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On the surface, the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals is blindingly simple. Ferrous metals contain iron, and non-ferrous metals do not. However, there’s much more to that distinction than a simple black and white definition. The different compositions and uses of ferrous and non-ferrous metals are vast.
Iron and many types of steel are all common examples of ferrous metals. As you can imagine, thanks to the durability of these composites, ferrous metals are often used in construction, pipelines, and even the creation of tools.
But, just because they’re sturdy doesn’t mean ferrous metals aren’t also extremely malleable. Steel, for example, is just blended iron and carbon. However, by changing the amount of either ingredient or adding in a few other materials, steel can be transformed to become anything from the thick steel beams used in skyscrapers to shiny stainless steel.
Examples of ferrous metals include:
Non-ferrous metals have a limitless variety of uses. Copper and aluminum are used for their ability to conduct heat and electricity. Several non-ferrous metals make up the core components of most smartphones. Of course, metals like gold and silver have been used decoratively for thousands of years. Non-ferrous metals are fundamentally resistant to both corrosion and magnetism making them obvious choices for many applications across many different industries.
Examples of non-ferrous metals include:
When it comes right down to it, the major difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals is cost and availability. The basic ingredients of ferrous metals — minerals like carbon and iron — are plentiful, easily obtainable and often cheap.
Meanwhile, non-ferrous metals like gold and silver are exceptionally rare. That, combined with their relatively wide range of uses, tend to make non-ferrous metals more expensive. Hence, the term “precious metals.”
If you are looking to improve your non-ferrous extraction process, check out the latest application of vibratory processing equipment on the market: the VIBRA-DRUM® Double Barrel Grinding Drum. This revolutionary grinding drum takes up less space, works faster, and uses less energy than traditional options.
With General Kinematics equipment, you can rest assured that our vibrating grinding drum is built for longevity and durability. We understand that when you need processing equipment, you need a solution you can rely on.
At General Kinematics, we strive to provide valuable resources to all of our customers. As we enter 2019, we will continue to do so and build upon our current library of resources and information. But we know our library can be slightly overwhelming, which is why we’re sharing our top GK posts of all time […]
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In the summer months, the amount of work accidents spike due to the constant distractions provided by nice weather and end of the school year. For this reason, National Safety Month is celebrated in the month of June to remind us the importance of safety and awareness of our surroundings. To wrap up safety month […]
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The growth of the electric vehicle market is not only beginning to have a noticeable impact on the automobile industry but the metals market as well. In fact, one of the most affected may be the recycling industry. As of December 2017, cumulative sales of highway-legal plug-in electric vehicles in the U.S. totaled 764,666, representing […]
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Great tips and very easy to understand, Thank you.