Lead Alloys

Abstract

Abstract Lead, a soft, low melting point metal that has excellent corrosion resistance and ductility, is normally alloyed with other metals to improve its mechanical properties. The principal metals alloyed with lead are antimony, arsenic, calcium, copper, tin, tellurium, and silver. Minor alloying elements are cadmium, bismuth, selenium, indium, aluminum, and strontium. Lead alloys are generally melted and cast into molds to produce useful shapes. The alloys are also rolled, extruded, and forged. The primary use for lead alloys is in the production of battery parts for lead–acid batteries. Smaller but significant uses are ammunition, cable sheathing, sheet for roofing and construction, insoluble anodes, solders, and special low melting point materials. Lead and lead alloys, worldwide commodities, are toxic metals and must be handled with special care to prevent exposure. Lead is the most recycled metal. Over 50% of worldwide consumption is produced from recycled products. In the United States, virtually all lead alloy consumption is supplied from recycled lead, primarily used lead–acid batteries.