malleability
Metals capable of being deformed under compressive stress into a very thin sheet are said to exhibit malleability. This property of a metal is extremely valuable for shaping into application uses for manufacture and other forms of construction.
Key Features:
- Ability to undergo deformation under compressive forces: Unlike brittle materials, malleable metals can be hammered, rolled, or pressed without cracking.
- Effect of Temperature: Generally, higher temperatures will give enhanced malleability.
- Wide Application: From industry applications such as sheet metal fabrication (aluminum, copper sheets) and coin making (gold, silver) to every other industrial application requiring ductile formation (fabrication of steel plates or car body panels).
Malleability is important for metalworking and manufacturing. When making jewelry, malleability helps in the art of shaping gold and silver into intricate designs. Malleable metals such as copper and aluminum are also used in construction, with applications in roofing, wiring, and piping. The malleability of metals is being increased day by day through advances in alloy systems and processing technologies, therefore making them much more workable into modern engineering applications.
