2. Use properties and structure-property relationships

2.1 Main application properties of metal alloys

Metals and alloys can be used in a wide variety of applications, and the choice of material and processing depends first and foremost on the most precise possible specifications for the intended conditions of use. An initial technical and economic screening generally quickly rejects alloys that make overly broad compromises: there's no point in using a highly alloyed and very pure steel (vacuum remelted, for example), treated to a high yield point, to make a beam in welded construction... Experience attaches to each family of alloys specific conditions of use and potential applications, which can be modified by the technical and economic context as new requirements arise.

More generally, any part can be broken...