Properties of Ferrous & Non-Ferrous Metals
Resistance to Rust & Corrosion
Ferrous metals generally have a high carbon content, which as a result, makes them vulnerable to rust when exposed to the elements. However, wrought iron – which is a ferrous metal – tends to resist rust due to the fact that it contains so much iron.
As non-ferrous metals have no iron content, they naturally have a higher resistance to rust and corrosion. This makes them ideal for use in things like gutters and roofing.
Most ferrous metals have magnetic properties, which makes them very useful in the manufacturing of motor and electrical appliances. It is in fact the use of ferrous metal that enables you to pin reminders and shopping lists to your fridge!
Non-ferrous metals aren’t magnetic. This makes them suitable for use in electronic applications and wiring.
Ferrous metals are heavier than their non-ferrous counterparts.
Non-ferrous metals are usually more expensive than ferrous metals. This is because they are in higher demand and don’t tend to be in as good supply as ferrous metals.
Both non-ferrous and ferrous metals are recyclable. Non-ferrous metals can be recycled time and time again because they don’t degrade or lose any chemical properties during the recycling process. Ferrous metals need to be melted, purified and then compacted into solid blocks.
As non-ferrous materials are relatively scarce, it’s important they are recycled. However, all scrap metal should be recycled as it helps to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill, decreases greenhouse gas emissions, protects the environment and saves energy on natural resource extraction.