Damage Mechanics questions

[A Big Hairy Monster]

So, the wikis I've looked at aren't very clear on how damage generally works, so I've got some questions.

First one is, do blocks that deform with damage (ie armor) eventually get destroyed if they take small amounts of damage periodically?

Do blocks have any sort of internal 'hitpoints' of some kind, i.e. a maximum amount of damage they can take before being destroyed?

Do some blocks explode, and others simply deform, when they take damage?


Specific Situation: I've got a mining ship from the workshop on an MP server that uses pistons to operate the drill. It doesnt seem to spin out of control or anything, but every so often one part of the ship will just barely graze another part, and sparks fly out. But when I go out to repair things, there's no actual visible indication of damage (its the conveyors clanging together a bit), just the welder will activate for a split-second before stopping. Im wondering if I should be concerned, over what period of time, about the ship coming apart at some point.

[Skeloton]

1st, yes they eventually disappear, or no longer exist after enough damage.

2nd, I know that the HP is regarded as the Integrity or completion % of a block but im unaware as to if each block has a different resistance to damage. Im certain they do but i just cant recall it.

3rd. Yes and some do it violently. Not sure if its intended or not but some blocks will explode. Not like a warhead will but they explode for all intents and purposes.