Nowadays, there is a wide variety of metals that, depending on their characteristics, can be used to create different structures or applications. However, depending on these characteristics, better alloys and applications can be achieved.
Metals are fundamental elements in the industry, and there are various types with particular characteristics. In this article, we will highlight the seven most commonly used metals in the industry, exploring their properties and their main uses. Continue reading if you want to know more
Steel
Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, which gives it an excellent combination of hardness and elasticity. This versatility makes it a material widely used in the industry.
Moreover, it is possible to obtain stainless steel by adding chromium, which provides high resistance to corrosion and oxidation, ideal for parts exposed to water or humid environments, as well as environments with high and low temperatures.
Aluminum
Aluminum stands out for its strength and elasticity, without compromising its lightness. It is widely used in the industry due to its beneficial properties.
In addition, aluminum is non-toxic, making it suitable for applications in the food industry, as well as construction. One of its most important features is the lightness of this metal, perfect for materials that require strength and little weight.
Chromium
Chromium is an extremely hard metal and highly resistant to corrosion or oxidation. This quality makes it a valuable material in the industry, especially for applications that require resistance to oxidation and durability, perfect for applications where extremes in temperatures and climates are used.
Iron
Iron is the metal most used in the industry due to its high strength and outstanding physical properties. It is essential in the manufacture of high-strength structures and components, such as in buildings or tall structures.
Copper
Copper is a high-quality and resistant metal, with excellent malleability and conductivity. It is widely used in the electrical and electronic industry, as well as in applications that require good thermal conductivity, such as in cell phones or computers. Similarly, it is heavily used in electrical conductor cables.
Nickel
Nickel is used as an alloy, with iron, to improve its hardness and resistance to corrosion. This combination is especially valuable in the manufacture of components exposed to adverse conditions.
Part of the stainless steel is made with nickel, which gives it superior resistance, however, due to its difficulty to obtain, it can be somewhat costly.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a metal used in the industry as part of alloys with other metals to improve their properties. For example, magnesium oxide is used in furnaces for the manufacture of iron, steel, and other metals due to its high refractory capacity.
These seven metals play a fundamental role in the industry due to their unique properties and versatility. Whether in construction, manufacturing, or the food industry, each of them significantly contributes to the development and progress of the metallurgical and mechanical sectors.
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