Types of Steel
Steel is an alloy of iron and a small percentage of carbon. The carbon improves the strength and fracture resistance of structural steelwork contractor. Other elements can be added to the steel to give it additional benefits. For example, chromium is present in stainless steels, which are corrosion resistant. Stainless steel is a type of high-strength steel, containing as much as 11% of this element.
Low-carbon steel
Low-carbon steels are commonly used in structural applications, such as magnetic cores. They typically have a carbon content of 0.005 to 0.1 wt.%, making them a low-cost alternative to other steels. They are also characterized by relatively thick laminations, resulting in substantial classical losses. In addition, the presence of carbon leads to important aging effects, such as an increasing loss of hysteresis over time. They are also good energy absorbers.
The technical definition of carbon steel is complicated. A true carbon steel is made up of nearly pure iron and carbon. Very few other elements are allowed in the alloying process.
Duplex steel
Duplex steels are a family of stainless steels that contain two phases – austenite and ferrite – in roughly equal proportions. They have high corrosion resistance and are often used for high-temperature applications. However, they are not recommended for use in electrical equipment. Instead, they are best suited for low-temperature applications such as welding or forming.
Duplex steels exhibit high corrosion resistance and excellent mechanical properties. This makes them highly suitable for a variety of industrial applications. For instance, they are widely used for chemical containers and seawater heat exchangers. Their high tensile strength and high resistance to corrosion cracking make them particularly suitable for use in high-concentration chloride environments.
High-strength steel
High-strength steel is a type of metal that is much harder than conventional steel. This makes them expensive to make and often requires special techniques to produce. For instance, stamping high-strength steel requires a lot more energy than a conventional steel. It also requires stronger tools and dies. As such, the market for high-strength steels is becoming increasingly specialized.
The mechanical properties of high-strength steels are determined by using special manufacturing processes and chemical compositions. In addition, high-temperature conditions influence the residual strength and ductility of structural members made from these materials. These elements are also lighter than normal steel, which makes them vulnerable to fire and increases the difficulty of re-using them.
Low-alloy steel
Alloy steel is a type of steel that has been alloyed with various elements to enhance its mechanical properties. It can be divided into two groups based on the level of alloyation. These groups are categorized as low-alloy steels and high-alloy steels. However, the exact distinction between the two is still up for debate.
Low-alloy steels are used in many industries, including aerospace, automotive, jewelry, and construction. Their properties make them more resistant to corrosion and other forms of wear, and they are able to be stamped quickly and efficiently. Additionally, they cost less than high-alloy steels and are more durable.
Low-alloy steels are not difficult to weld, but proper filler metal selection is essential to weld integrity. Unlike mild steel, low-alloy steels harden at low temperatures without needing to undergo post-weld heat treatments. Because the low hardenability of low-alloy steels makes it susceptible to microstructures that are both coarse and brittle, welding these materials requires careful consideration of the HAZ properties.