There are a variety of metals that are used in the commercial industry, each with its own unique properties and applications. While some metals are more commonly used than others, all have their place in the world of commerce.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most commonly used metals in the commercial industry, as well as their key characteristics. So whether you’re wondering what metal is best for your next project or just want to brush up on your knowledge, read on!
- Stainless Steel
Stainless steel has long been the gold standard of metals in the commercial industry, due to its remarkable strength and resilience. Its durability is unmatched, providing a long-lasting solution for commercial applications that require strong, corrosion-resistant products and infrastructure. Its resistance to rusting is one of stainless steel’s most notable qualities, allowing it to maintain its impeccable appearance and strength even under extreme conditions.
Whether it’s used for food processing equipment or protective barriers, stainless steel ensures that whatever applications it is used on will have superior protection and last far longer than any other metal available on the market.
- Aluminum
Aluminum has been used in many commercial industries for decades. Its high strength-to-weight ratio and malleability make it easy to produce complex shapes and parts, eliminating the need for excessive machining processes. The lightweight nature of this metal allows larger components to be made while also reducing shipping weights.
To paint aluminum, engineers mix a special coating into the immersion process that helps reduce corrosion and increases its resistance to extreme temperatures and chemical exposure. Due to these advantages, it’s become an ideal choice for interior cabins of aircraft or automobiles, since its properties meet both aesthetic demands and durability requirements.
- Copper
Copper’s unique combination of malleability, durability, and superior conductivity has made it a popular choice in the commercial industry for electrical wiring and plumbing applications. Copper is known to maintain its properties in high temperatures and can dissipate heat more efficiently than other metals, which makes it a top contender when it comes to creating intricate wiring solutions.
In addition, its natural resistance to corrosion allows copper lines to last up to thirty-odd years, ensuring long-term maintenance benefits. For these reasons, copper has been the go-to choice for commercial projects for decades.
- Brass
Brass is a highly sought-after material in the commercial industry due to its attractive and eye-catching appearance. It can be polished to give off a shiny and bright shine, making it perfect for use in decor pieces of all shapes and sizes. A simple vase with engraved brass accents gives any room an air of elegance, while sculptures made completely out of brass set off any lobby or foyer with their majestic look.
Even large projects such as mounting trim on storefronts make excellent use of this durable sheet metal. Brass not only looks great but it is also known to be quite resistant to corrosion, giving it years of beautiful service no matter what environment it’s used in. Its versatility when it comes to manufacturing makes it a favorite pick among designers, manufacturers, and hobbyists alike.
- Iron
Iron is an integral part of the commercial industry, providing a strong and reliable material for construction projects. It is used heavily in building bridges, skyscrapers, and other high-rise structures.
Not only does iron provide superior strength and stability, but it can also resist weathering from natural elements such as rain, wind, and sun better than other materials, which helps ensure a longer lifespan for the structure. Thanks to its many enduring qualities, iron has become a staple of the commercial industry when building strong foundations that are designed to last.
