Choosing the right kind of steel for your job requires you to consider a number of factors: both current and future ones. Sometimes, you’ll be able to do this yourself with the help of a detailed product guide but, most often, it will be better to consult a professional.
How many kinds of steel are there?
• Hot rolled coil
• Cold rolled coil
• Metallic coated coil
• Prepainted coil
• Sheet steel
Not only are there many different types of steel and steel products, because many of these products will have been graded by a number of different factors, including malleability, strength and structural gradings. So, you’ll need to understand the grading nomenclature as well if you’re to make the correct choices.
Steel Gradings
• Formable grades give the extent of forming and the surface condition of the steel.
• Hardness grades specify a minimum Rockwell scale indentation hardness and the hardening process employed.
• Structural grades give a minimum strength yield in megapascals and describe the surface condition.
• Analysis grades refer to the level of carbon present.
• Strength grades are for other than structural steel, also referring to a minimum strength yield in megapascals and the surface condition of the steel.
When ordering steel, you need to consider the following to ensure you specify the right product:
Product and end use
Almost every steel product type will have characteristics suitable for a range of functions, such as framing and bending, and different levels of corrosion protection or strength performance. Therefore, a number of different products will likely be suitable — to some extent — for your requirements. When ordering steel products, you need to choose the product that best suits the purpose of your end application.
Dimensions
Specify the width and thickness in millimetres to two decimal places. You should also quote the required measurement tolerance — usually as Class A for standard tolerance and Class B for tighter tolerances.
Pack mass
Pack mass specifications, together with the pack type required, needs to be determined for each product you’re planning to order.
Coating class
When ordering coated sheet or coil products, you’ll need to specify the required coating thickness, colour and surface protection. Your requirements should be stated in metric thickness to two decimal places. You should also specify the base metal required.
Quantity
Most steel orders are expressed in metric tonnes, however, you should speak to your steel merchant or distributor about minimum order quantities, particularly if you’re ordering a specialty grade of steel or coating.
Certification
If you need a steel product with individual test certificates, you’ll need to specify this when you place your order. This level of certification is more common for coil than plate products.
Lead time
Lead times will often differ between products or due to individual specifications. You should always discuss lead times with your steel merchant as early as possible so you won’t be disappointed.
When choosing steel for your next job, consult a professional, starting with your steel merchant or distributor, as they have all the knowledge to help you make the right choice.
If you’re in need of any manufactured goods, just contact the manufacturers near you.