Metallurgy Terminology Introduction
Metallurgy is the science and technology of metals, which deals with the processes used in separation and purification of metals, and their synthesis and alloying. It also involves the application of physical and chemical methods to control the structure and properties of metals and alloys. With the development of industry and technology, metallurgy has become a key component in the development of modern technology. In the world of metallurgy, there are many terms used to refer to the same processes.
Malleable: This refers to metals that can be formed and reshaped at room temperature without cracking or breaking. Malleability is important in certain types of engineering and construction where more flexibility is desired.
Flux: Flux is a material, which when heated and mixed with another material, causes the impurities in the mixture to melt and become easier to remove. Flux is often used in welding and metal refinement processes.
Annealing: This is a process of heat treatment that increases material strength by changing the arrangement and density of metals.
Cold Working: Cold working is a metal shaping technique that is done at room temperature, usually employing pressure to shape the metal. It is commonly used to create complex shapes or variations in the metal, and can also be used to increase strength.
Smelting: This is a process of separating the useful metals from their ores by heating the ores to a high temperature and then cooling the liquid metal.
Casting: This is a process of forming a desired shape in metal by pouring molten metal into a mold. This process can create intricate shapes and fine detail in metal.
Forging: This is a process of shaping metal with heat and pressure. The metal is heated, until it is malleable, and then is pounded and formed into a desired shape.
Heat Treating: This is a process in which metal is heated, cooled and reheated in order to strengthen and align the molecules in the metal, making it more durable.
Hardening: Hardening is the process of increasing the strength and hardness of metal by quenching it in liquid, such as oil or water.
Tempering: Tempering is a process of reducing the brittleness of metal by heating it to a specific temperature and then cooling it at a specific rate.
Welding: This is the process of joining two pieces of metal together. The joining is done by melting the metals and fusing them together.
Soldering: This is a process of joining two pieces of metal together by melting a filler material between them.
Galvanizing: This is a process of coating a metal surface with a layer of zinc in order to protect it from corrosion.
Shrink Fitting: This is a process of fitting two pieces of metal together by heating one and cooling the other to cause the metal to contract.
Extrusion: This is a process of pushing a metal through a die to form a desired shape. This can create complex shapes in metal as well as sections that are hollow in the middle.
Metalworking: This is the application of metals in fabrication, manufacturing and engineering. It involves the processes of cutting, forming, and welding metals.
These are just a few of the many terms and processes used in the world of metallurgy. As technology advances, so too will the terms and processes used in creating and working with metals.
