There are two main kinds of metal: ferrous and non-ferrous. Ferrous metals contain iron, while non-ferrous metals do not. Knowing the difference is important because it affects how well a metal will work for a given use, its cost, and its overall performance.
This article will give you a closer look at the properties of both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, the different types of each, and where you might commonly find them. We’ll also explore the key differences between ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
What are ferrous metals?
Ferrous metals are metals that contain iron – usually more than 50 percent iron by weight.
Compared to non-ferrous metals, ferrous metals are generally stronger and heavier. They’re also usually magnetic, which can make it easy to separate them from other materials.
The main downside to ferrous metals is that they’re more susceptible to corrosion, like rust. However, ferrous metals are often treated or coated to prevent corrosion.
You can also make ferrous metals stronger through heat treatments.
What are the types of ferrous metals?
Ferrous metals are everywhere. They’re used to build cars and skyscrapers, to create bridges and tools, and to manufacture countless other products we rely on every day.
Here are some examples of ferrous metals and their uses:
Carbon steels
The properties of carbon steel depend on the amount of carbon it contains. There are three main types of carbon steel.
- Low carbon steel contains between 0.05 and 0.25% carbon and is often used to make bolts, nuts, and forgings.
- Medium carbon steel contains between 0.25 and 0.6% carbon and is often used to make gears, axles, and shafts.
- High carbon steel contains between 0.6% and 1% carbon and is often used to make springs, blades, and tools.
Alloy steels
Alloy steels are steel that contains other elements that have been added to improve the steel’s properties. The elements that are added determine the properties of the steel.
Some common alloying elements include:
- Chromium increases corrosion resistance. To be considered stainless steel, the steel must contain at least 10.5% chromium. Durable stainless steel often contains around 18% chromium and 8% nickel.
- Manganese improves strength and toughness.
- Nickel enhances toughness and corrosion resistance.
- Molybdenum increases strength at high temperatures.
Cast iron
Cast iron contains a high percentage of carbon — between 1.5 and 4%. It’s known for its ability to be easily cast, its low cost, and its resistance to wear.
Compared to steel, cast iron is more brittle. It’s often used to make cookware, water pipes, and machine tools.
What are non-ferrous metals?
Non-ferrous metals are metals that don’t contain iron.
These metals generally resist corrosion better than ferrous metals, and they’re also non-magnetic. In many cases, non-ferrous metals are lighter and easier to shape than ferrous metals.
Because they’re in higher demand, non-ferrous metals typically cost more than ferrous metals.
Examples of non-ferrous metals include:
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Lead
- Nickel
- Tin
- Zinc
Types of Non-Ferrous Metals
While ferrous metals are known for their strength and durability, non-ferrous metals often stand out for their versatility and resistance to corrosion. Here are a few of the most common types of non-ferrous metals:
Aluminum
Aluminum is lightweight and resists corrosion. It has a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it a popular choice for everything from aircraft to food cans.
You’ll also find aluminum in cars and kitchen utensils, as well as yachts and automotive parts.
Copper
Copper is an excellent conductor of electricity and heat, and it’s also resistant to corrosion. That’s why you’ll find it in electrical wiring, heat exchangers, and roofing.
Copper is also a popular choice for piping in water systems.
Lead
Lead is known for its high density and resistance to corrosion, making it useful in batteries, power cables, and soldering.
Zinc
Zinc is another metal that’s resistant to corrosion. It’s primarily used to galvanize steel, protecting it from rust.
Tin
Tin is resistant to corrosion and highly malleable. One of its most well-known uses is in tin cans.
Ferrous vs. Non-Ferrous Metals: What’s the Difference?
So, what really sets these two types of metals apart? Here’s a breakdown:
- Iron Content: This is the big one. Ferrous metals have iron; non-ferrous metals don’t.
- Magnetic Properties: Think magnets sticking to your fridge. Ferrous metals are usually magnetic, while non-ferrous metals aren’t.
- Corrosion Resistance: Non-ferrous metals are generally better at resisting rust and corrosion. Some ferrous metals, like stainless steel, are exceptions because they’re mixed with other elements.
- Weight and Strength: Ferrous metals are typically stronger and heavier than their non-ferrous cousins. Non-ferrous metals tend to be lighter and easier to shape (more malleable).
- Cost: Because of their properties and how they’re sourced, non-ferrous metals often come with a higher price tag.
Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right metal for your next project!
Common applications of ferrous and non-ferrous metals
Because of their differing properties, ferrous and non-ferrous metals are used in different ways across a variety of industries.
Ferrous metals
Because of their strength and durability, ferrous metals are often used in:
- Construction, such as steel beams in buildings and bridges
- Manufacturing of tools and machinery
- The automotive industry
Non-ferrous metals
Non-ferrous metals are more often used in:
- Electrical applications, such as copper wiring
- Aerospace, especially aluminum parts in aircraft
- The food and beverage industry, such as aluminum cans
- Plumbing, like copper pipes
Frequently Asked Questions
What are ferrous and non-ferrous metals examples?
Ferrous metals contain iron. Examples include carbon steel, alloy steel, cast iron, and wrought iron. Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron. Examples include aluminum, copper, lead, nickel, tin, titanium, and zinc, as well as precious metals like gold and silver.
Is stainless steel a non-ferrous metal?
No, stainless steel is a ferrous metal. Although it contains other elements like chromium and nickel to enhance its properties, its primary component is iron, thus classifying it as ferrous.
What are the 4 ferrous metals?
While there are many types of ferrous metals, four common examples are: 1) Carbon steel, known for its strength. 2) Alloy steel, which has added elements to improve properties. 3) Cast iron, known for its high carbon content and brittleness. 4) Wrought iron, which is tough and malleable.
What is a ferrous metal?
A ferrous metal is any metal that contains iron as its primary element. These metals are typically strong, durable, and magnetic, but are also susceptible to rust unless treated or alloyed with other metals.
In Closing
Ferrous and non-ferrous metals differ in several key ways. The presence of iron, whether they’re magnetic, how well they resist corrosion, their weight, and their cost are all differentiating factors.
It’s important to pick the right metal for the job. Knowing the properties of each type is essential to get the best performance and make sure things last.
And the good news is, both ferrous and non-ferrous metals can be recycled, which is great for the environment and helps promote sustainability. So, choose wisely and recycle responsibly!