ABSTRACT
This chapter clarifies the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Ferrous metals are based on iron or have iron as the main constituent; however, non-ferrous alloys are not based on iron or do not have iron as the main constituent. This does not mean that non-ferrous metals do not contain iron several non-ferrous metals contain iron as an alloying element. Both aluminium and titanium are substantially lighter than iron and thus are extremely useful for low-density, high-strength applications. An aluminium-zinc coating is also used as an anti-corrosion treatment of metal-coated steel. Aluminium has high electrical and thermal conductivities; as cables it can be utilised for the transmission and distribution of electrical power. Since the late 1990s aluminium has replaced copper conductors for these applications, and is the standard material for electrical conductors. Copper is used extensively for a variety of applications, especially in the construction industry. There are many different types of copper alloys, namely, Lead, Zinc and Titanium.
