Ferrous Metals
Ferrous metals are iron-based alloys that contain a high proportion of iron. They are also referred to as ferrous materials or ferrous alloys. The most common ferrous alloys are steel and cast iron, both of which can be found in a wide range of applications in a variety of industries. In general, ferrous materials are often used in construction, marine, automotive and machine building because of their durability, strength and low cost.
The main components in ferrous alloys are iron and various amounts of other elements, including carbon, manganese, chromium, nickel, molybdenum, zinc, silicon and vanadium. These additional components affect the properties of the ferrous material and the way it behaves when subjected to heat or other environmental conditions.
Steel is a very strong and durable ferrous material that is composed of iron, carbon and other minute amounts of alloying elements, such as molybdenum, vanadium or chromium. It is produced in several different types, such as low-carbon or mild steel, medium-carbon steel and high-carbon or hard steels. These grades are differentiated according to their carbon content, with low-carbon steel being the least expensive and highest-producing grade and hard steel being the most expensive and low-producing grade.
Cast iron is another popular ferrous material. It is produced by the combination of iron, carbon and silicon and results in a ductile, easily machineable material. It is less expensive to manufacture than steel and is often used in vehicle engines, pipes, pumps and engineering machine parts due to its strength and resistance to corrosion.
Stainless steel is an alloy of steel, chromium and sometimes nickel and other metals creating a material that is highly resistant to corrosion. Stainless steel is used in a range of applications, from medical instruments to bridges, and is especially useful in areas where resistance to rust and corrosion is particularly important.
Ferritic stainless steel is a type of stainless steel with a ferromagnetic structure. It is produced in several different grades and is used when working with materials that require a greater resistance to chemical and temperature extremes, such as deep-sea piping, automotive and aeronautical components, and appliance parts.
Ferrous metals are becoming increasingly popular due to their affordability, durability and strength. They are being used increasingly in a range of industries and in applications that require a strong and reliable material. As the demand for ferrous metals continues to grow, so too will the need for new and innovative ways to manufacture ferrous alloys.
