What Are Ferrous And Non-Ferrous Metals?
What are Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals?
To put it simply, ferrous metals contain iron; non-ferrous metals do not contain iron.
Ferrous Metals
The following are examples of ferrous metals and some of their uses:
Mild Steel
Carbon content of 0.1 to 0.3% and Iron content of 99.7 – 99.9%. Used for engineering purposes and in general, none specialised metal products.
Carbon Steel
Carbon content of 0.6 to 1.4% and Iron content of 98.6 to 99.4 %. Used to make cutting tools such as drill bits.
Stainless Steel
Ferritic and martensitic stainless steels are still magnetic. Made up of Iron, nickel and chromium, stainless steel resists staining and corrosion and is therefore used for the likes of cutlery and surgical instrumentation.
Cast Iron
Carbon 2 – 6% and Iron at 94 to 98%. Very strong but brittle. Used to manufacture items such as engine blocks and manhole covers.
Wrought Iron
Composed of almost 100% iron. Used to make items such as ornamental gates and fencing. Not used as widely in today’s market due to steel replacing it.
Non-Ferrous Metals
These are the non-ferrous metals and their uses:
Aluminium Alloy
An alloy of aluminium, copper and manganese. Very lightweight and easily worked. Used in aircraft manufacture, window frames and some kitchenware.
Copper
Copper is a naturally occurring substance. The fact that it conducts heat and electricity means that it is used for wiring, tubing and pipe work.
Brass
A combination of copper and zinc, usually in the proportions of 65% to 35% respectively. Is used for ornamental purposes and within electrical fittings.
Silver
Mainly a natural substance, but mixing with copper creates sterling silver. Used for decorative impact in jewellery, ornaments and also to solder different metals together.
Lead
Lead is a naturally occurring substance. It is heavy and very soft and is often used in roofing, in batteries and to make pipes. Austenitic stainless steel – With high concentrations of chromium, austenitic stainless steels are used for “non-magnetic” applications and are classed as non-ferrous.
