Moldability: meaning, definitions and examples
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moldability
[ ˈmoʊldəˌbɪlɪti ]
physical characteristics
Moldability refers to the quality or capacity of a material to be shaped or formed into a particular configuration or structure. This property is crucial in manufacturing processes where materials are altered to meet specific design requirements. High moldability allows for more complex shapes and enhancements in the production process.
Synonyms
ductility, formability, shapeability.
Examples of usage
- The moldability of the clay makes it easy to create intricate designs.
- Engineers consider the moldability of metals when designing components.
- This polymer exhibits excellent moldability in injection molding processes.
Etymology
The term moldability originates from the word 'mold', which has roots in Old French 'moule' (to shape) and Latin 'māldāre' (to serve as a model). The suffix '-ability' implies the quality of being able to do something. As industrial techniques evolved, especially during the late 19th and 20th centuries, the importance of moldability became more pronounced with the rise of manufacturing processes involving plastics and metals. This term is now commonly used in engineering, materials science, and product design to describe how easily a material can be shaped or formed.