ABSTRACT
Ferrous metals are those iron-based materials which are modified for various properties using carbon and selected alloys. The classification consists of five general categories: carbon steels, alloy steels, stainless steels, tool steels, and cast iron steels (Figure 4.1). The primary constituent of ferrous metals is carbon and the amount present dictates whether the material is steel or cast iron. Those with a carbon content 2% are considered steels while those with 2% are considered cast irons. Steels are produced in wrought form and then processed into stock shapes for use and can be further altered by additional processing such as machining, welding, or forming. Irons are most commonly cast into net shape, requiring minimal amount of additional machining to clean up critical surfaces for final use and also into wrought forms which can be machined.
