What Does
Ferrous Alloy Mean?
A ferrous alloy is a metal whose composition contains mostly iron. Although the majority of its chemical makeup is iron, a wide variety of alloying elements can be added to give it the mechanical and chemical characteristics that are required.
Corrosionpedia Explains Ferrous Alloy
Ferrous alloys were widely used as early as 1200 BCE, and continue to be used in a wide variety of applications. Some common ferrous alloys include:
- Carbon steel is used in structural applications.
- Stainless steel is a type of ferrous alloy that has high amounts of chromium added to enhance its resistance to corrosion.
- Alloy steel is often used in tooling and in applications that require high strength.
- Cast iron is often used in applications subject to wear because its high hardness provides it with excellent wear resistance.
- Wrought iron is relatively low in hardness and strength; it is used often for decorative purposes.