The technology of steel fabrication is one of the greatest inventions – it is the basis of all the modern marvels around us. From a tall skyscraper to the longest of bridges, it was all achieved with the help of structural steel fabricators. They give shape to human ambitions by moulding the steel into different forms. Let’s discuss all the kinds of steel used in construction, everything from stainless steel fabrication to light gauge steel. Here are some types as well as their usage.
Table of Contents
● Rebar Steel
If you have ever been to any construction site, you probably have seen this! It is the most commonly used steel product of any construction project. Here are some important features of this steel:
- How are they used – They come in the form of thin rods, bars, or wires and are used while reinforcing the concrete
- Why are they used – Primarily, they are used to increase the strength of your concrete. Secondly, they have high tensile, which helps them to distribute the tension and prevent cracks in your concrete for a long time.
- Cost-effectiveness – They prevent excessive usage of concrete and simultaneously ensure the project’s strength. They can be recycled and reused, which makes them environment friendly also.
- Pro Tip – Always go for the rebar steel with the roughest pattern given to them. This rough patterned surface helps them to bond with concrete more perfectly.
● Alloy Steel
This kind of steel fabrication combines the steel with another element to give it a favourable property according to your requirements. In the market, you will find different types of alloy steel. We will discuss briefly what element adds what kind of property to the steel.
- Aluminium- Adds creep resistance, meaning the steel’s ability not to get deformed for the longest of periods.
- Manganese- They increase the shock resistance of the steel.
- Nickel- Keeps the steel corrosion free and adds to its overall strength.
- Chromium- It provides extra toughness to the steel.
- Tungsten- This component is known for its ability to withstand high temperatures and enhances heat resistance. Besides that, it also adds hardness to the steel.
Sometimes, two or more elements are added to the steel to give it more than one feature. You can choose your alloy steel according to your project’s requirements.
● Light Gauge Steel
They are known for their light-weight nature and can be moulded into any shape. They are easier to handle but not recommended for heavy durability.
● Structural Steel
Industrial-grade customised steel with controlled strength, size, shape, and other chemical properties is fabricated by structural steel fabricators. Due to this flexibility, they are ideal for constructing large structures to save time and effort.
● Stainless Steel
It is a kind of alloy steel but probably the most popular one! Stainless steel fabrication is done by mixing carbon steel with Nickle and Chromium. Some key features of stainless steel are:
- Great Weigh-to-Strength Ratio– They have great strength compared to the pressure they exert on things, making them engineer’s favourite!
- Ductility- This is the ability to stretch and mould a thing. Stainless steel has high ductility, which makes them easier to shape into almost anything.
- Enhances Look- Apart from being durable and weather resistant, they have a shiny texture, making them an element of beauty in any construction.
● Carbon Steel
As the name suggests, the steel with a higher concentration of carbon is called Carbon steel. The carbon content starts from 0.05% and can go up to 2.5%. We will discuss three broad categories so you know what will fit your requirements best.
- Mild or Low Carbon Steel: These carbon steel have less than 0.50% carbon content, making them unusually strong and flexible. That is why they are ideal for projects in earth-quake-prone areas.
- Medium Carbon Steel: As they are difficult to cut and give shapes, they are usually used as parts of large industrial machinery in the form of axles or screws.
- High Carbon Steel: They are directly used as tools meant to exert or withhold pressure. Common examples are large industrial hammers and springs.
● Tool Steel
Tool steel is indirectly used in construction. They have high carbon content and as the name suggests, they are used to manufacture tools like hammers, cutting tools, etc.
● Weathering Steel
Weathering steel is the ultimate low-maintenance external steel made of Nickel along with Phosphorous, Copper, and Chromium. All these elements make it extremely corrosion-free, strong, and durable.
Conclusion
Constructing anything requires steel as the primary material. Advancement in technology has also given steel different purposes. Steel fabricators like Gunceler Industries, Melbourne understand this. They constantly try to make people aware of the varieties so that they get the right kind of steel according to their requirements. You can call on 0411 032 421 or email at guncelerIndustries@hotmail.com for more details.
