Where Can I Get Some General Information About Non-ferrous Metal

There are two groups of metals; ferrous and non-ferrous. Ferrous metals contain iron, for example carbon steel, stainless steel (both alloys; mixtures of metals) and wrought iron. Non ferrous metals don't contain iron, for example aluminium, brass, copper and titanium. Non-ferrous metals do not stick to magnets. It’s a good rule of thumb that if you see rust, it’s a ferrous metal.

Non ferrous metals are specified for structural applications requiring reduced weight, higher strength, nonmagnetic properties, higher melting points, or resistance to chemical and atmospheric corrosion. They are also specified for electrical and electronic applications.

Non-ferrous metals are used in a wide range of applications. Non-ferrous metals industries, considered as basic industries, are essential in the value added chain of many investment and consumer goods producers such as mechanical engineering, transport, aerospace, construction, packaging, electricity and energy, consumer electronics, medical devices and others.

These are the non ferrous metals and their uses:

Aluminium – An alloy of aluminium, copper and manganese. It is very lightweight and easily worked. Used in aircraft manufacture, window frames and some kitchen ware.

Copper – Copper is a natural occurring substance. The fact that it conducts heat and electricity means that it is used for wiring, tubing and pipe work.

Brass – A combination of copper and zinc, usually in the proportions of 65% to 35% respectively. It is used for ornamental purposes and within electrical fittings.

Silver – Mainly a natural substance, but mixing with copper creates sterling silver. Used for decorative impact in jewellery and ornaments, and also to solder different metals together.

Lead – Lead is a naturally occurring substance. It is heavy and very soft and is often used in roofing, in batteries and to make pipes.

Nonferrous metals do not degrade or lose their chemical or physical properties in the recycling process, resulting in their capacity of being recycled an infinite number of times.

Non-ferrous metals are much more malleable than ferrous metals. Non-ferrous metals are also much lighter, making them well-suited for use where strength is needed, but weight is a factor, such as in the aircraft or canning industries. 

Because they contain no iron, non-ferrous metals have a higher resistance to rust and corrosion, which is why you’ll find these materials in use for gutters, water pipes, roofing, and road signs. They are also non-magnetic, which makes them perfect for use in small electronics and as electrical wiring. Non-ferrous scrap metal are somewhat harder to come by and more difficult to create. This makes the demand higher, which drives up its price.