PRECIOUS METALS

Platinum 

Platinum is a chemical element with symbol Pt and atomic number 78. It is a dense, malleable, ductile, highly unreactive, precious, gray-white transition metal.
Found In: Catalytic Converters, computer hard drives

Rhodium

Rhodium is a chemical element with symbol Rh and atomic number 45. It is a rare, silvery-white, hard, and chemically inert transition metal. It is a member of the platinum group. Found In: Catalytic Converters, computer hard drives

Palladium

Palladium is a chemical element with symbol Pd and atomic number 46. It is a rare and lustrous silvery-white metal discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston. Found In: Catalytic Converters, computer hard drives

Cat Converters

FERROUS METALS

METALS WHICH CONTAIN IRON

The following are ferrous metals and the kind of uses to which they are usually put:

  • Mild Steel – Carbon content of 0.1 to 0.3% and Iron content of 99.7 – 99.9%.
    Used for engineering purposes and in general, none specialised metal products.
  • Carbon steel – Carbon content of 0.6 to 1.4% and Iron content of 98.6 to 99.4 %.  Used to make cutting tools such as drill bits.
  • Stainless Steel – Made up of Iron, nickel and chromium. Resists staining and corrosion and is therefore used for the likes of cutlery and surgical instrumentation. See our infographic celebrating 100 years of stainless steel usage in buildings or the different types of stainless steel.
  • Cast Iron – carbon 2 – 6% and Iron at 94 to 98%. Very strong but brittle. Used to manufacture items such as engine blocks and manhole covers.
  • Wrought Iron – Composed of almost 100% iron. Used to make items such as ornamental gates and fencing. Has fallen out of use somewhat.

Non Ferrous Metals

metals which do not contain iron

These are the non ferrous metals and their uses:

  • Aluminium – An alloy of aluminium, copper and manganese.
    Very lightweight and easily worked. Used in aircraft manufacture, window frames and some kitchen ware.
  • Copper – Copper is a natural occurring substance. The fact that it conducts heat and electricity means that it is used for wiring, tubing and pipe work.
  • Brass – A combination of copper and zinc, usually in the proportions of 65% to 35% respectively.
    Is used for ornamental purposes and within electrical fittings.
  • Silver – Mainly a natural substance, but mixing with copper creates sterling silver. Used for decorative impact in jewellery and ornaments, and also to solder different metals together.
  • Lead – Lead is a naturally occurring substance. It is heavy and very soft and is often used in roofing, in batteries and to make pipes.