Metals have played a crucial role in shaping human civilization, from the Bronze Age to the modern era. While we often associate metals with their durability, strength is an essential characteristic that determines their practical applications. They are used in various industrial sectors like construction, automobiles, medicine, jewellery, weapon, clothing, farming, furniture security, machinery, and many others. In this article, we delve into the world of metal alloys and discover the top contenders for the title of the strongest metals known to humankind. Brace yourself for an exploration of extraordinary strength, resilience, and the remarkable feats of engineering that these metals enable.

Factors for Deciding Strongest Metals

Have you ever thought, What is the strongest metal on earth? Even though the question seems easy, the answer is quite complex as various parameters need to be accounted for in the reply. As there isn’t a universal scale for strength in simple terms. In metallurgy, we can find four different types of strength. Those are:

• Tensile strength
• Compressive strength
• Yield strength, and
• Impact strength

Tensile Strength:

Tensile strength is a measure of a material’s resistance to breaking under tension. It represents the maximum amount of stress a metal can withstand before fracturing. Higher tensile strength indicates a stronger metal. Find more details about tensile strength here.

Yield Strength:

Yield strength refers to the amount of stress a metal can withstand without permanent deformation or plasticity. It represents the point at which the material begins to show strain. A higher yield strength indicates greater resistance to deformation. More details about yield strength can be found here.

Compressive Strength:

Compressive strength refers to a material’s ability to withstand compressive or squeezing forces without undergoing permanent deformation or failure. It measures the maximum amount of compressive stress a material can bear before fracturing or collapsing. Compressive strength is essential in applications where materials need to withstand crushing or compacting forces. It is typically measured by applying a compressive load to a sample until it fails, and the maximum load it can withstand is recorded. Compressive strength is expressed in units of pressure, such as pounds per square inch (psi) or megapascals (MPa).

Impact Strength:

Impact strength, also known as toughness, represents a material’s ability to absorb energy when subjected to a sudden force or impact without breaking or fracturing. It measures the resistance of a material to crack propagation under impact loading conditions. Impact strength is particularly relevant in scenarios where materials are exposed to sudden shocks, collisions, or dynamic loads. The impact strength of a material is determined by subjecting a standard test specimen to a high-velocity impact and measuring the energy absorbed before a fracture occurs. It is usually expressed in terms of energy units, such as joules (J) or foot-pounds (ft-lbs).

Top 10 Strongest Metals

So to find out the strongest metals on earth we have to think from all the above-mentioned four strength parameters and this is not simple. And based on those parameters, there are several metals that can be considered among the strongest. Here is a list of some of the strongest metals for industrial applications.

Tungsten:

Tungsten takes the crown as one of the strongest metals available. With an incredibly high tensile strength, it is twice as strong as steel, making it ideal for demanding industrial applications. Its exceptional strength is due to its dense atomic structure, which allows it to withstand extreme temperatures and pressures. Tungsten finds extensive use in aerospace, electrical wiring, and high-temperature applications such as filament in incandescent light bulbs.

Titanium:

Renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to corrosion, titanium is a true heavyweight contender in the world of metals. It boasts a strength comparable to steel but is about 45% lighter. These properties, along with its biocompatibility, make it an ideal material for aerospace applications, medical implants, and sports equipment. Titanium’s strength combined with its ability to withstand extreme temperatures makes it an invaluable component in the aerospace industry.

Chromium:

Chromium, often alloyed with steel, significantly enhances the strength and durability of the resulting material. Stainless steel, containing at least 10.5% chromium, exhibits excellent resistance to corrosion and oxidation. It finds extensive use in the production of kitchen appliances, automotive parts, and construction materials. Chromium’s ability to withstand high temperatures makes it indispensable in the manufacturing of gas turbines and jet engines.

Nickel-based Superalloys:

Nickel-based superalloys (Inconel, Monel, Hastelloy) are a family of high-performance metals renowned for their exceptional strength, heat resistance, and creep resistance. These alloys contain nickel as the primary element along with other elements like cobalt, chromium, and molybdenum. Nickel superalloys are widely employed in the aerospace, power generation, and petrochemical industries, where their strength and resistance to thermal fatigue are crucial for high-stress environments.

Steel:

Steel, an alloy of iron and carbon, has long been revered for its strength and versatility. Depending on the composition and treatment, steel can exhibit varying degrees of strength, but it remains a stalwart choice for construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects worldwide. The addition of other elements like chromium, nickel, and molybdenum enhances its corrosion resistance and strength. Steel’s remarkable strength-to-weight ratio makes it an integral part of modern architecture and heavy machinery. Alloy steels and DSS materials are very good contenders to be one of the strongest metals.

Vanadium:

Vanadium, a transition metal, exhibits excellent strength, hardness, and resistance to corrosion. It is often alloyed with steel to improve its strength and toughness. Vanadium steel, widely used in tools and high-stress applications, boasts remarkable tensile strength and impact resistance. Its strength and ability to retain sharp edges make it a popular choice in the manufacturing and toolmaking industries.

Lutetium:

Lutetium, one of the rare earth metals, stands out for its exceptional strength and high melting point. Its remarkable strength, combined with its resistance to deformation, makes it a valuable component in superalloys used in jet engines and gas turbines. Lutetium-based alloys also find applications in the nuclear industry due to their excellent radiation resistance.

Molybdenum:

Molybdenum is a robust metal with high tensile strength and resistance to corrosion and wear. It is commonly used as an alloying element in steel, imparting enhanced strength and heat resistance. Molybdenum alloys find applications in high-temperature environments, such as aerospace, electrical contacts, and industrial processes.

Cobalt:

Cobalt, known for its strength and magnetic properties, is vital in various industries. It finds extensive use in the production of high-strength alloys, such as cobalt-chromium-molybdenum (CoCrMo) alloys used in medical implants and aircraft engines. Cobalt alloys exhibit exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and high-temperature performance.

Zirconium:

Zirconium, a corrosion-resistant metal, possesses impressive strength and heat resistance. It is widely used in the nuclear industry, where its strength, low neutron absorption, and corrosion resistance make it suitable for reactor components. Zirconium alloys also find applications in aerospace, chemical processing, and medical devices.

Here is a typical comparison table stating the various strengths of the above-mentioned metals:

Metal	Tensile Strength (MPa)	Compressive Strength (MPa)	Yield Strength (MPa)
Tungsten	1,510 – 1,800	1,580 – 1,900	900 – 1,150
Steel/Alloy Steel/Stainless Steel/DSS	370 – 2,070	370 – 2,070	250 – 1,500
Titanium	900 – 1,100	900 – 1,100	800 – 1,000
Chromium	370 – 1,200	2,000 – 2,600	200 – 550
Nickel-based Superalloys	1,000 – 1,500	1,500 – 2,000	600 – 1,100
Vanadium	620 – 1,070	620 – 1,070	310 – 690
Molybdenum	690 – 1,380	690 – 1,380	310 – 690
Cobalt	420 – 1,380	1,100 – 1,700	400 – 1,200
Zirconium	350 – 450	1,000 – 1,300	250 – 350

Conclusion

From tungsten’s unmatched tensile strength to the corrosion resistance of zirconium, the top 10 strongest metals showcase the extraordinary capabilities of these materials. Each metal offers a unique combination of strength, durability, and specialized properties that make them invaluable in various industries. As technology and research continue to advance, we can only anticipate the emergence of new alloys and materials that push the boundaries of strength even further, fueling innovation and opening doors to new possibilities in engineering and design.

“Is Aluminium magnetic or non-magnetic?” this simple question sometimes confuses many professionals. Aluminum is one of the lightweight and widely used metals for industrial applications. To answer the question if Aluminum is magnetic, we have to explore more about its properties. Let’s dive into finding the solution to this widely asked question.

In its pure form, aluminum does not exhibit magnetic properties. It falls under the category of non-ferromagnetic materials, which do not possess a permanent magnetic field. When exposed to a magnetic field, aluminum does not attract or repel the magnet. However, under certain conditions, Aluminum can exhibit weakly magnetic behavior. Aluminum is a paramagnetic material and all paramagnetic materials can show weak magnetic properties under imposed magnetic fields. To learn this, let’s find out the electronic configuration of Aluminum.

Electronic Configuration of Aluminum

The electronic configuration of aluminum is 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p¹. Let’s break down the electronic configuration of aluminum:

• 1s²: This indicates that there are two electrons in the 1s orbital. The 1s orbital is the innermost energy level or shell.
• 2s²: This signifies that there are two electrons in the 2s orbital. The 2s orbital is the second energy level or shell.
• 2p⁶: This indicates that there are six electrons in the 2p orbitals. The 2p orbitals belong to the second energy level or shell and can hold a maximum of six electrons.
• 3s²: This signifies that there are two electrons in the 3s orbital. The 3s orbital is the third energy level or shell.
• 3p¹: This indicates that there is one electron in the 3p orbital. The 3p orbital belongs to the third energy level or shell and can hold a maximum of six electrons.

In total, aluminum has 13 electrons, which occupy the various orbitals as described above. The electronic configuration provides information about how the electrons are distributed in the different energy levels and orbitals of an atom. The same can be found in Fig. 1 below.

Why does Aluminum show Weak Magnetic Behavior?

We all are aware that paired electrons spin in opposite directions which cancels out the net dipole moment. However, for unpaired electrons, during their spin, the net dipole moment does not cancel out and It makes them tiny magnets. The behavior will increase with an increase in the number of unpaired electrons. As we have seen in Fig. 1, aluminum has only one unpaired electron. Because of this, in the presence of an external magnetic field, Aluminum weakly attracts a magnet.

Note that when there is no externally imposed magnetic field, the magnetic behavior of aluminum or other paramagnetic materials is lost as they can not retain magnetization similar to ferromagnetic materials.

How to Induce External Magnetic Field for Aluminum?

An external magnetic field can easily be induced by moving the aluminum near a magnet. That is the reason, sometimes, you may find an aluminum can to move or float slowly when passing through a hanging magnet.

So, the above discussion clearly answers the question “Is Aluminum Magnetic?”. The direct answer is Pure aluminum is non-magnetic under normal circumstances but when an external magnetic field is imposed, it shows a weak magnetic property.

Factors Influencing Aluminum’s Magnetism

Several factors contribute to the magnetic behavior of aluminum:

Electron Configuration:

The atomic structure of aluminum involves three valence electrons. These electrons are relatively loosely bound and can move freely within the metal lattice. However, their movement does not result in the establishment of a permanent magnetic field, unlike in ferromagnetic materials.

Crystal Structure:

Aluminum has a face-centered cubic crystal structure. This arrangement of atoms within the material does not allow for the alignment of magnetic domains, which is necessary for the establishment of magnetism.

Magnetic Susceptibility:

Aluminum has a very low magnetic susceptibility (2.2 χm), indicating its weak response to an applied magnetic field. The low magnetic susceptibility arises from the absence of unpaired electrons or magnetic moments within the aluminum atoms.

Misconceptions and Confusions

Confusion regarding aluminum’s magnetism often arises due to misconceptions or the presence of magnetic coatings on aluminum surfaces. It is important to differentiate between the intrinsic properties of aluminum and the influence of external factors.

Magnetic Coatings:

Aluminum objects may be coated with magnetic materials, such as iron oxide or nickel, for specific purposes or applications. These coatings can give the appearance of magnetism, but it is important to note that the underlying aluminum material itself remains non-magnetic.

Induced Currents:

When exposed to a changing magnetic field, aluminum can experience electromagnetic induction, resulting in the generation of electric currents. These induced currents can exhibit a magnetic effect, known as an eddy current. However, this effect is temporary and disappears once the magnetic field is removed.

Practical Applications

Aluminum’s non-magnetic nature offers distinct advantages in various applications:

• Electrical and Electronics: Aluminum’s low magnetic susceptibility makes it suitable for use in electrical conductors and components where magnetic interference or eddy currents need to be minimized.
• Magnetic Shielding: Aluminum’s non-magnetic property can be utilized for magnetic shielding applications, where it acts as a barrier to redirect or block magnetic fields from sensitive equipment or areas.
• Non-Magnetic Tools and Equipment: Aluminum’s non-magnetic nature makes it ideal for manufacturing non-magnetic tools, equipment, and instruments used in industries such as healthcare, research, and electronics.

Conclusion

Aluminum, while an incredibly useful and versatile metal, is not magnetic in its pure form. Its non-ferromagnetic properties can be attributed to factors such as electron configuration, crystal structure, and low magnetic susceptibility. Understanding aluminum’s non-magnetic behavior is essential to utilize its unique properties effectively in various industries. While aluminum objects may exhibit magnetic effects due to coatings or induced currents, it is important to differentiate between the intrinsic non-magnetic nature of aluminum and external influences.

Sheet metal is a versatile material used in a wide range of industries, including construction, automotive, manufacturing, and more. It is crucial to have a clear understanding of sheet metal thickness to ensure proper selection and usage. This is where a sheet metal gauge chart comes into play. In this article, we will explore the significance of a sheet metal gauge chart and provide insights into its interpretation for effective decision-making.

What is a Sheet Metal Gauge Chart?

A sheet metal gauge chart, also known as a sheet metal gauge table or sheet metal thickness chart, is a reference tool that provides a standardized measurement system for sheet metal thickness. It offers a comparison between different gauge numbers and their corresponding thicknesses in inches, millimeters, or other units of measurement. The chart typically lists a range of gauge numbers and their associated thickness values, allowing users to quickly determine the thickness of a specific sheet of metal.

Gauges are used to signify the sheet metal thickness. Using a sheet metal gauge chart, the user can easily convert the mentioned gauge into actual thicknesses in inches or mm. Steel thickness gauges can be used to verify the thickness. To give an example, For example, as per the gauge conversion chart table, 18 gauge steel is 0.0478 inches or 1.214 millimeters. The actual gauge number “18” does not hold any relevance to the actual measurements.

Understanding the Gauge Number System

The gauge number system used in sheet metal gauge charts is based on a numerical sequence, where lower gauge numbers indicate thicker sheets, while higher gauge numbers represent thinner sheets. However, the gauge system is not linear but follows a logarithmic scale. This means that the difference in thickness between two adjacent gauge numbers is not uniform but progressively decreases as the gauge number increases.

Note that, even though gauges are used to specify the thickness they are neither standard nor metric. The thickness values are independent of those measurement systems.

Standard Sheet Metal Gauge Chart

The most commonly used sheet metal gauge chart is based on the U.S. Standard Gauge (USG) system. This system assigns gauge numbers ranging from 1 to 36 to different sheet metal thicknesses. As per the USG system, gauge number 1 represents the thickest sheet metal, while gauge number 36 denotes the thinnest.

Interpreting the Sheet Metal Gauge Chart

When using a sheet metal gauge chart, it is essential to understand its interpretation. Here are a few key points to consider:

• Gauge Number: Locate the gauge number on the chart that corresponds to the sheet metal you are working with. This will help you determine its thickness.
• Thickness: Identify the thickness value associated with the chosen gauge number. The chart provides thickness measurements in inches, millimeters, or other units.
• Conversion: If you are working with a gauge system that differs from the one on the chart, you may need to convert the gauge number to match the chart’s units. Conversion tables are available for this purpose.
• Material Variations: Keep in mind that different types of sheet metal materials, such as steel, aluminum, or stainless steel, may have slight variations in thickness for a given gauge number. It’s advisable to consult material-specific charts or industry standards for precise measurements.

Sheet Metal Gauge Charts

Sheet metal gauge charts are not uniform with respect to different metals. This means that gauge 10 for Steel may not be same as the gauge 10 for Aluminum. Some of the sheet metal gauge charts for common materials are provided below:

Sheet Metal Gauge Chart for Mild Steel

Here’s a tabular format of a Sheet Metal Gauge Chart for Mild Steel:

Gauge Number	Thickness (inches)	Thickness (mm)
30	0.0120	0.30
28	0.0149	0.38
26	0.0179	0.45
24	0.0239	0.61
22	0.0299	0.76
20	0.0359	0.91
18	0.0478	1.21
16	0.0598	1.52
14	0.0747	1.90
12	0.1046	2.66
11	0.1196	3.04
10	0.1345	3.42
9	0.1495	3.80
8	0.1644	4.18
7	0.1793	4.55
6	0.1943	4.94
4	0.2242	5.70
2	0.2840	7.21

Please note that these values represent a standard sheet metal gauge chart for mild steel, but there might be slight variations depending on specific manufacturing standards or regional practices. Always consult industry-specific guidelines or materials suppliers for precise measurements and specifications.

Sheet Metal Gauge Chart for Aluminum

The Sheet Metal Gauge Chart for Aluminum is provided in the following table:

Gauge Number	Thickness (inches)	Thickness (mm)
30	0.01003	0.26
28	0.01264	0.32
26	0.01594	0.41
24	0.02010	0.51
22	0.02535	0.64
20	0.03196	0.81
18	0.04030	1.02
16	0.05082	1.29
14	0.06408	1.63
12	0.08081	2.05
10	0.1019	2.59
8	0.1285	3.26
7	0.1443	3.66

Please note that these values represent a standard sheet metal gauge chart for aluminum, but there might be slight variations depending on specific manufacturing standards or regional practices.

Gauge Chart for other Metals

The gauge chart for Brass and Stainless Steel is provided in Table 3 below:

Brass Gauge Chart			Stainless Steel Gauge Chart
Gauge Number	Inches	MM	Gauge Number	Inches	MM
8	0.1285	3.264	8	0.1719	4.365
9	0.1144	2.906	9	0.1563	3.968
10	0.1019	2.588	10	0.1406	3.571
11	0.09074	2.305	11	0.125	3.175
12	0.08081	2.053	12	0.1094	2.778
14	0.06408	1.628	14	0.0781	1.984
16	0.05082	1.291	16	0.0625	1.587
18	0.0403	1.024	18	0.05	1.27
20	0.03196	0.812	20	0.0375	0.9525
22	0.02535	0.644	22	0.0313	0.7937
24	0.0201	0.511	24	0.025	0.635
26	0.01594	0.405	26	0.0188	0.476
28	0.01264	0.321	28	0.0156	0.396
30	0.01003	0.255	30	0.0125	0.3175

Table 4 provides the Gauge chart for Copper and Galvanized Steel.

Galvanized Steel Gauge Chart			Copper Gauge Chart
Gauge Number	Inches	MM	Gauge Number	Inches	MM
8	0.1681	4.269	8	0.165	4.191
9	0.1532	3.891	9	0.148	3.759
10	0.1382	3.51	10	0.134	3.404
11	0.1233	3.1318	11	0.12	3.048
12	0.1084	2.753	12	0.109	2.769
14	0.0785	1.9939	14	0.083	2.108
16	0.0635	1.6129	16	0.065	1.651
18	0.0516	1.31	18	0.049	1.245
20	0.0396	1.005	20	0.035	0.889
22	0.0336	0.853	22	0.028	0.711
24	0.0276	0.701	24	0.022	0.559
26	0.0217	0.551	26	0.018	0.457
28	0.0187	0.474	28	0.014	0.356
30	0.0157	0.398	30	0.012	0.305

Practical Applications

A sheet metal gauge chart finds applications in various industries, including:

• Sheet Metal Fabrication: Sheet metal workers, fabricators, and welders use the gauge chart to select the appropriate thickness for their projects, ensuring structural integrity and meeting design specifications.
• Manufacturing: The manufacturing industry relies on accurate thickness measurements for sheet metal parts used in machinery, equipment, and consumer products.
• Construction: Builders and contractors refer to the gauge chart to determine the appropriate sheet metal thickness for roofing, siding, ductwork, and other construction applications.
• Automotive: In the automotive sector, the gauge chart aids in selecting sheet metal for body panels, frames, and other components, contributing to vehicle safety and performance.

Conclusion

A sheet metal gauge chart serves as a valuable tool for understanding the thickness of sheet metal materials. By providing a standardized measurement system, it allows users to quickly determine the thickness based on gauge numbers. Proper interpretation of the gauge chart is essential for selecting the appropriate sheet metal thickness for various applications. Whether in metal fabrication, manufacturing, construction, or automotive industries, referring to a sheet metal gauge chart helps ensure precision, quality, and compliance with industry standards.

As we have noted in my last article that all stainless steels do not show magnetic properties. Only certain grade of stainless steel material shows magnetic property and those can be magnetized. The composition of stainless steel decides if it can be magnetized. Any stainless steel with the presence of nickel in considerable amounts is difficult to magnetize, even though cold-rolling, stretching, and stressing the material can increase its magnetic potential. As series 200 and 400 stainless steel materials do not have nickel, they are naturally magnetic and hence, can be magnetized. In this detailed article, we will explore different methods to magnetize stainless steel, the factors influencing its magnetization, and the practical considerations involved in the process.

Methods to Magnetize Stainless Steel

Magnetizing stainless steel can be achieved through several methods, each with its advantages and considerations. It is important to note that the success and extent of magnetization may vary depending on the specific grade and composition of stainless steel.

Electromagnetic Induction:

Electromagnetic induction is a common method to magnetize stainless steel. It involves exposing the stainless steel to a strong magnetic field generated by an external electromagnet or a strong permanent magnet. By subjecting the stainless steel to this magnetic field, the alignment of the atomic dipoles can be temporarily altered, resulting in induced magnetization. However, this magnetization is typically weak and temporary unless the stainless steel is of a ferromagnetic grade or undergoes specific treatments.

Pulsed Magnetic Fields:

Applying a pulsed magnetic field to stainless steel can induce magnetization. Pulsed magnetic fields involve generating short bursts of high-intensity magnetic energy, which can realign the atomic dipoles in the stainless steel material and create a temporary magnetized state. This method is often used in specialized industrial processes and research applications.

Cold Working:

Cold working or deformation processes, such as bending, hammering, or rolling, can introduce strain into the stainless steel material. This strain can lead to the formation of localized magnetic regions, resulting in a weak magnetic response. However, the magnetization achieved through cold working is generally limited and may not be as pronounced or stable as in other methods.

Heat Treatment:

Heat treatment processes can alter the crystal structure of stainless steel, which can influence its magnetization. For example, subjecting certain austenitic stainless steel grades to low temperatures (around -196°C or -321°F) can induce a phase transformation called martensitic transformation, resulting in a ferromagnetic state. However, such transformations are specific to certain grades and must be carefully controlled to achieve the desired magnetic properties.

Factors Influencing Magnetization

The magnetization of stainless steel can be influenced by various factors:

Stainless Steel Grade:

Different stainless steel grades exhibit varying levels of magnetization. Austenitic stainless steel is generally non-magnetic, while ferritic and martensitic stainless steel grades can possess magnetic properties. Therefore, selecting the appropriate stainless steel grade is crucial for achieving the desired magnetization.

Crystal Structure:

The crystal structure of stainless steel plays a significant role in its magnetic behavior. Austenitic stainless steel, with its face-centered cubic structure, is non-magnetic. In contrast, ferritic and martensitic stainless steel, with their body-centered cubic and body-centered tetragonal structures, respectively, can exhibit magnetic properties.

Practical Considerations

When magnetizing stainless steel, certain practical considerations should be taken into account:

• Limitations: Magnetizing stainless steel may result in weak or temporary magnetization. The extent and stability of magnetization depend on the specific stainless steel grade, treatment method, and processing conditions.
• Expertise: Magnetizing stainless steel often requires specialized equipment, such as strong electromagnets or pulsed magnetic field generators. Consulting with experts or professionals experienced in magnetization processes is advisable to ensure optimal results and safety.
• Material Integrity: Magnetization processes can potentially induce localized stresses or deformations in stainless steel. Care should be taken to minimize any adverse effects on the material’s structural integrity or performance.
• Post-Magnetization Effects: After magnetization, the stainless steel may exhibit magnetic properties that can interfere with certain applications or equipment. Consideration should be given to the potential impact of magnetization on stainless steel’s intended use.

Conclusion

While stainless steel is primarily non-magnetic, there are methods available to magnetize it to varying degrees. Electromagnetic induction, pulsed magnetic fields, cold working, and heat treatment can influence the magnetization of stainless steel, although the extent and stability of magnetization can vary depending on factors such as stainless steel grade and crystal structure. It is important to consider the practical limitations, expertise required, and potential post-magnetization effects when attempting to magnetize stainless steel. Understanding these processes provides valuable insights for industries and applications where controlled magnetism in stainless steel may be advantageous or necessary.