Various types of metals, including their alloys, are needed for the manufacturing of parts and machinery used within a variety of industries. This includes products that are made from aluminum, carbon steel, copper, nickel, and stainless steel. Each one of these metals and/or their alloys has specific properties which determines how they can be effectively used.
Aluminum Alloys
There are different types of aluminum alloys. Aluminum bronze alloys, for example, usually consist of nine percent to 12% aluminum along with six percent iron and nickel. One of the strongest, heat-treatable products, however, is aluminum alloy 2014. This is one of the main reasons why it is utilized for forging aircraft parts.
Nickel Alloys
While nickel is a commonly used metal, its usage is steadily increasing. Every year, this amounts to an increase of four percent. It’s also interesting to note there is an increased usage of nickel-containing stainless steel. Its usage is increasing by approximately six percent every year.
Nickel 405 is another popular alloy with a variety of applications. It contains a minimum of 63% nickel along with copper, iron, and trace elements, such as silicon and sulfur. Oil refinery piping, sulfuric acid plants, and nuclear vessels are just a few of the applications for nickel 405.
Steel Alloys
There are four classes of alloy steels:
- Structural steels
- Tool and die steels
- Magnetic alloys
- Stainless and heat-resisting steels
The most common grade of stainless steel being used is stainless steel 304. Stainless steel 316, however, has a number of common applications:
- Laboratory equipment
- Jet engine parts
- Boat fittings
- Food and pharmaceutical processing equipment
- Chemical containers
Learn More About the Metals Needed for Your Business
If you’re in the construction industry, for example, you’re aware that there are different types of metals used to build commercial and residential buildings as well as other structures. Carbon steel, aluminum, copper, and stainless steel, however, are the most commonly used. When you’re in the engineering or manufacturing industry, there’s an excellent chance that you will need specialty metals to create your product lines.
Once you speak with a metal supplier, you will be able to provide them with information about your product lines and the materials that you require. At this time, your metal supplier will provide you with additional details about their services and the types of alloys that they can provide.