Lead is not as commonly used in many types of applications, particularly in plumbing systems, as it has been in the past. The issues with lead and safety have created the need for safer materials for these types of applications where the lead is directly in contact with water that is consumed or used by people in their homes or in public places.
However, lead is a very safe material for use in a range of other applications where it does not pose a risk. It is still one of the most effective materials in radiation shielding systems, and it is also ideal for use as a soundproofing material as well as for weights and ballasts and in roofing applications.
In these types of applications, sheet lead or lead ballast may be used to cover large areas or to create heavy weights and lining materials. For small spaces, lighter weights, or for use in piping and tubing systems or other similar types of construction applications, casting lead ingots offer a small amount of lead for use.
Purity Considerations
While soundproofing uses for lead is not as dependent on the purity, other types of applications, including filling in areas of radiation shielding and for specific uses of casting lead ingots, the purity of the lead is essential.
The standard purity for most of the casting lead ingots on the market is 99.7% lead. There are some manufacturers of lead products that offer a 99.9% purity level, which provides a product that is easy to melt and work with for any type of application.
Purity is critical with lead ingots as impurities result in excessive accumulations of dross during the melting process. It also impacts the final properties of the lead parts and components and can decrease the performance of the lead, reducing its radiation shielding and natural resistance to corrosion in roofing and plumbing types of use.
