Finding a metal that has all the properties you need for
your project may prove challenging. Not only do some metals look strikingly
similar but they may share some properties, too, which can make the entire
selection process quite confusing. For instance, certain alloys of brass may
appear like bronze and are just as resistant to friction. Therefore, it is
important that you meticulously check for these properties of metal before you
decide to make a purchase. This way you can be sure that the metal you’ll use
best suits your needs. Below are some of the basic properties of metal.
Malleability
Metals that don’t easily break when hammered, rolled, or
pressed into thin sheets are considered malleable. In fact, all metals have a
certain degree of malleability. It’s just that some metals, such as copper and
its alloys, are more malleable than others. Copper alloys, particularly brass
and bronze, are so malleable that they can be transformed into sheets and
plates, which are often used for cladding furniture surfaces or making musical
instruments. They are also a favorite material for making parts of electronic
devices.
Ductility
When a metal is pulled from both ends, tension builds within
it. If the tension exceeds tolerable levels, the metal would break. The metal’s
ability to withstand tension is called tensile strength. However, some metals
are not just tension-resistant but can elongate when pulled from both ends. The
ability of such metals to elongate without breaking is called ductility. The
most popular example of high ductility metal is copper. It can be drawn into
small wires without snapping. This is why copper is widely used for making
electrical wires and magnets.
Corrosion
Resistance
Oxygen is the number one enemy of most metals. However,
metals respond differently when exposed to oxygen. For instance, iron and
ferrous (iron-containing) metals form iron-oxide or rust when they make contact
with oxygen-containing substance, such as moisture or even air. Copper, on the
other hand, forms a thin film of greenish material, called patina, on its
surface when exposed to oxygen. Of the two examples, copper is the more durable
one because the patina it forms does not affect the material underneath it. In
fact, it later hardens and turns into a protective shield for the metal. If
you’re looking for a metal that can last long or maintain its hardness and
toughness, copper or any of its alloys is a good bet.
Machinability
Some metals are too soft to hold up
to excessive amounts of pressure. Others are too brittle that they easily break
apart when pressed or pulled. If you’re manufacturing machines parts, such as
bolts, gears, and bearing, you need a metal that is neither too soft nor too
hard. That metal has sufficient machinability.
With all these properties packed in a single metal, you can
surely have an output that can endure stresses. Copper and brass for sale are among the
best metals you can use for your projects. Just make sure that you will get
these metals from a reputable supplier like Rotax Metals.
About Rotax
Metals: There are many metal suppliers in
the country, and Rotax Metals is one of the very few that can provide you with
the highest quality copper, brass, and bronze supplies. Whether you need brass
tubes for your bathroom or bronze plate for your backsplash, you can get the
right material, grade, and size that you need from our inventory. Visit our
store today and we’ll help you find the most suitable choices for your
projects.
Sources:
12 Metallic Facts About Brass Instruments, mentalfloss.com
Facts to Know About the Metal Brass, ehow.com
What is Malleability in Metallurgy,
thebalance.com
No comments:
Post a Comment