In the fascinating world of metals, non-ferrous metals are important to understand, due to their unique properties that distinguish each one of them. In this article, we explore the most popular and widely produced non-ferrous metals on our planet.
Aluminum: Brightness and Resistance
Aluminum, in its pure state, exhibits a beautiful silver-white color and a dazzling brightness. It stands out for being malleable and ductile, without compromising its strength. Despite being a lightweight metal, which makes it a versatile option in numerous social and productive fields, it has great mechanical resistance.
It is extracted from the mineral known as bauxite, which is transformed into alumina through the Bayer process. Subsequently, through electrolysis, alumina is converted into the aluminum we all know.
Zinc: Durability and Protection
Zinc is a metal of bluish and white hue. At room temperature, it can be brittle, but shows high resistance to corrosion under normal conditions. However, when it comes into contact with moist air, it can become dull and form a layer of basic bicarbonates.
Copper: Connectivity and Resistance
Copper, of a reddish color, is recognized for its exceptional electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity. In its pure state, it is malleable and ductile. Under normal atmospheric conditions, it shows resistance to corrosion.
However, when exposed to moisture, a green layer forms that protects it from possible attacks. For a long time, copper has been the preferred material for the manufacture of electrical cables and other components in both electrical and electronic applications.
Lead: Weight and Plasticity
This grayish-colored metal is the heaviest of the common metals. Its high plasticity allows it to be easily worked with in a cold state. However, it is important to avoid contact with food and drinks, as it can be toxic. Lead can be stretched by extrusion and rolling. In addition, it offers good resistance to environmental corrosion and acids.
Tin: Versatility and Protection
Tin, of a white or grayish color, is a ductile and malleable metal, although it has low tensile strength. It is used in alloys, especially with lead, for soft soldering. It is also used to coat steel cans, as it is not corrosive or toxic.
Nickel: Durability and Versatility
Nickel is a white metal that becomes very tough when it comes into contact with carbon. It is malleable and can be rolled. It shows resistance to atmospheric corrosion and, when alloyed with iron, it acquires high resistance to oxidation.
These alloys are often used in jewelry, coins, and heat exchangers. Much of the nickel production goes to the manufacture of stainless steel.
Classification of Non-Ferrous Metals: Ultralight, Light, and Heavy
To better understand the diversity of non-ferrous metals, we can classify them into three main categories: ultralight, light, and heavy.
Ultralight Non-Ferrous Metals: Lightness and Versatility
These metals have a density of less than 2 kg/dm³. This category includes magnesium and beryllium. These ultralight metals are known for their great lightness and their ability to offer versatile solutions in different applications.
Light Non-Ferrous Metals: Balance and Performance
Light non-ferrous metals have a density between 2 kg/dm³ and 5 kg/dm³. Among them, aluminum and titanium stand out. These metals are characterized by their balance between lightness and performance.
They are widely used in various industries, from aeronautics to construction, due to their resistance and versatility.
Heavy Non-Ferrous Metals: Resistance and Durability
In the category of heavy non-ferrous metals are those with a density equal to or greater than 5 kg/dm³. This includes copper, zinc, tin, nickel, lead, and cobalt, among others. These metals stand out for their resistance, durability, and various industrial applications.
From the manufacture of electrical components to the construction of metal structures, these heavy metals are fundamental in the metallurgical industry.
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