Goto RUNCHI to know more.
In metallurgy, non-ferrous metals are metals or alloys that do not contain iron (allotropes of iron, ferrite, and so on) in appreciable amounts.
Generally more costly than ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals are used because of desirable properties such as low weight (e.g. aluminium), higher conductivity (e.g. copper),[1] non-magnetic properties or resistance to corrosion (e.g. zinc).[2] Some non-ferrous materials are also used in the iron and steel industries. For example, bauxite is used as flux for blast furnaces, while others such as wolframite, pyrolusite, and chromite are used in making ferrous alloys.[3]
Important non-ferrous metals include aluminium, copper, lead, tin, titanium, and zinc, and alloys such as brass. Precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum and exotic or rare metals such as mercury, tungsten, beryllium, bismuth, cerium, cadmium, niobium, indium, gallium, germanium, lithium, selenium, tantalum, tellurium, vanadium, and zirconium are also non-ferrous.[4] They are usually obtained through minerals such as sulfides, carbonates, and silicates.[5] Non-ferrous metals are usually refined through electrolysis.[6]
[
edit
]
Due to their extensive use, non-ferrous scrap metals are usually recycled. The secondary materials in scrap are vital to the metallurgy industry, as the production of new metals often needs them.[7] Some recycling facilities re-smelt and recast non-ferrous materials; the dross is collected and stored onsite while the metal fumes are filtered and collected.[8] Non-ferrous scrap metals are sourced from industrial scrap materials, particle emissions and obsolete technology (for example, copper cables) scrap.[9]
[
edit
]
Non-ferrous metals were the first metals used by humans for metallurgy. Gold, silver and copper existed in their native crystalline yet metallic form. These metals, though rare, could be found in quantities sufficient to attract the attention of humans. Less susceptible to oxygen than most other metals, they can be found even in weathered outcroppings. Copper was the first metal to be forged; it was soft enough to be fashioned into various objects by cold forging and could be melted in a crucible. Gold, silver and copper replaced some of the functions of other resources, such as wood and stone, owing to their ability to be shaped into various forms for different uses.[10] Due to their rarity, these gold, silver and copper artifacts were treated as luxury items and handled with great care.[11] The use of copper also heralded the transition from the Stone Age to the Copper Age. The Bronze Age, which succeeded the Copper Age, was again heralded by the invention of bronze, an alloy of copper with the non-ferrous metal tin.[10]
[
edit
]
Non-ferrous metals are used in residential, commercial and industrial applications. Material selection for a mechanical or structural application requires some important considerations, including how easily the material can be shaped into a finished part and how its properties can be either intentionally or inadvertently altered in the process. Depending on the end use, metals can be simply cast into the finished part, or cast into an intermediate form, such as an ingot, then worked, or wrought, by rolling, forging, extruding, or other deformation process. Although the same operations are used with ferrous as well as nonferrous metals and alloys, the reaction of nonferrous metals to these forming processes is often more severe. Consequently, properties may differ considerably between the cast and wrought forms of the same metal or alloy.[12]
[
edit
]
What usually comes to mind when you hear the word &#;metal&#;?
Steel beams in a skyscraper? Railroads and bridges? Your favorite jewelry or tools around the house, perhaps?
If you&#;re in the business of manufacturing, constructing, or repairing various products and equipment, then you understand how important metals are. That&#;s why knowing which types to use for specific tasks is crucial &#; especially considering metals can be placed into two distinct categories: ferrous and non-ferrous.
Let&#;s delve into the differences between these two types of metals so you can make an informed decision when choosing one for your metal fabrication projects. Whether you need something lightweight yet robust or something corrosion-resistant, there is almost certainly a metal between ferrous and non-ferrous that will meet your requirements.
What are Ferrous Metals?The term ferrous derives from the Latin word ferrum, meaning &#;iron-containing.&#; So naturally, these types of metals have iron in them. These are stronger and more durable, which is why many of our clients favor these types of metals. They are often found in construction and industrial projects, etc.
The following metals are among those deemed ferrous:
Non-ferrous metals are those that don&#;t contain iron. They have been used since the dawn of civilization when copper was discovered in 5,000 BC. Therefore, they are more malleable and lightweight.
Moreover, they are used in applications where weight and rust considerations must be taken into account in addition to strength requirements.
Some metals that are considered non-ferrous are the following:
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Non-ferrous metal forging.
The fundamental distinction between the two is the presence of iron in ferrous metals as opposed to non-ferrous metals. But identifying what makes the two metals different helps you choose the one best for a particular application.
Resistance to RustBecause of their high carbon content, ferrous metals such as steel and iron rust when exposed to the elements. This implies they must be maintained on a regular basis to avoid rusting. However, stainless steel and aluminum resist rust due to their significantly lower level of iron content.
Non-ferrous metals, on the other hand, such as aluminum, copper, and brass, have a naturally stronger resistance to rust and corrosion due to their lack of iron content. This makes them ideal for applications requiring weather and water protection, such as roofing, hydro, and marine projects.
Magnetic QualitiesThere is a significant variation in magnetic characteristics between ferrous and non-ferrous materials. Non-ferrous metals are not attracted to magnets, whereas ferrous metals are. This is because ferrous metals contain iron and, therefore, can be magnetized.
In contrast, non-ferrous materials such as copper, aluminum, and brass do not contain iron and are not attracted to magnets.
WeightFerrous metals are often heavier compared to non-ferrous metals. The main reason is that ferrous metals are higher in density. It can be beneficial for applications that require more stability, such as construction.
In contrast, non-ferrous metals are lighter, making them ideal for applications that focus on weight without compromising strength.
CostFerrous metals are cost-effective because they are abundant and easily sourced. Iron is the fourth most common element in the Earth&#;s crust, making it a readily available material for construction and engineering projects. Additionally, ferrous metal fabrication processes are relatively inexpensive, allowing manufacturers to create high volumes of products at low prices.
On the other hand, non-ferrous metals are more expensive, which can be a disadvantage when dealing with large projects because they have become increasingly popular in various industries due to their desirable properties. The key features that make them attractive are their strength and durability, low weight, corrosion resistance, and electrical conductivity.
For instance, automotive manufacturers are shifting towards lighter vehicles that require more lightweight components from nonferrous materials such as aluminum or magnesium instead of heavier steel or iron alloys.
RecyclableIn general, ferrous and non-ferrous metals can be recycled. However, ferrous metals require a more detailed process since they need to be purified, melted, and made into blocks.
Meanwhile, you can recycle non-ferrous metals repeatedly without worrying about degrading or losing their chemical properties. Plus, they are relatively scarce. So recycling them is advisable.
What are the Common Uses or Applications of Ferrous Metals?Because they are more prevalent, ferrous metals can be used in diverse applications. The most common is piping. Other applications are as follows:
Non-ferrous metals are found in numerous manufacturing applications where they can be exposed to outside elements. A common example of non-ferrous metal application is signage. Other applications are the following:
Here at The Federal Group, we can help you find the proper metal for your next project. Whether you need non-ferrous metals for electric vehicle manufacturing, or ferrous metal for your piping projects, we are here to provide you with the best metal fabrication services.
If you have any questions about our metal fabrication process, contact us today or request a quote. We&#;ll be here to guide you and ensure you receive quality products that meet your expectations.
For more information, please visit Cold forging copper.