Industries around the world rely on base metals and alloys in the manufacturing of parts, components, and complex assemblies that will be used in their operations or as products to consumers. One such metal is zinc. As the fourth most widely used metal in the world, zinc is a versatile and adaptable material that can…
Many base metals provide specific mechanical, electrical, and thermal characteristics on their own. However, their physical properties may make them unsuitable for certain applications. With the addition of other metals, the base metals can enhance their properties where they can be made more durable, ductile, stronger, or less brittle. Zinc is a common additive to…
When certain materials are added to copper it changes the physical and mechanical composition of the metal. Two such materials are tin and zinc. Copper that has tin added into it is considered bronze. Bronze alloys provide a very hard metal that can sometimes be brittle and inflexible. When zinc is added to copper, it…
Copper’s immense popularity in products made around the world requires manufacturers to develop this alloy in high quantities to meet rising demand. However, copper by itself is often not suitable for products when it is melted and cast into shape. Its soft properties require strengthening yet also elasticity so it does not become brittle. In…