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Stainless steel is a ferrous metal! Although it contains non-ferrous metal elements such as chromium and nickel, it is still an iron-based alloy in essence.
When we explore the differences between stainless steel and other metals, we should understand different types of metals and their composition and characteristics to better understand their classification
As a company deeply engaged in the field of stainless steel cookware manufacturing, Allnice encounters customers asking such questions every day: “Is stainless steel a non-ferrous metal?” This question seems simple, but it involves the core logic of metal classification, and even directly affects product material selection and production processes. Today, we will use an easy-to-understand popular science guide to help you thoroughly sort out your thoughts.
Ferrous Metals vs Non-ferrous Metals: Basics of Metal Classification
To understand the properties of stainless steel, we must start with the essential differences between the two major metal categories.
What Are Ferrous Metals?
Metals and alloys with iron (Fe) as the main component usually contain other elements such as carbon (C).
Core features:
- High iron content: iron-based accounts for more than 50% (the iron content of stainless steel is about 50-70%).
- Magnetic performance: Most are magnetic (but austenitic stainless steel, such as 304/316, is weakly magnetic or non-magnetic due to its special crystal structure).
Common types:
- Carbon steel: high carbon content, strong hardness, used in construction and mechanical parts.
- Stainless steel: added with elements such as chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni), strong corrosion resistance, widely used in kitchen utensils and medical equipment.
- Cast iron: carbon content of more than 2%, high temperature resistance, often used in pots and engine parts.
Industry significance:
Due to their high strength and controllable cost, ferrous metals account for more than 90% of global metal consumption and are the core materials of industrial manufacturing.
What Are Non-ferrous Metals?
Metals that do not contain iron or have very low iron content are usually extracted from ores through processes such as electrolysis and smelting.
Core features:
- Lightweight: Density is generally lower than iron (e.g., aluminum density is only 1/3 of steel).
- Corrosion resistance: Naturally rust-resistant (e.g,. aluminum oxide protective film is formed on the surface of aluminum).
- Conductivity/thermal conductivity: Copper and silver are much more conductive than steel and are often used in wires and radiators.
Common types:
- Light metals: aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg) – used in aerospace and packaging.
- Heavy metals: copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb) – used in batteries and alloys.
- Precious metals: gold (Au), silver (Ag) – used in electronics and jewelry.
- Rare metals: titanium (Ti), tungsten (W) – used in high-tech and military fields.
Industry significance:
Although non-ferrous metals are used in small quantities (accounting for about 10% of the metal market), they have become irreplaceable materials for high-end manufacturing due to their special properties.
Why Do Some People Always Mistake Stainless Steel for Non-ferrous Metal?
The root of the misunderstanding comes from two major characteristics of stainless steel:
Excellent corrosion resistance
The “stainless” secret of stainless steel lies in the addition of more than 12% chromium (Cr), forming a dense oxide film to isolate corrosion.
Non-ferrous metals such as aluminum and copper do not easily rust, which makes people easily confuse the properties of the two.
Diverse alloy components
Stainless steel often contains non-ferrous metal elements such as nickel (Ni) and molybdenum (Mo), but its matrix is still iron (more than 50%).
According to international standards (such as ASTM), iron-based alloys are still classified as ferrous metals no matter how many other elements are added.
Conclusion
From the perspective of chemical composition and physical properties, stainless steel should be classified as a ferrous metal. Although its color may be similar to some non-ferrous metals, this is only caused by its surface treatment and use environment. The metal properties of stainless steel may be just one aspect of industry knowledge, but what is reflected behind it is Allnice’s awe of material science. We always believe that only by thoroughly understanding the “nature of metal” can we create truly trustworthy products.
If you are looking for a long-term and stable wholesale stainless steel catering supplies partner, please feel free to contact us. From technical consultation to delivery, Allnice provides you with comprehensive and reliable services throughout the process.