Using Metals
- The uses of aluminium, copper and steel are summarised in these tables:
Uses of Aluminium
|
Use |
Property |
|
Aircraft bodies |
High strength-to-weight ratio (low density) |
|
Saucepans |
Very good conductor of heat and unreactive |
|
Overhead electrical cables |
Very good conductor of electricity |
|
Food cans |
Non-toxic, resistant to corrosion and resistant to acidic food stuffs |
Uses of copper
|
Use |
Property |
|
Electrical wiring |
Very good conductor of electricity and ductile |
|
Saucepans |
Very good conductor of heat, unreactive, malleable |
|
Water pipes |
Unreactive (does not react with water), non-toxic and malleable |
Uses of Steel
|
Type of steel |
Iron alloyed with |
Use |
Property |
|
Mild |
0.25% C |
Car body panels and wiring |
Soft and malleable |
|
High carbon |
0.5-1.4% C |
Tools, e.g. chisels |
Hard |
|
Low alloy |
1-5% of other metals (Cr, Ni, Ti) |
Construction, bridges and high speed tools |
Hard, strong, low ductility and malleability |
|
Stainless |
20% Cr and 10% Ni |
Cutlery, sinks and chemical plants |
Strong and resistant to corrosion |
