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Stainless Steel Bars: Useful Across Industries & Applications

Stainless steel is an essential component in various industries due to its durability, resistance to corrosion, and versatility. Stainless Steel, in bar form, is commonly used in construction, manufacturing, food processing, automotive, and even medical industries, providing both structural support and aesthetic appeal.

Here are the key properties and the wide range of applications that make them indispensable in both industrial and commercial settings.

What Is Stainless Steel Bar?

A stainless steel bar is a solid, durable metal piece available in various shapes, valued for its corrosion resistance due to the chromium present. Commonly used grades include 304 and 316, with 316 offering enhanced resistance in salty environments that is ideal for marine and industrial use.

FastMetals’ Stainless Steel Flat Bar 316/316L features added molybdenum that improves corrosion resistance and strength, making it suitable for high-temperature applications.

Key Properties of Stainless Steel Bars

1. Corrosion Resistance

A primary feature of stainless steel is its exceptional resistance to corrosion. The chromium content, typically between 10.5% and 20%, forms a protective oxide layer on the surface, shielding the metal from rust and environmental damage. This makes stainless steel ideal for use in outdoor, marine, and chemical environments where moisture and corrosive substances are prevalent.

2. Strength and Durability

Stainless steel is known for their high tensile strength, enabling them to withstand significant loads without deforming or breaking. This durability makes them suitable for structural applications that demand long-lasting stability. Additionally, stainless steel requires less maintenance and offers a longer lifespan than many other metals, making it a cost-effective choice over time.

3. Heat Resistance

Stainless steel can endure exposure to high temperatures without losing their structural integrity. This heat resistance makes them well-suited for use in industrial environments such as furnaces, exhaust systems, and heat exchangers. Stainless steel grades like 310 are especially effective in maintaining strength under extreme heat.

4. Aesthetic Appeal

In addition to their functional advantages, stainless steel has a sleek, shiny finish that enhances their aesthetic value. Whether used in architectural structures, appliances, or interior design elements, they provide a modern, polished look that is both attractive and easy to maintain.

5. Hygiene and Cleanability

Stainless steel features a smooth, non-porous surface, making them easy to clean and preventing the harboring of bacteria and contaminants. This makes them particularly suitable for industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices, where hygiene and cleanliness are crucial.

6. Versatility

Stainless steel offers remarkable versatility, which allows it to be fabricated into various shapes, sizes, and finishes. Stainless Steel can be machined, welded, and polished to meet the specific demands of a wide range of industries, from construction to automotive manufacturing.

Common Forms of Stainless Steel Bars

Stainless steel bars are manufactured in a variety of shapes (for forms), each designed to meet specific needs. These bars offer versatility in terms of both form and function, with several commonly used types available.

1. Round Bars

Round stainless steel bars are cylindrical and versatile. They offer a balance of strength and precision, making them suitable for various processes. Their simple shape allows for easy handling and fabrication.

2. Square Bars

Square stainless steel bars are defined by their four equal sides. Their shape provides stability and allows for secure placement in projects. Square bars are favored for their consistency and solid structure.

3. Flat Bars

Flat stainless steel bars are rectangular, offering strength and flexibility. Their shape allows for easy welding and machining. These bars provide durability in applications that require strong, precise dimensions.

4. Hexagonal Bars

Hexagonal stainless steel bars feature six sides, making them distinct and functional. Their shape ensures an easy grip during machining and fabrication processes. Hex bars provide strength and precision for more specialized applications.

Applications of Stainless Steel Bars

Stainless steel bars are known for their versatility, strength, and corrosion resistance, making them ideal for a wide array of applications across various industries. Below are some of the most common uses:

1. Construction and Infrastructure

Stainless steel bars are extensively used in the construction sector for structural supports, reinforcements, and frameworks. Their corrosion resistance ensures durability in outdoor applications such as bridges, buildings, and monuments. Additionally, they are often incorporated into architectural features like handrails, balustrades, and cladding, offering both strength and aesthetic appeal.

2. Automotive and Transportation

In automotive and transportation industries, stainless steel bars are crucial for manufacturing components like shafts, axles, and fasteners. Their strength and resistance to corrosion make them ideal for high-stress applications in vehicles, ships, and airplanes. They are also used in producing exhaust systems and other parts exposed to high temperatures.

3. Food and Beverage Industry

Stainless steel bars are commonly used in food processing plants, breweries, and commercial kitchens due to their hygienic properties and ease of cleaning. They are integral to fabricating food storage containers, conveyor belts, and kitchen equipment. The non-reactive surface of stainless steel ensures that food products remain uncontaminated during processing.

4. Medical and Pharmaceutical Applications

In the medical and pharmaceutical industries, stainless steel bars are used to manufacture surgical instruments, medical devices, and hospital equipment. Their corrosion resistance, ease of sterilization, and ability to maintain cleanliness make them essential in environments that require stringent hygiene standards.

5. Marine Industry

Stainless steel bars are widely used in the marine industry for the construction of boats, ships, and offshore structures. Due to their superior resistance to saltwater corrosion, they are ideal for components such as propeller shafts, rudders, and deck fittings. Stainless steel’s ability to endure harsh saline environments ensures long-lasting performance in marine applications.

6. Aerospace Industry

The aerospace industry relies heavily on stainless steel bars for critical components that require both strength and lightweight properties. These bars are commonly used in the manufacturing of airplane landing gear, engine parts, and fasteners. Their ability to withstand extreme temperatures and resist corrosion ensures reliability in high-performance aerospace applications.

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Looking for high-quality stainless steel bars that can meet your industry’s needs? FastMetals offers a wide selection of durable and versatile stainless steel bars in various shapes and grades, perfect for construction, automotive, marine, and more. With fast shipping and expert customer service, you can rely on FastMetals to provide the materials that will ensure the success of your project.

Visit FastMetals today to explore our selection and get the stainless steel bars you need!

Uses For Aluminum Rectangular Tube

Aluminum rectangular tube is a versatile and highly durable material that has become a popular choice in a wide range of industries and DIY projects. Its lightweight, corrosion-resistant properties and structural strength make it ideal for applications that require both durability and ease of handling.

Here are the many other uses of an aluminum rectangular tube and highlights why it’s a preferred material for so many applications.

1. Structural Support in Construction and Architecture

One of the primary uses of an aluminum rectangular tube is for structural support in construction and architecture. Its strength-to-weight ratio makes it an excellent choice for framing and load-bearing structures. Architects and builders often use aluminum rectangular tubing in building frameworks, window and door frames, and support structures for roofing.

Key Advantages

Lightweight yet Strong: Aluminum is much lighter than steel, making it easier to handle and install, but it still offers substantial strength for structural support.

Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer when exposed to water and humid air, which prevents it from rusting or corroding. This is especially beneficial for outdoor structures exposed to the elements.

Long Lifespan: Structures built with aluminum rectangular tubes require less maintenance over time due to their corrosion resistance and durability, reducing long-term costs.

2. Furniture and Interior Design

Aluminum rectangular tube is also widely used in the creation of modern, industrial-style furniture and interior design pieces. Its sleek, metallic appearance pairs well with minimalist and contemporary aesthetics, while its strength ensures that the furniture will be durable and long-lasting.

Common Furniture Applications

Table Frames: The rectangular shape of aluminum tube provides a sturdy and attractive base for both small and large tables. Its light weight makes the furniture easier to move, while its strength ensures stability.

Shelving Units: Aluminum rectangular tubes are often used to create shelving units that are both durable and lightweight. They can support heavy items without the bulk of wooden or steel shelves, making them ideal for home or office storage solutions.

Outdoor Furniture: Because aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion, it is an excellent choice for outdoor furniture, such as patio chairs, benches, and tables. Even when exposed to rain, sun, or salt air, aluminum will not rust, making it a low-maintenance option for outdoor spaces.

3. Automotive and Transportation

Aluminum rectangular tube has various uses in the automotive and transportation industries due to its lightweight and high-strength properties. Manufacturers use aluminum tubing in a variety of components, from vehicle frames to roof racks, where reducing weight is crucial for improving fuel efficiency and performance.

Key Benefits

Fuel Efficiency: The lightweight nature of aluminum helps reduce the overall weight of vehicles, which in turn improves fuel efficiency. This makes aluminum rectangular tubes an essential material in the production of electric vehicles, bicycles, trailers, and more.

Durability: Despite its lightweight composition, aluminum is strong enough to withstand the stresses of transportation. It maintains its integrity over time, even when subjected to heavy loads or frequent use.

Corrosion Resistance: In automotive applications, aluminum’s resistance to corrosion is particularly valuable in regions where vehicles are exposed to road salt, rain, and moisture. Aluminum components last longer than steel, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

4. Signage and Displays

Aluminum rectangular tube is a popular choice for signage and display structures due to its combination of strength, light weight, and ease of fabrication. Retailers, event organizers, and advertisers often use aluminum tubing to create display frames, signposts, and other temporary or permanent structures.

Why Aluminum is Ideal for Signage

Customizable: Aluminum rectangular tubing can be easily cut, bent, and welded to fit the specific needs of a display or sign structure. This allows for the creation of custom sizes and shapes, making aluminum ideal for creative and unique designs.

Portable: Because aluminum is lightweight, signage and display structures made from rectangular tubes can be easily transported and set up, making it perfect for trade shows, exhibitions, or outdoor events.

Durable: Whether used indoors or outdoors, aluminum signage can withstand the elements, ensuring that it lasts over time without rusting or corroding.

5. Industrial Machinery and Equipment

In industrial settings, aluminum rectangular tubes are frequently used in the construction of machinery and equipment. Its ability to withstand heavy loads without compromising weight makes it a preferred material for machinery frames, conveyor systems, and other industrial structures.

Key Advantages in Industrial Applications

Strength and Stability: Industrial equipment often requires durable materials that can support heavy weights and withstand constant use. Aluminum rectangular tube offers the necessary strength while minimizing the overall weight of the machinery.

Resistance to Corrosive Environments: Many industrial processes take place in environments where chemicals, moisture, or other corrosive elements are present. Aluminum’s natural corrosion resistance ensures that equipment built with rectangular tubing will last longer, even in harsh conditions.

Ease of Fabrication: Aluminum rectangular tube can be easily machined, cut, and welded, which simplifies the manufacturing process for complex industrial equipment designs.

6. Solar Panel Mounting Systems

As the renewable energy industry continues to grow, aluminum rectangular tubes have found their place in solar panel mounting systems. Its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties make it an ideal material for supporting solar panels in both residential and commercial applications.

Key Benefits

Corrosion Resistance: Solar panels are often installed outdoors, where they are exposed to the elements. Aluminum’s resistance to rust and corrosion ensures that mounting systems remain sturdy and durable, even after years of exposure to sunlight, rain, and wind.

Lightweight and Easy to Install: Aluminum rectangular tubing is lighter than steel, making solar panel installations easier to manage. This reduces labor costs and makes the mounting process faster and more efficient.

Long Lifespan: Aluminum structures used in solar panel systems are built to last. Because they do not corrode easily, they require little maintenance, ensuring that the solar panels remain securely mounted for decades.

In addition to the industries mentioned above, a FastMetals customer shared their use of aluminum tubing. If you’re involved in marine construction or maintenance, aluminum tubes—whether round, square, or rectangular—are an excellent choice for building boat ramps and dock rails. Their lightweight, corrosion-resistant properties make them ideal for withstanding harsh marine environments while providing the necessary strength for daily use.

Find the Perfect Aluminum Rectangular Tube at FastMetals!

Looking for an aluminum rectangular tube for your next project? FastMetals has a wide selection to fit any need, from construction and DIY to automotive and industrial applications. With most orders shipping in just 1-2 days, you can start building with confidence and efficiency.

Get high-quality, corrosion-resistant aluminum that’s perfect for any job. Shop now at FastMetals!

High Strength Aluminum: 2024 & 7075

2024 and 7075 are high-strength aluminum alloys that are commonly used in various applications, especially in aerospace, automotive, and structural industries.

2024 Aluminum

Composition: 2024 aluminum is composed of aluminum (90.7%), copper (4.5%), and small amounts of other elements like magnesium (1.5%) and manganese (0.6%).
Strength: It is known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for structural applications.
Machinability: 2024 aluminum has good machinability and responds well to various machining operations.
Corrosion Resistance: While it is not as corrosion-resistant as some other aluminum alloys, it can be protected through surface treatments such as anodizing.
Applications: 2024 aluminum is commonly used in aircraft structures, where its high strength and lightweight properties are crucial. It’s also used in various aerospace and transportation components.

7075 Aluminum

Composition: 7075 aluminum is composed mainly of aluminum (87.1%), zinc (5.3%), copper (2.1%), and small amounts of other elements like magnesium and chromium.
Strength: It is one of the highest-strength aluminum alloys available, with excellent tensile strength and toughness.
Machinability: While it can be machined, it is less machinable compared to 2024 due to its higher hardness.
Corrosion Resistance: 7075 has good corrosion resistance, but it is not as corrosion-resistant as some other aluminum alloys. Anodizing can be used to enhance its corrosion resistance.
Applications: 7075 aluminum is used in applications where high strength is required. It’s also used in the manufacturing of high-stress components in the automotive and aerospace industries.

Both 2024 and 7075 aluminum are valued for their high strength. They are used in applications where lightweight and strong materials are essential. The choice between them depends on specific application requirements, machining considerations, and cost constraints.

Alloy 4130: A Common Choice for Automotive

4130 steel is commonly used in the automotive industry due to its excellent combination of mechanical properties and weldability.

Strength & Durability

4130 steel offers high strength and excellent durability, making it well-suited for components that need to withstand heavy loads, stress, and impact. This is particularly important in automotive parts like chassis frames, suspension components, and roll cages.

Lightweight

While 4130 steel is strong, it is also relatively lightweight compared to some other high-strength materials. This makes it advantageous for reducing the overall weight of a vehicle, which can improve fuel efficiency and handling.

Weldability & Machinability

4130 steel can be easily welded, which is essential for the manufacturing and repair of automotive components. Welding allows for the fabrication of complex structures and the modification of existing parts.

This type of steel is also known for its good machinability, making it easier to machine into intricate shapes and components used in automotive applications.

Corrosion & Fatigue Resistance

While not as corrosion-resistant as stainless steel, 4130 steel can still resist rust and corrosion to a reasonable extent. This is important for automotive components that are exposed to environmental conditions.

4130 steel exhibits good fatigue resistance, which is crucial for components subjected to cyclic loading, such as suspension parts and axles.

Heat Treatment

4130 steel can be heat-treated to enhance its mechanical properties further. This allows for customization to meet specific automotive requirements, such as achieving higher hardness or strength.

Cost-Effective

4130 steel is cost-effective when compared to some other high-strength materials, making it an attractive choice for various automotive components.

Common automotive applications of 4130 steel include suspension components (such as control arms and sway bars), chassis frames, roll cages, steering components, and various structural elements. Its versatility and favorable combination of properties make it a valuable material in the automotive manufacturing and performance industries.

Pipe vs Tube

Metal pipes and metal tubes are both cylindrical structures made of metal, but they have some key differences in terms of their design, purpose, and typical applications.

Purpose & Function

Metal Pipe: Pipes are primarily designed to transport fluids, gases, or solids from one location to another. They are used for conveying substances like water, oil, gas, and various chemicals. Pipes often have specific standards and regulations depending on their intended use.
Metal Tube: Tubes, on the other hand, are more versatile and can serve various purposes beyond the transportation of materials. They are often used for structural applications, heat exchangers, mechanical components, and as a framework for various structures.

Wall Thicknesses

Metal Pipe: Pipes typically have a uniform wall thickness. The wall thickness is designed to withstand the specific pressure and temperature requirements of the substance being transported. Pipe walls are often thicker than those of tubes.
Metal Tube: Tubes can have varying wall thicknesses, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Some tubes have thicker walls for structural strength, while others have thinner walls for heat exchange purposes

Shapes & Cross-Sections

Metal Pipe: Pipes are generally designed with a round cross-section, which is ideal for maintaining consistent flow and reducing resistance in fluid transportation.
Metal Tube: Tubes can have various cross-sectional shapes, including round, square, rectangular, and oval, depending on the intended application.

Manufacturing Standards

Metal Pipe: Pipes are often manufactured to specific industry standards, such as ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) or ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) standards. These standards ensure that pipes meet the required quality and safety criteria.
Metal Tube: Tubes can also be manufactured to industry standards, but they are often more flexible in terms of size and shape, making them suitable for a wider range of custom applications.

Applications

Metal Pipe: Common applications for metal pipes include plumbing systems, oil and gas pipelines, and industrial processes where the conveyance of fluids and gases is essential.
Metal Tube: Metal tubes find applications in industries like construction, automotive manufacturing, aerospace, and engineering, where structural strength, heat transfer, or specialized shapes are required.

In summary, the key difference between metal pipes and metal tubes lies in their primary purpose and design. Pipes are mainly used for transporting materials, while tubes serve various structural and mechanical functions in addition to material conveyance. The choice between a pipe and a tube depends on the specific requirements of the application.

All About: Architectural Bronze C385

385 architectural bronze stands out as a remarkable material with a well-balanced chemical composition. It offers excellent corrosion resistance, strength, and machinability. Whether it graces grand buildings or intricate designs, 385 bronze significantly contributes to the beauty, durability, and functionality of architectural projects.

The Chemistry

This alloy primarily consists of copper, with smaller quantities of zinc and lead. The chemical composition of 385 architectural bronze typically comprises approximately 57% copper, 40% zinc, and 3% lead. This precise combination of elements gives the alloy exceptional properties and makes it suitable for various applications.

Characteristics To Know

Architectural bronze’s alloying elements make it desirable for architectural purposes. Its high copper content, which provides excellent corrosion resistance, it is widely used in outdoor environments where longevity and durability are critical. The addition of zinc enhances the alloy’s strength and hardness, making it suitable for structural components and decorative elements. Furthermore, the small amount of lead improves its machinability, allowing for intricate and precise detailing in finish work.

What is Architectural Bronze C385 Used For?

The uses of 385 architectural bronze are diverse and extensive. It finds common application in the fabrication of architectural hardware, including door handles, knobs, and hinges. The alloy’s corrosion resistance makes it an ideal choice for exterior components that are exposed to weathering. Additionally, 385 bronze is often utilized in ornamental features such as statues, plaques, and decorative panels, where its beautiful golden hue adds aesthetic appeal to buildings and public spaces.

This alloy’s versatility extends to its use in lighting fixtures, railings, and various other architectural details that require both functionality and visual appeal.

What is the Difference Between Bronze and Brass?

Bronze and Brass are two metals that often get confused or used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences in their composition and properties. Bronze, discovered at a time when no other metals could rival it, quickly made a name for itself. It is an alloy of copper and tin, with a reddish-brown or reddish-gold color that oxidizes to dark brown or green. On the other hand, brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, with a bright gold, copper, or silver color, depending on the metal content.

Metalworking with Brass & Bronze

When it comes to workability, brass is more malleable than bronze. It is less likely to break when hammered or rolled into thin plates. Bronze, in contrast, is less malleable and melts at a higher temperature. Both metals may require heating for easier metalworking, depending on their composition and desired output quality.

In terms of conductivity, both brass and bronze are effective conductors of heat and electricity, making them suitable for applications involving electrical machinery. They also exhibit corrosion resistance due to their copper content. However, they react differently to oxidation. Bronze develops a protective patina layer when exposed to air, while brass tarnishes and loses its luster. Certain types of brass are particularly resistant to galvanic seawater corrosion, making them ideal for sea vessel covering and desalination system pipes.

Other Distinguishing Features to Note

Another distinguishing factor between brass and bronze lies in their acoustic properties. Bronze produces a duller and deeper sound, making it suitable for cymbals and bells that require sustained resonance. Brass, on the other hand, is capable of creating the smooth and wide-ranging tones expected from musical instruments like trumpets and horns.

In conclusion, while bronze and brass share copper as a base metal, their secondary metal content and resulting properties differentiate them significantly. Understanding the composition and properties of each metal allows for informed decision-making when choosing the right material for specific applications, be it in manufacturing, construction, or even musical instrument production.

Sheet Metal Fabrication

What is Sheet Metal Fabrication?

Sheet metal fabrication is a multifaceted process of creating metal parts or structures out of sheet metal.

Cutting: Cutting metal into pieces of precise dimensions or dividing large sheets into several parts are examples of sheet metal processing. You can cut sheet metals manually using power tools, metal saws, lasers and waterjet saws.

Blanking: Blanking involves cutting out a portion of the sheet metal based on a stencil. Excess material is discarded or recycled.

Bending: Depending on your specific design, you may need to bend portions of the sheet metal pieces you have made. You can do this using press brakes and other tools.

Galvanizing: Corrugated roofing panels, for example, are a great example of this type of use. Zinc coated materials works effectively in prolonging the life of your roof.

Milling: If the metal work piece is still too thick and further reducing its thickness through rolling or stretching is impractical, milling is the next best course of action. It requires the use of a rotary cutter.

Welding: Joining together two pieces of metal by applying heat and pressure with gas or electricity can be used to build structures and create parts.

How is Brass Made?

Crafting brass is a complex journey that involves more than meets the eye. It takes both science and artistry to transform raw materials into beautiful objects. Creating brass involves several processes before it can become its recognizable bright gold appearance. Each step adds something special until we finally have one of mankind’s most enduring materials — brass.

Melting

Melting brass begins by heating the metal until it reaches its low melting point at 1,999 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the metal has reached its melting point, it will liquefy at the edges first before flowing towards the center of the container where it is heated.

Gradually increasing the temperature throughout this process, to avoid uneven heating or cooling, is critical. Without a gradual climb in temperature, cracks may be present in the final product. The zinc present in a brass alloy gives the finished product a yellowish tint and increases its strength, while in copper alloys produce a deeper color and add elasticity to the alloy.

Cold Rolling and Annealing

Cold rolling is a process that involves passing the brass through a series of rollers at different temperatures. This process reduces the thickness of the sheet, as well as increases its length. Cold rolling improves the material’s flexibility, tensile strength, hardness, and yield strength.

The annealing process helps improve the mechanical properties of brass. Annealing means heating brass to a specific temperature for a specific amount of time. After cold rolling or annealing operations have been performed, it will be ready for further processing according to your specific needs.

Hot Rolling

Hot rolling is used to produce flat products, like sheet or plate, by passing them through a series of rollers under high pressure. The pressure causes the material to elongate and become thinner as it moves through each successive pair of rollers until it reaches its desired thickness.

This process can occur at room temperature or above 1,832 degrees Fahrenheit. In brass manufacturing, hot rolling produces large coils of material that is then further cut-to-size into pattern sizes.

What is the difference between Aluminum Association, American Standard and Sharp Corner?

It’s one of those pieces of information that we all seem to misplace…what really IS the difference between Aluminum Association, American Standard and Sharp Corner products?

First, let’s name that shape! The base, or depth, is often noted as the first dimension of the shape. The thickness, or web, is the thickness of the base/depth. Lastly, the legs or flanges are the uprights of the channel.

Each of the different types, Aluminum Association (AA), American Standard (AS) and Sharp Corner (often called Architectural) have a different combination of leg and interior corner types.

Aluminum Association (AA) has curved (radius) interior corners and straight legs with flat ends.

Need help remembering? We like to make a connection between letters AA in Aluminum Association, and the flat ends of the legs.

American Standard (AS), on the other hand does not have ANY flat or sharp corner in its interior or legs. The legs taper from thick to thin and have rounded ends. You can almost see the shape of an “S” between the rounded legs and the radius interior corner.

Everything about “Sharp Corner” is what it sounds like! 90 degree interior corners and straight legs with flat ends make everything angular. Sharp Corner, or Architectural also only comes in aluminum alloy 6063.