Metals used in production processes are evaluated in different fields based on their physical and structural characteristics. The responses of the material to heat, electricity, and mechanical effects directly influence the reasons for their selection.
In addition to strength, workability and compatibility in use are among the factors evaluated together within the scope of metal properties. Depending on the type of application, the metal’s behavior during the joining process, its surface structure, and its thermal responses become important.
The main properties that stand out during the production and application stages of metals can be explained as follows:
- Weldability indicates the extent to which a metal is suitable for joining processes and how it behaves during the operation.
- The weld seam formed after joining is evaluated in terms of surface integrity and connection continuity.
- The heat-affected zone (HAZ) that occurs during application refers to the area of change in the metal structure without direct melting.
- Thermal stresses resulting from temperature changes may cause internal strain within the material.
- The melting behavior that defines the metal’s response to temperature is taken into consideration to ensure controlled progress in the production process.
Metals also stand out with their conductivity capacities. While thermal conductivity determines how heat spreads across the surface, electrical conductivity constitutes an important criterion in applications where energy transfer is required. When all these evaluations are considered together, metals emerge as versatile materials that can adapt to different applications.
Density and Weight
The density and weight values of metals meet different expectations depending on the area of use. Preferences for light or heavy structures are determined in line with strength requirements and application conditions.
Types of Metals and Areas of Use
Metals preferred in many areas from production to daily use are classified according to their structural and physical characteristics. When selecting materials suitable for the intended use, criteria such as strength, weight, and thermal behavior are evaluated together.
During the evaluation process, metal properties are among the fundamental factors that determine which metal will deliver more efficient results in which area.
Metal types shaped according to different needs offer various advantages depending on their areas of use. Metal groups and their usage areas can be summarized as follows:
- Iron-based metals: Preferred in structural applications requiring strength and generally used in areas carrying heavy loads.
- Light metals such as aluminum: Stand out in applications that offer portability and ease of use thanks to their low weight advantage.
- Copper and similar metals: Used in areas requiring conductivity and provide advantages in terms of energy transfer.
- Metals with corrosion-resistant properties: Preferred in environments that require resistance to external effects.
The behavior of metals under temperature also plays an important role in the selection process. While the melting point determines the temperature range in which a metal can be used, the coefficient of expansion helps to understand dimensional responses during heat changes. These properties are taken into account in applications where thermal variations are intense.
When all these factors are considered together, the properties of metals form a fundamental reference for safe and efficient use across different sectors. Proper metal selection becomes decisive in terms of performance and service life.
For more detailed information about the properties of metals and solutions suitable for specific areas of use, you can contact Eko Kaynak.
