Machine Design I:

Static and Fatigue Failure

Module 6: Ashby Plots
Kathryn Wingate, Ph.D.
GWW School of Mechanical Engineering
 Course Overview

• Unit 1: Material Properties in Design

• Strength
• Modulus of Elasticity
• Ashby Plots
• Metals
• Temperature Effects

• Unit 2: Static Failure

• Unit 3: Fatigue Failure

Learning Outcomes

• Learning Outcome 1:
• Understand the applications of Ashby plots

• Learning Outcome 2:
• Become familiar with material values of the modulus
of elasticity (E) and strength (S) in terms of density
(r)
Ashby Plots
• Material selection critical decision

• Systematic process:
• In depth: research, testing, and qualification
• ‘Heritage’ based of success in previous
designs

• M.F. Ashby (Cambridge University) developed

powerful method using material selection charts
• Ashby plots
• Software

• Ashby plots
• Relation between two material properties
across a number of materials
Ashby Plot: Modulus of Elasticity vs. Density

Created in CES EduPack 2016, Granta Design

Ashby Plot: Strength vs. Density

Created in CES EduPack 2016, Granta Design

Ashby Plots
• Compare ratios: stiffness/weight = E/r
• Specific modulus
Material Selection and Ashby Plots
• Many other important considerations in material
selection:
• Operating environment
• Shipping and storage environment
• Cost
• Manufacturing processes
• And more!

• Challenge:
Case Study: Total Hip Replacement
• Determine a list of design considerations for a
total orthopedic hip implant:

• Total hip replacement

• Damage to hip joint
• Trauma
• Necrosis
• Osteoarthritis

• Surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and

bone and implant hip prostheses
• Process here:
• http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/video/hip-
replacement
• More detailed process here:
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYwVaKkRdF4
Author: Bruce Blaus. Title: Hip Replacement
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hip_Replacement.png