Metal fabrication

A Guide to Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals

As a company specializing in machining tools, more than one client has asked about the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals over the years. Broadly defined, non-ferrous metals do not contain iron while ferrous metals do.

Ferrous metals, such as cast iron, stainless steel and carbon steel, have magnetic properties which make them ideal for a variety of uses in vehicle engines. This type of metal is also renowned for its durability and strength, which is why it is used in the construction of everything from tall buildings and cars to rail lines. Some lightweight steels, such as nickel, titanium and chromium, are added to ferrous metals to strengthen the material and create what is known as alloy steels.

According to statista.com, ferrous metallurgy represents approximately 90% of worldwide production of metal, with steel being the ferrous alloy that is most used in transportation, construction and industry. Steel has very strong mechanical properties but it is also quite labour-intensive to cast well.

One consideration to keep in mind is that ferrous metals can rust more easily than non-ferrous metals due to the fact that they have higher carbon content. However, there are ferrous metals that are the exception to the rule, such as stainless steel for example.

Non-ferrous metals have been used since the dawn of time. These types of metals aren’t as prone to rust as ferrous metals because they don’t contain iron. Non-ferrous metals are commonly used in electrical applications, roofing and piping. Some examples of non-ferrous metals include tin, brass, zinc, gold, copper, aluminium, silver and lead.

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. is a leading source for machining, and we know that placing an order for top quality metal fabrication goods for manufacturing companies is not as simple as filling in an order form. If you are looking for a production team that can work with you during all parts of the steel fabrication manufacturing process, then get in touch with our team in Oshawa Ontario, today.

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Steel fabrication

Go Green with Sustainable Steel

Many of our clients – as well as our client’s clients – are more concerned about the environment than ever before. The rise of the green movement and an increasing awareness of our carbon footprint mean that an increasing number of organizations are looking for sustainable building materials, production methods, machines and products.

Steel is an essential part of our economy. It is used in everything from kitchen magnets to vehicle engines, appliance manufacturing, architecture, railways, bridges and infrastructure. The steel industry as a whole has made huge strides in lowering its environmental impact as well. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the steel sector has achieved the highest overall reduction in emissions of any major industry, with the market being able to reduce its emissions by 47% from 1990 to 2005.

“Sustainable steel” can mean different things, depending on your location, industry and needs. One reason why designers and architects choose steel for their building designs is that of its versatility and durability. If a building material is able to last many years without needing to be replaced, then it is automatically considered a sustainable option. Many sectors are also recycling steel. Recycling of materials means that waste is being minimized and reused. This also contributes to its sustainability.

Galvanized steel poles are also being used to replace wood utility poles across North America. The reason for this is that the steel poles will have less of an impact on:

  1. The animal environment,
  2. Lower aerosol emissions, and
  3. Reduced hazardous waste.

In the transportation sector, steel is still used in many engines and in a variety of automotive components. Thanks to advances in the manufacturing sector, these components are more lightweight than ever before, which can lead to increased efficiency and lower fuel consumption in cars.

Are you looking for sustainable machining solutions? Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. strongly emphasizes client relationships as an integral part of our business model. Our staff will be happy to get to know you and your individual machining needs and will use that knowledge to make sure you get exactly what you want. Contact us for more information about our contract manufacturing company in Oshawa, Ontario today.

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