Ferrous versus Non-Ferrous Metals — What is the difference?

What is the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals?

The simple answer is that iron is found in ferrous metals and is not in non-ferrous metals. Ferrous metals are those metals which mostly contain iron. They have also a small number of other elements or metals also. Generally, ferrous metals are magnetic. Ferrous metals are often used in construction, pipelines, and even the creation of tools.

Non-ferrous metals are the opposite of ferrous – they do not contain any iron. They will not have a magnetic quality and typically resist corrosion much better than ferrous metals. The category of non-ferrous metals also includes raw materials – pure metals. Aluminium, copper, aluminium alloys, lead, tin and gilding metal are all considered non-ferrous metals.

Ferrous metals are used for things such as skyscrapers, bridges, vehicles and railroads, are used in both architectural and industrial manufacturing. Ferrous metals are also used in appliances and engines because of their magnetic properties. (Yes, you can display your child’s report card or shopping list with a magnet on your fridge door thanks to ferrous metals.) Ferrous metals also have a high carbon content, which makes them generally prone to rust.

Types Of Ferrous Metals

Due to chromium, the exceptions are stainless steel, and wrought iron due to its high content of pure iron. Examples of ferrous metals are:

Steel: iron plus carbon; widely used in construction and industrial metal manufacturing

Carbon steel: even higher carbon content added to iron; exceptionally hard metal

Stainless steel: alloy steel made with added chromium that protects against rust.

Types of Non-Ferrous Metals

Other alloy steels: lightweight metals such as chromium, nickel, titanium added to strengthen other metals without rust. Because non-ferrous metals do not contain iron, they are generally more resistant to corrosion than ferrous metals.

Aluminium, aluminium alloys, and copper are some examples that are often used in industrial applications such as gutters, roofing, pipes, and electrical applications. It also includes brass, gold, nickel, silver, tin, lead, and zinc. Non-magnetic, malevolent and lightweight are other common properties.

This makes them ideal for aircraft and other uses. Examples of ferrous metals are: aluminium: lightweight, low-strength, easily shaped Copper: highly malleable with high electrical conductivity Lead: heavy, soft, malleable metal; low melting point, low-strength Tin: soft, malleable, low-strength metal often used.

The best similarity between ferrous and non-ferrous metals is their significance to the recycling business. Companies such as Romco, play an important role to the environment. Ensuring production and consumption is sustainable.