Differences Between Ferrous & Non-Ferrous
- Any metal that is ferrous contains a percentage of iron in its basic form. This means that the only ferrous metallic element in the periodic table is iron itself. In the real world many metals, such as steel, contain a percentage of iron. These are all classified as ferrous.
- Non-ferrous metals contain no iron. All metals, apart from iron, in the periodic table are non-ferrous as are compounds that do not contain iron. Tungsten steel, for example, is non-ferrous.
- Ferrous metals are magnetic and have a high tensile strength; they can support a lot of strain. They also exhibit standard metal properties such as electricity and heat conduction, malleability and ductility. Non-ferrous metals also have the same basic metal properties but are generally lighter, have higher melting points and are resistant to corrosion.
- Non-ferrous metals are used in areas where their properties will be an advantage. For example, non-ferrous metals are lighter in weight; a machine that needs to be lighter in weight also may be made of a non-ferrous metal. This is true of applications where the magnetic effect of iron would be a disadvantage. Ferrous metals are used in applications where strength is the main priority. Cast iron is used for garden fences, gates and manhole and drain covers. Cast steel is used for tools, wheel hubs and decorative domestic hardware like door knobs.