B3.1 Material selection Questionbank

Figure 1 shows an exploded isometric drawing of a drip coffee machine with its plastic water tank, glass carafe, metal heating plate, and housing.

i.) State one mechanical property required for the heating plate in the coffee maker.

ii.) Outline two reasons why glass is commonly used for coffee carafes.

Figure 2 shows three versions of the same coffee maker in different surface finishes: matte black, glossed, and brushed metal.

i.) Describe how aesthetic choices in surface finish influence consumer preference.

ii.) Explain two ways that finishing techniques can improve both function and appeal of the product.

Figure 3 shows a customer in a kitchen using the coffee machine next to other appliances.

Discuss how cost, availability, and sustainability influence the material choice for the coffee machine’s plastic housing.