Ferrous metals are primarily composed of iron, forming materials like steel, cast iron, and wrought iron. Renowned for their magnetic nature, toughness, and durability, these metals are widely used in industries like construction and manufacturing thanks to their strong mechanical traits.
Ferrous metals are strong and magnetic, but they can rust, except for types like stainless steel, which resist corrosion because of chromium.
Understanding these metals helps explain why they show up everywhere: in construction, tools, pipelines, and even your kitchen cutlery.
When you look closer, ferrous metals aren’t just one thing. There are lots of varieties, each with its own perks.
Alloying elements like carbon, nickel, and manganese give these metals their unique qualities. If you know a bit about this, you’ll start to notice why engineers and designers keep picking ferrous metals for so many jobs.
Ferrous Metals
These metals contain a significant amount of iron, which dictates their core characteristics.
Properties: They are generally prized for their immense tensile strength and durability. Most are magnetic, making them useful for electrical and motor applications.
Corrosion: Due to their high carbon content, most ferrous metals are vulnerable to rust when exposed to moisture.
Examples:
Carbon Steel: The backbone of construction, used in skyscrapers and bridges.
Cast Iron: Known for wear resistance; used in cookware and engine blocks.
Stainless Steel: A unique exception; it is ferrous but resists rust due to its chromium content.
Cast Iron / B7
Zinc
Carbon
EN8
EN19
Lead Sheet