Carbon steel is steel alloyed primarily with carbon. It has a high hardness and strength which increases with carbon content, but lowers ductility and melting point. For more information on carbon and alloy steels.

Alloy steel is steel alloyed with one or more elements which enhance or change the steel’s properties. Common alloys include manganese, vanadium, nickel, molybdenum, and chromium. Alloy steels are differentiated based on standard grades. For specific information on individual types of alloying elements.

Stainless steel is steel alloyed with chromium in amounts above 10%. Chromium enables stainless steel to have a much higher corrosion resistance than carbon steel, which rusts readily from air and moisture exposure. This makes stainless steel better suited for corrosive applications that also require high strength. For more information on stainless steel alloys.

Cast iron is iron alloyed with carbon, silicon, and a number of other alloyants. Silicon forces carbon out of the iron, forming a black graphite layer on the exterior of the metal. Cast irons have good fluidity, castability, machinability, and wear resistance but tend to be somewhat brittle with low melting points.

Aluminum is a malleable, ductile, low density metal with medium strength. It has better corrosion resistance than typical carbon and alloy steels. It is most useful in constructing flanges requiring both strength and low weight. For more information on aluminum.

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, often with additional elements such as lead or tin. It is characterized by good strength, excellent high temperature ductility,reasonable cold ductility, good conductivity, excellent corrosion resistance, and good bearing properties. For more information on brass and other copper alloys.

PVC or polyvinyl chloride is a thermoplastic polymer that is inexpensive, durable, and easy to assemble. It is resistant to both chemical and biological corrosion. By adding plasticizers it can be made softer and more flexible.