3.1b alloying

an alloy is a metal that is produced by combining metals and other substances e.g. carbon, together to form a new metal that has much improved properties for its intended application.

some alloys are stainless steel, bronze and brass.

bronze = copper + tin

brass = copper + zinc

duralumin = aluminium + copper + manganese

the process of producing an alloy is not overly complicated, however having the correct proportions of base metal is very important.

each of the metals is heated until it becomes a molten liquid; at this point the metals are mixed, along with any other elements that might be added.

it is usual for the metal that makes the largest proportion of the alloy to be melted first, with the other metals and elements added into the mix.

when mixing is completed, the newly produced alloy is allowed to cool in a mould.