There are a variety of metals used in different aspects of the construction, engineering, and other industries. Some are more commonly used than others, however, such as the following metals:
- Carbon steel
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Stainless steel
Metals are usually alloyed with other metals to expand their properties. There are, of course, different types of alloys, each with specific properties that enable them to be used for a variety of purposes.
Aluminum Alloys
Aluminum bronze alloys, for example, are usually comprised of 9% to 12% aluminum as well as about 6% iron and nickel. Aluminum Alloy 2014 is used for aircraft parts. This is due to its being one of the strongest types of heat-treatable products.
Steel Alloys
Steel is also alloyed, and there are 4 classes of alloy steels:
- Structural steels
- Tool and die steels
- Magnetic alloys
- Stainless and heat-resisting steels
While Stainless Steel 304 is the most common grade of stainless steel, Stainless Steel 316 is usually utilized for these and other applications:
- Laboratory equipment
- Jet engine parts
- Boat fittings
- Food and pharmaceutical processing equipment
- Chemical containers
Submarines are built from steel, which possesses a high-yield strength. This level of strength is needed because submarines need to be able to dive to a minimum depth of 100 metres beneath the Sonic Layer Depth. The reason for this is to avoid being detected by sonar.
Nickel Alloys
Nickel, and materials that contain nickel, are quite common in everyday life. Monel 400 is just 1 type of nickel alloy. What makes this alloy unique is that it can retain its shape and strength when subjected to extreme temperatures. In fact, this is still possible up to 2,372 degrees Fahrenheit.
The alloy Nickel 405 usually contains a minimum of 63% nickel. It is then alloyed with copper, iron, and trace elements. Silicon and sulfur are just 2 of the trace elements that may be combined with Nickel 405.
While there are a variety of applications for nickel alloys, here are a few of the popular applications:
- Oil refinery piping
- Sulfuric acid plants
- Nuclear vessels
Depending on your industry, you are aware of the additional uses for these and other metal alloys. Specialty metals are available for your production needs within the engineering and manufacturing sectors.