[Jon Stratis]

Originally Posted by Sandvich

It doesn't actually have to be commonly available, as long as it isn't dangerous or too expensive.

I wonder how stringent their standards are for hazardous materials. Lead and beryllium come to mind. They would be harmless on a robot but dangerous to work with. So FIRST could restrict it on the grounds that it puts students at risk, while allowing COTS parts containing the materials.

Any use of lead would be looked at very closely by the inspectors, as it is a health hazard (and teams have used it in the past as ballast to bring themselves up to the weight limit and move their center of gravity). Machining lead (drilling, cutting, etc) is strictly prohibited in the pits, as lead dust is very hazardous. Any lead on a robot should be sealed (preferably painted) and well contained.

As for beryllium... I've never heard of a team attempting to use some!