A Guide to Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals

For a person who is not involved in the world of metal alloys on a professional level, the terms “ferrous” and “non-ferrous” may leave you feeling a bit confused – the same way you felt on the morning of that final exam when you realized you never got around to studying the chapter on heavy metals. People who work with metals, however, realize that these distinctions are important, so here’s a quick guide to the differences between ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

Ferrous Metals Contain Iron, While Non-Ferrous Metals Do Not

This is the most basic and important difference between these metals, so now you know more than you did before you started reading. The other important aspect is that is a ferrous metal is a metal alloy, so it will be composed of several different kinds of metals, as well as some other elements. Since they contain iron, ferrous metals are magnetic.

Types of Ferrous Metals

Ferrous metals include cast iron (used in frying pans), wrought iron, carbon steel, alloy steels (like stainless steel) and iron-based superalloys (used in airplane construction). These metals are strong and durable and will attract magnets. Except for stainless steel and wrought iron, ferrous metals can rust.

Types of Non-Ferrous Metals

Non-ferrous metals include copper, zinc, aluminum, brass, tin, lead, and precious metals that are used to create jewelry, such as gold, silver, and platinum. Non-ferrous metals are lightweight but very strong and malleable, which makes them ideal for airplane construction. They are also ideal for creating pipes and roofing as they won’t rust.

Value of Metals

The value of metals can be seen at the most basic level in the negotiations that go on in metal scrapyards. Ferrous metals are generally cheaper as they are easier to recycle and thus are more plentiful. The value of non-ferrous metals depends on their composition alloy-wise.

Ultimately, both ferrous and non-ferrous metals have a multitude of uses; and without them, we’d lack many of today’s modern conveniences, like solid frying pans, reliable plumbing, gorgeous jewelry, and jet planes that can take us all over the world.

These metals have many uses, so let’s be grateful for the wise folks who’ve figured out how to use these metals to make all our lives that much more convenient and enjoyable. For a free quote on our high-quality metal alloys, contact us. At Avion Alloys, we pride ourselves in providing top-quality metals and alloys. Visit our website to learn more!