As we all know, metal has numerous advantages, not only for the manufacturing industry but also for everyday use. Before we can discuss the metal properties and their advantages, we must first define metals.
Thus, metals are naturally occurring elements of the earth’s crust (minerals), with an estimated 4% of the earth’s crust containing these metals. Metal is derived from the Greek word “metallon,” which is a chemical element capable of forming ions.
Well, this metal is divided into two kinds, namely ferrous metals and non-ferrous metals.
What are the metal properties?
Metals have the following properties in general:
- Heat conductor
- Electrical conductor
- Forgeable
- Tough, ductile, and impact-resistant
- Shiny (reflective)
So, given its nature, what are the advantages of metal in everyday life?
Heat Conductor
Metals are generally conductive and include good heat conductors or are called conductors; the heat energy generated can be used for a variety of purposes, particularly for cooking utensils such as pans, pans, teapots, and so on. Conductor materials in cooking utensils are intended to keep food hot and cook quickly.
The following metals are ranked as the best conductors:
- Silver
- Copper
- Gold
- Aluminum
- Zinc
- Nickel
- Brass
- Bronze
- Iron
- Platinum
Electrical Conductor
Who in this world does not require electricity? Of course, everyone requires electrical energy for a variety of reasons. Metals are also known as conductors because of their high electrical conductivity. Cables made of copper or aluminum, for example, have low electrical resistance and are proof that metals have good electrical conductivity; indeed, cables are still used today.
Forgeable
What causes metal to be forgeable? Because of the presence of metal cations that can move freely in electrons and have flexible metal bonds. There are several methods for producing metal shapes during the metal forming process.
Forging is one of the most well-known metal-forming processes. Forging is a type of metal-forming process in which metal is plastically deformed into a specific shape and size.
There are numerous examples of products resulting from the forging or forging process, such as kitchen utensils such as knives. Forging is commonly used to produce high-strength components such as crankshafts, connecting rods, gears, hand tools, and many others.
Tough, ductile, and impact-resistant.
One of the benefits of metal over other materials is its hardness, ductility, and impact resistance. Cast iron, nodular cast iron, and steel are all common materials.
There are many metal applications, including garden benches, manhole covers, and automotive components. Typically, additional processing, such as heat treatment, is required for automotive parts.
Shiny
Metal has a gleaming appearance because its surface can reflect light. Furthermore, when rubbed, the metal becomes shiny or glistening. Metallic luster is another name for this metallic property. As a result, metal is used to make jewelry. The metals that are often used to make jewelry are gold and silver. We are all too familiar with gold and silver jewelry.