10 Things to Consider When Buying HRS Steel Sheet

The sheet metal used in your sheet meetal fabrication includes a very broad list of possible materials. Making the best choice for your products includes decisions about the type of metal, its thickness, and a choice of form. What you choose should be based on your overall expectations, desired end product, and recommendations from your sheet metal fabricator contractor manufacturing services

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Sheet metal is made from a variety of metals that each have their own unique properties and offer unique benefits. A list of the most common sheet metal materials used for fabrication have been summarized below.

Hot rolled steel is produced when steel is processed by a series of roll presses at temperatures over °F. The process creates a steel that is easily formed or shaped into large pieces and is best used where tolerances aren’t as important.

Q235 and Q355 are 16 Mn steel grade with good formability and weldability properties. It’s commonly used for structural applications and parts for a variety of industries. Q355 offers better performance at low temperatures and offers better steel strength.

SAPH440 is commonly used for automotive frames, wheels, and other parts. It has very good tensile strength making it a good choice for load bearing or structural uses.

Advantages:

• Good flexibility making it ideal for structural components
• Well suited to high production runs
• Suitable for a variety of shapes and forms
• Cooling process hardens and normalizes the material which prevents any internal stresses
• Lower cost than cold rolled steel
• Good mechanical performance in terms of toughness

Disadvantages

• Surface isrougher than cold rolled steel and can have imperfections
• Looser tolerances than cold rolled steel
• Require surface finishing to avoid corrosion
• Available only in thicknesses over 3mm (0.12 inches)
• Less formability than cold rolled steel
• Material mechanical performance fluctuate across a single sheet / batch
• Unstable spring back during CNC bending

Commonly used for:

• Rail tracks, hopper cars, components
• Construction including i-beams, metal buildings, doors, shelving
• Vehicle frames, agricultural equipment
• Water heaters, pipes, tubes
• Cross-sections
• Sheet metal

Cold rolled steel (CRS) is essentially hot rolled steel that has gone through an additional rolling process at room temperature.

This additional processing produces a steel with closer tolerances and a broader range of finishes. The result is an increase in strength by as much as 20% compared to hot rolled steel. SPCC is commonly used for automotive parts and some construction applications. SPCC can be used for galvanized products, appliances, containers, and other products.

Advantages:

• Harder and stronger than hot rolled steel
• Good for tight tolerances, creating shapes that are square with true edges and corners
• Allows for precise dimensions
• High quality smooth surface and finish
• Easier to process than hot rolled steel with less spring back during bending
• Stable mechanical performance across multiple batches
• High formability

Disadvantages:

• Additional steps required after production to prevent corrosion
• Higher cost than hot rolled steel
• Cold rolled steel can be more expensive than hot rolled steel
• Only available up to 3 mm (0.12 inches) thick

Commonly used for:

• Machine and automotive parts
• Metal furniture, desks, cabinets
• Home appliances
• Lighting fixtures
• Construction products
• Steel drums, cabinetry, water heaters
• Strips, bars, and rods

The category of spring steel includes several high yield strength steels including low-alloy manganese, medium-carbon steel, or high-carbon steel. They are primarily used to manufacture springs as the steel will return to its original shape after twisting or load bearing.

A carbon steel can be used for small springs, but large springs are best when an alloy is used. High carbon spring steel is a common choice, inexpensive, and easily processed. It is not suited to extreme temperatures or for shock/ impact loads. Alloy spring steel are well suited to shock or impact loads or conditions with high stress. Stainless spring steel can be used in some forms at extremely high temperatures (288°C) and are corrosion resistant. 65Mn is a high carbon with manganese to improve hardenability. It has good wear resistance and good workability.

Advantages

• High yield strength, resistingdistortion when twisted or compressed
• Products can withstand continuous twisting, compression etc and return to original shape
• Good hardness, elasticity, and hardenability

Disadvantages

• Some metals can have issues when overheated including brittleness
• Requires tempering after heating and quenching to relieve material stresses
• Not all are well suited to welding
• Difficult to form in hardened and tempered state

Commonly used for:

• Valve springs
• Clutch springs, brake springs
• Grinder spindles
• Coil springs, leaf springs, and s-tines
• Piano wire, guitar strings, precision tool wires
• Washers
• Lock picks
• Antennas, scrapers
• Blades

Aluminum is a pure metal that is easily alloyed with small amounts of other materials like copper, manganese, silicone, or magnesium. It is not magnetic or combustible and is a good conductor of electricity. Aluminum offers good corrosion resistance and is generally easy to form and process. It comes in several different grades and is often used because of its weight. It weighs about 1/3 of other materials like iron, steel, copper, and brass. It conducts heat well and is non-toxic making it a good choice in a variety of applications.

AL is a wrought alloy with high electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, and workability but somewhat low mechanical strength. It’s commonly used in electrical and chemical industries. AL is most often used for architectural applications or trimming. It has high tensile properties and offers good finish options. It also offers high corrosion resistance and is a good option for anodized applications. AL is the most flexible heat-treated alloy with excellent workability. It’s well suited to most processes and has good corrosion resistance. AL is the highest strength non-heat-treated aluminum alloy and offers very good fatigue resistance. Highly workable, AL can be formed into complex shapes and offers good saltwater corrosion resistance.

Advantages

• Corrosion resistant and generally offers a maintenance-free finish
• Much lighter weight than alternatives like iron, steel, copper, and brass
• Great heat conductivity
• Nontoxic so it’s suitable for food exposure and other specialized applications
• Non-combustible and reflective so often used for lighting
• Good formability, workability, weldability and machineability

Disadvantages

• More expensive than steel
• Steel is a better option where strength is a primary concern and weight isn’t an issue
• Some alloys are less corrosion resistant than a stainless steel option
• Can affect taste of food so it’s less common for food or cooking applications

Commonly used for:

• Window frames
• Aircraft and automotive parts
• Kitchenware
• Food packaging
• Lighting
• Electrical products
• Machinery and equipment

Stainless steel includes a variety of sheet metals which contain at least 10.5% chromium. There are many different grades available, offering corrosion resistant and a commercially familiar appearance. Standard or austenitic stainless steel (300 series steels) is very common and does not require heat during the manufacturing process. They offer good corrosion resistance, formability, and weldability.

SS301 has high work hardening and is commonly used for trailer bodies and fasteners. SS304 has low carbon, is an economical grade but is not seawater resistant. SS316 has higher molybdenum content that improves its resistance to seawater corrosion. A lower carbon version (SS316L) is available for better corrosion resistance after welding.

Advantages

• Chromium content creates a corrosion resistant finish
• Good combination of strength and hardness
• Available in a variety of widths, thickness, and hardness levels
• Can be used for hot or cold treatments/ processes
• Suitable for a variety of processing techniques including spinning, brazing, polishing, buffing
• Weldable and suitable for soldering or riveting processes
• Very machinable
• Recyclable

Disadvantages

• Can have corrosion at thick welding points
• Possible chipping during processing
• Tends to be more expensive
• Shows dirt and smudges easily and sometimes difficult to clean
• May require polishing and finishing

Commonly used for:

• Construction products like roofing, cladding, building structures, doors and windows
• Food processing equipment, cookware, and appliances
• Cooking utensils, kitchen sinks
• Vehicles including subways, cars airplanes
• Fuel and chemical containers

Cold galvanized steel has a zinc coating painted to the steel surface to protect it from corrosion. The coating will provide both a barrier protection and a galvanic protection to help extend the life of the product. It can be applied with brushes, rollers, sprayers, or through electro galvanizing. The paint includes special binders so it will mechanically bond to the steel. SGCCis a galvanized steel with good weldability and formability. It can have a pure zinc coating or have a Zn/Fe alloy coating.

Advantages

• Protection in corrosive environments with a barrier and potentially cathodic protection for the steel
• Surfaces are generally easy to clean
• Low maintenance and good life expectancy for finished product
• Cost effective, fast application process
• Better than hot-dipped galvanization for small parts and components
• Can topcoat without any additional preparation

Disasdvantages

• Surface of the steel must be clean and dry before application. This requires an extra step but is less demanding than hot-dipped applications
• Doesn’t offer as good durability, abrasion resistance, or cathodic protection as hot-dipped galvanizing
• Physical damage can compromise the coating and result in corrosion
• Surface can include spangles

Commonly used for:

• Roofing, shutters, and other covers
• Equipment bodies

The yield strength of a metal is the point at which applied stress will cause it to deform and not return to its original shape. It provides an indication of a metal’s elasticity and the maximum force you can apply to it before it will permanently deform, buckle, or even fail. Processes like annealing can impact the yield strength of some materials.

• High yield strength metals: spring steel, cold galvanized steel, cold rolled steel, hot rolled steel, titanium, stainless steel, aluminum alloys
• Low yield strength metals: copper, brass, some aluminum alloys

Tensile strength refers to ability of a metal to resist force. Higher tensile strength requires more force to snap it for example. If the product you’re producing doesn’t need to bear any load, then a metal with less tensile strength might be the best choice. Keep in mind that how you form the sheet metal can impact its strength and the load it can bear.

• High tensile strength metals: spring steel, hot rolled steel, cold rolled steel, cold galvanized steel, stainless steel, titanium
• Low tensile strength metals: aluminum

The material you choose should take into consideration the environment it will be exposed to. Some metals respond better than others to factors like water, oxidation, or other elements it will be exposed to. Some metals, like stainless steel, won’t corrode but they can develop an oxide film. Also keep in mind that galvanic corrosion can occur when to dissimilar metals are in contact with each other.

• Less corrosion resistant metals: cold-rolled carbon steel
• More corrosion resistant metals: copper, stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, tin

Structural steel products form the foundation of various sectors, including construction, automotive, and infrastructure development. Its popularity stems from its strength, durability, and versatility. Structural steel often leads to cost-efficient projects with high structural integrity, making it a sought-after material.

Material Grade

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is primarily composed of iron and carbon and is a popular choice for structural applications due to its high strength and affordability.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: High tensile strength, widely available, and generally cheaper than other types.

Cons: Less resistant to corrosion and might need additional surface treatments.

Common Use Cases: Used in building frames, car bodies, and basic structural applications.

Alloy Steel

Alloy steel contains additional elements like chromium, molybdenum, or nickel that improve its mechanical properties.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Improved strength, hardness, and wear resistance compared to carbon steel.

Cons: Generally more expensive and may be over-engineered for simple projects.

Common Use Cases: Suitable for high-stress applications like bridges, power generation equipment, and advanced machinery.

Stainless Steel

This type of steel contains chromium, giving it excellent corrosion resistance.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: High corrosion resistance, aesthetic appeal, and excellent for sanitary applications.

Cons: More expensive than carbon steel and generally less strong.

Common Use Cases: Employed in chemical plants, food processing units, and architectural features.

Material Grade Comparison

Decision Parameters: When selecting a material grade, one should assess the structural needs, environmental conditions, and budget constraints of the Project.

Performance Indicators: Factors like tensile strength, yield strength, and flexibility can be performance indicators for selecting a suitable material grade.

Expert Tips: Consulting with material scientists or structural engineers can provide valuable insights into the most appropriate material for a specific application.

Quality Certification and Standards

ASTM Standards on Structural Steel Products

American Society for Testing and Materials, or ASTM, sets industry-wide standards for materials, including structural steel. These standards address chemical composition, mechanical properties, and manufacturing processes.

Complying with ASTM standards ensures that the steel meets the requirements for quality and safety. Compliance is often a prerequisite for projects, especially in regulated industries like construction and aerospace.

ISO Certification

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) provides recognized certifications for various products and materials, including steel.

ISO certification indicates that the steel has met international quality benchmarks, making it suitable for projects that span different countries or must follow global standards.

Custom Standards

Custom standards might be developed for specialized projects or applications with unique requirements not covered by existing standards. Military projects, specialized research facilities, or unique architectural designs may require custom standards.

Regional and National Standards

Countries or regions may have their standards, which could be adaptations of international standards or independently developed guidelines. Examples are European EN standards and Japanese JIS standards.

Local or national standards may be mandatory for projects within specific jurisdictions, and checking for Compliance when sourcing structural steel is advisable.

Documentation and Verification

Often accompanies the product to certify that it meets the claimed standards. Independent entities may be hired to verify that the structural steel complies with all required standards.

Legal Implications

Failure to comply with quality certifications and standards can lead to legal consequences, including fines and project delays. Contracts often specify the quality standards to be met, and not complying with these could be a breach of contract.

Mechanical Properties

Tensile Strength

Tensile strength indicates how well a material can resist being pulled apart. It is an important factor in applications where materials will undergo tensile pressures. Usually measured in megapascals (MPa) or pounds per square inch (psi). For example, tensile strength is a key parameter in skyscraper construction, where steel has to support huge vertical loads.

Yield Strength

Yield strength defines the maximum stress that can be applied to the steel before it deforms permanently. In construction, this is especially important for ensuring structural integrity. It’s usually measured in megapascals (MPa) or pounds per square inch (psi). Bridges, for instance, require steel with high yield strength to endure dynamic loads like heavy traffic and wind forces without deforming.

Hardness

Hardness measures the resistance to deformation and is usually quantified using scales like the Rockwell or Brinell hardness scales. A higher hardness often indicates better wear resistance, which can be advantageous in applications like machinery components. In industrial machinery, harder steel can provide a longer lifespan for components like gears or shafts.

Ductility

Ductility describes how much a material can deform under tensile stress before breaking. Higher ductility can absorb more energy during deformation, making it valuable in earthquake-prone regions. Buildings in seismic zones often use steel with higher ductility to withstand the forces of an earthquake.

Fatigue Strength

Fatigue strength is the maximum stress a material can endure for several cycles without breaking. This property is particularly relevant in structures that experience repeated loading and unloading, like bridges or aircraft. For example, the steel used in aircraft landing gears needs high fatigue strength to endure repeated landings.

Weldability

Weldability refers to how well the material can be joined through welding without compromising its properties. Poor weldability can introduce weak points in the structure, compromising its integrity. High weldability can simplify construction and improve final quality in large projects where pieces are often welded on-site.

Dimensional Tolerances

Thickness

The thickness of structural steel directly affects its ability to withstand loads and stresses. Insufficient thickness can result in structural failure or a shorter material lifespan. Industry standards often define a narrow range of acceptable thicknesses. Going beyond these tolerances can compromise the structural integrity. Regular inspections using calipers or ultrasonic thickness gauges can help ensure the material falls within acceptable tolerances.

Length and Width

Exact dimensions in length and width are often necessary in construction planning, where every inch can matter. Any changes can affect everything from fit to the ability to make secure connections. Just like thickness, the length and width of structural steel are regulated by industry standards. Not following these can result in ill-fitting components, leading to project delays. Ruler tapes, laser distance measurers, and even traditional yardsticks can be used depending on the required level of accuracy.

Weight

The weight of the structural steel plays a big role in transportation costs. Exceeding weight tolerances might require specialized transportation methods, which can be costly. Weight directly impacts the ease of assembly. Heavier pieces might need more advanced lifting equipment or labor, increasing the project’s complexity and cost. Weighing scales with high precision are generally used to ensure the material falls within the specified weight tolerances.

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Surface Treatment and Coatings

Galvanization

Benefits

Corrosion Resistance: Galvanized steel is more corrosion-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor structures.

Longevity: The coating can extend the life of the steel, resulting in lower maintenance costs over time.

Ease of Use: Galvanized steel typically doesn’t require additional painting or treatments, reducing labor costs.

Drawbacks

Cost: The process can be expensive, especially for large-scale projects.

Limited Bonding: Paints and adhesives may not apply well to galvanized surfaces.

Environmental Concerns: Chemicals like zinc can make the galvanizing process less environmentally friendly.

Painting

Types

Epoxy Paints: They are known for their durability and chemical resistance and are commonly used in industrial settings.

Polyurethane Paints: Offer excellent weather resistance and are often used for outdoor structures.

Acrylic Paints: Provide a good balance between cost and performance, suitable for less demanding applications.

Uses

Aesthetic Purposes: Painting allows for a wide range of colors and finishes.

Additional Protection: Some types of paint can offer extra resistance to corrosion or chemical damage.

Identification: Different colors are used to identify pipes or structural elements for safety or organizational purposes.

Oxide Layers

When to Use

Natural Oxidation: In some environments, allowing steel to oxidize naturally creates a protective layer that can be both functional and aesthetically appealing.

High-Temperature Conditions: Oxide layers can resist oxidation at elevated temperatures, making them suitable for certain industrial applications.

Architectural Appeal: The rusted appearance of oxidized steel can be desirable in specific architectural or design contexts.

Availability and Lead Time

Stock Products

Pros

Quick Availability: Stock products are typically ready for immediate shipment, reducing lead time.

Lower Costs: Because they are mass-produced, stock products often come at a lower price point.

Ease of Replacement: If additional pieces are required, it’s generally easier to quickly source more of the same item.

Cons

Limited Customization: Stock products may not meet specialized requirements for unique projects.

Overstock Risks: You might need to purchase more material than needed if the products are only available in standard bulk quantities.

Custom Orders

Timeline

Initial Planning: Custom orders require an initial planning and design phase, adding to lead time.

Production Time: Depending on the complexity, this could range from weeks to months.

Quality Checks: Custom orders often undergo more rigorous quality control, extending lead times.

Costs

Design and Planning Fees: Customization requires specialized planning, which can be costly.

Production Costs: Small-batch production is typically more expensive per unit.

Quality Control Costs: Rigorous testing may incur additional expenses.

Vendor Reliability

Past Performance: A track record of on-time deliveries can indicate a reliable vendor.

Communication: Prompt and clear communication throughout the order process can be a good sign.

Financial Stability: A vendor’s financial standing indicates its ability to fulfill orders consistently.

Third-Party Audits: Some may opt for external audits or checks to ensure vendor reliability.

Environmental Factors

Corrosion Resistance

Climate and Location

Coastal Areas: Saltwater can accelerate the corrosion process, requiring materials with higher corrosion resistance.

High Humidity: Moist environments also increase corrosion risk and may necessitate special coatings or treatments.

Industrial Zones: The presence of chemicals or pollutants in the air can affect the durability of structural steel, requiring enhanced corrosion resistance.

Recyclability

Sustainability Concerns

Eco-Friendly: Steel is highly recyclable, reducing the overall carbon footprint of a construction project.

LEED Certification: Using recycled steel can contribute to LEED certification for green building.

Resource Conservation: Opting for recyclable materials can reduce the demand for new resources, which is beneficial from a sustainability standpoint.

Financial Considerations

Pricing

Supply and Demand: Changes can influence steel prices.

Raw Material Costs: The cost of iron ore and other raw materials can impact the price of steel.

Economic Indicators: Macroeconomic factors like inflation and interest rates can also affect pricing.

Bulk Discounts

Volume Requirements: Some suppliers offer discounts based on volume. Make sure to inquire about thresholds for these discounts.

Strategic Sourcing: Collaborate with other departments or organizations to consolidate purchases and use volume-based discounts.

Timing: Off-season or end-of-quarter periods might offer additional opportunities for discounts due to inventory clearance.

Hidden Costs

Freight Costs: The price of steel often does not include shipping costs, which can greatly increase the overall expenditure.

Import Taxes and Duties: If sourcing from another country, be aware of import taxes or customs duties.

Storage Fees: If immediate use is unplanned, storage costs should be factored into the overall financial planning.

Supplier Reputation For Structural Steel Products

Customer Reviews

Diverse Sources: Obtain reviews from various platforms, trade journals, and forums for a well-rounded perspective.

Detail-Oriented Feedback: Focus on reviews that provide specific insights into the steel’s quality and customer service.

Recency: Prioritize recent reviews as they more accurately reflect the current state of the supplier’s operations.

Industry Experience

Track Record: A supplier with a long history in the industry is often more reliable and has established quality control procedures.

Certifications: Look for industry-relevant certifications that indicate a commitment to quality.

Referrals: Companies with extensive experience often come recommended by other industry professionals.

Transparency

Open Dialogue: A reputable supplier should be willing to answer any questions and address concerns promptly.

Documentation: The availability of Compliance certificates, test reports, and other data is a sign of a transparent and reliable supplier.

Accountability: Transparent suppliers are more likely to take responsibility for any issues and offer solutions.

Successful Structural Steel Product Purchase

Comprehensive Research: A thorough understanding of material grade, dimensional tolerances, and surface treatments is critical.

Budgeting and Financial Planning: To avoid budget overruns, factor in all potential costs, including hidden fees like transportation or storage.

Environmental Responsibility: Choose materials that align with sustainability goals whenever possible.

Vendor Due Diligence: Take the time to assess the reliability and reputation of your supplier.

Consult Industry Experts: Consulting with engineers or material scientists can offer invaluable insights for complex projects.

Use Reputable Sourcing Platforms: Websites and trade journals often list verified suppliers and provide user reviews.

Project Management Software: Utilizing specialized software can help track expenses, timelines, and order statuses for better project management.

You can make a well-informed decision for your structural steel purchase by systematically assessing factors like material properties, costs, supplier reputation, and environmental considerations. The more you know, the better you can negotiate and make choices that align with your project goals and budget. A multi-pronged approach that considers all these aspects is the key to successfully acquiring structural steel products.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Determine the Steel Grade Best Suited for My Project?

Consider your Project’s specific load-bearing requirements, environmental conditions, and overall design. Consulting with a structural engineer is highly advisable for tailored guidance.

What are Dimensional Tolerances, and Why Are They Important?

Dimensional tolerances refer to the allowable variations in dimensions like thickness, length, and weight. These variations can impact structural integrity, project planning, and costs.

Are Bulk Discounts Always More Economical?

Not necessarily. While bulk discounts can offer cost benefits, they may also result in overstock or storage costs. Evaluate your Project’s precise needs before opting for bulk purchases.

How Can I Be Sure a Supplier is Reliable?

Look for customer reviews, check for industry certifications, and assess the supplier’s transparency and communication. For additional assurance, you can also request references from the supplier.

Further Readings

Architecturally Expressive Structural Steel and Stainless Steel

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