lock mechanisms for uPVC sliding doors
Casting
Hot chamber
high pressure
die casting:
https://www.
youtube.com
/watch?v=bzS
SfBgkWfc
Industrial die casting
A development of hot chamber die
casting is the multi-slide die casting
process. Traditional die casting processes
use just two halves of a die to form the
shape, making it difficult to produce
components with very complex 3D
shapes.
By using 4 (or more) slides, complex 3D
shapes can be achieved. Each of the
components of the die is secured to one
of the slides and contains either a cavity
(external) or core (internal) shape which,
when closed together with the other
dies, will form the correct shape for the
product.
Each of the slides moved independently
of the other for opening and closing; this
is controlled by a computer and operated
by pneumatics. Mechanical locking
mechanisms hold the dies together while
the material is being injected. ]
Multi-slide die casting is used for the
rapid manufacture of small zinc and
magnesium components. Products include
door locks and sensor casings for cars and
the internal components of domestic
electrical sockets.
CastingFully Integrated Manufacturing -Four-slide die
https://www.you
tube.com/watch?
v=0WOaKcJVPiw
Investment casting
Used for the production of casting materials
with a high melting point, it is a very old
process.
Step 1: A wax pattern is produced to a high
degree of accuracy.
Step 2: This is then coated in a high
temperature ceramic material, by dipping the
wax pattern into the ceramic slip. When a
sufficient thickness of ceramic is achieved, it is
left to dry.
Step 3: Once dry, it can be fired in a kiln. This
will of course cause the wax pattern to melt
(hence alternative term for this process ‘lost
wax casting’) leaving the cavity to be cast
into.
Step 4: When the ceramic mould has cooled,
the molten metal is poured in. This is generally
done using gravity to help fill the mould.
Step 5: When the cast has cooled , the ceramic
mould is broken open thereby destroying it and
leaving only the cast product.
Example products made form investment
casting include turbine blades for jet engines,
tools and dies.
Casting
Advantages:
• Good finishes can be obtained along with a fair degree
of accuracy.
• Complicated shapes that cannot be produced by other
casting processes can be made.
• There is no spilt line showing on the product.
Disadvantages:
• The cost is very high
• The size of components is limited by weight.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyrXq_u1OH0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrUsaGussfc
Low temperature casting (pewter)
Pewter is composed of 96 percent tin and 4 percent
copper although there are many variations. It is a
soft metal and can be shaped easily by hand tools
and machine tools. Due to its low melting point
(approximately 230 degrees centigrade) it is
suitable for casting. It is a bright material, which
makes it popular for the manufacture of
‘silverware’ such as tankards, candlesticks and
even jewellery.
Because pewter is malleable, it can be cut with a
hacksaw easily. When preparing to cast pewter
small pieces of approximately 60mm in length are
cut. This size will fit comfortably in the ‘bowl’ of a
casting ladle, ready for casting
Before casting can take place a mould must be
made. Moulds can be made from a range of
materials including MDF, steel or silica sand. In
schools and colleges, MDF is an ideal material and
moulds made from this material can be reused a
small number of times. The mould have two parts
and they are held together with wire or small
cramps
The pattern/cavity can be cut in the MDF using
hand tools or for accurate results a CNC machine
can be used.
Casting
https://www.
youtube.com
/watch?v=2j4
zJWMPgNw
Processing metals- Casting
You need to know about 7 metal casting processes:
1. Sand casting
2. Die casting
3. Gravity die casting
4. Pressure die casting
5. Industrial casting
6. Investment casting
7. Pewter casting
1. Read all the information and watch the video links on casting
2. Summarise each process and provide examples of what products can be manufactured in
this way- this could be done on paper or using computer software available to you. Hints:
3. Do not just copy information- use bullet points / identify key points
4. Key point include:
1. Each stage of the process
2. Advantages and disadvantages
3. Examples of use
This work should be the equivalent of 3 lessons- make sure the quality and quantity of
work reflects this.
Lesson 4- Ergonomics
Ergonomics
Ergonomics concerns the interaction between the human body
and products, systems or environments. Product designers are
particular concerned with making products that are easy to use.
Ergonomists are designers specialising in ergonomics. They may
design:
Products: they may conduct trials with users to check the
usability of a product such as the operation of a games
controller, a steam iron, computer mouse etc.
Systems: the layout of a restaurant kitchen or a
manufacturing product cell / area, in order to make them
more efficient and reduce strain injury risk.
Environments: the interior of a car or aircraft, to ensure
comfort of the user and an efficient interface between the
control systems and the driver or pilot.
How do ergonomists influence design?
Ergonomics is a critical factor n the success of a product. There are many
factors that can influence ergonomics, 4 of these include:
Colour- power switches, waring lights on dashboard, function keys on a
mobile phone etc. The type of colour used and how it performs in
different levels of light are important factors to consider.
Lighting- the correct level of illumination can be a very important
ergonomic factor. Visual displays need to be bright enough to be seen
in full sunlight but perhaps adjustable for night time use, so as not to
strain the eyes. Many electrical products have day time and night time
settings.
Sound- Audible instructions and warnings are common in products such
as sat navs, in-car safety systems, air craft controls, lifts, self-service
tills and many other areas. Sound level and clarity of sound under
different conditions such as engine noise are very important factors to
consider. Noise such as background sounds from machinery can affect
ergonomics. High levels of noise can be uncomfortable and can have
serious health implications.
Comfort- These factors might include shaping a product to fit part of
the body, such as a chair seat. Sometimes products can be
uncomfortable to use is the user has to stretch or move awkwardly to
reach something i.e. a poorly designed kitchen. Comfort can also be
affected by temperature i.e. too hot or too cold in car interior or
computer room. Noise level and vibrations are also factors that could
affect machine operators.
Anthropometric Data
Anthropometric involves using body sizes to improve the
ergonomics in products, systems or environments. For
example, designers of item such as personal stereos would look
at data for hand sizes in order to ensure that the product can
be comfortably held, and that the controls are positioned to
allow easy operation with finger tips.
Anthropometrical data taken form the measurements of
hundreds of volunteers in normal recorded as percentiles. The
average size is known as the 50% percentile. Most design
activity is for the body sizes between the 5th and 95th
percentile which would take in the majority of the population.
TASK: Ergonomics and Anthropometric Data
1. Summarise the 3 areas ergonomists specialise in
2. Give an overview of the 4 of the factors that can influence ergonomics.
3. Pick a product of your choice (I.e. Game controller) and explain how ergonomics has been
considered in it’s design. Try to also give an explanation and use of ‘anthropometric data’ in
your work. For example, you could compare the two products below:
Task 3- Quality Control
Quality Control
Quality control ensures products are manufactured to a high standard.
Checks should be made at every stand of the manufacturing process.
This involves testing materials, products or components to check
they’ve made to a high enough standard and they meet the
manufacturing specification. E.g. Musical greetings cards might be
tested to make sure all the images are printed clearly, the edges are cut
accurately, the card is folded in the right place, the text is straight, it
plays the right tune etc.
Usually, one sample of the materials, components or products are
testing, as it would take too much time to check them all.
Tolerance
Its important that the dimensions of components are accurate. If they
aren’t, the parts won’t fit together properly when the product is
assembled.
Just how accurate they need to be is specified by the tolerance. This is
the margin of error that is considered acceptable.
The tolerance is normally given as an upper (+) and a lower (-) limit for
the measurement. For example, a 20mm measurement with a tolerance
of 0.5+ has a lower limit of 19.5mm and an upper limit of 20.5mm.
Tolerances should be included on working drawings (in the manufacturing
specification) to show the limits within which the product should be
manufactured.
Components must be within the tolerance to pass through any size
checks in quality control.
Quality Control Tests
Go/ No Go Fixtures check dimensions are within tolerance
Go/no go fixtures are limit gauges- they check to see
whether the size of a part is within its tolerance.
They're usually doubled-ended- one end is machined to
the lower limit and the other end to the upper limit of
tolerance.
These checks don’t take very long and are much
quicker than measuring the actual dimensions of a
component.
Registration Marks check printing plates are aligned
A colour registration mark normally appears a cross
shape- it is used by manufacturers to check the quality
of colour printing onto paper and board.
They’re use to make sure the printing plates are
aligned in the right position
Prints should be checked against the Original
To check repeating prints (such as stripes and
chequers) are being printed correctly onto fabric,
manufacturers will often compare prints to an original
sample print. This can be done well by eye.
Its much quicker and easier to do this than try to
measure the dimensions of each part of the repeating
pattern one at a time.
Achieving consistency during manufacture
Depth stops
Depth stops are long rods that are clamped close to the
drill bit of some drills.
They allow you to drill a hole to an exact depth in
whatever material you’re drilling. Once this depth has
been reached, the depth stop will come into contact with
the material and will prevent you from drilling any deeper.
The drill depth can be adjusted by clamping the depth stop
in a different place.
Along with the width of the drill bit, this allows you to
carefully control the dimensions of the hole.
Laser cutters need to be programmed correctly
To cut a material accurately, a laser cutter needs to be
programmed with the right information. This includes:
The dimensions of the component to be cut- so it
knows exactly where t cut.
The correct power settings and feed rate (the speed
that the laser moves over and cuts the material).
These values depend on the type of material to be cut
and its thickness.
If programmed correctly, the laser can cut to a tiny
tolerance (with high accuracy and precision), so the
component should end up as you want it.
Task- Quality control
1. Explain the importance of quality control in the manufacturing industry (what is it and why is it
used?).
2. Using a specific product, explain the term ‘tolerance’ and why it is used when manufacturing
products.
3. Explain 3 specific examples of quality controls used during the manufacturing process.
4. Investigate how consistency can be maintained during the process of manufacturing:
1. A hand-made product in the workshop (when drilling)
2. A laser-cut product using CAD/CAM (what should be checked before machining?)
Task 4- Cad/CAM
CAD/CAM
CAD stands for Computer Aided Design/ Computer
Aided Manufacture. CAD related to the designing and
CAM relates to the actually machining/ making.
Examples of CAD include:
2D Design
ProDesktop
SolidWorks
Inventor
Or any software that aids the designing process.
Examples of CAM include:
Laser cutting- Can only cut / engrave patterns on
2D material (usually).
Routing- CNC Boxford Router- uses drill bit to
remove material on ‘soft’ materials i.e. wood,
plastic, aluminium
Milling- uses drill bit to remove material from
metal and is usually more accurate / precise than
routing
Turning- CNC lathe to machine work as it is turned
Plotter cutting / vinyl cutting- drawing on or
cutting large sheets of paper / card / vinyl. The
blade can be removed and replaced with a ‘pen’.
Advantages Disadvantages
Easy to modify / change designs- Can
save multiple files and modify them in
different ways
High start up costs- high spec
computers and actual CAM machine
Can produce very accurate
components with consistent quality
Workers / operators have to be skilled,
therefore expensive to employ
Can run for long periods of time Repairs can be expensive
Designs can be sent via e-mail to
anywhere in the world for
modifications and manufacturing
If not ‘backed up’, designs can be
easily lost if there is a computer
malfunction
Do not need to pay hourly rate (other
than operators)
Complex designs can be potentially
easy to ‘steal’ (copy)
Can produce realistic 3D rendered on-
screen models which can save time
money / on ‘manual modelling’.
Ethical issues surrounding CAD/CAM
replacing a workforce.
Can also produce scaled models
quickly (rapid prototyping) to evaluate
and modify design ideas.
Possible reduction in skilled
tradespeople i.e. carpenters.
Human error can be catastrophic. I.e.
one incorrect measurement on a CAD
file could render a huge production
worthless.
CAD/CAM
There are many advantages and disadvantages of CAD/CAM. You need to be aware of these…
Task- CAD/CAM
1. Explain what is
meant by the term
CAD/CAM and
provide examples.
2. Describe 2
different
examples of Cad
3. Describe 5
different
examples of CAM
4. What are the
advantages and
disadvantages of
CAD/CAM? Try to
provide examples
in your answer to
explain them.
Task 5- Biodegradable
polymers
Biodegradable polymers
Most polymers are produced from finite, non-renewable resources such as crude oil, which do not break down easily
or quickly. Discarded polymers are a major cause of pollution and kill marine and bird life, as well as environmental
scarring due to land fill.
Bio-polymers are examples of plastics that have been developed to slow down / prevent this pollution.
Bio-polymers can be split into two groups:
Natural bio-polymers: made from natural materials such as starch and cellulose
Synthetic bio-polymers: made from renewable resources but chemically engineering to break down more
quickly.
There are 3 main types of biodegradable polymers:
Oxy-degradable polymer- plastic bags
Photodegradable polymer- plastic cutlery
Hydro-degradable polymer- washing capsules
However, there are implications with the use of biodegradable polymers. Many produce methane when they
decompose- this contributing to global warming. Some can take high temperatures to decompose and may leave
behind toxic residue. Traditional agricultural land could be lost to ‘grow polymers’, making food more
expensive.
Task
1. What are Bio-polymers? And what are the two main groups of bio polymers?
2. Explain the 3 main types of biodegradable polymers (include examples)
3. Explain the implications of the use of biodegradable polymers
4. Use the internet (if available) to investigate 3 different biodegradable polymers. The investigation should
include information, advantages, disadvantages and examples of use.
Task 6- Processing woods
Woods
Wood is a natural material which is grown all over the world and has been used for building
work, furniture and decorative items for thousands of years.
Prior to use, wood is converted (sawn into useable pieces) and then seasoned (removing
excess moisture, 80-90%). There are two main forms of seasoning:
Air seasoning – traditional, in expensive method where wood is stacked under a shelter
to protect from rain. Air circulates between the planks to slowly remove the excess
moisture. Air seasoned wood is used for outdoor wooden products because it is
seasoned to the same moisture content and its surroundings and therefore the wood
will be less prone to defects.
Kiln seasoning- more expensive but controlled method which is very quick and can take
just a few weeks. Indoor products such as furniture will use kiln-seasoned wood
because it has been seasoned to meet the indoor conditions and will have low moisture
content than air-dried wood.
Classification of woods:
Hardwoods:- Oak, Mahogany
Softwoods:- Pine, spruce, cedar
Manufactured boards:- Plywood, Chipboard, MDF
Dust and sap from wood can be hazardous and form a health risk to workers. The toxicity
of a wood depends on the species and the employer must provide PPE and have expose
limits to protect workers.
Stock forms is the term used to describe ‘how’ wood is available i.e. Rough sawn, planed
square edge and planed all round are 3 different options when selecting timber.
Natural wood is only available at the maximum width of the tree but manufactured boards
can be produced in huge sheets, if required. Some wood is made into moulding such as
skirting boards or wooden trims.
Task- Wood
1. What is the definition of wood?
2. What percentage of water is removed during the seasoning process?
3. Describe air seasoning
4. Describe kiln dry seasoning
5. What are the three classifications of wood? Name some specific
examples.
6. What are stock forms?
7. What is an advantage of manufactured wood when compared to natural
wood (timber)
Task 7- Manufacturing woods
Woods
Manufacturing processes associated with wood can be group into addition, wasting and forming processes. You
need to be able to identify which processes are used with specific products, and recognise how the production
method changes with different scales of production.
Addition
Traditional wood joints. You need to now about 8 types of joints: Butt, dowel, mitre, comb, dovetail,
mortise and tenon, housing and half lap joint.
Knock-down fittings. These are used to manufacture flat-pack furniture. You need to know about 3
fittings: Modesty blocks, barrel and bolt and cam-lock connector.
Wood screws: Wood screws have a coarser pitch (fewer thread per inch) compared to screws used for
sheet metal. Often, part of the screw- known as the shank- does not have a thread. This makes is easier
for screwing two pieces of timber together where the thread is only needed at the bottom. Bolts can also
be used to join wood.
Wasting processes
Turning. This involves machining wood on a lathe. The wood is rotated and tools applied to remove
material.
Routing. Routers can be used to machine timber to make slots and holes. They can be CNC or manual.
Milling. Similar to routing, but milling machines run at tool slow a speed for machining timber accurately,
but useful for small size, basic jobs such as rough prototypes. Can be operated manually or CNC.
Forming
Lamination. This is the process of bonding materials together. Veneers (thin slices of natural timber) or
thin manufactured boards can be glued together and bent over a former.
Steam bending. Heat and steam enables strips of timber to be made pliable so that they can be shaped
over a former. Quicker than laminating- no glue drying time, also less wasteful as laminating usually
requires trimming to final size.
Manufacturing wood
1. What are the three processes associated with manufacturing wood?
2. Explain 3 ‘Addition’ methods. Try to include examples of products that
have been manufactured using these methods (use the internet to help
you, if available).
3. Explain 3 ‘wasting’ methods. Try to include examples of products that
have been manufactured using these methods (use the internet to help
you, if available).
4. Explain 2 ‘forming’ methods. Try to include examples of products that
have been manufactured using these methods (use the internet to help
you, if available).
Task 8- Adhesives
Woods- Adhesives, jigs and fixtures (page 80-82)
Adhesives
Adhesives are substances used to stick materials together.
PVA – Commonly used to bond wood-base materials together. Water based and
white in colour. Not usually waterproof. Typically used to bond wooden joints for
indoor furniture / products in the home.
Contact adhesives – Used for large areas such as sheet material. Can be used to
join the same or different materials together i.e. wood sheet / metal sheet /
polymer sheet. Sets in 10 minutes, used for bonding MF sheet to chipboard for
kitchen worktop.
UV hardening – a clear liquid which ‘cures’ to form a bond when exposed to UV
light. Contains a photo initiator, which means that as it absorbs the UV light
wavelength, it begins to cure and set to a solid bond. Used to join metal, glass
and polymers. Often used in workshop projects made form polymers such as
lighting. Any excess adhesive can wiped away prior to being exposed to UV light.
Solvent cement - Tensol is an example of this- it is an acrylic cement. Works by
softening the surface of the polymers to be joined , allowing them to fuse
together. Used in plumbing to bond non-pressure pipes made from ABS or PVC.
Also used in schools for joint acrylic parts of project work.
Jigs and Fixtures
A fixture is something that holds work in a given position while a manufacturing
process takes place. A jig both holds the work and guides a tool. Used to ensure that
parts or components can be made repeatedly and accurately. They can also speed up
manufacture. Mitre blocks are an example- used to cut 45 degree angles.
Sanding jigs – Used to hols and guide timber as it is sanded in disk or belt sanders.
Routing jigs – Can be used with routers to help shape wood accurately and
consistently.
Task- Adhesives, jigs and
fixtures.
1. Explain 4 wood adhesives and
include examples of where
they are used. You could
answer this / present the
information in a table.
2. Explain the use and
application of Jigs and
Fixtures.
3. Give an example of a product
that has been manufactured
with the use of a jog or
fixture.
Task 9 - Finishing wood
Finishes
Purpose of finishing wood is:
Prevent the wood from absorbing moisture
Protect against decay
Protect against insect attack
Enhance the appearance of the final product
Natural wood can degrade in the following ways:
Altering wetness and dryness means that moisture is
absorbed into the wood. Although the surface may
dry out, moisture remains below the surface. This
wet rot leads to breaking down of the wood fibres
and a fungus can spread throughout the wood. This
converts wood into a soft, crumbly state.
Insects can also lay eggs in the cracks in the wood
and the hatched larvae eat into the wood creating
tunnels.
Before applying a finish, good surface prep is essential.
They should be planed or sanded with glass paper.
Sanding should be done in direction of the grain to
avoid scratching the surface. When using glass paper,
start with the roughest (most coarse) progressing to
finer grades.
You need to know about 6 different finishes for wood.
Polyurethane varnish and acrylic
varnish
Available in gloss. satin and matt. Clear
or coloured. Several thin coats should
be used with sanding down with fine
glass paper between coats. Provides
hard, tough, heatproof, waterproof
finish. Clear finish allows the grain of
the wood to be seen through the finish
Water-based paints
Available in gloss, satin, matt and
metallic effects. Applied with rush,
roller or spray. Treat knots with
knotting before applying paint to
prevent resin oozing out and spoiling
the finish. It can then be primed and
then an undercoat applied prior to
paint finish. Provides protection and
colour. Indoor and outdoor use.
Stains
Available in many different colours and
types such as mahogany and walnut.
Apply with brush, roller or spray.
Surfaces should be grease-free prior to
application. Water or spirit based. Used
to colour inexpensive wood to make it
look like more expensive timber. No
specific protective qualities.
Wax
Available I clear and coloured waxes.
Apply with brush and then buff clean
once dry. High provide a high gloss
finish. Was increases surface hardness
and toughness. Clear finish allows grin
of wood to be seen through wax.
Pressure treating
Wood is placed in a pressure vessel
containing solution consisting of copper
sulphate and other preserving salts or
preservatives. Vacuum and pressure are
controlled to force perseveration deep
into fibres of the wood and then the
wood is steam dried. Protects wood for
50 from rot, insects, fungal attack and
weathering. Used for decking and
cladding.
Danish oil
Available in clear and coloured tints.
Rub the oil into the wood with a cloth
in direction of grain. Not a very
hardwearing finish but regular
application and additional coats build
up a matt, water-resistant finish.
Task- Finishing wood
1. State 4 purposes for finishing wood.
2. Explain 2 ways that natural wood can decay.
3. Why is surface preparation essential prior to finishing?
4. Present information of the 6 different types of finishes. This work could be a visual piece of
work, such as a poster, or simple power point slides of research. Your work should include
information about each finish, examples of where it is used and images / sketches to support
the information.
Task 10- properties of
materials
Material properties and classification
There are two principle categories of material properties: Mechanical and
physical.
Mechanical properties are associated with how a material reacts to an
external force
Physical properties are associated with the actual make-up or structure of
the material
Mechanical properties of materials:
Compressive strength-ability to withstand being crushed.
Tensile strength- ability to resist stretching
Bending strength- ability to resist forces that bend the material
Shear strength- ability to resist sliding forces on a parallel plane
Torsional strength hardness- ability to withstand twisting forces
Hardness- ability to resist abrasive wear such as scratching
Toughness- ability to absorb impact force without fracture.
Plasticity- ability to be permanently deformed (shaped), and retai8n the
deformed shape
Ductility- ability to be drawn out under tension, reducing the cross sectional
area without cracking.
Malleability- ability to withstand deformation by compression without
cracking.
Elasticity- ability to be deformed and then return to the original shape when
the force is removed.
Physical properties of materials:
Electrical properties.
Electrical conductor- allows flow of electricity
Electrical insulator- does not allow the flow of electricity through the
material
Thermal properties
Thermal conductor- allows the transfer of heat energy through the
material. High thermal conductivity allows transfer of heat to occur
quickly across the material.
Thermal insulator- prevents the transfer of heat through the material
Thermal expansion- the increase in material volume to a heat input
Optical properties
Opaque- prevents light from travelled through
Translucent- allows light through but diffuses the light so that objects
appear blurred. Frosted glass is an example.
Transparent- allows light to pass through easily which means you can see
clearly through the material.
Density- the mass of the material in and standard volume of space.
Fusibility- ability of the material to be fused or converted from a solid to a
liquid or molten state, usually by heat. Good fusibility is an essential property
for a metal being cast.
Magnetism- the natural force between objects that causes the material to
attract iron or steels.
Corrosion / degradation resistance- ability of the material to withstand
environmental attach and decay.
Task
1. Define the 2 principle categories of
material properties.
2. List the mechanical properties of a
material- give examples.
3. List the physical properties of a material-
give examples.
4. Above is a stainless steel sink. Give three
physical and three mechanical properties
of the metal used for the kitchen sink. In
each case, state why the property is
suitable for this product.
Task 11- Product Analysis
exam question
Product analysis- outdoor products- Plastic V Hardwoods.
Compare the two types of chairs below, one plastic, one wooden. Evaluate their suitability for long term
use in an outdoor environment [10 marks].
Task
1. Use your revision guide (‘Pocket Posters’- the book you also have access to a digital version of) to
plan content for an answer to the above question. If you have left the book at school, use the
internet to help you with this (where available). You should spend a maximum of 30 minutes
planning this.
1. Think about how you will evaluate their suitability for long term outdoor use. Consider
advantages and disadvantages of each, and remember to draw conclusions.
2. You should consider materials, sources of materials, finishes, use and recyclability (and more)
in your answer
2. Once planned, write / type the answer in essay form. You should spend 20 minutes maximum writing
this.
WARNING- ANSWERS / THINGS TO MENTION ARE ON THE NEXT SLIDE. ONLY LOOK AT THEM ONCE YOU
HAVE COMPLETED THIS TASK. THIS IS SO YOU CAN CHECK YOUR ANSWERS.
Product analysis- outdoor products- Plastic V Hardwoods.
Compare the two types of chairs below. Evaluate their suitability for long term use in an outdoor
environment [10 marks].
Polymer chair Hardwood chair
Manufactured by one piece redistribution Contain oils which prevent decay
Self-finish material, requiring no additional processing
which may peel or chip
Polyurethane waterproof varnish
UV stabilisers can be added to prevent colour
degradation and increased brittleness.
Microporous finish can be added
Colour all through the plastic- makes scratches less
obvious
Finish has to be reapplied on a regular basis.
Not affected by frost, moisture, fungal or insect attack-
non porous
Timber could be pressure treated with chemical preservatives,
increasing longevity
Light weight material, easier to store / move Wood preservatives can have a combined stain or colour to
improve aesthetics
Susceptible to insect attack.
Task 12- Product Analysis task
using mnemonics - free choice of
product
Being able to analyse and evaluate existing products in detail is key- for both the NEA and
the exam.
1. Choose a product of your choice to analyse- this could be a football boot/ toaster/
remote control/ anything.
2. Produce a detailed analysis of the product using the Mnemonics on the following slide.
Try to address each Mnemonic bullet point in detail- this will pay dividends in the
exam.
If you are unsure of a Mnemonic on the list, use the internet to read around /
research it.
If possible, disassemble / take apart to aid your analysis / include photos
Suggest possible modifications / changes that could be made to improve the
product
3. Prepare a presentation for the analysis:
Use paper or any software to produce the presentation i.e. PPT/ Publisher/ Adobe
InDesign
Presentation / layout of your work should be suitable for hand outs-
comprehensive, yet easy to follow
Product Analysis / Disassembly
Task 13 – Product Analysis
exam question
Philippe Starck
French designer who has famously worked on kitchenware for Alessi. (Alessi is a
housewares and kitchen utensil company in Italy, producing everyday items from plastic
and metal, created by famous designers).
Some of his designs can be regarded as postmodern sculptural pieces, focussing on
aesthetics before function.
However, his work in architecture and interior design is aimed at ‘democratic design’ for
the population rather than the elite.
Starck challenges perceptions and aims to enhance the experience of the user through
playful and thought-provoking design.
His desire to experiment with modern materials and manufacturing processes make him a
highly influential designer.
Very high centre of gravity and becomes
unstable during juicing.
The head of the juicer is large
enough for a lemon, but when
juicing an orange, much of the
fruit is missed due to the small
diameter.
The tripod legs exit the body of the
juicer at an angle to prevent juice
running down the legs. This also
widens the base of the juicer to
increase stability and allow a glass to
be place under the juicer.
The form of the product is striking and lends itself
to being displayed in a kitchen, rather than stored in
a drawer as with most juicers.
Juicy Salif- Designed by Starck for Alessi in 1990
Cast aluminium with
polished finish.
TASK
Look at the polypropylene juicer below:
1. Use the internet (where available) to Plan
and write an answer to following
question:
“For each lemon juicer, compare the
materials used and their suitability.” [10
marks].