The Different Types of Metals; Their Properties, And Their Applications
No two sheet metal fabrication projects are the same.
So, it makes sense that different applications will require different types of metals. That’s why you need to consider a variety of metals and their properties when choosing materials for your next project.
But, without the right knowledge and experience, this can be difficult to do. That’s why at Salamander Fabrications, we’ve broken it down for you in our latest blog. We’ll discuss the different types of metal, their properties, and the applications they’re used for below.
We’ll also explain how our sheet metal fabrications services can give you the highest quality finish at a brilliant price.
Interested in another service? Get in touch at 01484 843599 to find out what else we offer.
What is metal?
Making up three-quarters of the periodic table, metals are natural elements made up of the Earth’s crust. They are characterised as such by their increased:
- Electrical and thermal conductivity
- Light reflectivity
- Malleability – meaning that the metal can be bended into other shapes without cracking
- Ductility – otherwise known as how much stress it can be put under before breaking
The most common metals in the Earth’s crust, such as iron, are mostly found in ores. Meanwhile, metals such as copper, are found typically in a free state, as they do not react easily with other elements.
What is the difference between non-ferrous metals and ferrous metals?
Ferrous means a substance, element or object that contains iron. Meaning, non-ferrous metals do not contain iron whereas ferrous metals do. Ferrous metals are heavier than non-ferrous metals as well as being magnetic.
Meanwhile, non-ferrous metals are non-magnetic, but have high conductivity and a higher resistance to corrosion. As a result of these properties, they are more valuable and therefore, more expensive.
What are the different types of metal?
There are several different types of metals that you should be aware of. They vary in applications due to their properties and benefits. Let’s take a look at some you’ll likely come into contact with.
Aluminium
Aluminium is another chemical element with a density lower than most common metals. It’s a popular metal to use as it is both lightweight and flexible. Whilst it doesn’t rust, it does corrode.
Properties
- Soft and malleable
- Non-ferrous
- Non-toxic
- High thermal conductivity
Applications
Due to its flexibility and lightweight nature, aluminium is most commonly used in the packaging industry – such as in beverage cans, foil and food containers. Some smartphones and laptops also contain aluminium components.
Titanium
Titanium is an element on the periodic table. Whilst it wasn’t discovered until the 18th century, it is one of the most abundant metals on Earth. According to Britannica, titanium constitutes 0.44% of the Earth’s crust.
Properties
- Corrosion-resistant
- High heat-resistance
- Good oxidation capabilities
- Low density
- Non-ferrous
Applications
Titanium is most commonly used in the aerospace industry on jet engines and air frames, thanks to its high levels of heat resistance making it ideal for fuel efficiency concerns. It is also applied to projects in the automotive and transportation sector, such as for engineering parts.
Brass
An alloy of copper and zinc, brass is an aesthetically pleasing metal that is used in decorative applications as well as functional ones.
Properties
- High malleability
- High conductivity
- Corrosion-resistant
- High antibacterial properties
- Non-ferrous
Applications
Brass is commonly used where corrosion resistance and low friction are needed. This includes door locks, hinges, gears and plumbing. It’s also popular in the jewellery industry because of its affordability and high shine when polished.
Nickel
As the fifth most common element on Earth, Nickel is most typically found in the Earth’s crust and core. It is shiny and silvery-white in its appearance.
Properties
- High malleability and ductility
- Good conductor of heat and electricity
- Has a high melting point
- Oxidation-resistant
- Non-ferrous
Applications
Nickel is used in batteries and coins. Industry-wise, it is used in the science sector in implants, surgical tools, and dental appliances – due to its corrosion-resistant nature.
Steel
Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon – but also includes small amounts of other elements. There are many different types of steel, as it has been greatly developed over the last 20 years to make it stronger and lighter. For example, stainless steel is an alloy of iron and chromium – and offers a massive upgrade in strength when compared to normal steel.
Properties
- Its hardness makes it easier to withstand friction and abrasion
- Its durable and ductile
- Low-weight
- High corrosion resistance
- Ferrous
Applications
Steel is an important component in most engineering and construction projects. It is utilised in most industries, from kiosk and vending structures, to food and processing environments.
Tungsten
Tungsten is a chemical element that is exceptionally strong, but also rare. It is mostly produced in China – and has a nickel-white to grey-ish finish.
Properties
- High melting point
- High tensile strength
- Oxidation-resistance
- Resistant to acid attacks
- Non-ferrous
Applications
Tungsten is used in welding projects as a cathode thanks to its high melting point. It’s non-consumable so it does not melt during the process. It’s also used in the filaments of light bulbs and other heating elements.
Copper
Copper is a chemical element, and ranks as the third-most-consumed industrial metal in the world, according to Live Science. With a reddish-brown material, it is made up of only one singular atom.
Properties
- Soft and malleable
- High ductility
- High thermal conductivity
- High electrical conductivity
- Non-ferrous
Applications
Copper is mostly used in electrical equipment, such as in wiring and motors. It also has applications in the construction industry – for example, in roofing and plumbing, and in industrial machinery.
Iron
As another chemical element, iron is a shiny greyish metal. Whilst it rusts easily, it is still seen as an important metal as it helps to create alloys such as steel. It’s also an essential element in biology – with the average human containing four grams of it.
Properties
- Heavy metal
- Good conductor of heat
- Good conductor of electricity
- Can be magnetised
- Ferrous
Applications
Iron is mostly used to make steel in areas such as civil engineering and manufacturing. If you’re interested in the manufacturing processes of metals, take a look at our guide.
Lead
A heavy metal that’s denser than most other metals, lead is a natural element. It occurs mostly in small amounts of the Earth’s crust.
Properties
- Soft and malleable
- Low melting point
- Low conductor of electricity
- Non-ferrous
Applications
Lead is applied to projects in a variety of industries, such as the automotive industry – where it is used for car batteries, pigments and ammunition. It is also used in the gym and leisure industry, such as in weights for lifting or weight belts for diving.
Cobalt
With a silvery-blue appearance, cobalt is found in minerals – and is formed as a by-product of nickel refining.
Properties
- Stable in the air and doesn’t react with water
- Can also be magnetised
- Reacts slowly with dilute acids
- Has a high melting point and boiling point
- Non-ferrous
Applications
Thanks to its radioactivity, cobalt is an important source of gamma rays. As a result, it has a common use in the medical industry as a part of many cancer treatments, such as radiotherapy. It is also used to make magnets.
Why Choose Salamander Fabrications for Sheet Metal Fabrications
At Salamander Fabrications, we make it our mission to understand you and your business’s specific set of needs. We have over 50 years of experience in the design as well as the delivery of sheet metal fabrications – and are ready to help you with your next project.
When you work with us, our experts will be able to help your projects come to life. We offer services such as custom laser cutting and welding, for a wide variety of industries. If you want to get started with sheet metal fabrication, get in touch with our team of experts today.
