The price of the scrap metal varies depending on the categories it falls under, a ferrous and non-ferrous metal so, whenever you are looking to sell your scrap metal, you should know the difference between the two. It will help you get the higher price and help you distinguish what kind of metal you have in your backyard. 

The major difference between the two metal categories is that ferrous contains iron, and non-ferrous metal does not contain iron. The discovery of copper in 6,000 BC marked the end of the Stone Age and the beginning of the Copper Age. Basically, Bronze is the alloy of copper and tin, which started the Bronze Age.

The ferrous metal started in around 1,200 BC when iron production started to become commonplace.  

Ferrous Metals

Ferrous metals are not only strong but also durable. It is also ideal for construction, piping, transportation structures, and automobiles. This type of metal is always prone to the risk of rusting as it contains high carbon content. However, the rules do not get followed for wrought iron and stainless steel. Why?

These metals have corrosion resistance as their level of carbon is extremely low; it is almost purely iron. Whereas stainless steel is another ferrous metal that won’t rust as it contains chromium and protects it from rusting. 

Ferrous metals are magnetic. If you ever want to distinguish between ferrous and nonferrous metal, a simple magnet can help you to do that. 

3 Ferrous Metal And Places To Find Them

Wrought Iron

This metal contains a very low level, around 0.8% of carbon content. Wrought iron is almost pre, and it is resistant to corrosion. You can find this metal in old ornamental fences, chains, nuts, bolts, and pipes. 

Stainless Steel

This metal contains chromium, just like wrought iron. Stainless steel is popular as it is exceptionally resistant to corrosion as the chromium level increases. You can find stainless steel in cooking instruments, surgical tools, storage tanks, good processing, and lots more. 

Cast iron

Cast iron has 2% of carbon content, and it also contains silicon. It is typically brittle and resistant to oxidation. Cast iron is also used as an engineering material in pipes, automotive parts, and machines. 

Non-Ferrous Metal

Nonferrous metals are less dense than ferrous metals. Nonferrous metals have strength, and minimal weight is desired. Due to its strength, ferrous metal is used in the aircraft industry. 

In fact, these metals are also more malleable than ferrous metals are non-magnetic. It is perfect for electrical wiring, gutters, roofing, and water pipes. 

3 Non-Ferrous And Places To Find Them

Copper

This metal is soft and malleable; so this is the reason copper is known as red metal. Copper is a good conductor of electricity and heat, ideal to use in motors, sheet roofing, and electrical wiring. 

Aluminium 

This metal is soft and ductile, and has a low density, and is resistant to corrosion. Aluminium is found in aircraft, automobiles, transportations, window frames, and lots more. 

Brass 

This metal is an alloy of copper and zinc and has a bright gold appearance. It is the reason brass is commonly used in decorative places like doorknobs and for locks and gears. There are several instruments like horns and bells that are made with brass. The brass is also used for zippers, fittings, and plumbing, and electrical purposes. 

Major Difference Between Ferrous And Non-Ferrous Metals

The first difference between the two metals is that ferrous metal and their alloys contain iron, whereas nonferrous metals do not have any iron. Due to this difference, the price of both metals varies a lot when selling your scrap metals. 

Ferrous metals are easy to come, so lowering the amount will be able to sell them for a high supply. The prices of ferrous metals remain constant whereas nonferrous metals are more scarce. Nonferrous metals don’t get rust or corrode, making them the highest sell in the market. 

Do you want to sell your scrap metal? At LH Metal, we collect and recycle all kinds of metals, including ferrous and nonferrous metals. We offer you 24 hours pickup services at your convenience. Our competitive prices can be paid via cash or cheques, depending on what you prefer. Don’t hesitate to call us.