Industrial metals are metals that are primarily used in industrial and manufacturing applications due to their mechanical, electrical, or chemical properties. These metals are essential for construction, machinery, infrastructure, transportation, and technology. They can be categorized into base metals (common and widely used) and precious metals (rare and valuable).
Major Industrial Metals:
1. Iron & Steel
– Iron Ore: Raw material for steel production.
– Steel: Alloy of iron and carbon; used in construction, automotive, and machinery.
2. Aluminum
– Lightweight, corrosion-resistant; used in aerospace, packaging (cans), and transportation.
3. Copper
– Excellent conductor of electricity; used in wiring, electronics, and plumbing.
4. Zinc
– Used for galvanizing steel (rust protection) and in batteries.
5. Nickel
– Corrosion-resistant; used in stainless steel, batteries (EVs), and alloys.
6. Lead
– Dense and malleable; used in batteries (lead-acid), radiation shielding, and ammunition.
7. Tin
– Used for soldering (electronics), food packaging (tin cans), and alloys like bronze (with copper).
8. Cobalt
– Critical for lithium-ion batteries (EVs) and superalloys in aerospace/defense.
Precious Metals with Industrial Uses:
– Silver: Used in electronics (conductive pastes), solar panels, and photography.
– Platinum & Palladium: Catalytic convers (automotive), chemical processing, and jewelry.
Key Factors Influencing Industrial Metal Prices:
– Global economic growth (demand from construction & manufacturing)
– Supply chain disruptions (mining output, geopolitical issues)
– Technological shifts (e.g., EVs boosting nickel & cobalt demand)
– Recycling rates (especially for aluminum & copper)
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