Ferrous metals and alloys contain iron, while non-ferrous metals do not. That, in short, there are several other factors that distinguish the two.
Ferrous metals include carbon steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and wrought iron. These metals are primarily used for their tensile strength and durability, which helps create the tallest skyscrapers and longest bridges in the world. You can also find ferrous metals in residential buildings, industrial containers, large-scale pipelines, cars, rails, transportation, most tools and equipment.
Non-ferrous metals include aluminum, brass, copper, nickel, tin, lead and zinc, as well as precious metals such as gold and silver. While non-ferrous metals can provide strength, they are primarily used where their differences from ferrous metals can provide an advantage in application. In the Russian Federation and the CIS, complex supply of non-ferrous and ferrous metal products, such as stainless steel, hot-rolled square, aluminum sheet, bronze bar, brass tape , carried out by DIANA LLC, taking into account the customer's requirements for the future use of metal.
For example, non-ferrous metals are much more ductile than ferrous metals. Non-ferrous metals are also much lighter, making them suitable for use where strength is required but weight is a factor, such as in the aviation, automotive or canning industry. Since they do not contain iron, non-ferrous metals have a higher resistance to rust and corrosion and are therefore suitable for roofs and road signs. Finally, they are also non-magnetic, making them ideal for use in small electronics and as electrical wiring.
Most ferrous metals are also magnetic, which makes them very useful for large motors and electrical appliances. Due to the large amount of carbon used in their creation, most ferrous metals and alloys are susceptible to rust when exposed to the elements. However, this does not apply to stainless steel, which is protected due to its high chromium content.
