Types of Steel and Their Applications
Alloy steel fabricator
Alloy steel is a steel that has different elements added to it to improve its mechanical properties. It is typically broken down into two types: low alloy steels and high alloy steels. However, the distinction between the two is disputed. In any case, alloy steels are used in many different applications. They are used for everything from bridges to car doors. So, it’s important to understand how they are made and what applications they are best for.
Alloy steels are made of carbon steel with additional elements, usually between one and five percent. This increases their strength and corrosion resistance. These steels are also harder and less brittle, but typically have lower machinability and weldability.
Carbon steel
Carbon steel is a type of steel that contains a carbon content of 0.05 to 2.1 percent by weight. According to the American Iron and Steel Institute, this is a low carbon steel. As a result, this type of steel is very resistant to corrosion and is ideal for making structural components. In addition, carbon steel is easier to manufacture and requires fewer maintenance costs. But, this type of steel has a high price tag.
There are two types of carbon steel: high and low carbon steel. The low-carbon variety is strong but does not temper easily and has a low tensile strength. However, it can be carburised to improve its hardness and surface. It is easier to cold-form than high-carbon steels. Carbon steels can be affected by trace impurities, however. Sulphur, for example, can make steel extremely brittle.
Low-carbon steel
Low-carbon steel is one of the most common types of steels used in various applications. It offers a range of tensile strengths and is versatile in fabrication. It is used in many structural applications such as automobile body components. It also lends itself to drawing, forming, and flanging. Because of its low carbon content, this steel is also among the most cost-effective options. Its unique properties also make it ideal for mass production.
Low-carbon steels typically contain carbon content between 0.005 and 0.1 wt.%, and are used as low-cost materials for magnetic cores. Often, they are manufactured as fairly thick laminations that experience substantial classical losses. The presence of carbon also has significant aging effects and results in a progressive loss of hysteresis over time. In addition, carbon-containing steels may contain a small amount of cementite precipitates that act as additional domain walls pinning centers.
Low-alloy steel
A low-alloy steel has ten percent or less of an alloy element and is used for applications requiring high strength and corrosion resistance. Its composition varies, depending on its use, but can include small amounts of nickel or chrome to improve its high-temperature performance. Because of these benefits, low-alloy steels are preferred for a wide range of applications.
Compared to carbon steel, low-alloy steels have better mechanical properties. These steels are characterized by a reduced grain size and a reduced pearlite structure. These steels contain chromium, nickel, or both. Alloying elements can affect the mechanical properties of the finished steel, as they can alter its hardenability.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is a material that is highly durable and hard wearing. It is ideal for environments that are highly chloride and heat-sensitive, and it is particularly suitable for marine and chemical processing applications. Stainless steel is also good at maintaining its shape in both high and low temperatures. Moreover, its low melting point means that it is easily fabricated.
Stainless steel is an alloy of chromium and nickel. It contains a minimum of 10.5% chromium content and is remarkably resistant to corrosion and heat. It also contains other elements that enhance its corrosion and oxidation resistance.