What are the signs by which you can identify fake Elf oil?
Elf oil is chosen by many motorists. The question of how to distinguish an original from a fake arises for almost everyone, because a product that is popular and in demand among car owners is often counterfeited.
The name "Elf" is a proprietary trade name of one of the product lines manufactured by Total. Synthetic and semi-synthetic oils labeled “Elf” are sold in stores in one hundred and thirteen countries. It is in demand not only among amateurs, but also among professionals.
Why choose Elf?
Motor oil of this series is used for vehicle maintenance at the following competitions:
- WSR Renault.
- Open endurance racing.
- WSBK and WSS Kawasaki.
- Dakar Rally.
- Moto GP Series.
Total is a partner of a large alliance of Renault, Mitsubishi, and Nissan companies. In other words, these giants of the global auto industry use Total products, including the Elf line.
What should you pay attention to?
It is not without reason that the original Elf oil is popular, although it is quite expensive. Its use completely pays off. The distinctive properties of the oil are an extremely low percentage of phosphorus and sulfur with other components, and low sulfate ash content.
These compositional features significantly reduce friction of parts, which prevents their wear, and in addition, reduces fuel consumption. But of course, fake oil does not have such characteristics.
When purchasing a product, you need to pay attention to the following nuances:
- price;
- appearance;
- markings and other information;
- oil characteristics.
Of course, a rare seller will allow you to open the canister before paying for it. Therefore, before you evaluate the characteristics of the product, you will have to buy it.
Where to buy?
Paradoxically, few motorists know that the Total company has opened an official website for Russians who prefer products from the Elf series. His address is www.elf-lub.ru.
It presents a complete catalog of products with this trade name, useful information, and an online selection service for technical equipment. In addition, there is a store on the site. Although it does not yet sell products directly from the manufacturer, it provides links to stores of official distributors.
Of course, you can purchase real oil not only at retail outlets presented on the official website. But this should be done in large chain stores that care about their reputation. As a rule, they work directly with manufacturers. In small stores that don't have a lot of turnover, it doesn't hurt to be careful when purchasing.
What amount should I aim for?
The price of original synthetic motor oil cannot be too low. For example, if the price tag indicates a figure of 500-600 rubles for a five-liter canister, then it is counterfeit.
The average cost of a 5 liter canister is 1700-2600 rubles. The prices of four-liter and liter canisters are slightly lower. But a 1 liter canister does not cost less than 800 rubles.
Appearance
It will not be difficult to recognize a crudely made counterfeit; small details will give away the fake.
| Canister parts | Original | Falsification |
| Lid | Under the lower thin ribbed rim is a relatively wide polished protective rim. The top edge is rounded, the lid itself is black and shiny. | The lid ends with a ribbed rim and does not have a protective strip, or, conversely, lacks a ribbed rim. The upper edges are flattened, the lid looks like a washer and lacks shine. |
| Bottom | A ribbed tape of three stripes, quite wide, is poured onto the plastic. | The tape is missing or narrow, with flat elements. |
The color of the plastic canister is deep blue with a glossy finish. If the canister is a different shade, for example, purple or blue, the one on display is an imitation.
Markings and information on the label
You can determine if it is counterfeit by reading the information on the label on the back of the canister.
The original has an easily readable barcode, the digital signature on which corresponds to the country of manufacture of the specific canister. On the side of the barcode strip there is a miniature square sticker that can be read by mobile devices. If this is not the case, the store offers an imitation.
Real oil does not have the phrase “Best Performances” on the back of the label. On the original, the date of manufacture is indicated at the bottom, on the plastic, under the front label, in light ink. Imitation manufacturers use black ink and often mark the canister on the bottom or back.
ELF oil - how to distinguish a fake from the original?
Oil characteristics
The differences between the original and the counterfeit are noticeable even to a novice car enthusiast.
"Elf" is characterized by the following:
- Color and clarity similar to cognac.
- Homogeneous structure, absence of delamination, sediment, inclusions.
- Flexibility.
It is simply impossible to spill the oil; it is viscous and pours slowly. Counterfeits are usually characterized by the following qualities:
- dark color;
- lack of transparency;
- presence of delaminations;
- precipitation;
- cloudiness;
- the consistency is too thick or, conversely, liquid.
Counterfeit products often contain impurities and inclusions that look like “floating spots,” reminiscent of “amoebas.” When stratification occurs in low-grade synthetic mixtures, a gray precipitate is formed. The smell of imitation is specific, corrosive and pungent. The original is characterized by a neutral odor.
Source: https://originalpoddelka.ru/tehnika/motornoe-maslo-elf/
How to distinguish stainless steel from other metals - Metalist's Handbook
One of the most “bearded” jokes from chemistry students: “Aluminum is like iron, only light.” But seriously, periodic element No. 13 is the lightest metal that can exist in its pure form in the air atmosphere. Relative chemical inertness is ensured by a thin film consisting of oxide and hydroxide, which passivates the surface and prevents further reaction with atmospheric oxygen or weak solutions of alkalis and acids.
Where can you find aluminum scrap?
Aluminum pans, cutlery, familiar from childhood, and even chocolate foil are not a complete list of products that are made of aluminum. During the Soviet era, the price of aluminum products did not correspond in any way to its real value, which formed the erroneous opinion that this material was cheap.
In any garage or shed there will be dozens of aluminum items: window fittings, old aluminum radiators, bicycle parts, camp kettles and pots, cable remnants - the list goes on for a long time. Due to the mismanagement of the 80-90s, even whole ingots of commercial aluminum can be found in industrial landfills.
This metal is of strategic importance for the national economy. Industrial production is carried out by melt electrolysis, which is associated with huge energy costs.
Recycling recycled materials is much cheaper (energy savings of up to 75%, reduction of harmful emissions into the atmosphere - up to 90%), in addition, this metal can be melted down many times without deteriorating its physical properties. Aluminum scrap is purchased without restrictions at almost all scrap metal collection points and is much more expensive than ferrous metal scrap.
After receiving, further sorting is carried out, after which the secondary raw materials are classified and assigned a class, group and grade. The total number of varieties of aluminum secondary raw materials exceeds 20 items.
Physics and chemistry of matter
It is known from a school chemistry course that aluminum is a silver-white with low density and high thermal and electrical conductivity. In air it becomes covered with a protective film, which easily dissolves in hot solutions of alkalis and acids; some of its compounds have amphoteric properties. Even on the basis of such superficial information, several ways can be proposed to distinguish aluminum from other metals.
The main difference from stainless steel, iron, tin, lead and other metals most often sold for scrap is its low density, which can be determined at home. To do this, you will need a measuring cylinder and a kitchen scale with a weighing accuracy of up to 1 gram.
The technique is simple and does not require special knowledge: we lower a pre-weighed part from the material under study into a graduated cylinder filled with water, and note the change in the position of the liquid meniscus. Next, we divide the mass of the part by its volume, equal to the difference in the water level in the cylinder, and get the density.
If the result is a value close to 2.7 g/ml, then with a high degree of probability the part is made of aluminum.
In classical chemistry, a qualitative reaction for aluminum is a test with hydrochloric acid and ammonium hydroxide. If you dissolve an aluminum sample in a 10% solution of hydrochloric acid and then add ordinary ammonia, a precipitate of Al(OH)3↓ will form.
Attention: the reaction is accompanied by rapid gas formation (hydrogen release), so safety precautions must be observed (safety glasses, gloves, apron).
The simplest way to distinguish aluminum from iron is a magnetic test: aluminum parts will not be attracted to a magnet.
However, this effect is a necessary but not sufficient confirmation that the sample under study is made of aluminum, since both aluminum alloys and some non-ferrous metals have paramagnetic properties.
The following shows an experiment with a magnet on a pendulum and a sheet of aluminum (in the absence of magnetism, the pendulum would not stop in the middle and, due to its energy, would continue to oscillate).
Difference from duralumin
It is quite difficult for an ignorant person to identify these materials at first glance; the most accurate result can only be obtained in a chemical laboratory. A preliminary conclusion can be made using the advice shared by experts on professional forums.
In a pair of aluminum/duralumin, the first will emit a high-pitched ringing sound upon impact, does not break when bent, and after removing the chips, the surface shines like silver (by the way, it is almost impossible to confuse these metals, since silver has a much higher specific gravity).
When fractured, aluminum produces a fine-grained structure; When drilling, the chips come off easily and do not stick to the drill.
The differences can also be determined using chemical methods. If the test sample is placed in a solution of nitric acid, and after some time (2-3 hours) it is neutralized with an alkali solution (regular baking soda will also do), then in the case of pure aluminum a translucent white precipitate will form, and copper in duralumin will give the precipitate a bluish tint.
Difference from TsAM
Difficulties in identifying these materials arise quite often, since TsAM - alloys of three metals (zinc, aluminum, copper) are very similar in appearance to pure metal. A reliable method of determination is using hydrogen peroxide, a 20% solution of sodium sulfide or a 10% solution of copper sulfide: when applying a few drops of any of the above reagents to a sharpened surface (fresh cut), the aluminum will remain silvery-white, and the TsAM will darken.
Difference from stainless steel
You can distinguish these materials at home in just a few minutes. First of all, you should pay attention to the external differences: the aluminum surface feels rougher and more matte to the touch, stainless steel always shines well, even if the sample is not polished. Stainless steel is also not attracted by a magnet, but products made from it are significantly heavier than aluminum (the density is at least three times higher).
Next, we do a “knife” test - a mark will remain on the surface of the aluminum, but stainless steel, due to its high hardness, will remain undamaged. You can also run the piece over white paper: an aluminum sample will leave a gray mark, while a stainless steel mark will remain colorless. Metalworking specialists offer another simple method - cutting the sample with a grinder.
Stainless steel will produce a lot of sparks; aluminum will not produce sparks.
Difference from other non-ferrous metals
Despite the fact that the properties of metals are basically identical, each element has its own distinctive features that can easily distinguish metal from aluminum.
Thus, copper has a bright reddish tint, gold has a yellow color, lead has a very high density and fragility, tin has high ductility, silver has a bright shine, iron and its alloys have magnetic properties.
If necessary, reliable information can be found in special reference literature or on professional thematic forums.
It is worth noting that all of the above methods are only estimates and approximate: the exact chemical composition of scrap metal will be determined by specialists from an accredited laboratory. All questions on the topic of aluminum scrap will be answered by specialists from metal collection points.
Source: https://ssk2121.com/kak-otlichit-nerzhaveyku-ot-drugih-metallov/
How to distinguish natural fur from artificial fur in shoes or on a fur coat?
Modern technologies make it possible to create artificial fur that is practically indistinguishable from natural fur (Arctic fox, Silver fox, mink, rabbit). Some unscrupulous manufacturers of fur products take advantage of this, trying to pass off a fake as an original. In order not to fall for their tricks, every fashionista should know how to check the origin of fur when buying winter or demi-season boots or fur coats in the store and at home.
Differences between faux fur and natural fur
To distinguish between faux and natural fur, it is not at all necessary to have any special knowledge. Even an inexperienced person can recognize the origin of this material. The main thing is to know the features of both types. You can determine the naturalness both in the store, even before purchasing insulated shoes or a fur coat, and at home, when the product has already been purchased.
Backing: hard leather, soft fabric or knit?
If it is not possible to determine the type of base, you can try to pierce it with a needle. If it goes in and out easily, it most likely is not natural fur. Its naturalness will be indicated by significant obstacles when trying to pierce the base with a needle. The fake fabric will easily be wrinkled by hand, but the fabric base will not return to its previous shape; creases will remain on it. The original is not easy to crumple, it will straighten out quickly. If there are folds on the base of the material, it is of artificial origin.
Mink coat from inside
When sewing original fur outerwear, the lining is attached so that the inner part can be seen. When producing fakes, the hem is sewn tightly.
Pile qualities
These types of fur differ from each other in their pile. Natural fibers have narrow tips, while artificial ones have a square shape. This explains the fact that real fur is smooth and soft to the touch. If you run it through your fingers, it will slide. As for the fake one, it has a rough structure. If you touch it, it will feel like touching synthetic fabric. When wet by snow or rain, its fibers stick together.
If, after purchasing fur shoes or outerwear, doubts arise about the origin of the material, you can find out for sure at home whether the product was made from natural fur or a fake was sold. There is a rather risky but effective way.
You need to carefully set fire to a few fibers. If, when they burn, ash is formed and a characteristic smell of burnt hair appears, the item is made of real fur.
If the pile does not burn when ignited, but melts, turning into balls, and emits an unpleasant chemical aroma, it is of unnatural origin.
How else can you find out if outerwear made from artificial material has been sold under the guise of a natural rabbit, arctic fox or mink? You need to bring the thing to a source of bright light. If it is made from genuine material, the pile will shine and change color slightly in different lighting conditions. In bright light, the shine of the fake will not be pronounced, but matte.
One of the easiest ways to dispel your doubts about the origin of fur is to determine the weight of a fur product by wearing it or holding it in your hands. One of the main differences between genuine fur and its imitation is the lower mass of the former.
What type of natural fur is most often passed off as faux fur?
Unscrupulous manufacturers of fur products counterfeit popular and most expensive types of fur to obtain greater profits. Usually fake fur is passed off as original:
Faux mink fur
- minks;
- foxes;
- arctic fox;
- beaver;
- chinchillas;
- raccoon
Faux raccoon fur
It is these varieties, due to their high value, that most often become targets for various types of counterfeits. Sometimes dishonest manufacturers fake them so skillfully that the imitation is very difficult to distinguish from the originals, and only an attentive buyer has a chance to detect the deception even at the stage of trying on and purchasing a fur product.
Pros and cons of real and faux fur in boots and outerwear
Faux fur isn't always a bad thing. Today, almost every fashionista wants to become the owner of a beautiful fur coat made of eco-fur, the price of which is sometimes not inferior to the cost of a product made from natural material. These types of fur have advantages and disadvantages. Information about their pros and cons is presented in the table:
| Types of fur | Advantages | Flaws |
| Artificial | Affordable price. In some cases, this factor is conditional. Thus, products from famous brands often have no less, or even more, cost than those made from natural fur. | Low environmental friendliness. To make products from this type of fur, acrylic and polyacrylic polymers are used, consisting of water, coal, limestone and petroleum products. Their pile is much stronger than that of things made from natural fur, which means that it takes longer for it to completely decompose. |
| Humanity. Today, the issue of protecting animals is more acute than ever, so fur coats made from natural fur are regarded as evidence of an inhumane attitude towards our smaller brothers, and the possession of such a thing is strongly condemned. | Low frost resistance. Unlike things made from a material of natural origin, products made from its artificial analogues cannot be called too warm. In severe frost they are unlikely to keep you warm, so the term “winter” can only be applied to them with great reserve. | |
| Easy to care for. Technologies for the production of products made from artificial fur are at such a level that they make it possible to obtain a product that is not inferior in characteristics to analogues made from natural fur. No special conditions are required to care for items made from eco-fur and store them. | Rigidity. Faux fur is quite hard to the touch. | |
| Wide possibilities for experimenting with the color of products, the length and structure of the pile. Artificial fur coats can be of absolutely any shade, long- or short-haired, while products made from natural material do not tolerate such experiments - they negatively affect their quality. | Matte shine. Faux fur does not shine as naturally as its natural counterpart. | |
| Natural | Good thermal insulation. Products made from this type of material provide warmth no worse than the warmest down jackets. | Inhumanity. |
| Breathability. Natural material allows air to pass through unhindered, so wearing things made from it is comfortable both outdoors and indoors. | Expensive. | |
| Long service life. With careful use and proper care, a fur coat made of natural fur will last for many years. | Need for careful use. | |
| Beautiful appearance. | Special conditions of care and storage. | |
| Kudos. For many, a natural fur coat is a sign of success. | Loss of beautiful appearance when wet. | |
| Moisture and wind resistance. | High risk of counterfeiting. |
Source: https://protkan.com/kozha-i-meha/kak-otlichit-naturalnyj-meh-ot-iskusstvennogo.html
How to distinguish aluminum from stainless steel
31.10.2017 16:13The material in question presents ten ways to distinguish aluminum from stainless steel. Some of them are very easy to use at home, without having absolutely any tools, equipment or chemicals. This will allow you to quickly and accurately determine the value of a particular item (product) made of aluminum or stainless steel.
1. Magnet
Unfortunately, it is not always possible to reliably distinguish these two metals from each other using a magnet. The fact is that any brand of aluminum, one way or another, does not stick to the magnet. But not all stainless steel has the same property.
If the product under study is magnetic, then it is definitely not aluminum. The sample may refer to stainless steels that contain sufficient amounts of nickel. If copper or chromium predominates in stainless steel, then it will not react in any way to a magnet.
2. Marking
As a rule, some stainless steel products have appropriate markings that allow you to accurately identify the item being examined. In this case, everything is quite simple. Inscriptions like “STAINLESS” and other similar ones are a clear sign that this is definitely not aluminum.
3. Plain paper
One of the easiest ways to determine the difference between aluminum and stainless steel. For the experiment you will need a sheet of plain paper. It must be white paper. The one used for printer printing is suitable. The denser it is, the better for the business.
The essence of the experiment is as follows. First, you need to clean the edge of the product under study from dirt, grease, oils and other deposits. Next, you need to move this place along a sheet of white paper. The pressing force should be as strong as possible. It is very easy to draw conclusions. Stainless steel on a white sheet will not leave any marks, while aluminum will show thin stripes of gray color.
4. Metal color
Another criterion that more or less clearly distinguishes stainless steel from aluminum is the shade of the product in question. If we have stainless steel in front of us, then its surface, as a rule, has a shiny, colorless tint. However, over time this condition persists.
If we consider an aluminum product, then the color of its surface is usually matte (this metal is difficult to polish to a glossy shine), gray or whitish. After processing with sandpaper, the sanded area will quickly become covered with an oxide film and become dull.
5. Mechanical loads
This is also a fairly simple method that can be done at home. Its essence lies in the fact that the product under study must be hit against a solid metal object. To obtain a more accurate and visual result, this should be done in the dark.
If the product is made of stainless steel, then we will see quite pronounced sparking upon impact. It can be seen even in dim lighting. In the case of aluminum, there will be no sparking, even if you look very carefully in complete darkness.
6. Thermal conductivity and melting
In the case of various containers, metal can be determined by heating. So, in an aluminum pan, ordinary water is brought to a boil quite quickly. Under the same conditions (volume of water, heating) in a stainless steel container, this process takes much longer. This is due to the fact that the thermal conductivity of aluminum is many times better than that of steel.
The melting point of aluminum is about 660°C, while for stainless steel this indicator is beyond 1800°C. When using a conventional gas burner, which is used as camping equipment, it is quite easy to reach a temperature of 700°C. This means that it is also possible to melt a small aluminum object on such a fire. Stainless steel cannot be melted under normal conditions (without pressurization and oxygen supply).
7. Copper sulfate
An excellent and quite affordable option for determining aluminum or stainless steel is to expose the metal to a solution of copper sulfate. It is sold in agricultural stores at a low price. When processing this material, cloudy marks and stains will certainly remain on aluminum. Vitriol has no visible effect on stainless steel.
8. Lye
Alkaline solutions are also quite accessible today, and help to easily distinguish between these two metals. It can be sodium or potassium hydroxide. As in the case of vitriol, aluminum reacts to treatment with alkali, as a result of which brown spots remain. If the product being examined is made of stainless steel, we will not find any visually visible traces.
9. Acid
For a successful experiment, a solution of citric acid or lemon juice will be sufficient. A more pronounced result will be obtained when the metal is exposed to more aggressive acids. The essence of the definition is the same as with vitriol and alkali. External processing will leave stains on the aluminum surface. Stainless steel does not react with acids.
10. Density
The longest and most difficult way to distinguish the two metals in question is to determine their specific density. This is only applicable for small products, as well as for those that have a regular geometric shape. The bottom line is that you first need to calculate the volume of the sample under study, and then, using a simple formula, find out its specific gravity.
The result obtained is ultimately compared with fixed density values. For aluminum this figure is about 2.6 g/cm3, while stainless steel is almost three times denser - from 7.6 to 8.1 g/cm3.
Source: https://metalllomcity.ru/stati-o-metallolome/otlichit-alyuminiy-ot-nerzhaveyki
Is titanium magnetic or not - Metals and their processing
Identification of certain metals is an accurate and simple process only if you have special laboratory equipment, a spectrometer in particular. At home, the task becomes much more complicated. It is especially difficult to distinguish between materials that are similar in color and magnetic properties.
However, even in such a situation, there are practical methods to distinguish titanium from other metals. The most interesting for comparison are aluminum and steel, including stainless steel.
Here, even experienced craftsmen who regularly work with metals and accept titanium scrap are not always able to clearly identify what exactly they have in their hands.
How to distinguish titanium from steel, aluminum
The first pair is non-ferrous and ferrous metals. Most steels have magnetic properties. The exception is alloyed metals of the austenitic class. A striking example is stainless steel with a high nickel content. This grade of steel, like titanium, is paramagnetic. Therefore, the standard option using a magnet is unacceptable here.
see articles:
- Stainless steel scrap - types, descriptions and prices;
- Nickel scrap.
There are three reliable ways to determine titanium at home :
- mathematical;
- graphic;
- abrasive;
- galvanic.
The designations are quite conventional; below we will cover each of the options in detail.
Pure mathematics
In this approach, metal identification is done by weight. The disadvantage of the method occurs when only one type of metal is available . To determine in your hands that it cannot be made heavier, you have to resort to mathematical calculations. This is facilitated by significant differences in the density of metals:
- titanium – 4.5;
- iron – 7.8;
- aluminum and duralumin – 2.7.
To use this method for determining titanium in your household, you need to have accurate scales.
Parameter values are given in g/cc. It remains to add that the density of steel depends on the specific grade of metal. However, in absolute terms these differences are insignificant. Therefore, the density of steel can be safely taken as the value of a similar characteristic of iron.
All that remains is to clarify the volume and weight of the part or piece of metal. Further, simple calculations will show whether it is aluminum, steel or the desired metal - titanium. How to determine the volume of a part with a complex shape? The best option here is Archimedes' law. The mass of the ejected liquid, when immersing a metal structure, allows you to determine its volume. The situation is simplified by the density of water, equivalent to 1 kg/cubic dm. Accordingly, each gram of ejected liquid is equal to one cubic centimeter of volume.
Of course, this is a tedious, complex and inaccurate method, but in order to determine titanium at home, it has its place.
This is what titanium metal looks like
Drawings on glass
This is the most accessible method of how to distinguish titanium at home, but you need to master it and have experience working with titanium. Metal leaves characteristic indelible marks on glass and tiles .
It is enough to run the sharpened edge of the metal along one of the specified materials. These are marks, not scratches. Windows of public transport are often painted in a similar way.
You can wash titanium graphics on tiles with a solution of hydrofluoric acid; you should handle it with extreme caution.
This method is simple and effective. Titanium, contrary to popular belief, leaves a mark even on dirty glass. So there is no need to degrease its surface. On the contrary, any grade of steel and aluminum can barely scratch the glass. This is an excellent method to identify titanium.
Abrasive wheel
An ideal way to distinguish titanium from stainless steel for owners of a sharpening machine (which, in fact, is not at all necessary). However, almost any abrasive surface will do, even asphalt. The contact of titanium with an abrasive is accompanied by a scattering of rich white sparks. The interaction of steel with an abrasive surface is characterized by a yellow or red tint. There are significantly fewer sparks.
Stainless steel grades are fireproof. Processing of certain brands of stainless steel occurs without sparks at all. This property is used in fire hazardous industries. Only stainless steel tools are allowed there. A similar technique is used in the question of how to distinguish titanium from aluminum. Grinding of the latter on an abrasive wheel also occurs practically without sparks.
This method of determining titanium can be called the most effective - the color of the spark will indeed be different from other metals. In general, the spark test is one of the most popular and correct for determining and recognizing different metals.
how to distinguish titanium from magnesium and aluminum:
Galvanic approach
Another sure way to recognize titanium is available right in the garage. The technique is based on coloring this metal through anodization. The simplest design of a “laboratory setup” is a car battery, the plus of which is connected to a titanium plate. A metal rod wrapped in cotton wool soaked in Coca-Cola is connected to the negative of the DC source. The ideal option is any saline solution .
If you run cotton wool over titanium, the metal will become colored within a few seconds. The color obtained during the formation of the oxide film depends on the applied voltage and surface treatment time. However, if the task is how to determine titanium from stainless steel , then the color tone is not important. The main criterion is color change.
How to distinguish titanium from steel using this method:
Other techniques
There are a number of alternative ways to determine titanium in your hands or aluminum, for example. One option is thin shavings. In the case of titanium, it is highly flammable and burns brightly. On the contrary, aluminum shavings melt. When duralumin “metal filings” are placed in an alkaline solution, active evolution of hydrogen is observed.
The next way to distinguish titanium metal from steel and aluminum is thermal conductivity. The numerical values of the parameter W/(m K) for the indicated metals are:
- titanium – 14;
- low carbon steel – 55;
- stainless steel – 16;
- aluminum – 250.
Titanium products are warmer in the hands. Of course, the approach is not characterized by high accuracy, and is generally unsuitable .
Summary
As you can see, even at home, it is quite possible to distinguish titanium from aluminum and steel. The most practical options are spark and glass . For the first case, any abrasive surface is sufficient, even asphalt or hardened concrete.
The bright sparkle of titanium is successfully used by bikers by installing horseshoes made of this metal on their shoes. The mark on the glass is beneficial because the metal is not damaged. A relative disadvantage is that some titanium alloys do not leave a pattern.
But for pure metal this is the best option.
Source: https://magnetline.ru/metally-i-splavy/titan-magnititsya-ili-net.html
How to distinguish stainless steel from other metals | Hand over Metal
Cost of non-ferrous scrap from 100 kg from 500 kg from 1t| price for 1 kg50 rubles1200 rubles | price for 1 kg 55 RUR delivery 2500 RUR | price for 1 kg60 rubles2500 rubles |
| price for 1 kg65 rub. | price for 1 kg65 rub. | price for 1 kg65 rub. |
| price for 1 kg60 rub. | price for 1 kg65 rub. | price for 1 kg65 rub. |
| price for 1 kg52 rub. | price for 1 kg55 rub. | price for 1 kg58 rub. |
| price for 1 kg40 rub. | price for 1 kg43 rub. | price for 1 kg45 rub. |
| price for 1 kg25 rub. | price for 1 kg30 rub. | price for 1 kg35 rub. |
| price for 1 kg60 rub. | price for 1 kg65 rub. | price for 1 kg70 rub. |
Steel of this type belongs to the group of alloy steels containing various impurities. Alloy additives improve the technical characteristics of ferrous metal, increasing hardness, resistance to corrosion, and aggressive environments.
When handing over scrap metal, it is important to know how to distinguish stainless steel from other metals, including non-ferrous ones. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the quality and chemical composition of the steel, since other scrap with a high nickel or chromium content is accepted at a higher price.
Stainless steel: technical features
Currently, stainless steel is produced in various grades, differing in a number of parameters:
- percentage of nickel, chromium;
- magnetic properties.
There are steels with excellent magnetic properties:
The former are used for the manufacture of equipment for the food industry, the latter for the production of cutting tools and cutlery.
Another type of steel will include austenitic (analogs of AISI), austenitic-ferritic alloys, which are not magnetic, but also related to stainless steel. Depending on the brand, copper, titanium, chromium, molybdenum, nickel, and niobium are introduced into the alloys. Non-magnetic stainless steel is characterized by high corrosion resistance and manufacturability.
How to distinguish stainless steel and determine the cost
Ferrous scrap is delivered to the metal collection point:
- broken stainless steel products;
- pipes;
- dishes;
- trimmings, shavings;
- sheets;
- springs.
The main criterion for determining the cost is the percentage of nickel and chromium. The number of metal layers, appearance and magnetic properties are also taken into account. Steel, which does not have magnetic properties, is more expensive, while multilayer stainless steel is accepted at a lower price. There is less benefit from handing over painted metal, products with traces of rust, and stainless steel with a low nickel content.
Steel with alloying additives can be difficult to distinguish from other ferrous and non-ferrous metals. The determination by magnetic properties cannot be considered basic and perfect, since grades are produced that attract magnets, but are related to stainless alloys.
To identify the type of steel, a small test is carried out. A small fragment of the product is carefully cleaned until shiny, and then a small amount of copper sulfate is applied. The composition is taken concentrated.
If it is stainless steel, then under the influence of a copper-containing composition the surface will quickly become covered with a coating of purple-red copper. In a practical way, the quality of steel is determined:
- when moisture gets on the surface of low-quality stainless steel, yellow-brown spots remain after drying;
- Once a saturated saline solution is applied to the surface, it dries without leaving any traces.
In companies that accept stainless steel scrap, the price per 1 kg varies. According to the price list, scrap metal with a high (up to 11%) nickel content, as well as heat-resistant brands, are accepted at a higher price; shavings are the cheapest.
High prices for the delivery of scrap stainless steel are offered by the company "Sdaymetall" (Moscow). If there are lots over 300 kg, transport is provided. The cost depends on the volume of the batch, the total weight of the ferrous metal, as well as the degree of wear of the metal.
Also read our other interesting articles
Source: https://sdaymetall.ru/stati/otlichie-nerzhavejki-ot-drugih-metallov/
How to distinguish stainless steel from other metals?
Stainless steel is widely used in the production of products and equipment, the construction industry and many other industries. Consumers often wonder how to distinguish stainless steel from other metals, because at first glance they are very similar. To solve this problem, there are some expert tips that will help you understand exactly what kind of metal was used.
How to distinguish stainless steel from aluminum
One of the most popular types of metal in production is aluminum. It is often used to make household products. To determine exactly what kind of metal you have, use these tips and perform a few simple tests.
- The easiest way is to use a magnet. Aluminum is paramagnetic and practically non-magnetic. Even a child can carry out a test using a magnet at home.
- Using a plain piece of paper. To carry out the test, you will need to remove dirt from the surface of the object being tested and run it with paper, pressing firmly on the product. If you have stainless steel in front of you, then there will be no traces left on the sheet, but with aluminum, gray stripes will appear.
- Another criterion for distinguishing stainless steel from aluminum is the color of the metal. If the surface is smooth and shiny, then this is stainless steel; aluminum has a matte surface without a characteristic shine.
- Thermal conductivity indicators. To install metal accessories, simply pour water into a container and bring to a boil. In aluminum cookware, water will boil much faster, since the thermal conductivity of this metal is much higher.
- Separately, we can distinguish chemical methods for determining stainless steel using various acids and alkalis. When treating aluminum with alkali, brown spots remain on the surface; stainless steel will not have any visible changes.
- Exposure to copper sulfate. You can find this reagent in any agricultural store. After application to the aluminum surface, cloudy stains will certainly remain. Vitriol has no effect on stainless steel.
Using these methods will allow you to determine at home with 100% accuracy where the product is made of aluminum and where it is made of stainless steel.
How to distinguish stainless steel from other types of steel
In appearance, all steel grades are almost identical, but at the same time they have different technical characteristics. This means that products made from different types of steel behave differently. To distinguish stainless steel from another grade of steel, you can use several methods:
- Use of nitric acid. This chemical liquid helps distinguish stainless steel from carbon steel. If you apply a few drops to the surface of the steel, a reaction will begin in which caustic steam will be released. This reaction is typical for carbon steel; no changes will occur with stainless steel.
- Check the reflection on the surface. Stainless steel has bluish-yellow tints on its surface.
- Marking. Steel products are always marked with the type and grade of material used. If the numbers are preceded by the letters “STAINLESS”, this means the use of alloy steel.
These simple tips will help you accurately determine the presence of stainless steel.
How to distinguish stainless steel from non-ferrous metals
It is difficult for an ignorant person to separate stainless steel from non-ferrous metals. This will require complex chemical actions and reagents. Still, you can use some expert advice:
- Take a small piece of the sample and drill a hole. In duralumin, the chips move away in a spiral and do not stick to the drill.
- Hydrogen peroxide and 20% sodium sulfide can be used. When these reagents are applied to a cut, the surface of non-ferrous metals will darken.
Distinctive characteristics of food grade stainless steel from technical grade
It must be said that the division of stainless steel into two types has a special character, since they differ in areas of use. The main difference between them is the surface treatment. For the food type, the surface is of particular importance, since the metal will come into contact with food products.
Distinctive features of food grade stainless steel are a smooth surface with a high level of processing. Food grade stainless steel is a highly alloyed metal that is resistant to corrosion and rust. The amount of additives affects the quality of product operation. The food grade is susceptible to the influence of an aggressive alkaline environment, so it adds more metal impurities. Based on the composition and markings, you can accurately determine what type of stainless steel it is.
Results
To determine the type of metal and the distinctive features of stainless steel, it is enough to know the basics of chemistry and some characteristics of metals. By conducting simple chemical experiments or using simple household methods for installing stainless steel products, you can easily determine what type of metal was used.
We also recommend reading:
Aluminum is an excellent material in home construction.
Interesting observations: aluminum profile is a profitable investment in the development of society!
Aluminum plinth and its use in the interior
Source: https://silix-rus.com/kak-otlichit-nerzhaveyku-ot-drugih-metallov/
Basin faucets
A significant mistake is made by people who, most likely, neglect the sink and tap in the bathroom for the sake of saving money. There are similar “thrifty owners” who declare that a faucet in the bathroom is enough for them.
Firstly, it’s not very comfortable.
Secondly, the sink is much easier to clean later. Why age an expensive bathroom ahead of time?
And thirdly, there is no need to put excessive load on the shower mixer - it will not last that long. Thus, it makes more sense to have your own plumbing fixtures.
The limitless list of mixers offered for sale can initially lead the inexperienced consumer into a hopeless situation. On the one hand, it’s easier to choose what you like.
However, on the other hand, appearance does not have to be the only aspect, and you should at least be a little oriented in the installation, functionality and other distinctive features of a given plumbing device.
Therefore, most likely, a minor “review” about selecting a faucet for a bathroom sink is quite appropriate.
And the main selection parameters (besides aesthetic appeal, which is undoubtedly also important) are the reliability of the mixer, practicality in use, and its equipment with the necessary functions.
Sink faucets: metal composition
Its reliability largely depends on the material of the mixer. Therefore, it is necessary to pay special attention to this parameter.
Many people are attracted by the low cost of sink faucets with a silumin body - if they are new, they look very good in appearance. However, besides their presentation and low cost, they have practically no other positive properties.
Silumin is a compound based on aluminum with the addition of silicon. It is freely used to produce various products. The compound is distinguished by its absolute lack of ductility, fragility, and instability to oxygen rust.
Ask the technicians - anyone will tell you a lot of fascinating situations regarding sink faucets or other components of plumbing equipment made from this material.
The equipment cannot withstand high pressure and is virtually impossible to repair. Even worse situations happen if a crack occurs. This is logical - the product is designed, as a rule, for use with low pressure.
And in high-rise buildings, there is a characteristic feature on the 1st floors that the pressure in the water supply may be increased.
A silumin plumbing nut can be damaged without special efforts with your bare hands, and then, in addition, the damaged halves can be broken into two parts. Should you expect durability from faucets like these? An inexpensive purchase can, by the way, turn into a lot of problems - the shell can crack at any moment and flood the neighbors.
Stainless alloy is a completely different matter. Such mixers cope with high pressure in the system. If high-quality stainless steel is actually used for production, then the service life of similar products can be estimated at 10 years or more.
Source: https://stroitelinfo.ru/sanuzel/smesiteli-dlya-rakoviny
Stainless or galvanized steel
Many people mistakenly believe that “stainless steel” is a very expensive metal, and in order to save money they choose galvanized steel. But few people think about what causes this difference in cost.
Why is stainless steel more expensive and what are its main differences from galvanizing? Stainless steel is an ultra-strong material . Due to the chromium content in the alloy, stainless steel has excellent anti-corrosion properties and is resistant to various environmental influences.
The main advantages of structures made from this metal are the following:
1. Durability of operation: from 45 to 50 years.
2. Durability. Stainless steel is resistant to pressure changes and can be used at both high and low temperatures.
3.
Hygiene . The material has no pores or cracks, which means it does not allow bacteria and fungi to penetrate inside, and also has an attractive appearance.
But special attention should be paid to the stainless steel manufacturing process.
The fact is that the production process of “stainless steel” is subject to increased technological requirements. Firstly, steel should under no circumstances come into contact with other metals whose level of corrosion resistance is lower, as this will lead to a chemical reaction and damage to the product.
Secondly, a company that produces stainless steel structures must have certain technical capabilities: a separate room, specialized equipment, warehouse complexes.
Moreover, it is extremely important to follow metal processing technologies, since temperature changes, strength characteristics of tools and other physical and chemical characteristics of raw materials can negatively affect the quality of the final product.
For this reason, expensive and complex equipment is used to produce stainless steel structures.
Stainless steel pipelines combine durability, mechanical strength, predictable “behavior” during long-term operation and abnormal conditions, stability of shape, hygiene, resistance to overgrowth, and low hydraulic resistance. Corrosion resistance, strength characteristics, and plasticity of the structural material make it possible to produce and use pipes and fittings with low wall thickness and to use modern installation technologies.
Connecting stainless steel pipes to a heating radiator Connecting stainless steel pipes to a heating radiator using a tuning valve
When laying a water supply system using stainless steel pipes, several types of connections are possible, namely: welded; use of flange-type connecting elements;
· crimping.
To connect stainless steel pipes by welding for arranging water supply and heating networks, you will need not only special equipment, but also a qualified specialist.
This process is usually carried out with a tungsten electrode, and the welding itself is performed in an inert gas environment.
The most modern method that allows high-quality joining of stainless pipes is plasma welding, which also requires the use of special and expensive equipment.
Crimping:
An easy way to install the system is to use an electric press tool with a suitable attachment.
* Free rental of electric press tools from the Etalon company.
Cutting pipes should be done strictly at right angles to the pipe axis using roller pipe cutters, metal hacksaws or power saws. It is not allowed to cut pipes with angle grinders (“grinders”). After making the cut, the outer and inner edges of the pipe must be cleared of burrs. It is not allowed to crimp dirty pipes. Pipe bending can be done using pipe benders to a radius of at least 3.5 D out. Not allowed heating pipes for bending.
The connection of pipes with a fitting is carried out in the following order: - the pipe is cleaned of dirt; - the pipe is cut at a right angle; — the outer and inner beads are removed from the end of the pipe; - checking the correct fit of the O-rings in the pressfitting; — the fitting is pushed onto the pipe until it stops. The use of lubricants is not allowed; — a one-time crimping is performed using a press tool with a “V” type nozzle.
The installed system is subject to hydraulic testing in accordance with the requirements.
VALTEC fitting before crimping VALTEC fitting after crimping
When choosing stainless steel products, you are guaranteed to receive a high-quality product produced using high-tech equipment.
What is the main difference between stainless steel and galvanized steel?
In order to understand the difference, you should understand what galvanized steel is and what the specifics of its production process are.
Galvanized metal gets its name from the specialized coating of a steel sheet with a thin layer of zinc, which prevents corrosion under the influence of moisture and oxygen. Moreover, this layer has a specific appearance, which is called “white rust”. In order to ensure the durability of the material and give metal structures a presentable appearance, the product is painted.
Moreover, it is important to understand the fact that before painting, “galvanization” must “age” for 1-2 years - this is necessary for weathering of oxidation products under natural conditions and the formation of a durable zinc patina. In addition, during aging, roughness is formed, thanks to which the paint will adhere better.
Galvanized steel has the following performance characteristics:
1 . service life - up to 25 years with a zinc coating layer 60 microns thick;
2.
high ability to withstand mechanical loads by rolling, forging, bending, drawing, stamping;
3. resistance to pressure loads ;
4.
resistance to temperature changes;
5. low electrical conductivity.
Galvanization is not resistant to acids: with the help of hydrochloric acid it can be distinguished from stainless steel. The zinc coating actively reacts chemically with acid, while stainless metal alloyed with chromium does not react to an acidic environment.
The nuances of installing galvanized pipe systems:
When approaching the issue of studying the technology for assembling systems from galvanized pipes, the first thing to note is the fact that this type of material is connected exclusively using threaded connections.
Welding galvanized pipes is a gross violation of technology, especially when it comes to assembling water supply systems.
The fact is that welding work involves heating the material to a high temperature , which simply burns the zinc , leaving the pipe vulnerable to corrosion.
In addition, zinc vapor poses a significant danger to the person who inhales it. Several hours of work welding galvanized pipes and poisoning with this metal is guaranteed. And this is a high temperature, fever and other unpleasant symptoms that can be relieved either by a large dose of alcohol or fresh fresh milk.
Now, regarding the installation of galvanized pipes itself, it is quite difficult to do without a special electric thread-cutting machine. In principle, you can use small hand-held machines, but they are not suitable for large volumes of work.
If we talk about home water supply from galvanized pipes, then with their help you can cope, but, for example, if you install the same risers, then this is already problematic.
Pipe thread cutting is not the only aspect that will have to be fully mastered. You also need to learn how to properly seal threaded connections.
Packing a small nipple in a home water supply and securely sealing the thread of a large-diameter outlet is not the same thing. I would like to note right away that all kinds of modern FUM threads and tapes have no place here.
High-quality thread packing is carried out exclusively with the help of tow and ordinary oil or nitro paint - such a joint will last a long time, and the one who is faced with its disassembly after you will remember you with a kindly quiet word, indignant, why tighten the nuts so tightly? By the way, a tightly twisted thread is another condition for the reliability of a threaded connection.
The difference in the manufacturing process adds to the price tag of stainless steel. But in fact it turns out that “galvanization” is only 25% cheaper. That is, the myth that stainless steel is a very expensive material is just an invention of manufacturers whose equipment does not support the production of this high-tech material.
VALTEC stainless steel pipes and fittings on the company website.
Source: https://santehetalon.ru/a217846-nerzhaveyuschaya-ili-otsinkovannaya.html
How to distinguish aluminum from stainless steel
31.10.2017 16:13The material in question presents ten ways to distinguish aluminum from stainless steel. Some of them are very easy to use at home, without having absolutely any tools, equipment or chemicals. This will allow you to quickly and accurately determine the value of a particular item (product) made of aluminum or stainless steel.
How to identify stainless steel at home? — Machine tools, welding, metalworking
31.10.2017 16:13The material in question presents ten ways to distinguish aluminum from stainless steel. Some of them are very easy to use at home, without having absolutely any tools, equipment or chemicals. This will allow you to quickly and accurately determine the value of a particular item (product) made of aluminum or stainless steel.
