Metal melting points

Introduction to metal melting points

Understanding metal melting points is essential across various industries, from construction and manufacturing to electronics and aerospace. The melting point of a metal is the temperature it must be heated to transition from a solid to a liquid. This can also be referred to as the liquefaction point. This is key to understanding how the metal can be worked and where it is most appropriate to be used. For example, metals with a high melting point are ideal for extreme heat environments, while low-melting-point metals are used in applications where heat sensitivity is critical.

Steel melting point - Factors affecting temperature

The melting temperature  of steel varies depending on the designated grade or particular alloy composition. Pure iron melts around 1538°C, but steel contains carbon and other elements which influence its melting behaviour. So, what temperature does steel melt? Typically, steel melts between 1370°C and 1510°C.

Mild steel contains a low amount of carbon and has a melting point of approximately 1425–1540°C. In contrast, the melting point of stainless steel is slightly higher, ranging between 1400°C and 1450°C, due to the presence of chromium and other alloying elements. These variations affect how a steel can be welded, forged, or cast.

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 Melting point of iron and its alloys

What is iron's melting point?  Pure iron has a melting point of 1538°C; however, the melting temperature drops when alloyed with carbon and other elements, such as cast iron; the melting point of cast iron is typically between 1200°C and 1300°C. This lower melting temperature makes cast iron easier to cast into complex shapes, which is why it is widely used in heavy-duty cookware, engine blocks, and pipework.

 Brass melting point and its applications

The melting point of brass generally ranges between 900°C and 940°C, depending on its zinc content. A higher zinc content lowers the melting point, but can make the brass more brittle. For comparison, the melting point of bronze (an alloy of copper and tin) is typically around 950°C.

Due to their relatively low melting points and corrosion resistance, brass and bronze are used in plumbing, musical instruments, and decorative items. Brass also conducts electricity well, making it suitable for electrical connectors and terminals.

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High melting point metals and their uses

Some metals exhibit extremely high melting points, making them ideal for demanding applications. Of all metals, tungsten has the highest melting temperature of 3422°C. Its strength at very high temperatures makes it a popular choice in industries such as aerospace, electrical engineering, aeronautics, and lighting.

Other high melting point metals include molybdenum (2623°C), tantalum (3017°C), and niobium (2477°C). Nickel's melting point is 1455°C, and it is often alloyed with other metals to produce high-performance materials for jet engines and chemical processing equipment.

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Metal melting point chart - Comparing common metals

To choose the right metal for a project, you need to know the difference in melting temperatures. Factors such as added alloys, impurities, and the environment can influence these temperatures. The following chart outlines the typical melting points of common metals: