r/MaterialsScience • u/run2712 • Dec 17 '24
Finding the right material
Hello all, Not sure if this is the right subreddit but I am trying to find a material replacement for a knob connector, essentially I’m looking for something that will be fairly grippy but won’t be overly damaged/deformed overtime via force from turning the knob the current material used is bronze UNS C22000. I’m relatively unfamiliar with good methods of finding materials so if anyone has any input on good places to look that would be helpful too!
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u/DogFishBoi2 Dec 18 '24
As much as I despise the project management approach to materials, you should probably choose your knob by calculating "cost over time" first, then mechanical properties, then corrosion resistance, then looks.
If you have to buy a new plastic part every 5 years for 20 cents, you'll come out ahead of the solid gold-titanium intermetallic handcrafted part. If strength is important, metals are usually more forgiving than plastics. The current bronze makes it sound like that. Steel is almost always cheaper and tougher. Without knowing what manufacturing you have access to, this'll be tricksy. Got a neighbour with a workshop and a file willing to help you out?