Furniture Design and Construction Flashcards
This should be deliberate or intentional and should involve careful, organized and systematic logical thinking and planning.
Design
The person who devises or executes designs.
Designer
Primary purpose of design
To fulfill human satisfaction
It is based on the principle of free association and gives no restriction to imagination. It puts quantity before quality.
Intuitive Technique
Aims at setting off the creative forces by directly approaching the subconscious creative part of the human mind. It sets no limit to imagination and purposely suspends reason and logical thinking.
Brainstorming
This technique was developed from experience with brainstorming session, aimed at increasing the output from brainstorming.
Brainwriting
This is the direct way of having 26 or more ideas that pertain to the problem. Start by listing all letters of the alphabet then for each letter, list a word or phrase that begins with that letter and somehow pertain to the problem you are attempting to solve.
Alphabetical Listing
Combines different, seemingly unrelated elements.
Synectics
Generates new ideas by solving the problem in a riddle-like or puzzle-like technique.
Delphi Method
Instead of thinking about how you can improve a situation, think about how you could make it worse.
Inversion
Instead of offering a description of something by recording what you read in the dictionary, associate it with something else, preferably something familiar.
Description by Association
Based on the principle of splitting up the problem into sub problems and solving them one by one.
Logical or Systematic Technique
Redefines the problem first to an underlying more basic problem and then split up into its elements or sub-problems.
Morphology
A technique that does not aim at stimulating the creative idea generating process but systematically examines and analyzes objects of nature for possible adaptation as solution to some technical problems.
Bionics
Instead of thinking about what an object will look like, think about what function it will perform.
Functional Visualization
This logical approach will generally have a higher level of success. A comprehensive problem is split up into more and more minute sub-problems until the whole problem has become a network of interrelated problems.
Problem Area Analysis and Functional Analysis
Basic Criteria for Good Design
Physiological and Psychological Feature
Historical and Cultural Factor
Aesthetics Consideration
This makes use of the basic outline of the furniture as a grid. By connecting structural points which are required either by construction or function, variations on form are performed.
Structural Form Development
Makes use of previous designs as basis for improvements
Morphological Form Development
Variations on geometric forms
Geometric Form Development
Nature often provides inspiration for fresh and exciting ideas
Form Development Based on Nature
Design ideas can be based on various sources other than nature
Form Development Based from Various Sources
Craftsmanship is key in this handmade folk style. It originated as an anti-industrial reaction and also stood for social economic reform.
Arts and Crafts
This innocuous style is recognizable through the use of simplified shapes, a mix of soft and smooth texture. “Modern classics/Contemporary classics”
Classic and Contemporary
This style has evolved considerably since its birth and is now a combination of the old and new ideals. Some ideas are influenced by nature, futuristic style and cutting edge aspects; others lean toward industrial, technical and oversimplified style. Refers to what is popular or current now.
Contemporary
Cozy, quaint feel with mixture of colors and prints. Distressed wood, antiques that have an old barn or farmhouse vibe.
Country
Essentially the combination of all others. Typically incorporating vintage and bright colors.
Eclectic
This style originated in the 1900s with the Bauhaus Movement, an architectural and visual ideal where form and function came together. Furniture was being mass produced. New materials including chrome, black leather, glass and ultrasuede.
Modern
Furniture comprised partly or wholly of locally found materials such as bark, roots, branches, burls and other natural forms.
Rustic
Originating from Britain, relies mainly on flea market finds that are usually refinished. Anything with roses on it. It is a soft, relaxed, feminine, romantic way of decorating that looks comfortable and inviting. Also called cottage style.
Shabby Chic
Regal and often detailed furnishings from a variety of different time periods. Considered classic and exudes an ageless feel.
Traditional
The offspring of traditional and contemporary furniture which takes aspects from color and finish and materials and fabrics. Embraces a livable and soft appeal while radiating a classic flair. Lack of ornamentation and decoration keeps the focus on simplicity and sophistication of the design. Comfort and practicality.
Transitional
Aged finishes, iron scrollwork and intricate patterns. Begins with travertine or terracotta tiles, travel up textures or plastered walls, beamed ceiling. Warm earth tones.
Tuscan
Devices that make it possible to work materials when hand alone is not enough.
Hand tools
Used both for measuring and for making straight lines.
Rigid rule, folding rule or zigzag, flexible rule, open reel measuring tape, digital laser measuring tape
Rules and Meters
Used when testing for right angles, checking for “squares” as well as for marking
Squares/ “Eskwala”
A combination of marking and measuring device; distance is set from the point to the guide with a rule; marks straight line
Marking gauge
Used to measure diameters
Caliper
Common saws used for rough cutting
Hand saws
For cutting wood across the grain with uneven teeth
Crosscut saw
For cutting wood along the grain with chisel-like teeth
Rip saw
For cutting curves in thin wood; not intended for sawing straight lines
Coping saw
Used for making wood surfaces smooth and flat
Hand plane
Used by the old blacksmith and wagonmaker for shaping spokes for wooden wheel; for tapering legs and for rounded shapes
Spoke shave
Used for smoothing curves usually on edges of stock following sawing
Files/ “Liha”
Used for fitting joints in wood and for shaping edges
Chisels
Chisels with hollow blades used in roughing out concave terms and for mouldings
Gouges
Used for boring holes 1/4” and larger
Augerbrace and bit
Used for drilling small holes usually not larger than 1/4”
Hand drill
Original purpose was to drive screws but also handy for opening paint cans, prying open boxes etc
Screwdriver
Screwdriver with a flat tip
Standard Screwdriver/ Flat Screwdriver
Screwdriver with an x-shaped tip
Phillips screwdriver
Relies on the pushing force rather than a twisting force
Spiral ratchet screwdriver
Tools that require power supplied by forces other than humans.
Machine tools/ Power tools
Resembles a power driven coping saw designed especially for cutting line curves and details in stock up to approx. an inch in thickness. Aka scroll saw
Jig saw
Has an endless blade travelling around two pulleys that cuts curves and straight lines in thin and thick stock
Band saw
A power driven rotary cutting tool with toothed circular blade. Aka bench or table saw
Circular saw
An upside down saw with teethed circular saw. Motor and blade are suspended above the worktable. Blade can be raised, lowered, turned and tilled.
Radial Arm saw
Automatically surfaces stock to thickness and relies on vibration
Planer
Originally designed for accurate, quick drilling of holes but with some attachments can also be used for boring, routing, shaping and countersinking.
Drill Press
The machine in which wood is shaped into round and cylindrical shapes such as bowls, lamps and table legs.
Wood lathe
Specialized in cutting shaped edges, moldings, picture frame stock and the like.
Spindle shaper
Includes many types like disc, belt, drum, spindle and sheet. Like papel de liha in round form.
Sanding machine
Designed primarily for drilling and boring but with attachments, this could also be used as sanders, buffers, polishers and drivers.
Electric drill
A portable, circular saw especially used for cross cutting, ripping and mitering
Electric handsaw
Portable shaper moved through the work instead of work being moved through the cutter as in the regular shaper.
Router shaper
Most prevalent raw material for furniture industries with unique and valuable qualities offering numerous species.
Wood
Timber sawn or split in the form of beams, boards, joists, planks etc.
Lumber
These are coniferous or cone-bearing, needle-leafed usually evergreen tree.
Softwood
These are deciduous or broad leafed trees. Presence of pores or vessels.
Hardwood
Most Common Philippine Wood Species
Most expensive wood used for furniture and panelings, for expensive floorings, door panels, stairs and plywood veneer and facings. Pale yellow to red. Hard to cut with fine texture,
Narra
Most Common Philippine Wood Species
Both hardwoods, used for posts and girders or jambs attached to concrete. Also for wooden decks having flooring and railing exposed to weather.
Yakal and Guijo
Most Common Philippine Wood Species
Softwood used for panelings, sidings, flooring and furniture. Also used for framings and trusses.
Pine Benguet
Most Common Philippine Wood Species
The most common lumber in the market used generally for framings, joists, trusses, nailers etc. Also known as Philippine Mahogany. Red to dark red (pinkish). Interlocking grain and ribbon figure. Moderately hard to cut.
Tanguile
Most Common Philippine Wood Species
For framings, chests, jewelry boxes. Moderately coarse texture. Interlocking grain.
White and Red Lauan
Most Common Philippine Wood Species
Hardwood for chests, jewel boxes, stair frames. Very hard to cut. Also used for house construction. Black with brownish streaks.
Kamagong
Most Common Philippine Wood Species
Used for panelings and plywood veneer. Greenish or light brown with dark brown bands. Hard to cut,
Dao
Most Common Philippine Wood Species
Similar to pine. Used for paneling.
Almaciga
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Light or grayish brown to reddish brown. Striking grain figure and large open pores. Heavy, strong and hard; durable under exposure; great wear resistance.
Oak
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Creamy white to light reddish brown. Frequently straight grained and tiny wood pores. Bird’s eye pattern and special burl figures. Heavy, hard, strong and stiff with good shock resistance.
Maple
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Light gray brown to dark purple brown. Very strong and stable, only moderately heavy and stiff. Good shock resistance.
Walnut
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Cream color to light reddish brown. Visible resin canals and obvious growth rings. Moderately light, soft and stiff. Good shock resistance.
Pine
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Creamy white to light reddish brown; extremely small pores. Heavy, hard strong and stiff with very good shock resistance.
Birch
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Light to dark reddish brown. Straight grain and small individual pores. Moderately hard and heavy. Good shock and weather resistance.
Cherry
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Grayish through creamy white through to a reddish dark brown. Distinct straight grain and open pores. Tough, heavy and hard with good shock resistance.
Ash
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Yellowish brown through reddish brown to dark red. Frequently highly figured grain pattern and open wood pores. Extremely stable, moderately hard even textured and heavy.
Mahogany
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Very light brown hardwood. Distinct straight grain and open pores. Turns well and is easily worked. Commonly used as bentwood
Beech
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Light yellow to brownish yellow with green tinge. Even texture and straight grain pattern with barely visible pores. Medium to light weight only moderately hard, stiff and shock resistant.
Poplar
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Tawny yellow yo dark brown with frequent lighter and darker streaks. Pattern very similar to that of walnut. Heavy, strong, oily and tough. Solid outdoor furniture. “Water-born” wood because oily.
Teak
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Creamy white to reddish brown. Occasional dark streaks and large wood pores. Very heavy, closed grain, hard and strong.
Pecan
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Light brown to dark brown containing shades of red. Straight grain with obvious light and dark boundaries. Moderately heavy and hard; good shock resistance; excellent bending qualities.
Elm
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Various shades of dark brown to dark purple. Conspicuous dark streaks. Large open wood pores. Very hard, very heavy with extremely coarse texture. With straight grain/ ribbon grain.
Rosewood
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Creamy white to yellowish with obvious difference between spring and summer growth rings. Moderately heavy, hard and stiff. Pronounced resin canal and wild grain markings make this a difficult wood to finish.
Fir
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Deep reddish brown with obvious alternating spring and summer growth rings. Light, strong, stiff. Good for veneers.
Redwood
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Light red with light colored streaks. Knotty pattern and other natural markings always present. Highly aromatic and moderately hard though brittle.
Cedar
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Pale reddish brown; obvious wide growth pattern and small wood pores. Moderately heavy and hard; fine textured and good shock resistance.
Sycamore
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Pale to dark brown with occasional red streaks. Large open wood pores. Soft to medium texture. Only moderate shock resistance.
Butternut
Most Common Imported Wood Species
Creamy white to creamy brown with frequent reddish markings. Faint growth rings and broad wood raise which are darker than the background wood. Low resistance to shock.
Basswood
8 important properties to be considered on choice of timber
Strength, Workability, Drying properties, Bending qualities, Grain structure and figure pattern, Finishing, Resistance to weathering and insect damage
Commonly called air drying or sun drying.
Natural drying
Done in a dry kiln where lumber is artificially dried. Used for more expensive lumber.
Kiln-drying
Surfaced one side. Used for framing.
S1S
Surfaced two sides. Used for framing or as substrate for cladding on both sides
S2S
Surfaced four sides; often used for parts with exposed sides and carving details
S4S
Dimensions of a piece of wood before it is planed down
Nominal size
Dimensions of lumber after it has been dressed
Actual size
Nominal size of a dressed lumber. A piece of lumber that is 12” wide, 1” thick and 1’ long
Board foot
Fibers running in the same direction as the main axis of the tree
Straight grain
Grains are in successive layers and in opposite direction
Inter-locked grain
Constantly changing in orientation so that a line drawn parallel to their direction appears as wavy lines
Wavy or curly grain
Result when a straight grained log is not sawn along its vertical axis
Diagonal grain
Fibers follow a spiral course with a twist that is either right or left handed
Spiral grain
Fibers in varying or irregular form
Irregular grain
When wood is cut parallel to the grain direction and tangent to the growth rings
Plain/Tangential or Flat Grain
When board is cut parallel to the grain direction but through the radius of the growth rings
Quarter or Radial Grain
When board is cut across the grain (perpendicular to the grain direction and growth rings)
End grain
Most common sawing method which produces the highest quantity of usable lumber. “Sawing around” the log. Boards produced show flat grain on their faces and quarter grain on their edges
Plain sawing
Sawyer cuts log in quarters then slices each quarter into boards. Boards produced show quarter grain on their faces and flat grain on edges
Quarter sawing
Sometimes called sawing through and through. Produces much wider boards than other methods which show mostly mixed grain; flat grain near the center of the face and quarter grain near the edges.
Live saw
Wood defect that refer to the basal stumps of incipient or cast-off branches. These affect the mechanical strength of timber owing to the abrupt change in the direction of fibers and constitute blemishes which detract from the value.
Knots
Small knots 1/2” or under often caused by shedding of early branches. Usually allowable in prime timber.
Pin knots
Knots sliced through their length during sawing and commonly known as “slash knots”
Spliced knots/ Splay knots
Dead knots which are still sound and difficult to dislodge and often ringed with resin in softwood
Encased knots
Two or three knots springing from a common center
Branched knots
Wood defect caused by extensive splitting on the weakest links
Shakes
Type of shake wherein the log splits from the pith or heart radially along the medullary rays indicating that the tree has passed its prime. Examples include heart shake, double heart shake and star shake
Radial shakes
Type of shake that project inwardly from a definite frost rib on the cambrium as a result of severe weather.
Frost shakes
Type of shake wherein the soft springwood of the log splits away from the harder summerwood, either during seasoning or through shearing stresses in the growing tree caused by old age, excessive bending under strong winds, intense heat etc.
Tangential shakes
Type of tangential shake where shakes run along part of the annual ring only
Cup shakes
Type of tangential shake where log is completely encircled
Ring shakes
Wood defect caused by compression and not by splitting or shearing while the actual rupture is across the grain
Cross shakes
Sometimes known as resin pockets, which can appear as thin veins or shallow cavities filled with resin usually caused by damage to cambrium layer in resinous woods
Pitch pockets/ veins
Repeated damage to cambrium layer by small insects which may show small dots or patches of brown cork deeply buried in some woods notably birch alder and sycamore
Pitch Flecks
Patches of ingrowing bark probably caused by exterior damage to the growing tree
Rind galls
Tissue formed over a wound in a tree resulting in unnatural growth
Callus
Wood defect caused by fungoid disease
Canker
Wood defect referred to as a partially heated fire scar
Cat face
Not normally defined as wood defect because usually enhance the value of timber. Caused by fungal or insect attack irritating the cambium layers resulting in large rapid growths usually at base of the tree or by numerous small twigs which fail to develop owing to insufficient nourishment, forming a dense mass
Burls/Burrs
Artificial wood defect where the plank hollows across the width, forming a rounding on the underface, often due to incorrect pilling.
Cupping or rounding
Artificial wood defect caused by sagging between too widely spaced stickers or by stickers which are not placed exactly over each other
Bowing
Sometimes known as “edge bend” wherein the wood remains flat but bends edgewise on its own plane
Springing
The plank twists on its longitudinal axis with the result that the long edges are straight but the diagonals are curved. Usually known as “in winding”
Twisting
Synonymous terms for distortion in one or more directions
Warping, Casting
The butt end of the plank splits open usually caused by too rapid drying
End splitting
When wood surface is covered with small splits along the grain caused by too rapid drying in hot sun
Sun checking
When the surface of the wood lifts in innumerable small flakes or layers which spring under the cutting action preventing a smooth surface sometimes caused by structural weakness or incorrect seasoning
Flaking
If the wood dried too quickly then the surface dry out at a rate quicker than the rate of movement of moisture resulting to the dry outer layers in tension and the moist interior compression.
Case hardening
If the kiln drying of the case hardened timber is continued to dryness resulting in severe internal stresses and subsequent checking or disruption of the wood fibers not visible from the outside. No cure.
Honeycombing
Characterized by extensive shrinking and warping particularly in springwood
Collapse
Emphasize and enhance the charm of natural wood color and grain
Transparent wood finish
Soak into wood pores to give natural look and feel
Penetrating Finishes
Seals wood pores for protection against water and other destructive elements
Surface Coating
Made from resins dissolved in ethyl alcohol which forms a high gloss film on the surface when dried
Clear Lacquer
Made from various gums and resins dissolved in an oil or alcohol. Gives relatively hard, tough and reasonably elastic finish
Varnish
Varnish made from resin and oil
Oil varnish
Varnish made from resin and alcohol
Spirit varnish
Varnish made from gums derived from plants, insects and vegetable matter
Natural varnish
Varnish made from synthetic resin commonly esterified glycerine
Synthetic varnish
A spirit varnish made by dissolving purified lac flakes in denatured alcohol.
Shellac
Resinous secretion of the female of the lac insect
Lac
Can be achieved by using boiled linseed oil or various other oils
Oil Stain finish
A transparent plastic finish made of polyhydric alcohol esterified with oleic, linoleic, palmetic and stearic fatty acids and modified with tolyrene disocynate and mineral spirits. It is very tough, hard and flexible finish with resistance to chipping, abrasion and dirt retention. Resists solvents, detergents, acids, alkalis and hot and cold water.
Polyurethane finish
Achieved by brushing, rubbing or spraying fatty acids from animals and vegetables, mineral sources combined with alcohol. It usually comes in paste form and liquid form.
Wax or Film
Dyes or pigments suspended in water or oil. It alters coloring of the wood or accentuates its natural color without covering the grains.
Wood stain finish
Achieved by applying one of the various acids and chlorine compound pertained to as bleaching agents. It results to lightening of wood color to yellowish white and neutralizes the color
Bleach finish
Type of bleach that is comparatively weak and is excellent for removing chemicals, dyes, ink and water stains from wood surface if used full strength
Chlorinated laundry bleach
Best bleach to use not only on natural wood colors but also on many water and chemical stains
Oxalic acid
Type of bleach that is fairly expensive and extremely strong which can bring out really light tones on dark wood because of strength
Two-solution bleaches
Type of wood finish that gives a solid finish for protection and decoration
Opaque
A mixture of solid pigment suspended in a liquid vehicle
Paints and Enamels
A finely ground, insoluble substance suspended in a liquid vehicle to impart color and opacity to a paint
Pigment
Type of pigment that is either white lead, oxide, lithophane or titanium
White pigment
Type of pigment derived from minerals or clay
Colored Pigment
Type of pigment made from whitting, talc and silica
Extenders
A nonvolatile fluid in which the solid body material is suspended such as drying oils and varnish
Vehicle
A volatile liquid used to dilute paint or varnish to the desired or proper consistency for ease in application
Thinner
Added to the paint to accelerate the oxidation and hardening of the vehicle
Driers
Simulates appearances and textures of natural materials and offer effects such as antique finish, crackle or crazed finish etc
Decorative and Fanciful finishes
Made of thin veneer sheets glued together one on top of the other with grain of the sheets arranged crosswise. The number of layers is usually odd with symmetric structure.
Plywood
Usual available size of plywood
4’ x 8’ x 1/8”-1” thickness
Series of wood core strips glued together side by side to form a slab which is sandwiched between outer layers of veneer or thin plywood whose grains are crossed at right angles to the length of the core strips
Plyboard
Composed of wood chips carefully graded, mixed with synthetic resin glue and either pressured or extruded into rigid, self-supporting sheets of uniform thickness which are sanded down to close tolerances
Particle board
Same construction as fiberboards except that it has thin outer pressed melamine finish
Melamine board
Dense hardboard used for back panels and drawer bottoms
Fiber board
Long chain molecular structures evolved from common elements by chemical synthesis
Plastics
All plastics are polymers and all polymers may be regarded as potential plastics. True or false?
True
Plastic that can be softened and resoftened without deformation
Thermoplastic
Plastic that deforms when heated
Thermoset
Type of thermoset plastic which can be foamed. It is more expensive than polysterene but will accept staples if upholstered. It has very high thermal resistance with low water absorption and low water vapor permeability. Can also be used as thermal insulation for roofs, cavity walls, perimeter, refrigeration, pipe lagging. Core material for sandiwich panels and for flotation and protective packaging furniture
Polyurethane
Type of thermoset plastic foam that must have tacking strips applied when upholstered
Polysterene
Type of plastic that form rigid shell structures
Rigid Foam Plastics
Type of thermoset plastic foam which has relatively low resistance for given thickness. High strength and very good thermal stability. Used as insulation for flat roofs and core material for sandwich panels
Phenol-formaldehyde (Phenolic Foam)
Type of thermoset plastic foam which has high thermal resistance but low mechanical strength. High water absorption and high water vapor permeability. Used as cavity wall insulation
Urea-formaldehyde
Type of thermoset plastic foam which has good insulation efficiency. High strength and good chemical and moisture resistance. Because of relatively high cost, use restricted to spray applications for storage tanks, vessels and as core material for sandwich panels.
Epoxy
Also known as acrylic sheet (polymethyl methacrylate) readily available in clear, transparent, pastel shades, full colors and transfusing and fluorescent colors in thickness from 1/25” (1mm) to 1/2” (12.5mm) in color and up to 2” (50mm) in clear sheet. Also supplied in clear rod and tube up to 1” (25mm) diameter.
Perspex
Thermoplastic that can be cold drawn to five times its original strength. Resilient, noiseless and frictionless which can be used in knock down fittings.
Nylon (Polyamide)
Familiarly known as Formica, Wilson Art, Consulweld etc. Composed of layers of craft paper impregnated with phenolic resins.
Decorative Plastic Laminates
Known under the trade name Bakelite. In the form of powder, granules, reinforced laminates. Used in pan handles, knobs, electrical switch covers and appliance parts
Phenolic Resin
Familiarly known as Formica, Wilson Art, Consulweld etc. Composed of layers of craft paper impregnated with phenolic resins.
Decorative Plastic Laminates
Known under the trade name Bakelite. In the form of powder, granules, reinforced laminates. Used in pan handles, knobs, electrical switch covers and appliance parts. THERMOSET
Phenolic Resin
Known under the trade names Beetle and Oref. In the form of liquids and pastes used in light switches, turning devices, coatings, structural coverings when reinforced with glass fibers. THERMOSET
Polyester resin
Known under the trade name Araldite in the form of liquids and pastes, used as a bonding agent, encapsulating, surface coating and laminating. THERMOSET
Epoxy resin (Epoxide)
Known under the trade names Formica and Melaware in the form of laminates, granules and powder. Used in buttons, laminated surfaces and industrial baking enamel, cookers and refrigerators. THERMOSET
Melamine-formaldehyde resin
Known under the trade name Suprasec in the form of rigid and flexible foams, coatings. Used in insulating materials and foams if rigid and in upholstery, mattresses and paints if flexible. THERMOSET
Polyurethane
Known under the trade name Aerolite used in the form of powder, syrup and granules. Used in adhesives, laminating timber, coating of paper and textiles, electrical fittings. THERMOSET
Urea-formaldehyde resin
Known under the trade name Cycolac in the form of powder and granules. Used in kitchenware, clock and camera cases, lego toys, crash helmets. THERMOPLASTIC
Acrylnitrile-Butadeline Styrene (ABS)
Known under the trade names Corvic and Welvic in the form of powder and pastes used in pipes, plumbing fittings, corrugated roofing, packaging, textiles and upholstery. THERMOPLASTIC
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Known under the trade names Perspex and Diakon in the form of sheet, rod and tube. Used in display signs and cases, lenses, dials, furniture and jewelry. THERMOPLASTIC
Polymethyl methacrylate (acrylic)
Known under the trade names Maranyl and Kapton in the form of powder, granules, rod, tube and sheet. Used in bristles, textiles, clothing, stockings and upholstery. THERMOPLASTIC
Polyamide (Nylon)
Known under the trade names Rigidex, Alkathene and Visqueen in hard and soft forms. Used in household wares, bags for food, bottles, electric cable coating and food containers, lamps, shades, toys, model kits, yogurt carton THERMOPLASTIC
Polythene or Polythylene
Known under the trade name Lustrex Styron in the form of powder, granules sheet, expanded foam, beads and slabs. Used in packaging and insulation. THERMOPLASTIC
Polysterene
Known under the trade name Propathene in the form of powders, granules and sheet. Used in crates, chair seats, ropes, plumbing fittings and kitchenware. THERMOPLASTIC
Polypropylene
Known under the trade names Teflon and Fluon in the form of powder used in coatings, gaskets and plumber’s tape. THERMOPLASTIC
Polytetrafluoroethene
Known under the trade name Dexel in the form of powder, film, sheet and rod. Used in photography film, packaging, spectacle frames and toothbrush handles, THERMOPLASTIC
Cellulose acetate
Also called melamine. Often used for cabinet boxes.
Low pressure laminate
Expensive but with a durable color finish sprayed on cabinetry usually over an MDF substrate
Polyester
A thermal activated vinyl composition that forms to any configurations with heat and glue. Shrink-wraps entire door, similar to laminate in terms of maintenance and colorfulness
Thermafoil
Layers of compressed resin and paper adhered to a substrate. Popular for its easy maintenance and durability. Whites are slow to yellow
High Pressure Laminate
Material that is hygienic, non-porous, with smooth surfaces, tough and with great strength making it suitable for hospital, kitchen, school, office and dismountable furniture.
Metal
Type of metal composed mainly of iron with small additions of other metals or substances
Ferrous Metals
Iron with traces of silicate. Tough and ductile. Used in decorative work such as screens and grills
Wrought Iron
Iron with small amounts of carbon, silicon, sulfur etc. Used in cylinder blocks, piston rings, vice/vise bodies, fire backs, manhole covers
Cast Iron
Iron with 0.3 percent carbon used as general purpose metal used in bar, rods, sheet, rolled section and angle form; also in nuts, bolts, screws, tubing, furniture
Mild steel
Steel with chromium and nickel used in cutlery, furniture and frames
Stainless steel
Composition varied by addition of different elements such as nickel, chromium, copper and manganese to molten steel. Used in saws, chisels, plane irons, scissors, knives, hammer heads and springs
Tool and alloy steel
Has high resistance to corrosion. Used in making sheet steel and metal lathe
Copper-bearing steel
Metals that contain little or no iron
Non-ferrous metals
Lustrous, silver-white, magnetic, lightweight metal which is very malleable, has good thermal and electrical conductivity. Used in kitchen utensils, furniture and fittings
Aluminum
Pure metal, lustrous, reddish-brown, highly-ductile and malleable. Used in hot water pipes, electrical parts and decorative work.
Copper
Pure metal, soft, malleable, heavy metal. Very easy to cut and work enabling it to be fitted over uneven surfaces. Used in plumbing flashings, container linings and weighting objects
Lead
Pure metal used as substitute for lead in flashings and linings
Zinc
Used for air vents
Perforated zinc
Pure metal, lustrous white, soft, malleable having a low melting point and is relatively unaffected by exposure to air. Used as base for alloys and a coating for mild steel, rarely used in pure state
Tin
Combination of two or more metals and other substances
Alloys
Copper with tin used in pump units, marine fittings, gears and bearings
Bronze
Aluminum with copper and other metals used in shelving systems, chair legs, pulleys, bolts, rivets, cladding
Duralumin
Copper with zinc used in cabinet hardware, screws, decorative work
Brass
A slow hardening process which takes place in certain alloys
Age-hardening
Ability to break under sharp blow
Brittleness
