Processing and material properties are interdependent. Therefore, the design of plastic products does not only have to meet loading requirements, but also has to comply with processing and material parameters. The product designer always must keep in mind the processing methods and the influence on material properties. The simulation of component behavior, the virtual product testing, can be assessed before the production of the component using evaluation methods such as the finite element method. Mostly, these evaluation methods still use material models made for metallic materials.
The goal of product engineering is always a component fulfilling its function during its predicted lifetime. Thus, the conclusions drawn from the systematic damage analysis and the consideration of aging processes on the component behavior provide important knowledge for lifetime prediction.
Non-destructive (material and component) testing (NDT) is a connection between material rngineering, processing technology and product engineering. It allows components to be tested without repercussion before being approved for use. NDT can be used to monitor the manufacturing process and therefore can be an important element of quality assurance. The non-destructive characterization and classification of damage caused during manufacturing or while in use, is indispensable in many areas, including plant safety and the prevention of unnecessary and expensive replacement of intact components.