Design and Technology key terms

A combination of different fibre types mixed together before they are spun into yarn.

Joining metals by melting a lower-melting-point filler into a close-fitting joint without melting the parent metals.

A reusable board that allows electronic components to be connected and rearranged without soldering, so a circuit can be tested.

The tendency to fracture with little bending or deformation.

Purchasing a large quantity at once, often at a lower price per unit.

An output device that converts electrical energy into a simple audible tone or buzz, usually to attract attention.

Computer-aided design: the use of software to create, explore and modify designs.

Computer-aided manufacture: using digital data to control machinery that makes a product or component.

The movement of liquid through a narrow gap; in brazing it draws molten filler between closely fitted metal parts.

The greenhouse gas emissions associated with a product or activity across its life cycle, including carbon dioxide released by burning fossil fuels.

Opaque drawing paper with a slightly rough surface, commonly used for pencil sketches and ink drawings.

Forming a shape by introducing molten material into a mould and allowing it to solidify.

Computer-aided testing: the use of software to analyse how a design is likely to perform, such as its strength.

A substance in plant cell walls whose fibres can be separated and used to make paper and board.

A pointed tool struck with a hammer to make an indentation that locates a drill tip on metal.

A sloping face made by removing the corner between two surfaces.

A holding device with jaws that grip a workpiece in a machine.

An approach that keeps products and materials in use through routes such as reuse and recycling rather than discarding them after one use.

A person, group or organisation commissioning a product or asking for it to be designed.

The four colours commonly used for full-colour printing: cyan, magenta, yellow and black. K stands for key and refers to black.

Computer numerical control: the control of manufacturing machinery using programmed numerical instructions, including coordinates for tool movements.

A metal with a surface layer of another material added to improve properties such as corrosion resistance, durability or appearance.

Working with other people to share ideas, knowledge and feedback when solving a design problem.

The ability of a textile to retain its colour during use, including washing and exposure to sunlight.

A separate part used within a product or system, such as a bolt, washer or rivet.

A material made by combining two or more different materials to give an enhanced combination of properties.

A pushing action that tends to squash or shorten a material.