Properties & Benefits
Design & Technology: AQA GCSE, topic 4.5.3
Properties & Benefits
Alloying metals offer numerous advantages compared to pure metals.
Corrosion resistance
- Many alloys have superior corrosion resistance compared to pure metals.
- For example, stainless steel and aluminium alloys are highly resistant to corrosion.
- Corrosion resistance means alloys are ideal for harsh environments.
Strength and toughness
- Alloys often have improved strength, hardness, and toughness.
- This makes alloys suitable for structural applications.
- Structural applications need high mechanical properties.
Thermal and electrical conductivity
- Alloying elements can modify thermal and electrical conductivity.
- Properties can be modified in:
- Electrical components.
- Heat exchangers.
- Conductive materials.
Customised properties
- It is possible to select specific alloying elements and ratios.
- This makes it possible to customise alloys with desired properties.
- Desired properties include:
- Magnetism.
- Heat resistance.
- Ductility.
- Chemical inertness.