> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://charlie-solutions.gitbook.io/guide-charlie-solutions/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://charlie-solutions.gitbook.io/guide-charlie-solutions/en/materials-management-and-tracking/material-types.md).
# Material types
The **material type** designates a **category grouping several pieces of equipment that share common characteristics**: model, brand, dimensions, control frequency, or usage cost.
Each material can be categorized according to a fully customizable type. In the ***Types*** section of the **"Materials"** tab, you can **view, edit or delete** these types.
You will also find there:
* The detailed information of each material type (Name, Brand, Periodicity, etc.).
* The material group this type belongs to.
* The list of materials linked to a specific type.
***
### **Create a new material type**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Click ***"Add a type"*** at the top of the page.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Fill in the following information:
* **Type name**: Example: "30m3 skip", "MTX drill".
* **Control periodicity**: Set how often equipment of this type must be inspected.
* **Other specific characteristics** according to your needs.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
**Add documents** to the type:
You can attach documents (PDF, PNG, JPG) to the material type.\
These documents will be visible by default in the record of every material belonging to this type.
When adding a file, an option appears that you can check or uncheck:
* **Propagate the document to all materials of the type**
* **Do not propagate** → the document will only be linked to the type, but not added to materials of this type
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
**Confirm to save** the new material type.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
***
### **Edit or Delete a material type**
* **Edit**: Click the edit icon 
to adjust the information of an existing type.
* **Delete**: If a type is no longer used, you can delete it (provided it isn't already linked to active equipment).
{% hint style="success" %}
By properly structuring **material types**, equipment management becomes smoother and more intuitive for all users.
{% endhint %}
***
### **Search for a material type**
* Use the **global search bar** to quickly find a specific material type.
* Apply **filters** to refine your results (groups, brands, models, etc.).
***
### Export data
Exporting lets you retrieve all or part of the information visible in the table to use it outside the platform (for example in Excel, PowerBI or an internal tool).
#### **How to do it?**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Apply the necessary filters (groups, brands, models…) or select the desired rows.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Click the **3-dot** button then **Export** located at the top right of the table.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Choose the desired format and enter the file name:
* **CSV** (compatible with Excel, Google Sheets, BI tools)
* **XLSX** (native Excel, formatting preserved)
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Click *"**Export"*****.**
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
You will receive an email with the file attached.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
***
### Manage columns
Column management lets you adapt a table's display to each user's needs. Everyone can customize their view to highlight the relevant information.
#### **How to do it?**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Click the **3-dot** button then **on *****"Manage columns"*** located at the top right of the table.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Check/uncheck the columns you want to display.
**Example:** show “Brand” or hide “Group”.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Save your view: it will be kept for your next logins.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
