Metal Materials
Metal materials are a broad category of materials that can be used in a wide variety of applications. They are typically rigid and strong, making them ideal for building structures and containers. They possess properties that make them suitable for uses ranging from home decor to industrial uses. Metal materials can also withstand wear and tear better than other types of materials.
Metal materials are classified according to their atomic structure and mechanical properties. The two main types of metal materials are ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Ferrous metals contain an iron component, usually in the form of iron ore. This type of metal is cost-effective and can be manipulated easily. Non-ferrous metals do not contain any iron component and are more expensive to purchase. However, non-ferrous metals are often better for applications where corrosion-resistance is paramount.
Metals can be further classified into alloys and pure metals. Alloys are metal mixtures, generally containing two or more elements, the most common of which are steel and aluminum. Alloys are highly resistant to corrosion and other forms of degradation. They are used in a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive and engineering. Pure metals, such as gold, silver, and platinum, are metals found in their pure state, without being alloyed with other materials. Pure metals are more expensive but are often more suited for materials that require strength and durability.
Manufacturers source metal materials from various suppliers. On a large scale, metal materials are obtained from smelting processes, where ore is heated and purified until it is ready for casting. Once the metal has been cast, it usually requires further preparation, such as machining, heat treatment and surface treatment, before it is ready to be used.
Metal materials can be found in many forms. Sheet metal is a thin piece of metal that is cut into desired shapes and sizes. Plate metal is thicker than sheet metal, and can withstand significant weight. Both sheet and plate metal are typically fabricated into sheet metal parts, such as brackets and housings, or plate parts such as mounting plates and decks.
Tubing, non-tubular shapes, and channels can also be used to create metal objects. Tubular shapes come in both round and square variations and can be used to create enclosures, frames, and pipes. Channels are popular for creating staircases and window frames, as well as for supporting beams. Lastly, non-tubular shapes come in many forms, such as structural shapes and bars, and are often used in construction projects to create structural supports.
Metal materials can also be found in both wire and sheet form. Wire can be bent and shaped into virtually any form, and is commonly used for electrical wiring, guttering and fencing. Sheet metal can be easily machined, stamped and drawn into a variety of shapes, making it ideal for creating decorative features such as sculptures, doorways, and panels for buildings.
Metals are often coated and plated to protect them from corrosion and to enhance their visual appearance. Galvanization, an industrial term for the process of coating metal with a thin layer of zinc, is one common form of coating. Galvanization is commonly used to protect sheets and wires from rust, aging and damage. Chromate conversion coating, which is used to provide a protective and decorative coating for aluminum products, is also used in the industry.
Lastly, surface treatments can be applied to metal materials to improve their appearance and protect them from the elements. Powder coating is a popular form of surface treatment, where a plastic powder is sprayed onto the surface of a metal product and then baked in a furnace. This method is used to provide a smooth, glossy finish on parts that are exposed to the elements. Anodization, which involves electrochemical oxidation of a metal surface, can lead to a variety of decorative finishes.
From smelting ore to coating and plating metals to fabricating them into desired components, metal materials are used in a variety of applications, ranging from aerospace and automotive to construction and decoration. Understanding the properties of different metals and how they interact is essential for producing high-quality products that stand the test of time.
