The Melting Points of Different Metals: A Comprehensive Guide

The Melting Points of Different Metals: A Comprehensive Guide

As we all know, metals play an essential role in countless industries, from construction and manufacturing to automotive and aerospace applications. One of the most critical properties to consider when selecting a metal is its melting point.

This key characteristic determines how a metal behaves under high temperatures, affecting processes such as welding, forging, machining, and overall usability.

At Speciality Metals, we offer an extensive range of high-quality metal products, including aluminium, mild steel, stainless steel, and galvanised steel.

Understanding the melting points of these materials is crucial when choosing the right metal for your project. Whether you’re fabricating custom parts or repairing heavy machinery, knowing the thermal properties of metals can save time, effort, and cost.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the melting points of different metals and how these properties influence their applications. We’ll also provide a detailed chart for quick reference and a closer look at the specific metals we offer, breaking down their unique properties and uses.

Comprehensive Chart of Metal Melting Points

Below is a detailed reference chart listing the melting points of common metals, both ferrous and non-ferrous, as well as precious metals. Use this guide to identify which metals suit your specific project requirements, including those available in the Speciality Metals range.

Metal Melting Point (°C) Melting Point (°F) Notes / Applications
Aluminium 660°C 1,220°F Lightweight, corrosion-resistant; used in aerospace, automotive, and DIY projects (offered at Speciality Metals).
Brass 930°C 1,710°F Decorative, musical instruments, and plumbing components.
Chromium 1,860°C 3,380°F Corrosion-resistant; used as an alloying element in stainless steel.
Copper 1,084°C 1,983°F Excellent conductivity; used in electrical wiring, roofing, and plumbing.
Gold 1,063°C 1,945°F High value, used in electronics, jewellery, and investment.
Cast Iron 1,204°C 2,200°F Durable and brittle; used in machinery, pipes, and automotive components.
Lead 328°C 622°F Low melting point; used in batteries, radiation shielding, and roofing.
Nickel 1,453°C 2,647°F Corrosion-resistant; used in batteries, alloys, and industrial applications.
Platinum 1,770°C 3,218°F High-value, corrosion-resistant; used in catalytic converters and jewellery.
Silver 961°C 1,762°F Conductive; used in jewellery, electronics, and mirrors.
Carbon Steel 1,425–1,540°C 2,597–2,800°F Strong and versatile; used in construction, automotive, and industrial equipment (offered at Speciality Metals).
Stainless Steel 1,375–1,530°C 2,500–2,785°F Corrosion-resistant; used in kitchenware, architecture, and marine applications (offered at Speciality Metals).
Titanium 1,670°C 3,038°F Lightweight and strong; used in aerospace, medical implants, and industrial applications.
Tungsten 3,400°C 6,152°F Extremely high melting point; used in filaments, tools, and high-temperature applications.
Zinc 420°C 787°F Used in galvanising to protect steel (e.g., galvanised steel sheets at Speciality Metals).

Why Melting Points Matter

The melting point of a metal refers to the temperature at which it transitions from a solid to a liquid state. This property is crucial because it influences the metal’s behaviour in various applications.

Why It’s Important:

  • Welding and Fabrication: Metals with lower melting points are easier to weld and shape, while high-melting-point metals are often more challenging but suitable for extreme conditions.
  • Heat Resistance: For applications exposed to high temperatures, such as engine parts or industrial machinery, metals with high melting points ensure durability.
  • Machining and Forming: Knowing the melting point allows fabricators to select suitable techniques, tools, and temperatures to prevent warping or cracking.
  • Recycling and Reuse: Metals with specific melting points are easier to sort, melt, and repurpose, making them ideal for sustainable practices.

Quick Reference Chart of Metal Melting Points

Below is a quick-reference chart that provides the melting points of common metals in degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit. Each metal corresponds to the products we offer at Speciality Metals:

Metal Melting Point (°C) Melting Point (°F) Speciality Metals Products
Aluminium 660°C 1,220°F Aluminium sheets, round tubes, U channels, T sections
Mild Steel 1,370°C 2,500°F Mild steel sheets, round tubes, square hollow sections
Stainless Steel 1,400–1,530°C 2,550–2,790°F Stainless steel sheets, round tubes, flat bars, U channels
Copper 1,085°C 1,984°F Copper sheets and round bars
Galvanised Steel ~1,370°C ~2,500°F Galvanised sheets, angle bars, and mesh

Aluminium – Lightweight and Versatile

Aluminium is one of the most versatile metals, with a melting point of 660°C (1,220°F). Its lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and excellent thermal conductivity make it ideal for a range of uses.

Applications:

  • Automotive and Aerospace: Aluminium is widely used in aircraft and car parts due to its high strength-to-weight ratio.
  • DIY and Construction Projects: Aluminium sheets are commonly used for roofing, cladding, and decorative applications.
  • Electronics: Aluminium’s conductivity makes it perfect for heat sinks and electrical enclosures.

 

Speciality Metals’ Aluminium Products:

  • Sheets: Ideal for roofing, cladding, and signage.
  • Round Tubes: Used in frameworks, lightweight scaffolding, and automotive components.
  • U Channels and T Sections: Perfect for structural applications and decorative purposes.

 

For welding or machining aluminium, its relatively low melting point makes it easier to work with, but care must be taken to avoid overheating.

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Mild Steel – Strength and Affordability

Mild steel, with a melting point of 1,370°C (2,500°F), is a staple in construction and industrial applications due to its affordability and malleability.

Applications:

  • Construction: Used in structural frameworks, beams, and reinforcements.
  • Automotive Repairs: Mild steel sheets and tubes are excellent for creating panels and brackets.
  • Machinery Parts: Its strength and weldability make it perfect for manufacturing machine components.

Speciality Metals’ Mild Steel Products:

 

Mild steel’s higher melting point makes it more resistant to deformation under heat, but it requires specialised equipment for machining and welding.

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Stainless Steel – Durable and Corrosion-Resistant

Stainless steel has a melting range between 1,400°C and 1,530°C (2,550°F to 2,790°F). Its exceptional corrosion resistance makes it a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor applications.

Applications:

  • Kitchen Equipment: Used in sinks, countertops, and appliances due to its sanitary properties.
  • Architectural Projects: Stainless steel is a preferred material for railings, cladding, and facades.
  • Marine Applications: Its resistance to rust makes it ideal for marine environments.

 

Speciality Metals’ Stainless Steel Products:

  • Sheets: Great for cladding, splashbacks, and roofing.
  • Round Tubes: Widely used in handrails, frameworks, and decorative features.
  • Flat Bars and U Channels: Suitable for structural support and aesthetic projects.

 

Working with stainless steel requires consideration of its high melting point, which makes it challenging to weld and cut without specialised tools.

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Galvanised Steel – Extra Protection

Galvanised steel has a base material of mild steel with a zinc coating to enhance its corrosion resistance. Its melting point is similar to mild steel, around 1,370°C (2,500°F), but the zinc layer melts at approximately 419°C (786°F).

Applications:

  • Outdoor Projects: Used for fencing, gates, and garden furniture due to its weather resistance.
  • Construction: Ideal for roofing, cladding, and structural components.
  • Industrial Use: Perfect for machinery guards and equipment casings.

 

Speciality Metals’ Galvanised Steel Products:

  • Sheets: Great for weather-resistant cladding and roofing.
  • Angle Bars: Used for reinforcements and structural supports.
  • Mesh: Perfect for fencing, cages, and partitions.

 

Galvanised steel combines the strength of mild steel with the added durability of zinc coating, making it a versatile choice for outdoor projects.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does the melting point matter?
The melting point determines the metal’s suitability for high-temperature applications, such as welding or industrial machinery.

2. Can I weld metals with different melting points?
Yes, but it requires careful preparation and the use of filler materials to manage the difference in melting points.

3. Which metal is best for outdoor use?
Stainless steel and galvanised steel are the best options due to their corrosion resistance.

4. How do I calculate the right metal for my project?
Consider factors like melting point, strength, weight, and corrosion resistance. Contact our team for expert guidance.

Understanding the melting points of different metals is essential for selecting the right material for your project. Whether you need aluminium for its lightweight properties, mild steel for its strength, or stainless steel for its corrosion resistance, each metal offers unique benefits tailored to specific applications.

At Speciality Metals, we offer a wide range of high-quality metal products, including sheets, tubes, and mesh, in aluminium, mild steel, and stainless steel. Our extensive range ensures that you’ll find the perfect metal for your next project, whether it’s industrial fabrication, DIY repairs, or architectural designs.

Explore our range today and feel free to contact our expert team for advice and guidance on selecting the ideal material for your needs.

As always, thank you for checking out our blog. We hope that this helps you with your project. 

Please also check out the other articles in our helpful guide series. We have written about aluminium sheeting and checker plate recently to name but two of our articles.

We are also proud to sell this product on our highly popular eBay store, check us out there too.

If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us.

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