A material selection model using graph theory and matrix approach

This paper presents a methodology for material selection for a given engineering component using graph theory and matrix approach. A ‘material suitability index’ is proposed that evaluates and ranks the materials for a given engineering component. The index is obtained from a material selection factors function, obtained from the material selection factors graph. The graph is developed considering material selection factors and their relative importance for the application considered. Two examples are included to illustrate the approach.