Metals and Alloys

• Ferrous - metals that contain iron (ferrite)

  • Most are magnetic and may rust
  • Example 1: Mild steel:
  • Tough, malleable
  • Melting point = 1400 degrees
  • Example uses - screws, nails, fridge doors
  • Example 2: Cast iron:
  • Hard skin, brittle, self-lubricating
  • Melting point = 1200 degrees
  • Example uses: Brake discs, vices
  • Example 3: High carbon/tool steel
  • Very hard/difficult to cut
  • Melting point = 1800 degrees
  • Example uses - chisels, saws, drill bits
• Non-ferrous - metals that do not contain iron (won’t rust), not magnetic and are more malleable that ferrous metals

  1. Example 1: Aluminium

  • Malleable, ductile good strength to weight ration, polishes well
  • Melting point: 660 degrees
  • Example uses: foil, window frames, engine parts, drinks cans

  2. Example 2: Copper

  • Malleable, tough, good hot or cold working
  • Melting point: 1084 degrees
  • Example uses: electrical wires, gas and water pipes, roofing

  3. Example 3: Tin

  • Soft, malleable, high corrosion resistance
  • Melting point: 232 degrees
  • Food packaging, solder
• Alloys - mixture of two or more metals or elements, has improved properties and characteristics

  1. Example 1: Brass

  • Easily machines, casts well, polishes well
  • Melting point = 900-940 degrees
  • Example uses: plumbing/door fittings, musical instruments

  2. Example 2: Stainless steel

  • Hard tough magnetic
  • Melting point = 1400 degrees
  • Example uses: kitchenware sinks, cutlery, medical equipment

  3. Example 3: High speed steel

  • High hardness at temps up to 600 degrees, resistant to wear, excellent toughness
  • Melting point: 1400 degrees
  • Example uses: Drill bits, lathe tools, milling cutters