Properties of ferrous metals

• Cast iron

• High carbon steel

• Low carbon steel

• Stainless steel

Advantages

• 3 - 3.5% carbon

• Good compressive strength

• Hard

• Relatively cheap

Disadvantages

• Brittle compared to other ferrous metals

• Difficult to machine

• Poor corrosion resistance

Uses

• Engineering vices

• Casting

• Engine blocks

• Anvils

Advantages

• 0.8 - 1.4% carbon

• Strong

• Hard

• Can be hardened

Disadvantages

• Not as tough as lower carbon steels

• Difficult to machine

Uses

• Tools like:

  • Blades

  • Hammers

  • Chisels

Advantages

• Less than 0.3% carbon

• Tough

• Relatively cheap

• Stronger than most non ferrous metals

Disadvantages

• Lower strengths than other steels

• Can’t be hardened

Uses

• Nails

• Screws

• Car bodies

Advantages

• At least 11.5% chromium

• Strong

• Hard

• Good corrosion resistance

Disadvantages

• Difficult to machine

• Expensive

Uses

• Knives

• Forks

• Medical equipment

• Sinks