Types of metals and alloys

Types of Metals

Ferrous metals: This family of metals, including steel and iron, contains a significant amount of iron. They are magnetic and typically vulnerable to rust when exposed to moisture.
Non-ferrous metals: Metals that do not contain iron fall under this category, such as copper, aluminium, and tin. These metals are non-magnetic and generally more resistant to corrosion than ferrous metals.
Precious metals: These metals possess high economic value due to their rarity. Gold, silver, platinum, and palladium fall under this category. Blacksmithing traditionally uses very little of these metals.

Types of Alloys

Bronze: Composed of primarily copper and tin, bronze is stronger and tougher than either of its constituents. It melts at a lower temperature, and is highly resistant to corrosion.
Brass: This alloy is made up of copper and zinc. It exhibits high malleability and a low melting point, which make it ideal for creating complex shapes.
Steel: An alloy of iron and carbon, steel exhibits high strength and hardness compared to iron. Different types of steel exist, varying by carbon content and other added elements.
Stainless steel: This variety of steel includes chromium, presenting even greater resistance to rust and corrosion. It is widely used in kitchen utensils and high-quality tools.

Key Properties of Metals and Alloys

Malleability: The capacity to deform under compressive stress and form thin sheets without rupturing.
Ductility: The ability to stretch into a wire without breaking apart.
Tensile Strength: The ability to withstand tension (pulling force) without breaking or deforming.
Corrosion Resistance: The ability to resist degradation caused by oxidation or other chemical reactions.

Knowing each metal and alloy’s properties is critical for blacksmithing. Proper fabrication methods and heat treatments can be chosen to enhance these properties.

Testing and Treatment of Metals

Hardness testing: This determines the resistance of a metal to deformation or penetration. A common method is the Brinell hardness test.
Tensile testing: This measures the force needed to pull a metal apart and how much it stretches before breaking.
Annealing: This is a heat treatment that alters the properties of a metal, usually to increase its ductility and reduce its hardness.
Quenching: This process involves cooling a heated metal fast to harden it. Different quenching mediums (water, oil, or air) can lead to different hardness and toughness levels.
Tempering: This treatment reduces the brittleness of a metal after hardening. It involves reheating the metal to a temperature below its hardening temperature, then cooling it.

Training in different testing methods and understanding heat treatment techniques can aid blacksmiths in selecting suitable materials for particular applications and enhancing the performance of their creations.