As the backbone of heavy equipment, tools, and household items steel plays an important part in construction and manufacturing. However there are a variety of steels that are created equal; the type of steel you select for a project can dramatically influence its strength and durability.
The amount of impurities or additions determines the classification. This is what makes every type unique to its specific application.
Low-carbon steels are among the most common types of steel employed by metal fabricators and they come in a variety of forms. They can be found in beams, pipes and other structural elements. They are also suitable for welded fabrications since they can be easily shaped and formed without compromising its strength or quality.
The medium-carbon steels are known for being hard and have a carbon content of less than 1.75%. They’re the most popular choice for cookware, knife blades, and other durable tools. They’re also commonly used to make car parts and other mechanical equipment.
High-carbon steels are used to make parts that require a strong strength and resistance to corrosion. This includes anchor bolts, rods and tools.
Alloy steels are flexible and can be adapted to meet the requirements of any like it application. For example, tungsten increases the temperature strength and wear resistance of high-strength steels. Chromium improves ductility of stainless steels and increases their heat resistance. Molybdenum, on the other hand, improves the toughness and durability of alloy steels.