Alloys

Alloy

8.1

Alloy

Definition: a mixture of metal and other elements.
Aim of alloying;
- Increase the strength and hardness of the metal.
- Prevent corrosion of the metal.
- Improve the appearance of the metal.
Atomic arrangement;

Physical properties of pure metal

Soft
Ductile
Easily malleable

Types of alloys

Alloy	Main component	Foreign substance(s)
Stainless steel	Iron	Chromium, carbon
Brass	Copper	Zinc
Bronze	Copper	Tin
Pewter	Tin	Copper, antimony
Duralumin	Aluminium	Copper, magnesium, manganese

Uses of alloys

Alloy	Properties
Stainless steel	Strong Withstands corrosion Shiny
Brass	Strong Shiny
Bronze	Strong Withstands corrosion Hard
Pewter	Shiny and smooth surface Withstands corrosion
Duralumin	Strong Withstands corrosion Light

Alloy	Examples
Stainless steel	Kitchen utensils
Brass	Keys Musical instruments Ornaments
Bronze	Medals Statues Bells
Pewter	Trophies Picture frames
Duralumin	Body of aeroplanes