Metal is an important material today. It serves many purposes in the construction and manufacturing industries. Most people know about iron, steel, stainless steel, and aluminum, but few people understand the many benefits that lead has to offer. In fact, companies casting lead ingots can give you products which outperform other metals in several applications. Let’s check out some of the surprising benefits of lead.
What is Lead?
Lead (also called PB) is a soft, gray metal that’s very dense. In fact, it’s one of the densest metals you can find, and it’s one of the heavy metals. PB is an excellent insulator that effectively resists corrosion.
Because PB is dense and doesn’t conduct electricity, it’s commonly used to protect against harmful radiation waves. That’s why you see lead-lined glass products and clothing with lead lining for people working around radiation therapy equipment and x-ray machines. Businesses casting lead ingots and other products are there to serve these industries.
Lead has a long and successful history because it’s easy to work with and corrosion resistant. In fact, for centuries, PB saw use in plumbing and the Roman baths had lead linings. Ancient Roman winemakers used leaded pots to boil their crushed grapes in. For many centuries, it’s been part of the roofing industry, and many statues are made of lead.
For decades, leaded gasoline was an important fuel because it increased octane and engine performance. Leaded paint saw a use for years, and some homes still have this kind of paint. By adding lead, the paint dried faster and lasted longer. It also helped paint resist moisture. However, due to toxicity issues, it’s no longer used in paint or gasoline.
Benefits
Companies casting lead ingots make many fine roofing products today. Materials last longer and need little maintenance. Also, lead is an important part of sound proofing and radiation shielding products. It still has many uses.