Choosing the Right Steel for Design and Fabrication

Choosing the Right Steel for Design and Fabrication
4 min read
18 October 2023

Steel is one of the most used materials in the world of design and fabrication. Its strength, durability, and malleability make it the best choice for a wide range of steel products and applications. However, not all steel is created equal.

As a steel fabrication and engineering service, we believe in using the best steel for every project. So, if you need help choosing the right steel for your project, this place is for you.

Factors You Need to Consider

Strength

For any structural steel engineering, finding the right grade is important. The steel should have strength with a good load-bearing capacity and a longer lifespan of the end product. Make sure the strength of the chosen steel matches your steel design and fabrication.

For instance, if you're creating a beam bridge, it should have a load capacity of 500 PSF (pounds per square foot) for pedestrian bridges. For highway bridges, it should be over 2,000 PSF.

Rust or Corrosion Level

It's a simple logic to look at. If it has iron in some quantity, there are chances for steel getting rust or corrosion. Here, you need to identify the level of corrosion resistivity of your chosen steel.

However, you can use high-quality stainless steel, weathering steel, and Galvanized steel for steel design and fabrication

Environmental Factors

Consider imagining the possible environment in which steel will be used. Temperature and pressure play a key role in it. Various steels have their specific melting points with high temperatures. Also, they can shrink under low temperatures as well. So, choose a steel that has good compatibility with the targeted environment.

Budget

Different types of steel come at different price points. Consider your budget when choosing the right material. Also, the Steel Design and Fabrication cost would be an additional that will also affect the overall cost of the project. So, consider thinking of all the possible expenses and try budgeting with an expert like Master Steel's professional engineers.

Accessibility

Also, make sure that your chosen steel is available in your locality or neighboring areas. In case it is not available, seek ways to get it by importing or simply looking for its alternatives.

Different Types of Steel for Design and Fabrication

There are various types of steel are available in the market. Every steel has its own unique properties and applications. So, let's check out some of the most used types of steel for design and fabrication.

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is the most common steel. It is primarily composed of iron and Carbon, with other alloying elements in smaller quantities. The carbon content determines its strength and hardness. Depending on the quantity of Carbon, it can be classified as low Carbon steel, medium Carbon steel, and high Carbon steel.

Carbon Steel

Applications

Low Carbon Steel

welding, bending, and forming

Medium Carbon Steel

automotive parts and machinery components

High Carbon Steel

chisels, knives, and cutting instruments

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is known for its marvelous resistance to corrosion and staining. It contains chromium (Cr), which forms a protective layer that prevents rust.

Stainless Steel

Applications

Austenitic Stainless Steel

kitchen appliances, food processing equipment, and architectural components

Ferritic Stainless Steel

automotive exhaust systems and decorative trim

Martensitic Stainless Steel

cutlery, bearings, and surgical instruments

Alloy Steel

Alloy steel is created by adding various alloying elements to carbon steel to enhance specific properties like strength, hardness, and corrosion resistance.

Alloy Steel

Applications

Chromium-Molybdenum Steel

high-temperature applications like boilers and pressure vessels

Nickel Stainless Steel

aircraft components and pipelines

Silicon-Manganese Steel

springs and electrical wires

Tool Steel

Tool steel is specifically designed for the production of cutting, shaping, and forming tools. It possesses exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and heat resistance.

Alloy Steel

Applications

High-Speed Steel

cutting tools, drills, and taps

Die Steel

production of dies and molds for metalworking and plastic injection molding

Conclusion

Choosing the right type of steel is crucial for the success of your project. Whether you're building a skyscraper, a kitchen utensil, or a cutting-edge machine, there's a type of steel that's just right for your needs. If you

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Liam Ronald 2
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