Altair, developer of the popular HyperWorks computer-aided engineering software, today announced the official release of the KEY to METALS material database in the HyperWorks Partner Alliance (HWPA). KEY to METALS is the world's most comprehensive metals database, with more than 4.5 million property records spanning in excess of 175,000 materials. Using KEY to METALS international cross-reference tables, it is possible to find and compare materials from around the world and carry out essential comparison work for detailed material property information, such as chemical compositions, mechanical and physical properties, heat trea™ent diagrams and properties at elevated temperatures. In addition to the expansive KEY to METALS data set, the integrated Extended Range module works seamlessly with the database functionality to bring a unique resource of advanced properties to the user.

Altair HyperWorks customers can access KEY to METALS through the HWPA, a suite of third-party applications from HyperWorks partners that can be accessed with the same units used to invoke HyperWorks software. The flexibility of these HyperWorks Units empowers users to deploy the largest and most complete suite of CAE applications available at no incremental cost or long-term commitment.

"The KEY to METALS database is an invaluable tool for engineers who require in-depth, accurate material property information without the need for time-consuming research through the masses of literature out there," said Dr. Viktor Pocajt, CEO of Key to Metals AG. "This comprehensive resource empowers users to make decisions in the design phase that can drastically improve accuracy of predictive material behavior under a range of conditions and therefore help secure the quality and reliability of the finished product. The HyperWorks Partner Alliance distribution model allows Altair customers the unique ability to access KEY to METALS and other partner applications on demand. The ease of deployment will help us expose new users to KEY to METALS and expand our market share globally."

The KEY to METALS Extended Range dataset in synergy with the standard KEY to METALS data provides users with an unparalleled material properties resource for advanced structural and thermal calculations and analysis. Providing stress-strain curves, fatigue data, fracture mechanics information and creep data for thousands of materials, Extended Range is designed to save time and money through intelligent search methods and enhance the depth and quality of information required for CAE and FEA analysis.

"KEY to METALS allows customers to compare and select the optimal materials for their product design," said Antoine Poussier, vice president of global partner programs at Altair. "Access to detailed and accurate metal material properties is an important asset to manufacturers in nearly every domain, and combined with the innovative HyperWorks licensing system, the HWPA brings this powerful resource to customers in a cost-effective way."

The HWPA strives to provide the most comprehensive offering of software applications across multiple relevant domains related to computer-aided engineering. The addition of KEY to METALS further enhances the flexibility of the HyperWorks Units and the overall value of Altair HyperWorks.