The difference in outlook between metallurgist, physicist and designer on the problem of fatigue of metals is due not only to the differences in training and method but also in immediate objective, however closely their ultimate objectives may coincide.

Physicists consider fatigue in terms of crystal structure and composition of the constituents of the crystal, noting in passing that certain types of crystal structures are associated with poor fatigue strength. The metallurgist's prime interest lies in the effect of surface finish, heat treatment, the physical condition of the surface, such as degree of cold work, the effect of carburised and nitrided cases having different hardness from the core. Both think in terms of controlled condition tests, with idealised test conditions such as cylindrical test specimens, close control of changes of section, polished surfaces of only a few micro-inches surface roughness, operating in a controlled atmosphere.