Metals

Metals are malleable and ductile materials made from and ore that is taken from the ground. Metals can be developed into many different types but the main categories are Ferrous (contains iron), Non-Ferrous and Alloy (mix of metals)

How to use this resource:

You will need to consider your design and select the most appropriate metal for the job. Use the information and question sheet below to complete your research section and evaluate how it will affect your design choices.

Ferrous Metals

Ferrous metals contain iron and are magnetic. They are prone to rust and therefore require a protective finish, which is sometimes used to improve the aesthetics of the product it is used for as well.

Cast Iron

Properties: Brittle if thin, can be cast in a mould, strong compression strength, good electrical and thermal conductivity but poor resistance to corrosion

Uses: Kitchenware, Pans, Manhole covers, gates and metal fencing

High-carbon steel

Properties: Hard but brittle, less malleable than mild steel, good electrical and thermal conductivity

Uses: Taps and tools, eg screwdrivers and chisels

Low Carbon Steel

Properties: Ductile and tough, easy to form, braze and weld, good electrical and thermal conductivity but poor resistance to corrosion

Uses: Nuts, bolts, screws, bike frames and car bodies

Non-Ferrous

Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron and are not magnetic. They do not rust.

Aluminium

Properties: Light in weight and malleable but strong, a good conductor of heat and corrosion resistant

Uses: Drink cans, saucepans, bike frames

Copper

Properties: An excellent electrical conductor of heat and electricity, extremely malleable and can be polished, oxidises to a green colour

Uses: Plumbing fittings and electrical wires, professional chef's saucepans

Silver

Properties: A precious metal that is soft and malleable when heated, highly resistant to corrosion and an excellent electrical conductor of heat

Uses: Jewellery

Alloy

Alloys are mixtures of metal with an element to improve its properties or aesthetic

Brass

Alloy: Brass (alloy of copper and zinc)

Appearance: Non-ferrous metal that is strong and ductile, casts well and is gold coloured but darkens when oxidised with age, a good conductor of heat

Uses: Taps, screws, Musical Instruments, locks and doorknobs

Bronze

Alloy: Bronze (alloy of copper, aluminium and/or nickel)

Appearance: Non-ferrous alloy, harder than brass and corrosion resistant, reddish/yellow in colour

Uses: Castings, bearings

Stainless Steel

Alloy: Stainless steel (alloy of steel also with chromium, nickel and magnesium)

Appearance: Ferrous metal that is silver when polished, hard and tough with excellent resistance to corrosion

Uses: Cutlery, sinks, saucepans, surgical equipment

Resources

Materials Resources

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