Different types of metal and their uses
There are over twenty different types of metal, and each type could have a different use, depending on its strength and durability. The definition of a metal is a mined material that when polished, conducts heat and electricity well, has a lustrous appearance and is malleable. Let’s start with some of the more familiar names of metal, such as Stainless steel, Aluminium, Iron, Bronze, Tin, Silver, and Gold. Stainless steel is used for lots of different things and is quite pliable and depending on its composition, rust proof too. A Metal Meter Box for example could be made of Stainless steel and can be supplied by a professional company such as meterbox.co.uk/, so if your old plastic box needs replacing don’t hesitate to search their website to order a new more sturdy one. Aluminium is extremely lightweight, ductile, and is the Earth’s third most abundant element and one that has a high resistance to corrosion. Probably the most well-known usage of Aluminium is for household tinfoil that can be used to protect food from extremely high temperatures when cooking.
Iron is considered to be the most common element on the Earth by mass, it is a ferrous metal, which means it is likely to corrode but it does have strong magnetic properties and conducts electricity and heat very well. Bronze is an alloy of copper but also contains tin, (unlike zinc), it is harder than wrought iron and therefore makes good tools because of its machinability, ductility and strength. One of the softest metals is Tin, it is often used as an alloying element to make other metals such as Bronze and has a distinctive silvery lustre and yellowish colour. It is quite a rare element even though it forms naturally, tin is often used in the food industry because it is water resistant and is also used as a top layer (Tin Plating) on other metals. Tin is also used to make costume jewellery and can be cleverly crafted into toys or models and painted.
Personally, I love Silver but if not looked after properly it can tarnish, it is easy to mould and shape into plain rings, intricate necklaces or more chunky, solid identity bracelets. Pure Gold, (24Carats) is very valuable and because it is malleable it is another metal favoured for making jewellery such as wedding rings, necklaces, watches and bracelets.
