4 Types of Metal That Do Not Rust

Metal is one of the most valuable, naturally-occurring resources on our planet. One of the reasons why metal has such great value to our society is due to its strength and durability. But even the strongest metals can be subjected to damage or oxidation. That is why it is important to use the right type of metal for your intended application. When it comes to applications that call for strong, rust-resistant metals, these four are your top choices.

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Metals That are Resistant to Oxidation (Rusting)

► Copper

We start with copper because many industry scholars and hobbyists argue that copper is not considered a noble metal because it is not technically corrosion-resistant. They often orate that because copper is such a reactive metal in the case of oxygen exposure, it is not a good fit for the definition of an anti-corrosive metal. Basically, copper will not rust because it does not contain any iron content, however, it can be subjected to certain deterioration when it reacts with oxygen. It does develop a green patina overtime, which will protect the copper from further corrosion.

Stainless Steel

There is a very good reason why the majority of all modern-day kitchens are equipped with stainless steel appliances, such as refrigerators, microwaves, dish washing machines, stoves, and even plumbing fixtures like faucets. The very good reason is that stainless steel will not rust when exposed to moisture or water, like many other kinds of metals would. Even though stainless steel usually does contain some traces of iron, which should technically make the steel prone to oxidation, they are mostly resistant because they contain high ratios of chromium. Chromium is more reactive than iron, so it quickly oxidizes, thus creating a protective chromium oxide coating on the stainless steel. Furthermore, stainless steel often contains other rust-resistant alloys, like nickel and molybdenum, strengthening its resistance against oxidation.

Aluminum

Aluminum metal is used in various industries and applications all across the globe, and it’s due to its two most valuable properties: light weight and resistance to corrosion. Commodities like airplanes, automobiles, bikes, building materials, and more are all manufactured with high aluminum content. The reason why aluminum is a terrific option for an anti-corrosion metal is because it contains very little, or even no iron content, making it stand up against conditions that cause rust. When exposed to moisture, a layer of aluminum oxide forms on the surface, protecting the metal from oxidation and corrosion.

 ► Galvanized Metal

Since steel metal is not naturally resistant to rusting, often times it must be galvanized for an added layer of protection. Galvanized carbon steel stands up well against conditions that commonly cause it to oxidize. Galvanization is the process of coating steel with zinc, which acts as a barrier against water and oxygen. This is known as cathodic protection. Like aluminum and chromium, the zinc reacts fast to oxygen, and creates a zinc oxide layer on the surface of steel.

How to Sell Your Rusty Steel and Iron Scrap Metal in Indiana

Call Zore’s Recycling division at 317-244-0700 to get paid cash on the spot with our Indianapolis metal recycling services and opportunities. We have been a family owned and operated company for over 75 years, and continue to make customer satisfaction our number one goal in our metal recycling division. And to make recycling easier for you, we offer several customer conveniences at no extra charge! Request a free estimate, today.

Indianapolis Metal Recycling
Indianapolis Metal Recycling

How to Protect Metal From Oxidation

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Metal Recycling Center 317-244-0700

Rust is a type of corrosion that can form on metal as a result of water, iron, and oxygen coming together. It ranges from shades of red, orange, and brown, and can occur as a form of iron oxide on anything that is iron or iron alloy, including steel. And this isn’t bad simply for aesthetics. Although rust is unappealing, it is also highly damaging to your metal assets. Rust leads to metal expansion, which causes vulnerabilities in the structure as a whole. This is why rust prevention should be a top priority, especially for industries that use steel products.

Do you remember the Silver Bridge Tragedy of 1967? The rust formation was so great, the steel suspension bridge suddenly collapsed in under one minute! For this reason, rust prevention is a necessary part of caring for your metal investments. Continue reading for tips on how to protect metal from rust oxidation.

Rust-Resistant Alloys

When it comes to protecting rust-resistant alloys like stainless steel and weathering steel, the umbrella caution is rain and moisture exposure. By protecting your metal assets from the elements, you are in a good position to prevent unwanted rust formation. Stainless steel contains at least 11% chrome, which provides a chromium oxide shield against damaging effects like rust. And even if the film is damaged, it will re-form again! To enhance the level of protection against stainless steel, consider adding a nickel finish. As for weathering steel, or COR-TEN, it contains up to 20% of alloying agents. This includes chromium, but also copper, phosphate, and nickel. This creates a protective coating that prevents rust formation. And COR-TEN is typically less expensive than stainless steel!

Galvanization

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Similar to the protective coatings and films provided by the above-mentioned alloy elements, galvanization also creates a coating that acts as a shield against damaging effects like oxidation. But in contrast to alloying elements, galvanization uses an outside coat of metallic zinc. The process involves either hot-dip galvanizing or electroplating. Galvanization also provides sacrificial anode that takes on any rust formation in place of the actual metal.

Bluing

Bluing is homogeneous to galvanization except rather than metallic zinc, metal is coated in a substance made from a solution of potassium nitrate, sodium hydroxide, and water. When this technique is applied, it renders metal with a bluish-looking finish, hence the name “bluing.”

Additional Options:

♻ Organic Coating like Paint, Primer, or Sealer
♻ Dry Powder Coating like Acrylic, Polyester, Nylon, Vinyl, Epoxy and Urethane.
♻ Routine Care (i.e. cleaning, drying, etc.)

Don’t know what to do with your rusty old metal? Recycle it for cash!

Indianapolis Metal Recycling

Indianapolis Metal Recycling

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Call Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 to recycle metal for cash in Indianapolis, Indiana. We pay cash on the spot for all metal and metal commodities regardless of age, condition, type, or size. Give us your junk cars, car parts, appliances, electronics, piping, and more, all for a fast profit! Call 317-244-0700 to request a free quote for Indianapolis scrap metal recycling, today.