What is an alloy metal?

An alloy metal is defined as a metal that has one or more elements added to it. This combination of metals can enhance specific properties, such as strength, corrosion resistance, and machinability, depending on the materials involved. Alloys are crucial in various applications, especially in welding and construction, where enhanced properties are necessary to meet specific performance criteria.

Pure metals, in contrast, consist solely of one element and do not exhibit the modified characteristics provided by alloying. While cast forms of metal may be used to create solid components, this definition is too narrow to encapsulate what an alloy is. Similarly, while alloys are often used in welding, the term "primarily in welding" does not accurately describe the broader definition of alloys and their applications across various industries and products. Thus, the characteristics of an alloy provide clear relevance and importance in both welding and material science in general.