Ferrous
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
The term ferrous refers to metal compounds that contain iron. Iron is the chemical element most commonly found on Earth by mass, forming much of the Earth’s outer and inner core.
For more information, see Iron.
Ferruginous is a term related to ferrous. It is an adjective that is sometimes used to describe non-metallic substances (such as water and oil) that contain iron or have rust on their surface.
[edit] Types of ferrous metals
Ferrous metals are generally thought of as alloys because they are essentially iron ore with the addition of various amounts of a wide range of other substances. These combinations produce a variety of materials with different properties that can be used for a range of purposes.
The combination of iron ore with carbon produces substances referred to as non-alloy steels. In addition to wrought iron, these non-alloy steels include cast iron and low (or mild), medium and high carbon (or tensile) steel. Non-alloy steels generally have good thermal and electrical conductivity.
Non-alloy steels | Characteristics | Common applications |
Cast iron | Brittle (if thin); castable (in a mould); good compression strength; poor corrosion resistance. |
Bench vices. |
Low-carbon (or mild) steel | Tough; easy to form, braze and weld; poor corrosion resistance. | Nuts, bolts, screws. |
High-carbon steel | Hard but brittle; harder to work with than mild steel. | Taps and tools. |
Other common iron ore additions include:
[edit] Characteristics and uses of ferrous metals
Most ferrous metals exhibit similar basic properties and have been used in a wide variety of applications. Common characteristics include:
- Durability
- Good tensile strength
- Good electrical conductivity
- Low corrosion resistance
- Silver in colour
- Recyclable
- Usually magnetic.
[edit] Advantages and disadvantages
Some of the shared characteristics of ferrous metals produce distinct advantages and disadvantages:
[edit] Disadvantages
- Inherent vulnerability to corrosion (and rust, in particular).
- Relatively high density.
[edit] Advantages
- Can be made less susceptible to corrosion through the addition of other elements or procedures.
- Generally considered to be inexpensive.
- Inherently strong (with the ability to be made even stronger through various processes).
- Relatively high temperature and endurance limitations.
See also: Non-ferrous metals.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
ECA progress on Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter
Working hard to make progress on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.