Where do metals come from
Ores in the earths crust
What’s the difference between ferrous and non ferrous metals?
Ferrous contain iron and therefore are magnetic and will most likely rust. Where as non ferrous do not contain iron and will not rust.
What is an alloy
Made up by combining a metal and another element.
Are metals recyclable
Yes.
3 examples of ferrous metals
Cast iron, mild steel, carbon steel.
3 examples of non ferrous metals.
Copper, tin, aluminium, silver, platinum, gold, brass.
3 examples of alloys
Bronze, stainless steel, brass.
Cast Iron- properties and uses
Ductile, malleable, strong, durable, magnetic and affordable. It rusts which weakens the structure and is very dense/ heavy so hard to transport. Can be too soft by itself. Brittle so will shatter if dropped.
Machinery and tools. Structural elements for bridges and buildings. Cookware and breaking systems in cars.
Mild steel- properties and uses
Good impact and tensile strength, ductile, magnetic, malleable, affordable, conductive. Less robust than other steels, less resilient, can corrode more then other steels.
Building construction, pipelines, gating and fencing plus nuts and bolts.
Carbon steel- properties and uses
Hard and abrasion resistant, strong and resistant to high temperatures. Has high cutting speeds and a relatively low cost. Low bending strength and poor impact toughness. Very brittle.
Manufacturing drill bits and machine components.
aluminium- properties and uses
Low density, non toxic, good conductivity and corrosion resistant. Ductile and malleable. High cost compared to other steels, very weak in pure form, doesn’t withstand loads.
Kitchen utensils, foil, cans, lightweight aeroplane parts, engine components.
Copper- properties and used
Malleable, ductile, good conductor, 100% recyclable, corrosion resistant and lightweight. Not as strong as other metals, requires constant annealing when working and danger of electrolysis in water systems.
Electrical wiring, central heating or plumbing pipes.
Zinc- properties and uses
Corrosion resistant, low melting point. Brittle when worked with.
Castings, batteries abd galvaensing
Brass- composition properties and uses
Copper, zinc
Casts well, easy to machine, good conductor of heat and electricity. Susceptible to cracking, needs to be constantly annealed.
Central heating valves, electrical components, ships propellers, plumbing fittings.
Stainless Steel- composition, properties and uses
Chromium, nickel and steel
Fire resistant, durable, attractive, sustainable, hygienic, doesn’t rust, strong. Hard to weld and form due to its strength, expensive.
Medical equipment, toasters, pans, sinks, chemical and nuclear industries.
Duralumin- composition, properties and uses
Aluminium, copper, manganese
Lightweight, strong with excellent machining characteristics. Work hardens over time.
Aviation and automobile industries.
