Ductile

Definition

The ability of a material to deform under tensile load.

Purpose

Ductility is a critical property in materials that allows them to stretch or bend without breaking, which is essential for applications requiring flexibility and toughness under stress.

Examples of Use

1. Metal Forming: Materials like steel and aluminum are ductile, allowing them to be formed into various shapes without cracking.
2. Construction: Ductile materials are used in building structures to absorb energy and resist fractures under loads.
3. Manufacturing: Ductile materials are used to produce wires, pipes, and other components that require bending and shaping.

Related Terms

• Tensile Strength: The maximum amount of tensile stress that a material can withstand before failure.
• Malleability: The ability of a material to deform under compressive load.
• Brittle: A material that breaks without significant deformation.

Notes

• Ductile materials are preferred in applications where toughness and resistance to impact and fatigue are essential.
• The ductility of a material is influenced by its composition and treatment processes.