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Finding a metal that has all the properties you need for your project may prove challenging. Not only do some metals look strikingly similar but they may share some properties, too, which can make the entire selection process quite confusing. For instance, certain alloys of brass may appear like bronze and are just as resistant to friction. Therefore, it is important that you meticulously check for these properties of metal before you decide to make a purchase. This way you can be sure that the metal you’ll use best suits your needs. Below are some of the basic properties of metal.

Malleability

Metals that don’t easily break when hammered, rolled, or pressed into thin sheets are considered malleable. In fact, all metals have a certain degree of malleability. It’s just that some metals, such as copper and its alloys, are more malleable than others. Copper alloys, particularly brass and bronze, are so malleable that they can be transformed into sheets and plates, which are often used for cladding furniture surfaces or making musical instruments. They are also a favorite material for making parts of electronic devices.  

Ductility

When a metal is pulled from both ends, tension builds within it. If the tension exceeds tolerable levels, the metal would break. The metal’s ability to withstand tension is called tensile strength. However, some metals are not just tension-resistant but can elongate when pulled from both ends. The ability of such metals to elongate without breaking is called ductility. The most popular example of high ductility metal is copper. It can be drawn into small wires without snapping. This is why copper is widely used for making electrical wires and magnets.

Corrosion Resistance

Oxygen is the number one enemy of most metals. However, metals respond differently when exposed to oxygen. For instance, iron and ferrous (iron-containing) metals form iron-oxide or rust when they make contact with oxygen-containing substance, such as moisture or even air. Copper, on the other hand, forms a thin film of greenish material, called patina, on its surface when exposed to oxygen. Of the two examples, copper is the more durable one because the patina it forms does not affect the material underneath it. In fact, it later hardens and turns into a protective shield for the metal. If you’re looking for a metal that can last long or maintain its hardness and toughness, copper or any of its alloys is a good bet.

Machinability

Some metals are too soft to hold up to excessive amounts of pressure. Others are too brittle that they easily break apart when pressed or pulled. If you’re manufacturing machines parts, such as bolts, gears, and bearing, you need a metal that is neither too soft nor too hard. That metal has sufficient machinability. 

With all these properties packed in a single metal, you can surely have an output that can endure stresses. Copper and brass for sale are among the best metals you can use for your projects. Just make sure that you will get these metals from a reputable supplier like Rotax Metals.

About Rotax Metals: There are many metal suppliers in the country, and Rotax Metals is one of the very few that can provide you with the highest quality copper, brass, and bronze supplies. Whether you need brass tubes for your bathroom or bronze plate for your backsplash, you can get the right material, grade, and size that you need from our inventory. Visit our store today and we’ll help you find the most suitable choices for your projects.

Sources:

12 Metallic Facts About Brass Instruments, mentalfloss.com

Facts to Know About the Metal Brass, ehow.com