> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ms-kb.msd.unimelb.edu.au/machine-workshop/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ms-kb.msd.unimelb.edu.au/machine-workshop/machinery-materials/materials.md).

# Materials

The Machine Workshop has the ability to process a wide range of materials including timber, metals and plastics. You will find a selection of material in the workshop that is free for use but if you can't find what you are looking for you will be required to purchase material for your project. This list of approved materials is not exhaustive but please speak to workshop staff before purchasing any materials from outside vendors.

If you want to use a material that you don't see on this list then you will need to speak to workshop staff first. If it is not a material approved for use we may be able to recommend an alternative.

| **Approved Timber materials**                                                                        | <p><strong>Other approved materials</strong> <br><strong>(These may be limited to certain machines)</strong></p> |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Kiln dried hard wood                                                                                 | Aluminium, brass, copper                                                                                         |
| Kiln dried soft wood                                                                                 | Mild Steel                                                                                                       |
| Plywood                                                                                              | Perspex                                                                                                          |
| Chipboard                                                                                            | Polystyrene                                                                                                      |
| OSB                                                                                                  | Paper                                                                                                            |
| Bamboo                                                                                               | Cardboard                                                                                                        |
| <p>Reclaimed or recycled timber <br>that is free from nails, dirt, concrete and foreign material</p> |                                                                                                                  |

| **Unapproved materials**                                                                     |
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Treated Pine                                                                                 |
| Pressure treated timbers                                                                     |
| Recycled railway sleepers                                                                    |
| Timbers that has not been dried (plastic wrapped cypress posts, freshly felled timber, etc.) |
| Plaster (This material can be used in the Wet Room)                                          |
| Concrete (This material can be used in the Wet Room)                                         |
| Recycled timber that still has nails, dirt, sand or any other foreign material on it.        |


---

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