Most Popular Types of Metals and Their Uses

Metal products support nearly every aspect of industrial fabrication, construction, and manufacturing. Knowing how to identify different types of metals, their properties, and how they’re used helps buyers order the right material for the job. McKnight Steel & Tube Co. stocks a broad range of metals and alloys used across industrial applications, making it easier to source what your project requires.

What Are Metals and Their Key Properties?

Metals are elements or alloys that conduct heat and electricity, resist deformation under force, and can be formed into useful shapes. Properties of metal that are important in industrial settings include:

  • Strength
  • Ductility
  • Corrosion resistance
  • Weldability
  • Compliance with ASTM/ASMA standards

These measurable properties determine the types and uses of metals in specific environments.

Most Popular Types of Metals

Below are some common metals and their uses based on what we stock.

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is one of the most widely used types of metals in industrial applications. It is an alloy of iron and carbon, valued for its strength and cost-effectiveness. Common uses of carbon steel include structural framing, supports, general fabrication, and mechanical components that require high strength. This metal is often specified under ASTM A36, A500, and similar standards.

We carry carbon steel in various forms:

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is carbon steel coated with zinc to resist corrosion. The galvanizing process extends the metal’s service life compared to bare carbon steel while maintaining its mechanical properties.

We stock galvanized steel tubing for projects where corrosion resistance is needed, but stainless steel is not required. Examples include structural frameworks, outdoor supports, HVAC equipment, fencing systems, and general fabrication.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is often selected for its corrosion resistance, making it suitable for environments with moisture or chemicals. We commonly stock grades like 304 and 316, which are used in chemical processing, food-handling equipment, pharmaceutical plants, exterior architectural elements, marine applications, and anywhere corrosion resistance is required.

We supply:

Aluminum

Aluminum is lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it useful in demanding environments where reduced weight is important. Typical uses include automotive components, heat exchangers, lightweight structures, and architectural applications. Aluminum may conform to ASTM B221 and similar specifications.

Aluminum products available from McKnight Steel & Tube Co. include:

Specialty Metals

Some projects require metals with unique properties, such as increased hardness or wear resistance. We offer nickel alloys for high-temperature or corrosive environments and chrome bars for tooling and wear applications. Specifications are critical with these materials to ensure they perform as expected in demanding applications.

Common Applications Across Industries

Understanding how popular metals for industrial applications are used helps you see where each material fits:

  • Construction: Structural carbon steel shapes, tubing, and pipe form the backbone of buildings, bridges, and supports.
  • Manufacturing: Stainless steel and aluminum are used in jigs, fixtures, tooling frames, and machine components.
  • Automotive and aerospace: Lightweight aluminum and precision tubing help meet performance and efficiency specifications.
  • Oil and gas: Carbon steel and specific alloys are often selected for pipelines and pressure systems to conform to pressure vessel standards.
  • Food and beverage processing: Stainless grades that meet hygienic standards are used for conveyors, tanks, and piping.

How to Choose the Right Metal for Your Needs

Here’s what to consider before requesting metal from a supplier:

  • Application requirements: Will the metal be exposed to weather, chemicals, high loads, or extreme temperatures? Not all metal types are intended for these uses.
  • Specifications and standards: Confirm the required ASTM/ASME designations, material grade, and dimensional tolerances.
  • Mechanical properties: Know the strength, ductility, hardness, and weldability required for the part or structure.
  • Size and shape: Different shapes are suited to particular fabrication or structural uses. We stock tubing, pipe, bar, rod, angle, channel, beam, and plate.
  • Lead time and availability: Choosing a metal supplier with products in stock and ready to ship speeds up your project. Our extensive inventory means in stock orders are ready to ship.

We’re Ready to Support Your Metal Needs

Metal purchasing doesn’t have to be complicated when you work with the right supplier. If you’re unsure which metal types and uses best fit your project, McKnight Steel & Tube Co. would be happy to help. We’re a family-owned, wholesale distributor, with a wide range of tubing, pipe, and other metal products in stock. Fast delivery options within 120 miles of Philadelphia and free shipping across the U.S. streamline your metal procurement efforts. Contact us today for more information or to request a quote.