Metallic alloys are materials that have properties that can not be found in just one metal. They are made by combining two or more metals to create a new material with different properties than any of the original components. The main reason for making an alloy is to get better physical and mechanical properties, lower manufacturing costs, or increased resistance to corrosion. Metals like copper and zinc form brass because they share similar chemical properties but have different hardness levels. Brass has both good machinability and excellent corrosion resistance which makes it a popular choice when selecting an alloy for certain situations such as plumbing fixtures. Metallic Alloys: Made What Exactly and
Why You Should Care Alloying metals is the process of mixing different types of metal to create a new material with properties that can not be found in any one type. This technology has been around for centuries, dating back as far as 2500 BC where bronze was created by combining copper and tin. The main reason for making an alloy is to get better physical and mechanical properties, lower manufacturing costs or increased resistance to corrosion. Brass is made from combinations like zinc (to make it more durable) and copper because they have similar chemical properties but are harder than each other which gives brass both good machinability while retaining excellent corrosion resistance. Other common alloys include steel – iron mixed with carbon
