What is Metal and Types of Metal?
Introduction
“Loha toh sab sunte hai… par asli metal kya hota hai?”
If you’re in the manufacturing, construction, or recycling space — knowing your metals isn’t optional. It’s essential.
In this blog, we’ll break down:
What actually qualifies as metal
The different types of metal used in Indian industries
How non-metals and alloys differ
And how to choose the right metal for your job
Let’s simplify “metal gyaan” for real-world B2B India. 🔧
What is Metal?
Metal is a solid element found in nature — known for being:
Strong
Durable
Shiny (lustrous)
Conductive (heat & electricity)
Malleable (you can beat it into shape)
Examples of common metals:
🟨 Iron, 🟥 Copper, 🟦 Aluminium, 🟩 Zinc, ⬛ Lead
In India, these are core to:
🏗 Construction
🏭 Manufacturing
♻ Recycling & scrap trade
Metals vs Non-Metals: What’s the Difference?
Metal = Strong, Shiny, Durable
Non-Metal = Soft, Brittle, Insulator
| Property | Metals | Non-Metals |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Shiny | Dull |
| Strength | Strong, tough | Brittle |
| Conductivity | Good conductor (heat/electricity) | Poor conductor |
| Flexibility | Malleable, ductile | Usually non-malleable |
| Example | Iron, Copper, Aluminium | Carbon, Sulphur, Plastic |
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Types of Metal: Ferrous vs Non-Ferrous
1. Ferrous Metals (Contain Iron)
| Metal | Properties | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Mild Steel (MS) | Strong, malleable | Construction, Machinery, Auto Parts |
| TMT Bars | High tensile strength | RCC work, Columns, Beams |
| Cast Iron | Brittle, high carbon | Pipes, Fittings |
Most common in Indian markets.
Brands like JSW, TATA, SAIL dominate this segment.
2. Non-Ferrous Metals (No Iron)
| Metal | Properties | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminium | Lightweight, corrosion resistant | Automotive, Electrical, Food-grade |
| Copper | Excellent conductor | Wiring, Electronics, Plumbing |
| Brass | Alloy of copper + zinc | Decorative, Plumbing, Hardware |
| Zinc | Rust protection | Galvanization, Batteries |
| Lead | Heavy, toxic | Batteries, X-ray shields |
Non-ferrous scrap has higher value in the recycling ecosystem.
What are Metal Alloys?
Alloys are made by mixing two or more metals (or one metal + non-metal) to improve strength, resistance, or appearance.
| Alloy | Made From | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless Steel | Iron + Chromium | Kitchen, Pharma, Construction |
| Brass | Copper + Zinc | Doors, Decorative Items |
| Bronze | Copper + Tin | Coins, Sculptures |
Alloys = Engineered Metals
They’re everywhere in modern manufacturing.
How to Choose the Right Metal?
Here’s how B2B buyers, engineers, and procurement heads pick the right metal:
✅ Based on Application
Load-bearing? → MS / TMT
Electrical? → Copper / Aluminium
Rust resistance? → Stainless Steel / Zinc
✅ Based on Fabrication
Need cutting, bending, or job work? Mild steel is best
For lightweight fabrication, go with aluminium
✅ Based on Brand & Budget
TATA, JSPL, JSW = Premium & Certified
Rolling Mills = Good for price-sensitive jobs
Conclusion: Metal Gyaan That Pays Off
In a market full of grades, specs, and suppliers — knowing your metals is not just smart, it’s profitable.
The more you understand the types of metal, the better you buy, the better you build, and the better you grow.
So the next time someone says “Loha chahiye”,
You’ll know which loha, why, and where to get it from i.e. DhatuScrap – Metal Procurement from Loha Mandi
Frequently Asked Questions –Metal Types & Industry Uses
Ferrous metals contain iron, are magnetic, and usually prone to rust. Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron, are corrosion-resistant, and lightweight.
No. Stainless steel is an alloy made from iron, chromium, and sometimes nickel. It’s corrosion-resistant and durable.
TMT Bars (a type of steel) are the most used for RCC-based construction in India due to their high tensile strength.
Most metals are recyclable. Ferrous and non-ferrous metals both have value in the scrap ecosystem, though non-ferrous scrap is usually more valuable.
Speak to experts or refer to metal property charts. DhatuScrap helps you identify, customize, and source the right metal as per your requirement.
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