ZIMSEC O Level · Metal Technology and Design · Form 1, Form 2
Ferrous metals (contain iron)
- Mild steel: tough, ductile, easily welded; rusts. Used for gates, frames, burglar bars.
- High-carbon (tool) steel: can be hardened; used for chisels, files, drills and springs.
- Cast iron: hard and brittle, strong in compression; used for engine blocks and vice bodies.
- Stainless steel: resists corrosion; used for sinks and cutlery.
Non-ferrous metals (no iron)
- Aluminium: light, corrosion-resistant, good conductor; used for pots, window frames, cans.
- Copper: excellent conductor, ductile; used for wiring and pipes.
- Zinc: coats steel (galvanising). Lead: soft, heavy (being replaced because it is toxic). Tin: coats steel cans.
Alloys
Mixtures of metals (or a metal with another element): brass (copper and zinc), bronze (copper and tin), solder (tin with other metals), duralumin (aluminium alloy).
Properties
Hardness, toughness, brittleness, ductility (drawn into wire), malleability (hammered into shape), elasticity, conductivity, and corrosion resistance.
Forms of supply
Flat bar, round bar, square bar, angle iron, tube, sheet and wire, specified by size and material.
Exam tip: When choosing a metal for a product, give the property that makes it suitable.
Check yourself
- Give one difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
- Name the alloy of copper and zinc.
- Why is copper used for electrical wiring?
Show answers
- Ferrous metals contain iron (and usually rust); non-ferrous metals do not.
- Brass.
- It is an excellent conductor and ductile (can be drawn into wire).
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