Variety is the spice of life. This is a saying that’s remained popular for good reason. Just take a look at the metals we use to live comfortably.
We use stainless steel to create long-lasting silverware. We use nickel combinations for tubing, coins, and sculptures. You name it, there are examples of alloys that will do the trick and in fine form. When searching for the right metal to use for your products it helps to appreciate its unique qualities. Density, resistance, corrosion, sheen, and melting points are the most important elements you can take into account when signing up with a manufacturer.
What is a melting point? Which steel is the most popular today and why? Learn more about different examples of alloys below.
Stainless Steel Is An Everyday Staple
What’s one of today’s most common metals? Look no further than your kitchen or bedroom. Stainless steel is a beloved resource today for its sheer variety of attributes — it’s able to resist rust, is highly malleable, and lasts a very long time. Stainless steel 304 is the number one most common grade of stainless steel available today. When you need a material that will do you right in most everyday applications, this is your stuff.
Alloys Are Divided Into Several Classes
It’s important to know that the several examples of alloys you’re looking at also have unique classes. Alloy steels are divided into four — you have your structural steels, tool and die steels, magnetic alloys, and heat-resisting steels. Choosing the wrong one can, at best waste your time and money. At worst it can put your products at risk and even make your workplace less safe. Aluminum Alloy 2014 is widely considered to be the strongest heat treatable products available.
Metal Combinations Have Their Uses
Before we look into heat resistance, let’s learn more about combinations and why they can truly dazzle the eyes. Nickel 405 isn’t actually pure nickel — it contains around 65% nickel alloyed alongside copper, iron, and various trace elements such as silicon. This beefs up the final result and makes it extremely tough, perfect for applications that need durability over all else. Four of the most common metals you’ll find in the construction industry are copper, aluminum, carbon steel, and stainless steel. As for heat resistance…
Melting Points And Heat Resistance Are Key
The last thing you want to do is choose a metal with the wrong minimum yield strength or melting point. This material needs to hold up to whatever you’re using it for…or you could be in for a rough time. Five of the most common applications for stainless steel 316, for example, are laboratory equipment, jet engine parts, and pharmaceutical processing equipment. You can also find them in boat fittings and chemical containers. Melting point is a term used to define at what precise temperature a metal starts to fall apart.
Choosing The Right Metal Means Asking Questions
You know you want some good examples of alloys that can hold up to your high standards. You’re becoming more familiar with the function of heat resistance, melting points, and durability. Where do you go from here? You can consider looking into a metal manufacturing plant and asking about their deals. There are more than enough grades of steel and various metal combinations to suit your production process, no matter the volume or quality.
There’s nothing like a little variety to keep things rolling smoothly. Choose the right nickel alloys this year and watch your quality skyrocket.